The Perfect Long Weekend In Los Angeles
Weekends don't always have to come in twos. Turn your next weekend into a four-day departure and come back anew without treading near LAX. From the vivid Malibu coastline to the dramatic seaside bluffs of Laguna Beach, Angelenos will never fall short of perfection when it comes to escaping. Whether it's picnicking under the stars in the country's largest outdoor natural amphitheater or taking time out for you through the city's finest yoga, hiking and spa retreat options, weekend perfection is found just beyond your front door.
Casa Del Mar
1910 Ocean Way
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 581-5533
www.hotelcasadelmar.com
Give your smartphone a break and head to the beaches and sights of Santa Monica to kick off a perfect L.A. weekend. Join the club of beach-inspired glamor and stay where the views are best in town – Casa del Mar. Footsteps away from the vibrant energy of the Pacific Ocean and downtown Santa Monica, unwind in cozy opulence inspired by its 1920s architectural appeal.
Receive the most out of your perfect weekend by first leaving the stress of L.A. traffic to the 405 Freeway. Dissolve layers of tension and worry at its Sea Wellness Spa. Try the Diamond Magnetic Body Ritual designed to eliminate the effects of electromagnetic pollution and the stress of everyday life.
Through a multi-sensorial ritual designed to inspire maximum well-being, first expect a gem stone chakra balancing. A diamond dust mud massage will follow with use of special magnetic tools designed to polish off the shiniest version of your true self.
Escondido Falls Hiking Trail
27200 Winding Way
Malibu, CA 90265
(310) 589-3200
www.lamountains.com
Wake up slowly to enormous views of a lulling ocean and leisurely drink coffee on the patio of your immaculately-appointed Casa del Mar guest room or suite. After trying its "Breakfast at the Beach" package, switch gears for a short drive up the Malibu coast to one of the best-known waterfalls in Los Angeles, Escondido Falls. Suited for all experience levels, embrace coastline views, the sounds of babbling brooks, beautiful boulders and a steadily upward hike transcending to various gorgeous cascading falls. Have an adventurous moment and splash in the waterfall pond for a rewarding and refreshing tropical escape.
Related: Quirky Weekend Getaways Near LA
M.A.K.E
The Market
395 Santa Monica Place, 3rd Floor
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 394-7046
www.matthewkenneycuisine.com
After taking in nature-enthused moments along the hike to Malibu's Escondido Falls, there's no better time to go completely green. Experience one of the nation's premiere raw vegan food culinary indulgences and head to renowned chef Matthew Kenney's M.A.K.E. living foods restaurant. Known for its kimchi dumplings and other mind-blowing culinary joys, you will also see raw chefs learning the best of the trade through its adjacent Matthew Kenney Academy. Keep an open mind and know that you will not be disappointed as you experience what delicious and compassionate culinary art tastes like.
Hollywood Bowl
2301 N. Highland Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90068
(323) 850-2000
www.hollywoodbowl.com
Sit under the stars in the largest natural outdoor amphitheater in the U.S. tucked within the dazzling folds of the Hollywood Hills. Since 1922, the Hollywood Bowl has been hosting concerts since the LA Philharmonic first performed. Bring a blanket and a picnic basket and make it your own party. Don't miss The Wine Bar – its latest addition perched above the box seats. Enjoy small bites alongside a widespread choice of wine, craft beer and soju cocktail options.
Montage Laguna Beach Yoga Retreat
30801 S. Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 715-6000
www.montagelagunabeach.com
Bring the perfect L.A. weekend to a soft close by taking a short drive south to beach-side elegance found at Montage Resort & Spa in Laguna Beach. Plan to arrive the night before or early Saturday or Sunday morning for its popular monthly yoga retreat with renowned teacher Ashley Turner. For $65, discover a marvelous two-hour yoga session (and a brand new you) overlooking wondrous seaside bluffs. Afterwards, gain access to its notably profound oceanfront spa pool and spa facilities. Have a healthy lunch on the spa deck by day and sip champagne fireside at night.
Related: Ladies-Only Sports Near LA
Jessica Blotter has 10 years experience in the advertising industry and is founder of Publicly Loved - at the heart of brands, causes and events. As an author of two regional travel blogs with CBS Local and Examiner.com, she has produced more than 30 published articles covering regional getaway destinations and charitable events. Follow her onTwitter @publiclyloved.
