Southern California Life Magazine_June 2019

PICTURE PERFECT

ROOFTOP RESTAURANTS

BIG BEAR YOUR EPIC

BEHIND THE SCENES AT

LOS ANGELES MEMORIAL COLISEUM

ADVENTURE

LANDMARKS AND DESTINATIONS

Issue

JUNE 2019

BEST SOUTHLAND SOCALLIFEMAG.COM

BIKE PATHS

E N I W

10TH ANNUAL

WAVONEDS

Y E B & 9 1 20 CA 5, H, 3 C A Y BE MA O M S I P

FRIDAY, MAY 3 Surf Movie Night The historic Fremont Theater in San Luis Obispo kicks off this 3-day event with our Featured Film:

will be available for purchase. All proceeds from

SATURDAY, MAY 4 805 Surf Classic & SeaVenture Classic VW Show

Rise and shine on Saturday morning for the 805 Surf Classic presented by Still teams comprised of male and female surfers from the 805, an adaptive heat,

SUNDAY, MAY 5 Rabobank’s Barrel to Barrel

breweries, local cuisines, and an incredible silent auction, come down for a glass of wine, tastes from our best local restaurants and a sunset to remember.

Come celebrate the best that Classic California has to offer. Enjoy three days of unforgettable events that embrace the love of

www.WineWavesandBeyond.com

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Feature

COURTESY OF BIG BEAR VISITORS BUREAU

APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2019

24/

COVER STORY DISCOVER SUMMER FUN AND ADVENTURE AT BIG BEAR LAKE

By Linda Lang Horseback riding is available at Baldwin Stables east of the village.

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64/

Departments

44/

Margot at Platform LA in Culver City

30/

CRIS MOLINA, COURTESY OF VISIT SANTA BARBARA

APRIL/MAY/JUNE 2019

10/ LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER/ EDITOR.IN.CHIEF Monique Reidy

12/ SIGNATURES & LANDMARKS

From Nat King Cole To The New Face Of Soul, Capitol Studios Celebrates 63

By Erika Thomas

The Kimpton Goodland Hotel in Goleta, CA

54/ TO-DO-LIST

18/ SO CAL CULTURE

PIER REVIEW SoCal’s Beachside Recreation Sites

By Lisa Kestenbaum

The Greatest Stadium In The World

By Robyn Flans

22/ TRENDING TALK

Perspective Is Everything

By Esther C. Bleuel, MA, MFT, MDR

54/

30/ OFF THE BEATEN PATH

Five Faves: Best Beach Bike Paths in Southern California

By Mary Noe

“All Aboard!”

SoCal By Rail

By Martha Abbey Miller

64/ THE WEEKENDER

Keeping Up With The Kimptons

By Caitlin Elizabeth Pieh

37/ BUBBLES & BREWS

Sampling And Savoring Craft Beers

By Matt Osgood

18/

60/ FAMILY FUN

72/ CALENDAR

Events And Happenings

40/ FIT AND FABULOUS

80/ SOOO CAL

44/ THE GOURMAND

82/ MY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

Healthy Eating Doesn’t Always Mean Restrictions And Diet Is Not A Bad Word!!

By Rachel Harshfield RDN Dine In The Sky

By Melissa Curtin

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Channel Islands National Park

By Scott Harris

Eric Plante

37/

A Top-10 Hotel in the U.S.

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EDITORIAL

PUBLISHED BY ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC.

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

COMMUNICATION EDITOR

MONIQUE REIDY

ESTHER BLEUEL

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

SOOO CAL EDITOR

ANTONI PHAM

SCOTT HARRIS

ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR

FEATURES EDITOR

IMAAN JALALI

JENNI KEAST

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

TRAVEL EDITOR

ROBYN FLANS

LINDA LANG

PUBLISHER & PRESIDENT

MONIQUE REIDY DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS & DIGITAL PLATFORMS

CAITLIN PIEH SALES DIRECTOR

LOU DELONE – WHIPPOORWILL ADVISORS INTEGRATED ADVERTISING AND SALES EXECUTIVE

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CAITLIN PIEH, MELISSA CURTIN, MATT OSGOOD, MARY NOE, MARTHA ABBEY MILLER, LISA KESTENBAUM, ERIKA THOMAS, RACHEL HARSHFIELD

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ADVISORY BOARD

INTERNS

KINJAL PATEL, KIRSTEN LAVERTY

CATHERINE JAYNE, PH.D, STEVE BARDWIL, ESQ., BILL BLEUEL, PH.D, ESTHER BLEUEL, MA, MFT, MDR, ELENA NIKITINA, DOUG SYLVESTER, DEBBIE WIDERØE, KELLY TREVETHAN, SCOTT HARRIS, PATTY MACMILLAN

ON THE COVER:

BIG BEAR BOATING AROUND THE LAKE OFFERS LOTS OF ACTIVITIES AND DISCOVERIES.

For cover story see page 24.

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SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BY ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ©2018 ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE IS REGISTERED US PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE. THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE ARE NOT TO BE CONSIDERED OFFICIAL EXPRESSIONS OF ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC DOES NOT ACCEPT ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACTIONS OF ITS READERS. THE CONTENTS WITHIN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA LIFE MAGAZINE ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND SHOULD NOT BE TREATED AS HEALTH CARE OR HEALTH MANAGEMENT ADVICE. THE MATERIALS HEREIN ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE, DIAGNOSIS, OR TREATMENT. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF A QUALIFIED HEALTH PROVIDER REGARDING A MEDICAL CONDITION. NEVER DISREGARD PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE OR DELAY IN SEEKING IT BECAUSE OF CONTENT IN THIS MAGAZINE. RELIANCE ON ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED HEREIN IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. REPRODUCTION IN ANY FORM WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM THE PUBLISHER IS PROHIBITED. PUBLISHER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ACCEPT OR REJECT ALL ADVERTISING MATTER. PUBLISHER DOES NOT ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR ERRORS, OMISSIONS, AND/OR CHANGES IN ADVERTISING OR EDITORIAL MATERIAL. PRINTED IN THE USA.

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FROM THE PUBLISHER/ EDITOR.IN.CHIEF THERE ARE TWO SUBJECT MATTERS THAT MAY BE CONSIDERED SMALL TALK

MONIQUE REIDY

Inspiring the SoCal Explorer Check in with us wherever you are. @SOCALLIFEMAG

elsewhere, but in Southern California, they are issues vital to how we can expect our day to unfold: Southland traffic and weather.

Most regions across the U.S. recognize specific times of the day when traffic is heaviest. To us, it’s ALWAYS. Even during the night we’ll fight Cal Trans’ roadwork congestion. In fact, traffic is so cumbersome that it has become a part of our routine greeting: “Good morning, how’s it going? How was your commute?”

We can’t always rely on our navigation systems since the traffic apps’ ETA prior to departure seems to increase as we’re actually heading that direction. Anything from a fender-bender to a jack-knifed big rig can add significant time to our drive and destroy our well-intentioned punctuality.

Our climate is equally dubious. As most of the country seems to have temperature expectations based upon an annual pattern, ours is generally anybody’s guess.

Despite the best efforts on the part of our meteorologists, we can brace for rain and wake up to a 73-degree sunny day. We might experience a week of temps in the mid80s in winter and suddenly have raging winds five days to follow. And heaven help us if rain lasts beyond three days … that’s when many of us begin to complain about dealing with frizzy hair and even more traffic delays. (And yes, we know we’re weather wimps.) To many of us, any water that falls from the sky, as much as we know we need it, is a lifestyle nuisance.

If you’re still reading my rant, you might have guessed I’m writing on a rainy SoCal day and just experienced a challenging weather-freeway combo. It wasn’t my first and surely won’t be my last. But would I consider moving anywhere else? Never.

In the grand scheme of things, those issues are irritants but not deal-breakers.

As we often say, apart from our annoying road congestions and crazy weather, Southern California is a perfect region in which to live. It appears many people agree and relocate here, which could explain the traffic dilemma. Yet we’re obviously willing to put up with the aggravation in trade for the privilege of enjoying a section of the country that offers mountain, desert, ocean, urban and rural adventures in relatively close proximity (give or take, depending on traffic, of course).

If you live in SoCal, you can likely relate. If you’re just visiting, don’t let our traffic or weather tarnish your tourism experience. As you’ll find in the pages you’re about to read, Southern California is an ideal place for entertainment and recreation and we hope you can find tips to help you make the most of your time with us.

There are two secrets to navigating our awesome community: 1) If you’re driving, always leave much earlier than required, and 2) Dress in layers. Master those and the rest is icing on the proverbial cake!

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S I G N AT U R E S & L A N D M A R KS

FROM NAT KING COLE TO THE NEW FACE OF SOUL,

Capitol Studios CELEBRATES 63 BY

ERIKA THOMAS

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S

SIX DECADES AFTER OPENING, THE ICONIC

tower with the stack-of-records shape remains a cultural icon and a hub for the recording industry’s brightest stars.

Designed by Welton Becket and Associates, Capitol Records would be the first circular office building in the world. Construction on the opulent 13-story structure began in 1955 and was completed in 1956; and from the start, it not only became an instantly recognizable landmark, it was a mecca for the hottest acts in the business.

Peggy Lee, Keely Smith, Bobby Darin, Kay Starr and Dean Martin were only some of the mega-talented performers on the label’s star-studded roster.

It would become synonymous with Frank Sinatra — most notably Studio A — where the Chairman of the Board belted out innumerable hits, many of which were accompanied by the flawless orchestral arrangements of Nelson Riddle.

During the 1960s it was the Beatles and the Beach Boys — bands that not only recorded at Capitol Studios, but whose music would define an entire era and gain unprecedented popularity as the decades went on.

In later years, everyone from Tina Turner, Elton John and the Beastie Boys, to 50 Cent and the Foo Fighters would record under the Capitol label. H BISON ARCHIVES

The iconic tower in 1956, the year it opened.

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CARL AFABLE

CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT:

More recently, it’s the place Ringo Starr celebrated his 75th birthday and when a major renovation was completed in Studio A, Paul McCartney was the first artist to make music in the newly refurbished space.

Now, the iconic tower with the 90foot spire — its bright light still blinking out the word “Hollywood” in Morse code — celebrated its sixth decade by opening its doors to the public, hosting the first-ever Studio Open Day. The festival-style event included Vinyl Fest (for vinyl records enthusiasts), tours of the recording facilities and even the opportunity to work the equipment. Although the festivities

commemorated 60 years, the legacy of the West Coast’s first record label goes back even further.

Record store impresario Glenn Wallichs would team up with former Paramount Pictures producer and songwriter, Buddy DeSylva and composer Johnny Mercer, officially launching the Capitol Records label in 1942.

Situated directly above Wallichs’ record shop, Capitol Records and Wallichs Music City became the go-to spot for all-things music, hosting record signings and other events. By the time the tower was completed in 1956, Capitol Records had gained major momentum as a label.

Though it would enjoy decades of unprecedented success, it would eventually face a downturn. Former Columbia Records President, Steve Barnett, stepped in to run the label in 2012. He set about reestablishing Capitol Records as a creative brand that stands as much for its music super-talent and state-of-the-art technology as it does for its legacy.

A renovation would not only give the inside of the tower a facelift (new paint and décor as well as new studio consoles, speakers and other upgrades), the iconic music label would sign new talent — including Grammy winner Sam Smith (who recently earned the

CARL AFABLE

“CAPITOL RECORDS AND WALLICHS MUSIC CITY

1. A reel-to-reel Studer recording machine is part of Capitol's vast collection of vintage gear. 2. Capitol Records founders (L-R) Johnny Mercer, Glenn Wallichs and Buddy DeSylva. 3. Studio A's elaborate, state-ofthe-art console.

became the go-to spot for all-things music, hosting record signings and other events.”

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NOTHING RUINS A PERFECT GETAWAY LIKE AN UNEXPECTED DENTAL EMERGENCY

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CARL AFABLE

BISON ARCHIVES

S I G N AT U R E S & L A N D M A R KS

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4. A southward view on Vine Street of Capitol Records in 2013. The street and the building are virtually unchanged in six decades. 5. Nat King Cole's Steinway and Sons grand piano. 6. Frank Sinatra with Welton Becket's architectural model for the new Capitol Records tower.

moniker “The New Face of Soul”) and Aussie boy band 5 Seconds of Summer — and merge with Universal Music Group, a partnership that’s reinvigorated Capitol Records.

Today, the newly restored entertainment landmark is still home to the top names in the business (Mary J. Blige and Katy Perry) and is one of the few-remaining labels with its own studio. And although a major renovation took place, the studio maintains a vast collection of legacy recording equipment, still perfectly intact, with Smith and John Legend often requesting Sinatra’s original microphone.

Capitol’s Vice President of Studios, Paula Salvatore, says, “Our legacy is defined by our unprecedented history of classic recording artists such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Nat King Cole and so many more. We’re often referred to as ‘The house that Nat built’; we want to balance that legacy with the quality of our vintage gear, but also with technical excellence and state-of-the-art advancements.” Here’s to another 60 years of making music that’s “Unforgettable.” ❖

BISON ARCHIVES

CAPITOL STUDIOS 1750 North Vine Street, Hollywood, CA 90028 www.capitolstudios.com

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S O CA L C U LT U R E

THE GREATEST STADIUM IN THE BY

ROBYN FLANS

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World AS THE ONLY VENUE TO HOST TWO SUMMER OLYMPICS (AND SOON A THIRD IN 2028), two

Super Bowls, home to numerous professional teams, appearances by six U.S. Presidents — Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight Eisenhower, John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson, Richard Nixon, and Ronald Reagan — and such dignitaries as Martin Luther King, Pope John Paul II, the Dalai Lama and Nelson Mandela and such performers as Bruce Springsteen and the Rolling Stones, the Los Angeles Coliseum has deservedly earned its title - The Greatest Stadium in the World.

One hundred fourteen billion people have come through the stadium in 96 years.

Originally commissioned in 1921 as a memorial to Los Angeles veterans of World War I (and rededicated to all U.S. veterans of WWI in 1968, it is the largest memorial outside of the one in Washington, D.C. The official ground breaking of the Coliseum took place in December, 1921. The construction of the then largest stadium in Los Angeles was completed on May 1,1923. Its capacity was 75,144, but in 1930, with the Olympics due in two years, the stadium seating capacity was expanded to 101,574 and the Olympic torch was added.

The inaugural game at the Coliseum took place on October 6,1923 between Pomona College and USC. The Trojans, who won, claimed the Coliseum their home from that time on. The venue became home to the UCLA Bruins (1928-1981); professional football’s Los Angeles Rams (1946-1979 and 2016-2019), Raiders (1982-1994) and Chargers (1960); hosted three NFL Championships and two Super Bowls; home to the Los Angeles Dodgers (1958-1960) and the 1959 World Series.

“It is a legacy unlike anyone else,” says Joe Furin, Coliseum general manager. “We find that we get a lot of international visitors who saw the Olympics and a lot of U.S. visitors who remember all of this or have

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“THERE IS NO OTHER STADIUM IN THE WORLD THAT HAS HOSTED TWO

OLYMPICS

and we’re going to host a third.”

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seen some of these things. The 1959 World Series, for example, still holds the attendance record of over 104,000 people for a World Series game. When you have people who have seen these things, the legacy is a big draw.”

On March 29, 2008, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Boston Red Sox set a Guinness World Record for the largest attendance ever at a baseball game with a crowd of 115,300.

Some televised events to which Furin refers to that may be cemented in minds include the 1967 Super Bowl game between the Green Bay Packers and the Kansas City Chiefs and the 1973 ABC Wide World of Sports captured the event as Evel Knievel used the entire distance of the stadium to jump 50 stacked cars.

Knievel launched his motorcycle from atop one end of the Coliseum, jumping the cars in the center of the field, and stopping high atop the other end.

Television shows have filmed at the iconic venue, including the memorable season two finale cliffhanger of the hit show “24.”

“If you’re a sports fan, I take nothing away from the Red Sox and Fenway Park or the Green Bay Packers and Lambeau Field. They will say theirs is the greatest in the world. I mean no disrespect, but the legacy we have sets us apart worldwide. There is no other stadium in the world that has hosted two Olympics and we’re going to host a third,” says Furin.

Tours are currently unavailable until January 2020 due to renovations, although the 160 acres of Exposition Park around the stadium are open to the public.

“There are no fences and you can walk up to the exterior and still get a magnificent experience,” Furin asserts. “Sometimes I work at all hours and am leaving at 10 p.m. and I see a car pull up outside the gates and I’ll see people hop out and take a picture and drive off.”

Renovations, which began in January 2018, carrying a price tag of $315 million will include replacing every seat and improving the wifi service. They are adding suites, a club level, a loge and press box. They will complete the project August of this year, in time for the 2019 football season.

“This is a very special place,” Furin says. “At first you see a 96-year-old stadium, but then the longer you look, you realize that legacy.” ❖ THE LOS ANGELES COLISEUM 3911 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles www.lacoliseum.com

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T R E N D I N G TA L K

PERSPECTIVE IS EVERYTHING BY

ESTHER C. BLEUEL, MA, MFT, MDR

BIAS. Our biases, perceptions and opinions are shaped by our experience.

Life looks different depending on where we sit, where we live, what we experience, who we know and what we learn.

CHILDHOOD. Our biases emanate from our earliest years and the significance of our formative years cannot be overstated. As infants, our environment frames our view of the world while our place in the world is determined by care-giver relationships. We owe a debt of gratitude and thanks to those who nurtured, guided and provided ‘shoulders to stand on.’

If we were not so lucky, we will discover different perspectives and realities as we venture into the world. We can learn, embrace something new, change course and reinvent ourselves. Said another way, we can adopt a different perspective.

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BLIND SPOTS. We all have blind spots that really are blind; we don’t know what we don’t know.

Realize that knowing about something is not the same as truly understanding it.

When we discover this, we can decide to learn; maybe about ourselves, new ideas, skills, lessons and information. An excellent way to truly learn something — teach someone else.

In any event, each of us must learn lessons in our own way. No one can determine what we think or feel, nor can we control another person’s learning or behavior. This concept of knowing also applies to relationships. For example, discerning our own, or someone else’s true character or trustworthiness, takes time, across a variety of situations.”

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“WHEN STUCK IN A NEGATIVE OR UNHEALTHY ENVIRONMENT OR RELATIONSHIP, MOVE! Alter your thinking, your focus and your actions to improve your situation.”

ATTITUDES. Our attitudes, positive or negative, grateful or resentful, open or closed, determine how we navigate our environment and dictates the quality of our interpersonal relationships. Our thoughts determine our actions. If we experience only one kind of activity or place, consider a single idea or concept, or associate with one type of person, we have no idea what we are missing. We diminish our experience of life and the world. Savor and cherish the richness of life.

PERSPECTIVE. If your perspective constrains you from embracing opportunities and resources, “change chairs.” When stuck in a negative or unhealthy environment or relationship, move! Alter your thinking, your focus and your actions to improve your situation.

Good to know that we can always experiment with multiple perspectives and options.

CULTURE. Our culture reflects the imagination, artistry, intellectual achievement, social institutions and customs of the population. The diversity and breadth of these aspects of life, just in Southern California, is incredibly rich, fascinating and exciting. We enjoy a dizzying array of sights, sounds, people, places and things, food, languages, attitudes and activities to savor within a short driving distance. All too often, we fail to appreciate and value the local abundance of riches. Amazingly, our Founding Fathers provided for essentially unrestricted personal and civic liberty encouraging the power and freedom of self-determination.

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JOIE DE VIVRE. Embrace a cheerful philosophy of life: conversations, eating, relationships, anything you do. Have curiosity about people and life. Explore new ideas and places. Have adventures. Dare to create a life that’s meaningful, fulfilling and joyful.

Carpe Diem! ❖

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COV E R F E AT U R E

You'll find great on and offroad driving trails in and around Big Bear Lake.

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COV E R F E AT U R E

Discover SUMMER FUN AND ADVENTURE AT

BIG BEAR LAKE

We all know Big Bear has great skiing in winter.

Every time there's new snow, TV news updates us with those cool 5-second clips of skiers weaving down freshly-powdered slopes.

BY LINDA LANG PHOTOS COURTESY OF BIG BEAR VISITORS BUREAU

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1. Big Bear Village offers lots of wining, dining, entertainment and shopping during summer.

2. The area is filled with excellent biking trails offering breathtaking views. 3. Boating around the lake offers lots of activities and discoveries. 4. Big Bear Lake is known for the stunning beauty of its hiking trails.

hat you rarely see during the other seasons are 5-second updates of families and friends jet skiing, boating, kayaking, or fishing with the sun glistening on the lake beneath the clearest of blue skies. You don’t see clips of hikers exploring pine forests or bikers coasting along ridges overlooking breathtaking views of the lake as the sun slips behind the towering peaks.

Big Bear has it all in summer - everything except crowded mega malls, movie complexes, noisy traffic, and other things typical of city life. Instead, you'll find a small alpine village with lots of family-owned restaurants and shops, some with hand-crafted goods as unique as the personalities of their owners. Here you are removed from the daily rush and free to completely unwind and immerse yourself in the magnificence of nature.

Lake and Land Adventures In April, Big Bear Lake awakens. Around the lake are marinas with shops, boat rentals, jet skis, kayaks, and just about every conceivable piece of water sports equipment and attire available for rent or purchase. You can also bring your own kayak or canoe and launch from one of two free public launch areas.

Novice or expert, there are limitless activities for everyone.

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Once on the water, fall into rhythm with nature as you glide rhythmically away from the dock into sweeping majestic scenes. Discover shallow inlets where the ducks paddle alongside as you watch the fish swirling in the waters below. Test your skills navigating narrow rock passages in Boulder Bay Park or by China Island, then follow the lake’s edge and discover hidden streams and coves with sandy beaches. Just be sure to remember your sun block and life vest. You are at least 6,750 feet closer to the sun, and chances are you are not a long-distance swimmer.

If you prefer faster action, wakeboarding, waterskiing, and wakeskating or knee boarding, none of which require a boat, are available at Designated Wakesports Cable Park and Watersports School Big Bear. Beginners

can learn from experienced coaches while the more advanced ride their craft of choice back and forth on the 500' cable course. If you want somebody else to pilot, take the family on a 90-minute lake tour aboard the Big Bear pirate ship, Time Bandit, and get a history of the lake and its movie star legends. Other lake tour options include Miss Liberty and the Big Bear Queen.

Fishing is also a big sport at Big Bear Lake. The most prized fish in the lake is rainbow trout, but there are also bass, blue gill, catfish, and carp.The Trout Triangle on the lake’s west side is one of best spots for fishing from your boat while the most popular shore fishing areas include the North Shore’s new Boulder Bay Park dock.

During the Spring through Fall months, you are sur-

rounded by some of SoCal’s most scenic hiking trails including Castlerock, Gold Fever and Skyline; Pacific Crest Trail, a national hiking and equestrian trail that starts near the Mexican border, passes by Big Bear, and ends in Canada; and the Alpine Pedal Path, which is consistently listed as one the most popular free things to do in Big Bear. You can also test your off-road trekking skills on three Jeep Badge of Honor trails: John Bull, Gold Mountain and Holcomb Creek. Seasoned hikers like to challenge the five peaks of Big Bear - Gold Mountain, Grey’s Peak, Bertha Peak, Delamar Mountain and Sugarloaf. Horseback riding is also available from Baldwin Stables, located east of town.

Major Attractions Big Bear Alpine Zoo, formerly known as Moonridge Animal Park, is one of only two alpine zoos in the country. It has been caring for, rehabilitating, and releasing injured, orphaned and confiscated animals for more than 40 years. Current residents include Alyla and Harley, the first grizzlies to set foot in Big Bear Valley

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5. A wide range of beautiful lakefront houses, condos and cabins in and around the area are offered by Destination Big Bear and other rental companies. 6. At the Snow Summit's Mountain Bike Park, you can ride the chair lift to the top and bike your way down. 7. Professional musicians join professional and amateur cooks for the 2nd Annual Grill & Chill BBQ competition on May 25 which is open to the public.

8. Pines Lakefront offers the perfect romantic setting, a spectacular view of the lake and fine dining. 9. Big Bear's Magic Mountain is home to the world-famous Alpine Slide, SoCal's only authentic summer bobsled experience.

COV E R F E AT U R E

for over a century, as well as other bears, wood bison, wolves, foxes, raccoons, cougars, bobcats and birds of prey such as eagles, hawks and falcons.

Big Bear Discovery Center on the North Shore is the place to find all the maps, books and recommendations for planning family outings and forest excursions by hike or bike. Options also include eco-tours, learning how to track animals, children's crafts, campfire programs, plus continually-changing exhibits and lots of informative, fun events throughout the summer.

You've probably seen skiers traversing down the slopes of Snow Summit or its sister resort, Bear Mountain, but what about biking down the mountain? At Snow Summit's Mountain Bike Park, you can ride the chair lift to the top, take in the panoramas, lunch at Skyline Taphouse, then return by chair or hike or bike your way down. Non-bikers can challenge themselves on a 30-foot climbing wall, zip line, Euro Bungee trampoline, a quick jump free fall, and exploring some great hiking trails. Check out bbmr.com/summer.

Big Bear's Magic Mountain also offers a great variety of summer activities. It’s home to the world-famous Alpine Slide, SoCal's only authentic summer bobsled experience. After taking the chairlift to the top, riders steer their individually-controlled

sleds with teflon runners and ball bearing wheels down a quarter-mile-long cement track with high-banked turns and long straightaways. There are also go-karts, Cam-Am racers, and an 18-hole miniature golf course. If miniature golf isn’t your preference, Bear Mountain Golf Course offers a regular nine-hole challenge course for all ability levels.

No trip to Big Bear Lake is complete without a visit to the Museum. See an 1875 log cabin, gold mining tools, antique wagons, historic photos and other intriguing artifacts from centuries past.

Spring, Summer, Fall Events Attracting serious trout fisherpersons from all around California is the Fishing for 50k Tournament June 8-9. Try your luck at catching one of five tagged fish, each worth $10,000. In October, come back for the Big Bear Troutfest.

Non-fishing events include the Spartan Beast and Sprint Weekend May 18-19, the Grill & Chill Memorial Weekend Festival May 25-26, fireworks spectacular on July 4 at Snow Summit, Spartan

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United States National Series Event and Spartan Mountain Series both of which will be broadcast worldwide, and the 49th 10-week Octoberfest held September - November.

Wining and Dining Dine with the locals at your choice of many unique and interesting restaurants in Big Bear Lake. For the perfect date night, try Sweet Basil Bistro or the Pines Lakefront which offers a spectacular view of Big Bear Lake. Families can find something for everyone at Santana and Mavericks, or head to Boneyard for some great BBQ in the village. Craft beer and cocktail aficionados will love the Big Bear Brewery, and for some authentic Indian cuisine, try the Himalayan. Wyatt’s Grill and Saloon is Big Bear Lake’s country bar featuring line dancing on Wednesdays and live music on the weekends. Don’t miss the Grizzly Manor Café, which is always worth the wait for its famous giant omelets and pancakes.

Where to Stay Accommodations range from luxury resorts, hotels and B&Bs to vacation rentals featuring everything from large, luxurious houses to condos, cottages, cabins, B&Bs, RV and tent campsites. Dogs accompanied by their families are frequently welcomed. Find lodging at BigBear.com A new Visitor’s Center providing an interactive experience with mobile apps, touch screen interactive displays, and a video wall opens in June. Meanwhile, all the resources you'll need can be found at www.bigbear.com. ❖

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O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H

Five Faves:

BEST BEACH BIKE PATHS IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA MARY NOE

ALEXANDER SHUSTOV ON UNSPLASH

BY

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NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, THE COASTLINE BECKONS.

Blessed with great weather year-round, “The Golden State” offers miles of bike paths, many along the ocean. From Santa Barbara to San Diego, the coast is edged with cycling paths perfect for riders of all abilities, guaranteeing views that will soothe the soul and capture that California feeling! Here are five of our favorites — remember to bring water and your helmet! H

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THEHOTELCALIFORNIAN.COM

O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H

1

Santa Barbara Beach Trail If you’ve ever wanted to cycle along the “American Riviera,” the 4.5-mile Santa Barbara Beach Trail is your dream route. Begin your jaunt just west of Santa Barbara Point at Shoreline Park, which offers a stairway leading from the bluffs to the beach, kids’ play equipment, and picnic areas for pre- or post-biking fun.

Stop for an al fresco snack right on the sand at the Shoreline Beach Café before riding along Santa Barbara’s iconic waterfront. Along the way, pass the working fishing boats and exotic yachts and sailboats moored in the Santa Barbara Harbor, explore the historic Stearns Wharf Pier, ride south among the palms along the coast, past the Santa Barbara Zoo (slow down long enough to glimpse the giraffes peeking above the trees), to the peaceful, 42-acre Andrée Clark Bird Refuge and wetlands. t

TRAIL INFO:

www.traillink.com/trail/santa-barbarabeach-trail

Rincon Bike Trail

CYCLECALCOAST.COM

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Immortalized in The Beach Boys 1962 classic “Surfin’ Safari,” Rincon Point is one of California’s most revered surfing spots. Surf lovers will enjoy riding the flat, oceanedging 3.6-mile Rincon Bike Trail, which was developed as a protected alternative to bicyclists using US 101.

Connecting the beach towns of Carpinteria and Ventura, the path offers beautiful views of the Santa Barbara Channel and is part of the California Coastal Trail, a series of existing and proposed trails along the Pacific Coast from Oregon to Mexico. t

TRAIL INFO:

www.traillink.com/trail/rincon-bike-trail

*California law requires all bicyclists under the age of 18 to wear a helmet.

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VISIT VENTURA

O F F T H E B E AT E N PAT H

3

The Ventura River Parkway Trail Called “One of the best urban bike rides in Southern California” by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, the 17-mile Ventura River Parkway Trail is really three trails in one. Start your ride on the incredibly scenic 4.1-mile Omer Rains Coastal Bike Trail, which runs along the Ventura coast and offers views of the Channel Islands, Ventura’s historic pier, and often showcases surfers, dolphins, and whales. Continue on to the Ventura River Trail, a portion of the path that follows the old Southern Pacific “rail trail” and highlights the area’s industrial and agricultural past. Art installations along the path are funded by the City of Ventura Public Art Program and make for an interesting ride. The trail continues slightly uphill to Foster Park — a perfect spot for a picnic break — and joins the Ojai Valley Trail for the 9.5-mile ride to Ojai, SoCal’s legendary artist enclave. This portion of the ride runs along the Ventura River and offers gorgeous views into the scenic Ojai Valley. H t

TRAIL INFO:

www.traillink.com/trail/omer-rains-coastal-bike-trail www.traillink.com/trail/ventura-river-trail www.traillink.com/trail/ojai-valley-trail

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Marvin Braude Bike Trail aka “The Strand” This flat, fun ride winds through some of SoCal’s most iconic beach towns. Known locally as “The Strand,” the 22-mile paved bike path traverses the Los Angeles County coastline from Will Rogers State Beach in the Pacific Palisades area south to Torrance County Beach. Along the way, the route passes the Santa Monica Pier with its famous ferris wheel, and loops through Venice’s quirky shops, colorful characters, and famed Muscle Beach. Follow the signs to circle lovely Marina del Rey, then continue south back to the beach at Playa del Rey. Ride through Dockweiler State Beach (look for the hang gliding practice and training area), under the planes taking off over the ocean from LAX, and into Manhattan Beach, the home of beach volleyball.

Continue south through buzzy Hermosa Beach, around the marina in Redondo Beach, and on to Torrance Beach, with views of the gorgeous Palos Verdes Peninsula. t

*California law requires all bicyclists under the age of 18 to wear a helmet.

TRAIL INFO:

beaches.lacounty.gov/la-county-beachbike-path

5

San Diego’s Bayshore Bikeway The Bayshore Bikeway is a 24-mile route along the San Diego Bay that offers amazing views of the city skyline, the Coronado Bay Bridge, and Navy bases and ships. Start your ride at the ferry landing on charming Coronado Island (you can ferry across San Diego Bay from downtown). Cruise through the historic island town and past the legendary Hotel del Coronado and the U.S. Naval Amphibious Base (where the Navy SEALs train). Ride along Silver Strand State Beach, which separates San Diego Bay and the Pacific Ocean, and the 3,900-acre San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge. The car-free bicycle path ends near Imperial Beach — turn around here to avoid on-street bike lanes. To continue to downtown San Diego, the trail links with on-street bike lanes and bike routes through Chula Vista, National City and into downtown. ❖

SANDIEGO.ORG

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TRBIMG.COM

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TRAIL INFO:

www.sandiego.org/articles/biking/bike-route-bayshorebikeway.aspx

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B U B B L E S & B R E WS

SAMPLING AND SAVORING

CRAFT Beers BY

MATT OSGOOD

ALMOST 650 CRAFT BREWERIES MAKE UP THE CALIFORNIA BEER LANDSCAPE.

Ranging in size from the massive operations at Chico’s Sierra Nevada and Stone Brewing in Escondido to smaller operations like Hess Brewing in San Diego, the opportunities to taste some of America’s finest craft beer are plenty. And those opportunities are only growing.

With the passing of Assembly Bill 774, any brewery without major distribution is allowed the opportunity to sample and sell its beers outside their brewery, and it starts at farmers markets across the Golden State. The bill, authored by Assembly Member Marc Levine (D-San Rafael), was signed by Governor Jerry Brown in July of 2015. The bill is a major victory for the growing number of smaller California breweries who wish to reach a wider market share. H

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“It gives [breweries] the right to go out and offer their productsto a different consumer base,” says Kevin Hopkins, the chief branding officer at Mother Earth Brew Company in Vista. “While it impacts every craft brewery, in reality it’s designed for the smallest breweries who don’t have major distribution.”

Hopkins says a main beneficiary of AB 774 are the nano-breweries, who by definition, sell less than 3,000 barrels of beer a year.

Craft breweries offer educational tastings to consumers while they purchase other goods typically available at farmers markets from avocado to alfalfa, tomatoes to tamales. Quite literally, farmers markets have allowed consumers to put a face to the products they purchase and consume. This, too, is important with beer.

“With everything we’re seeing in the beer industry, mergers and acquisitions, the industry becomes more diluted,” Hopkins says. “To be able to put a face to the product, you realize this guy is brewing right down the street, you should get his product. These guys are brewing out of passion.”

“People love the local feel,” says Hopkins. “They want to buy local, support local, and in a way support themselves by buying into the local economy.”

“Craft breweries create local jobs and keep money in local communities, which I like to support,” says Clay Spiegel, a Temecula resident. “I wholeheartedly support legislation that creates jobs and helps keep money in local communities. If people are going to drink beer no matter what, and they will, then lets help them find the local providers.”

Local farms and markets have established themselves once again as cornerstones of our communities, and Spiegel, 34, despite initial misgivings, believes that California brewers and breweries deserve to be held in the same esteem and regard as farmers and their lineup of fruits or vegetables or flowers.

“I initially wondered, ‘Do we want to encourage more drinking? Do we want to add alcohol to an event that is assumed to be free of alcohol for those that like to avoid it?” says Spiegel, whose local farmers market is the one in Old Town Temecula.

“Being alcohol, it needs to be regulated and people need to be taught not just about the product but how to be responsible.

Giving small tastings is a great way to teach about both things, and educate people that there are options to the big, highlymarketed, foreign-owned beer producers.”

“A lot of breweries are using local ingredients and this seems to fit the farmers market picture. I think we as communities should embrace all small business and those businesses should in turn support their community. Breweries should be included as any small business is.”

Familiarity, both with the product and producer, creates a healthy, symbiotic relationship between breweries and consumers.

Prior to AB 774, only wine was available to tasting and purchase at farmers markets. Breweries will have to do their due diligence in obtaining a license from the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, a licensure fee, and the requisite training, and other specific conditions. ❖

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SUBSCRIBE TO THE

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Email subscribe@weekendescapesmag.com or call 805.777.0080 WEEKEND ESCAPES MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BY ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ©2016 ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. WEEKEND ESCAPES MAGAZINE IS REGISTERED US PATENT AND TRADEMARK OFFICE. THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN WEEKEND ESCAPES MAGAZINE ARE NOT TO BE CONSIDERED OFFICIAL EXPRESSIONS OF ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC. ELYSIAN MEDIA GROUP, LLC DOES NOT ACCEPT ANY RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ACTIONS OF ITS READERS.

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HEALTHY EATING DOESN’T ALWAYS MEAN RESTRICTIONS AND Diet IS NOT A BAD WORD!!

BY

RACHEL HARSHFIELD RDN

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DIET... IT’S NOT A BAD WORD Many people wrongly assume that in order to eat healthy, you have to restrict yourself by eating tiny portions, thus feeling hungry all the time. THAT IS FALSE....

Let me explain one very important thing about healthy foods and making more nutrient dense choices in your diet.

When you choose healthier food options, your body doesn’t crave food all the time. This is because it’s getting nourishment from the whole foods and health nutrient dense foods you are eating. Because your intake is balanced, you end up eating less because your body isn’t craving more - this is balance. It’s the secret sauce to living healthy!

It’s actually pretty simple. The food industry has made it complicated with offering a plethora of choices when you go to the supermarket. It’s no wonder people can get overwhelmed with not knowing what to make for dinner, and ultimately making poor choices when they think they’re making good

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“A DIET IS NEVER, NOR EVER WILL BE, A BAD WORD.

It is simply a lifestyle in which you are choosing to consume your nutrients.”

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“DIET… it’s simply a way of eating.

It’s a regimen.”

ones. Knowledge is power, and within that power, the blessings will be abundant in your life and your wellness.

The word diet has been used and abused for decades with society painting flawless pictures of what happens when you follow a certain eating regimen. Or advertisements professing that a certain result happens when you drink this or take this … you get the point. Over time, the word diet has taken on many different connotations. So, let’s strip the word down to what it truly means.

DIET … it’s simply a way of eating. It’s a regimen. It’s simply a lifestyle which you have chosen to lead based upon your personal preferences, goals or recommendations by your dietitian or doctor.

So, when you hear me use the word diet, understand that I’m using it to define health, abundance, and wellness. A diet is never, nor ever will be, a bad word. It is simply a lifestyle in which you are choosing to consume your nutrients.

Keep this in mind the next time someone is trying to convince you to join their diet program, or someone is trying to tell you the word diet shouldn’t be used in a household. There is no shame in having a HEALTHY relationship with the work DIET and being on a DIET as long as it has the right guidelines to a healthy WHOLE FOOD approach to eating. ❖

For more fitness tips subscribe to Rachel’s newsletter at www.rachelharshfield.com/newsletter.

Rachel Harshfield

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C A L I F O R N I A’ S L A R G E S T WAT E R PA R K !

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THE GOURMAND

DINE IN THE

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THE GOURMAND

Sky

BY

MELISSA CURTIN

SPRING HAS ARRIVED AND SO HAS THE DESIRE TO SPEND EVERY MOMENT

away from the grind on one of Los Angeles’ most desirable rooftop spaces, with a cocktail in hand and dinner being served. Enjoy the mesmerizing twinkly ambiance at one of these distinct restaurants. H

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Margot at Platform LA in Culver City Opening just a few months ago, Margot’s trendy, hip space in Culver City adds to the already chic shopping and dining at Platform LA’s repurposed industrial center with boutique retailers. The glowing heat lamps on the patio make for a memorable night with views of the Hollywood Hills in the distance. Inside, peer out of the floor-to-ceiling windows adjacent to the glamorous bar.

Situated above the Expo Line, begin with a spicy Spanish wine, Aperol spritz, or a $10 cocktail like Jane’s Addiction with dandelion vodka, orange preserves, lemon, and manzanilla sherry. The coastal Mediterranean menu is meant to be shared. The portions are smaller sized, but we encourage sampling the sea bream crudo with puffed black rice, charred broccoli tzatziki with crispy quinoa and feta, Spanish octopus, and eggplant focaccia. Free valet parking is a plus. t

margot.la | 310.643.5853

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THE GOURMAND

WP24 at The Ritz Carlton in Downtown Los Angeles Twenty-four floors above the glittering skyline, experience Wolfgang Puck’s modern Chinese and Asian-fusion bites. Reserve a window table for a cityscape view. Start by comparing the gentle aromas of a sake sampler or sip on a specialty cocktail like Mama Told Me with Kikori whiskey, lemongrass, and ginger beer. Splurge on lobster spring rolls, beef dumplings, roasted Peking duck with bao buns and duck chow fun noodles, and crystal chive dumplings stuffed with Alaskan King crab, shrimp, pork, and mustard. Broiled Japanese black cod and fried rice with scallops, lobster, and blue crab are other standouts. For a sweet ending, enjoy Japanese Matcha Cheesecake with Azuki bean ice cream or Gateau Basque, an almond cake with cranberry compote and ginger ice cream that looks like it’s wearing a red-laced hat. Valet parking is $11. H t

ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/ california/los-angeles/dining | 213.743.8800

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THE GOURMAND

When you want to feel like a movie star, the Waldorf Astoria has one of the most breathtaking views in Los Angeles. The open-air rooftop will remind you just how lush LaLaLand really is, with views of Bel Air and the Hills of Holmby, Beverly, and Hollywood. Colorful flowers abound while the Jean-Georges Vongerichten all-day eatery lounge is donned with mint and green chairs and couches, with heat lamps and a grand fireplace to keep warm on chilly nights. The setting feels like old school posh Beverly Hills meshed with Miami flare and contemporary swag. Incredible zesty cocktails like the Spiced Pineapple Mai Tai, the Pear & Honey Martini, Ginger Margarita, and Strawberry Champagne Royale run almost $30 a glass while unique menu items consist of a lobster burger, chickpea hummus, sesame crusted asparagus, and smoked salmon latkes.

Standards include an elevated grilled chicken sandwich, grass-fed burger, salmon, wagyu beef tenderloin, and taco medleys. Parking is $15 for 4 hours. H t

VANESSA TIERNEY PHOTOGRAPHY

The Rooftop by AG at Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills

waldorfastoriabeverlyhills.com/ dining/the-rooftop-by-jg | 310.860.6566

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$

GET A SMART PHONE FOR

0 DOWN

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with AT&T Next Every YearSM and AT&T Next®

*Req’s well-qualified credit & elig. svc. Tax due at sale. Limits & restr's apply.

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AT&T Next Every Year Pay 24 installment payments to fulfill the agreement.

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Upgrade eligible once 50% of device cost is paid on AT&T Next Every Year and 80% with AT&T Next. Requires trade-in of financed smartphone or one of the same make/model in fully functional/good physical condition.

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AT&T NEXT OR AT&T NEXT EVERY YEAR: Credit approval required. For smartphones only. Tax on sales price due at sale. Requires 0% APR monthly installment agreement and eligible service. Divides sales price into monthly installments. AT&T Next: 30-month agreement with trade-in to upgrade when 80% of sales price is paid off. AT&T Next Every Year: 24-month agreement with trade-in to upgrade when 50% of sales price is paid off. $0 down: Requires well-qualified credit. Limit as low as 2 smartphones at $0 down. Down payment: May be required and depends on a variety of factors. Down payment if required will be either 30% of sales price or a dollar amount ranging from currently $0 to $600 (amount subject to change, and may be higher). You may choose to pay more upfront. Remainder of sales price is divided into 30 or 24 monthly installments. Service: Eligible postpaid voice and data service (minimum $45 per month after AutoPay and Paperless billing discount for new customers.

Pay $55 per month until discount starts within 2 bills. Existing customers can add to eligible current plans which may be less) is required and extra. If service is canceled, remaining installment agreement balance is due. Examples: $749.99 sales price on AT&T Next (30-month) with $0 down is $25 per month, with $225 down (30%) is $17.50 per month, or with $600 down is $5 per month. On AT&T Next Every Year (24-month) with $0 down is $31.25 per month, with $225 down (30%) is $21.88 per month, or with $600 down is $6.25 per month. Activation or upgrade fee: Up to $45/line. Waiver of fee subject to change. Restocking Fee: Up to $45. Limits: Purchase limit applies. Eligibility,device, line and financing limits & other restr’s apply. Upgrade with eligible trade-in: Requires payment of percentage of sales price (50% or 80%), account in good standing, trade-in of financed device (or one of the same make and model) in good physical and fully functional condition through the AT&T Next or AT&T Next Every Year trade-in program (excludes AT&T trade-in program where you receive an instant credit or AT&T promotion card), and purchase of new eligible smartphone with qualified wireless service. After upgrade, unbilled installments are waived. See att.com/next and your Retail Installment Agreement for full details. GENERAL WIRELESS SERVICE: Subject to wireless customer agreement (att.com/wca). Services are not for resale. Deposit: May be required. Limits: Purchase and line limits apply. Prices vary by location. Credit approval, fees, monthly and other charges, usage, eligibility and other restrictions per line may apply. See att.com/additional charges for more details on other charges. Pricing and terms are subject to change and may be modified or terminated at any time without notice. Coverage and service are not available everywhere. You get an off -net (roaming) usage allowance for each service. If you exceed the allowance, your services may be restricted or terminated. Other restrictions apply and may result in service termination. For info on AT&T network management policies see att.com/broadbandinfo.

RTP SF T 0218 5181 D-Sa © 2018 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. Owners of all marks retain their rights.

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Mama’s Rooftop at Mama Shelter Los Angeles Gaze at the Hollywood sign from this cheery rooftop bar that has perfected the relaxed Los Angeles summertime vibes with colorful cushions and day beds, tropical foliage and foosball tables. Select from Mama’s Mule Bar menu or order a cocktail matching the décor like purple/green Kill Bill with butterfly pea infused Titos, lime, Cointreau, and kiwi. The refreshing coconut pineapple Superbad with Four Roses bourbon and angostura bitters, will remind you why you live here. Come early on weekends because everyone and their mama is trying to gain a piece of sunny real estate at this hip urban oasis. DJ’s spin Friday and Saturday nights. While lunch and dinner are served upstairs on the weekends, brunch and happy hour (bottomless mimosas and sangria pitchers) are found on the lobby floor. The menu is changing soon, but look no farther than Mama’s favorite staple, circular Boujee Fries coated with parmesan and enhanced with truffle oil and furikake, with dipping sauces. Brown rice (or green leaf) bowls are a healthy highlight with options like kimchee fried rice, spicy Korean sashimi, lemongrass meatball, miso salmon, and crispy rice Bibimbap. Wow friends, snap your full circle selfie, and marvel at the sunset. Mama Shelter is your place to socialize, feel at home, and meet new friends with little pretension, even in Hollywood. Street parking only. ❖ t

mamashelter.com/en/los-angeles/ restaurants/rooftop | 323.785.6600

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D iscover Aldik Home

Los Angeles’ Most Beautiful Store For More Than 65 years

7651 Sepulveda Blvd.

Van Nuys, CA 91405

AldikHome.com (818) 988-5970

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TO - D O - L I ST

Pier Review SO CAL’S BEACHSIDE RECREATION SITES BY

LISA KESTENBAUM

IN CALIFORNIA, WE LOVE OUR COASTLINE.

And dotting the Southland’s best beaches are some must-visit piers; from roller coaster rides to private bungalows, there is plenty to see and do at these often overlooked spots.

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ORANGE COUNTY

San Clemente Pier t Orange County is home to SAN CLEMENTE PIER, where time seems to stand still and ocean waves crash on a pristine beach below. Travelers on the Pacific Coastliner Amtrak train can board and depart at the pier, which feels like a time warp, between the Spanish Colonial design of the homes surrounding it and the 50s style surfer dudes. Pop into the Oyster Bar for a casual bite or catch the last slivers of the sun as it goes down over the water.

2 SAN DIEGO

Coronado Ferry Landing/Crystal Pier t In San Diego, you can make an entire day trip out of visiting the CORONADO FERRY LANDING. Filled with shops, galleries and restaurants, this strip inside the City of Coronado offers a great view of San Diego across the water. On the weekends, there are often live bands and every Tuesday, you can visit the Farmer’s Market. If you’re feeling adventurous or want to do something active, the Ferry Landing also offers bike and kayak tours. You can also visit the pier by way of the Coronado Ferry, which runs hourly.

Also in San Diego is CRYSTAL PIER, which features a different kind of pier experience with its Crystal Pier Hotel. Family owned and operated since 1961, the hotel is comprised of 26 cottages that sit above the water and give off a cozy vibe to those passing through Pacific Beach. Open year-round, the Crystal Pier cottages are the quintessential waterfront stay. H

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3 SANTA MONICA

Santa Monica Pier t Built in 1909, the SANTA MONICA PIER was the first on the West Coast to be constructed by concrete instead of traditional wood. Now, the pier hosts popular fishing spots and restaurants. But what really makes the Santa Monica Pier stand out is PACIFIC PARK, the amusement park that takes up the majority of the pier. With rides like “Inkies Pirate Ship” and the classic Ferris Wheel, the park delights both young and old alike. Aside from the West Coaster high-speed rollercoaster, the Santa Monica Pier also attracts thrill seekers to its trapeze school. Or, if you would rather stay on your feet and learn the history of the pier, you can take a walking tour. The hour-long excursion includes a trip to famed Muscle Beach and secret nooks and crannies of the structure.

There’s never a shortage of things to do in Santa Monica and the Pier is home to many of them. In June, hundreds of people climb on stationary spin bikes to raise money for the Harold Robinson Foundation, which raises funds to send inner-city kids to camp.

Athletic enthusiasts also can sign up for the Tommy Bahama Paddle Board Race & Ocean Festival, which pays homage to the area’s first paddleboard races in the 1930s, or summertime Roga classes, which combine running and yoga for free every Saturday through August 3. Rounding out the best of the summertime events is the Twilight Concert Series, every Thursday night July through September. The free concerts attract thousands of people who set up blankets and picnics on the beach below to listen to and watch that week’s band play on the pier. H

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Amazon prime members can now see Saved in America for free!

Thousand Oaks

Santa Clarita

Sacramento

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Ventura Harbor Fisherman’s Market If it’s fresh seafood you’re after, head a little north to Ventura. Every Saturday, dozens of fishermen bring that morning’s catch to the VENTURA HARBOR FISHERMAN’S MARKET. Visitors line up to pick up the best seafood the area has to offer. Once you stock up on everything from halibut to sea bass, settle in to watch the boats in the harbor or stroll across the promenade to California Street in the heart of downtown Ventura. To get the full pier experience, venture out to the end of the pier and turn around – from there, you’ll take in the marvelous view of the coastline and the Maricopa Mountains in the backdrop. t

5 SANTA BARBARA

Stearns Wharf

Further up north in Santa Barbara is STEARNS WHARF. Originally built to handle the passenger and shipping needs of the area, the pier now hosts everything from fortune telling to water taxis and a Museum of Natural History. Visitors can also enjoy wine tasting, dining and shopping along the wharf, which was built in 1872 and has weathered many storms over the years. You wouldn’t know it, though, as the pier is immaculately maintained and always bustling. For a more leisurely experience, hop on board Celebration Cruise’s luxury yacht for a sunset, brunch or dinner cruise. The yacht is a favorite for private events while the Lil Toot Water Taxi is perfect for a waterfront shuttle. Stearns Wharf truly comes to life in July when Independence Day is celebrated with a live band, a front seat to the city’s fireworks show and celebratory fare. ❖ t

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“ALL ABOARD!” SOCA

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Rail BY

MARTHA ABBEY MILLER

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“OH,

I’VE ALWAYS WANTED TO TAKE THE TRAIN!”

How easy is it, though, when dashing to San Diego or a destination up north, to hop in the car or grab a quick flight?

Yet, busy freeways are stressful, and congested airports frazzle the nerves.

Next time, when you have a little extra time, think again about that train trip. Most everyone who climbs on Amtrak’s Train 11, the northbound Coast Starlight, takes a relaxed breath, settles back, looks out the windows, and knows they’ve chosen well.

Train 11 originates in San Diego. A day and a half later, after leisurely winding up the Californian and Oregon coasts, its journey ends in Seattle, Washington.

Waiting on the platform for the Coast Starlight to roll in, banter among fellow travelers begins. Most common is the question, “Where are you headed?” Generally, family, friends, and college are at the end of the line. Occasionally, the destination is the trip itself.

For many, this will be their first long-distance train ride since they were kids. Maybe that accounts for the excitement as the headlights of the Coast Starlight appears, brilliant even in daylight.

The most experienced train traveler still enjoys the nostalgic anticipation of riding the rails. There’s the train whistle, long and loud, followed by the approaching rush and the clackety-clack of the locomotive and its first half-dozen cars – swish, swish . . . swishhh.

The train slows, then stops as the airbrakes hiss. Porters hop down from Sleeping, Business Class, and Coach Cars to help new passengers climb aboard.

Soon, the train is off. It will roll through California’s inland agricultural towns, skirt the Pacific Ocean’s seaside wonders, and round wide curves nestled in the rolling hills. Always, approaching each crossing, the train announces its presence: two long blasts of the whistle, one short note, and a long and somewhat mournful finale.

In many ways, the Coast Starlight is mechanical motion, set to music.

Coast Starlight Tips: • Spend time in the Sightseeing Lounge. Porter’s tip: Put your camera right up to the window glass to avoid glare. Charge your devices on nearby outlets.

• Don’t overload on reading material. The scenery is spectacular and those around you may become new friends.

• On longer trips, consider a Sleeper Car room, private and comfortable, day and night. The upper berth of a standard roomette is pretty snug; couples should consider the larger bedroom.

• The Dining Car desserts are especially delicious.

Why not?

Have a Lot of Time?

Sure, train travel is slow. That’s the allure: purposeful time to relax, write, study, dine, share stories, or take a nap.

Have a Little Time?

Take the train one way and fly the other. Or, plan a day trip on Train 11 (and its southbound counterpart, Train 14), saving money by riding coach. Check out Amtrak’s Surfliner, too; it runs between San Diego and San Luis Obispo. Bikes and surfboards are welcome.

Whatever train you’re on, take a moment to thank Amtrak’s hardworking staff. Many have long careers with the railroad and their own wonderful stories to share. ❖

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Explore the best of New England and the Canadian Maritimes.

Tour Boston, see the extravagant Gilded Age mansions of Newport, Rhode Island, and enjoy the shores of Cape Cod. Board the Norwegian Gem and sail through Maine to charming Bar Harbor north to Canadian ports in Halifax, Charlottetown, Gaspésie and La Baie. Explore Quebec City, Montreal and the Green Mountains of Vermont in beautiful fall. Port stops vary for the southbound cruise.

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Oahu • Maui • Hawaii • Kauai

14 days, departs June - September 2019 See up to 9 of America’s most spectacular national parks on this incredible tour! Start off in dazzling Las Vegas and continue to the world-famous Grand Canyon, Zion’s steep sandstone cliffs, rock hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, Monument Valley’s giant mesas, Arches National Park’s gravity-defying rock arches, waterfalls and granite scenery in Yosemite, towering sequoia trees in Kings Canyon, and everything in between—America’s natural beauty awaits!

12 days, departs year-round Discover Hawaii on this island-hopping cruise tour. Spend 7 nights aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s renovated Pride of America and enjoy freestyle cruising at its finest. Experience the lush Iao Valley on Maui, the beauty and charm of Hilo, Kona’s coffee-rich “Gold Coast,” and Kauai’s spectacular Na Pali coast and Waimea Canyon.

Your land tour includes Pearl Harbor and Honolulu city tours, and time to relax on world-famous Waikiki Beach. Escorted on Oahu by our friendly Tour Directors—your local experts.

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KEEPING UP WITH THE BY

CAITLIN ELIZABETH PIEH

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Kimptons

WE ALL HAVE ONE REQUIREMENT IN COMMON WHEN WE TRAVEL:

Suitable accommodations. Whether timeshare, lodge, resort, friend/family home or hotel, we want a comfortable place to lay our head when we are out of town. With more than 60 boutique hotels in 37 different cities, the Kimpton hotel brand features a consistently comfortable, stay yet a distinctive vibe and scent from one property to the next. H

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Santa Barbara Sailing Center is a premier venue for on-the-water fun.

DAVID COLLIER, COURTESY OF VISIT CALIFORNIA/VISIT SANTA BARBARA

BLAKE BRONSTAD/COURTESY OF VISIT SANTA BARBARA

Finch & Fork

Cabrillo Boulevard

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The Kimpton Canary

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LOCATED ON THE CALIFORNIA COASTLINE,

SANTA BARBARA

is the ideal spot for any traveler seeking an immersive SoCal experience.”

The Kimpton Canary

Every Kimpton property is pet-friendly, eco-friendly and has on-site dining. They also offer a coffee and cocoa bar in the morning and a wine hour (pets are always welcome) in the evening. You don’t want to miss the fun toppings like toffee and coconut … or the complimentary glass of wine.

One of our favorite beach towns to explore, also home to two Kimptons, is Santa Barbara where the Mediterranean climate averages 70 degrees in spring. The Kimpton Goodland and Kimpton Canary are both easy to access by plane, train or car.

Flights into Santa Barbara’s local airport or LAX , 90 miles away, usher in out-of-towners, while SoCal locals can take the Amtrak that chugs along the Santa Barbara County coast. It’s an easy hop off the train at both the Goleta or Santa Barbara Stations, both five minutes from each hotel.

Located on the California coastline, Santa Barbara is the ideal spot for any traveler seeking an immersive SoCal experience. This beach town offers arts and culture, outstanding cuisine, shopping, beautiful beaches, tons of outdoor activities, breweries and wineries.

The Kimpton Canary is a no-brainer for any luxury-seeking traveler. From the four-poster canopy beds to the wood floors to the stunning textiles, Canary is a blend of Mediterranean and casual California decor. Like all Kimpton hotels, Canary offers guests a number of amenities and services like animal print robes, a yoga mat, bike rentals and more. There are plenty of places to relax, though you may not want to leave your cozy bed. If you are up for activities, enjoy access to the Spectrum Athletic Club. Guests can also enjoy the rooftop pool and jacuzzi — jaw-dropping views of Santa Barbara included.

Indulge your palate at Finch & Fork, which features farm to fork cuisine, all locally sourced with the finest ingredients.

From pork chops to scallops, this eatery is sure to leave your taste buds happy. This epicurean sensation, located in the hotel’s lobby, offers an extensive wine list, with Carhartt Vineyard’s Canary Petite Sirah highlighting the list. If cocktails are your thing, Barbie’s Bath Bomb is a must. This sweet and bubbly concoction is just as much fun to drink as it is to look

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at. The Canary offers multiple event spaces with full catering and banquet services from Finch & Fork.

From the ballroom to the boardroom and the rooftop pool and terrace, there are plenty of options for your next meeting or event. You’ll never want to leave … unless it’s to explore the adjacent area. Canary is located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, making it walking distance to the action of the city.

Santa Barbara is an art mecca, making it easy to check out museums, shops and galleries. When it’s time for lunch, the Funk Zone is the place to be. This is an exciting spot filled with restaurants, breweries, distilleries and wine bars. Enjoy the eclectic scene while sipping on local brews and bubblies.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy near Canary. A short drive (or longer walk), guests can find Stearns Wharf, lounge on the beach, whale watch, surf, kayak and more. To get the best views, sailing is highly encouraged. Head over to the Santa Barbara Sailing Center and charter a catamaran with your pals. From sea lions to the Channel Islands to the red brick roofs of the city, the views are spectacular.

A short drive or train ride from downtown Santa Barbara is Goleta. This town is better known as home to UCSB but is also a great destination for any nature-loving vacationer. Nestled between the mountains and sea, Goleta is the perfect spot to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities … from hiking to biking to water sports and more.

The Kimpton Goodland is located in Goleta, making it an ideal place for the laidback traveler and outdoor explorer to stay. Each room is fitted in midcentury surfer-chic decor featuring a record player, vinyls and bottle opener drawer knobs … retro cool.

While on the property, guests can dine at the Outpost, offering California coastal cuisine. This indoor-outdoor restaurant offers fare from both land and sea. From the Roasted Sea Bass Lettuce Wrap to Chipotle Mac ‘n Cheese, enjoy the diverse flavors of SoCal, but make sure you leave room for dessert. For a late night drink head to the Good Bar, located directly across from the Outpost. Guests can sip on craft cocktails while mingling and playing games. The ultimate bohemian oasis, Goodland guests are able to enjoy a record room, outdoor pool, patio, live music and trivia night. The social scene at night is just as vibrant as the patio murals and twinkling lights, bringing in many locals and students. Be sure to stop by the vintage car and airstream outside, the perfect spot for your final vacay photo.

At the southern end of SoCal are two other Kimpton gems: Solamar and Palomar. These San Diego properties are great for travelers seeking a city

The Kimpton Goodland, Suite

Entrance at The Kimpton Goodland.

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THE KIMPTON GOODLAND, COURTESY OF VISIT SANTA BARBARA (2)

VNYL Record Shop in the lobby of The Kimpton Goodland.

“THE KIMPTON GOODLAND

is located in Goleta, making it an ideal place for the laidback traveler and outdoor explorer to stay. Each room is fitted in mid-century surferchic decor featuring a record player, vinyls and bottle opener drawer knobs … retro cool.”

The Outpost Restaurant at The Kimpton Goodland.

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“SOLAMAR IS WALKING DISTANCE TO MANY MAJOR SAN DIEGO ATTRACTIONS.”

overflowing with culture, entertainment and good eats. San Diego is a quick drive (depending on traffic) from any SoCal city … or hop on a train!

Solamar is located downtown in the East Village Gaslamp Quarter, making it the perfect spot for a SoCal staycation. Head to the rooftop pool and enjoy the warm San Diego sun in one of the many lounge chairs, or grab your yoga mat and flow. The vibrant colors and stunning views make for a picturesque setting.

While upstairs make sure to enjoy a custom cocktail and bite from Upper East Bar. Guests and locals can mix and mingle while enjoying weekly specials. The rooftop is equipped with games, fire pits and cabanas, making it the ideal place to unwind. When it’s time to dine, head downstairs to Jsix and enjoy American cuisine with major Filipino influences. Make sure to try a Crispy Spring Roll, also known as Lumpia, a staple in any Filipino household.

From Carne Asada Fries to Carrot Pappardelle, the menu at Jsix brings guests on a global adventure. Jsix takes pride in using local and sustainably sourced ingredients, ensuring only top-quality and fresh cuisine.

Though you’ll never want to leave the hotel, don’t forget to check out one of the many galleries, museums, beaches and watersports. Solamar is walking distance to many major San Diego attractions. Just seven blocks away you can find the Padres playing at Petco Park … or hop in a car and head over to Little Italy for some amazing eateries.

Pack your bag and get ready for the Kimpton experience … find the inner muse in you! And since every vacation deserves a great road trip, take the scenic route across the Southland from Santa Barbara to San Diego as an added entertainment bonus. ❖

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APRIL/MAY JUNE EVENTS AND HAPPENI NGS

FOODIE CON

11TH ANNUAL GRANFONDO SAN DIEGO BIKE RIDE

Los Angeles April 6-7

foodiecon.org t This two-day shopping and educational event offers attendees the chance to meet culinary purveyors, purchase the newest cookware and gadgets, and try the newest food trends from hand-selected vendors including food artisans, restaurants, local chefs, food trucks, craft breweries, wineries, and more all under one roof.

San Diego April 7

sdgranfondo.com t Southern California welcomes Italy in this celebration of cycling, food and San Diego’s picturesque waterfront.

The two-day festival features a mass-start, timed Gran Fondo (Bike Ride) with four route options, timed King and Queen of the Mountain competitions, food during the ride and an Italian Feast at the finish, and The Bike & Fitness Expo.

San Fernando Valley and surrounding areas will gather to experience the ultimate in dining indulgence from more than 45 restaurants and 120 wineries, spirits, and microbreweries during The Taste of The Valley's 20th Annual Food, Wine, Spirits, and Microbrew Fest in the 20,000 square-foot garden venue at Westfield Topanga. All proceeds benefit the Valley Cultural Center.

APRIL

Participants include exhibitors, prominent supporters from the fashion and editorial worlds, food and beverage sponsors, and members of the host committee. The group represents a wide cross-section of vintage sellers from across the globe who gather three times a year in Los Angeles and twice in New York and the SF Bay Area.

THE 24TH ANNUAL L.A. TIMES FESTIVAL OF BOOKS

the finest fare from L.A.’s top chefs and restaurants, sip signature handcrafted cocktails from master mixologists, enjoy tastings from some of California’s most eclectic wineries and local craft breweries, listen to live entertainment and more.

Los Angeles

April 13-14

MASTERS OF TASTE CURRENT AFFAIR

Pasadena

April 6-7

mastersoftastela.com t The 4th Annual Masters of Taste will take place on the field of the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium. About 2,500 guests will stroll the 50-yard line feasting on

Los Angeles

itsacurrentaffair.com t The event features more than 150 vintage retailers and private dealers showcasing vintage clothing, accessories and jewelry.

April 7

THE TASTE OF THE VALLEY

Canoga Park April 11

valleycultural.org/tasteof-the-valley t More than 1,000 connoisseurs from all over the

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La Jolla Concours d’Elegance and La Jolla Motor Car Classic at the Concours welcome some of the world's most elegant classic automobiles.

The prestigious event attracts car enthusiasts worldwide to one of So Cal's most sophisticated coastal cities celebrated for its avenues of magnificent boutiques and worldclass cuisine.

LA JOLLA CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE

La Jolla

April 12-14

lajollaconcours.com t For the 15th year, the internationally-renowned

events.latimes.com/ festivalofbooks t The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books brings together the people who create books with the people who love to read them.

Since founded in 1996, the festival has grown into the largest festival of its kind in the United States with more than 150,000 people coming to the University of Southern California campus to gather with writers, poets, artists, filmmakers and musicians.

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866-673-2073 AT&T UNLIMITED &MORE PREMIUM PLAN: Avail. to elig. customers only. Plan starts at $80/mo. after autopay & paperless bill discount w/in 2 bills. Enroll in both to get discount. Multiple Phone Line Discount: Monthly $15 (3 lines) or $30 (4 or more lines) discount applied to plan charge w/in 2 bills. Limits: After 22GB of data usage on a line in a bill cycle, for the remainder of the cycle, AT&T may temporarily slow data speeds on that line during times of network congestion. Select devices only, 10/plan. See att.com/unlimited for plan details & pricing. Wireless Streaming: Plan includes Stream Saver which limits wireless streaming to max of 1.5 Mbps (to stream in HD (up to 1080p) when avail., turn Stream Saver off). Details at att.com/streamsaver. Streaming ability & resolution vary and are affected by other factors. Tethering/Mobile Hotspot: Includes up to 15GB per line/mo. After 15GB, tethering speed will be slowed to max of 128 Kbps except for Connected Cars. WATCHTV: Add to &More Premium plan. To add, you must create account at attwatchtv.com/verifywatchtv, verify your wireless account & then you can access through WatchTV app or compatible browser. May require verification via text msg. Req’s compatible device (sold separately). WatchTV subject to its own terms & conditions, see attwatchtv.com/terms-and-conditions for details. Included channels, programming & content subj. to change & benefit may be terminated. Lost Eligibility: If you cancel elig. wireless svc, you lose access to WatchTV. Limits: Access to one WatchTV acct/wireless acct. Limit 1 concurrent stream with WatchTV. May not be stackable. Use only in the DCA. CHOOSE ONE: Elig. customers can add to AT&T Unlimited &More Premium for no extra charge. Use only in the DCA. Must create acct at attwatchtv.com/verifywatchtv, verify your wireless acct & then select your one add-on. Music apps not avail. to Puerto Rico or U.S. Virgin Islands customers. May require verification via text msg. Req’s compatible device (sold separately). May require acct creation and acceptance of third-party terms & conditions for certain add-on choices. Access to add-on is for 12 months; then may select new add-on option for next 12 months. Customers w/ elig. AT&T TV svc also get Premium movie channel selection on that platform, which is billed & credited w/in 2 bills. Premium movie channel access ltd to WatchTV app only for customers in Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands, and for certain MDU customers. Included channels, programming and/or content subject to change and benefit may be terminated. Lost Eligibility: Upon cancellation of elig. wireless plan you may lose access. Limits: Access to one add-on per elig. wireless account. May not be stackable. AT&T employees, retirees & IMO consumers are not eligible for the autopay & paperless bill discount, adding WatchTV at no extra charge or the &More Premium add-on. Offer, programming, pricing, channels, terms & restrictions subject to change and may be discontinued at any time without notice. GEN. WIRELESS: Subj. to Wireless Customer Agmt at att.com/wca. Svc not for resale. Credit approval, deposit, active and other fees, monthly & other charges per line apply. See plan details & att.com/additionalcharges for more. Coverage & svc not avail. everywhere. International & domestic off-net data may be at 2G speeds. Other restr’s apply & may result in svc termination. AT&T svc is subj. to AT&T network management policies, see att.com/broadbandinfo for details. HBO,® Cinemax® and related channels and service marks are the property of Home Box Office, Inc. SHOWTIME® is a registered trademark of Showtime Networks Inc., a CBS company. You must be a SHOWTIME subscriber to get SHOWTIME ANYTIME® and watch programs online. STARZ® and related channels and service marks are the property of Starz Entertainment, LLC. Visit starz.com for airdates/times. Amazon, Amazon Music, and all related logos and motion marks are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. The Walking Dead: ©2018 AMC Network Entertainment LLC. All Rights Reserved. ©2018 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. ©2018 AT&T Intellectual Property. All Rights Reserved. AT&T, Globe logo, DIRECTV and all other DIRECTV marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

CALENDAR HOSPICE FOUNDATION CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT

Newport Beach April 16

socalhospicefoundation.org t The 12th annual Southern California Hospice Golf Tournament at Pelican Hill Golf Club in Newport Beach offers the opportunity to become active members of the SCHF family and mingle with others who support the foundation. Participate as an individual player, sponsor, or both and enjoy spectacular views from every hole.

APRIL/MAY JUNE

for the wine tasting experience at the California Wine Festival at Dana Point Yacht Club. Along the seaside setting, California’s best wineries pour vintage red and white wines complemented by dozens of gourmet appetizers prepared by region’s top chefs and specialty food purveyors.

Live music along with ocean views make this one of the California’s most popular wine festivals.

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THE 5TH ANNUAL VENICE DESIGN SERIES

Venice

April 27-May 18

venicedesignseries.org t The 5th Annual Venice Design Series 2019 features six curated events that showcase the unique talents and artistic vision found in Los Angeles’ neighborhoods. Each unique event blends together architecture, cuisine, design, art and performance.

CONNECTING CREATIVE COMMUNITIES: MISSION FEDERAL ARTWALK

San Diego

April 27-28

CALIFORNIA WINE FESTIVAL

Dana Point

April 26-27

californiawinefestival.com t Wine, food, music, sea and sun are the elements

artwalksandiego.org/ missionfederal t For 35 years, Mission Federal ArtWalk has celebrated both visual and performing arts in San Diego. During the two-day event which fills 16 blocks in San Diego’s Little Italy neighborhood, thousands will gather to view and purchase artwork, enjoy music, dance, and participate in interactive art experiences.

EARTH FAIR

San Diego April 28

earthdayweb.org t Come celebrate EarthFair’s 30th annual event! EarthFair 2019 features more than 300 exhibits, special theme areas, a food pavilion, special children's activity area, four entertainment venues, Children’s Earth Parade, the eARTh Gallery arts and crafts show, and Cleaner Car Concourse.

MAY

ASIAN CULTURAL FESTIVAL

36TH ANNUAL FIESTA OLD TOWN CINCO DE MAYO

San Diego May 3-5

THE CALIFORNIA POPPY FESTIVAL™

Lancaster

April 27-28

poppyfestival.com t Two days of music, art, food and fun celebrate the state flower of California in Lancaster where thousands of visitors flock to see hillsides and fields covered in these brilliant, silky flowers of brilliant orange, red or yellow with prominent yellow stamens. Held at the Lancaster Museum/Art Gallery, visitors can pick up free wildflower maps and learn about the best viewing locations before heading out to the Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve.

cincodemayooldtown.com t Gather your amigos and get ready to shake your maracas for the 36th Annual Fiesta Old Town Cinco de Mayo. Immerse into Mexico’s vibrant culture with food, drinks and entertainment as the historic Old Town area is transformed into the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration San Diego has to offer.

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San Diego May 4

asianculturalfestivalsd.com t The 10th Annual Asian Cultural Festival of San Diego will feature cultural, traditional and contemporary acts.

There will be incredible traditional and cultural entertainers from Japanese Taiko drums and Chinese Lion dancers to Pacific Islander and Filipino performances.

14TH ANNUAL BUTTERFLY REMEMBRANCE CEREMONY

Westlake Village May 4

buenavistahhh.com t Each year Hospice families and the community

are invited to join in the Annual Remembrance Ceremony. The Buena Vista program includes music, celebration of lives well lived, prayer and a

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the hospitality of the Valley’s Greek community and experience the simple pleasures of life in a Greek village. Dance the afternoon away, eat delicious Greek food, shop in the Greek marketplace, relax and enjoy yourself under the trees in the warm embrace of the best Greek culture has to offer.

JUNE

ROAR AND POUR

Santa Barbara May 11

sbzoo.org t The animals stay out late while guests sip wine and stroll around the zoo. Featured are tastings from more than 20 local wineries, tasty eats available for purchase from local food trucks and Rincon Catering, music and more. All proceeds benefit the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo.

very special butterfly release. Guests are invited to bring a Memorial Bear or a picture of a loved one for the memorial table.

stages. The southern cuisine will include 10,000 pounds of crawfish trucked from Louisiana, non-stop live music, dancing and family fun at Spanish Landing Park.

ANNUAL OCEAN BEACH KITE FESTIVAL

San Diego May 18

oceanbeachkiwanis.org t Spend a day at the Robb Athletic Field for the 71st Annual Ocean Beach Kite Festival and enjoy live music, carnival rides and beautiful kites. There will be kite building and decorating, prizes, professional kite fliers and demonstrations, games, crafters, community organizations, gourmet food and carnival activities.

GATOR BY THE BAY

San Diego

May 9-12

gatorbythebay.com t Gator by the Bay, the largest, most-authentic Louisiana-themed music and food festival, will feature four days of live music with more than 100 musical acts and special performances on seven

demonstrations and family fun. It is the perfect summer kickoff with proceeds benefiting the community.

15TH ANNUAL LAVENDER FESTIVAL

Cherry Valley

May 23 – June 30

hsresort.com/ thelavenderfestival t Visitors of all ages are invited to stroll through the winding paths of organic lavender fields, participate in horse-drawn

hay wagon tours, and learn how lavender essential oil is extracted, taste lavender-inspired dishes and enjoy live music.

LA WINEFEST

Los Angeles June 1-2

SAINT NICHOLAS GREEK FESTIVAL

Northridge

May 25-27

valleygreekfestival.com t The Saint Nicholas Greek Festival evokes the sights, sounds and tastes that define the traditional Greek way of life. Enjoy

lawinefest.com t The LA WineFest brings wines and brews from around the world to your doorstep in a fun, relaxed environment. The festival also serves up boutiques to browse, artisan merchandise to buy and more.

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CALIFORNIA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL Oxnard

May 18-19

castrawberryfestival.org t The 36th Anniversary of the California Strawberry Festival is among the top festivals in the nation with more than 50 food booths and 200 arts and crafts vendors. There will be contests, rides and attractions, concerts, celebrity chef

BALLOON AND WINE FESTIVAL

Temecula Valley

May 31-June 2

tvbwf.com t This fun-filled, three-day event offers early morning hot air balloon flights, an evening balloon glow, wine and craft beer tastings, and a kids’ faire. There will also be a commercial court with more than 200 vendors and a food court filled with festival food favorites.

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Donate it to the Humane Society.

You’ll be supporting the nation’s largest and most effective animal protection organization, seeking a humane world for people and animals alike.

Call 1-888-648-5337

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chefs and specialty food purveyors. Live music along with ocean views make this one of the California’s most popular wine festivals.

Pasadena June 8

visitpasadena.com/events/ boldpas t Los Angeles artists takeover Pasadena with temporary art installations throughout Old Pasadena’s unique urban and historic spaces at BoldPas. BoldPas allows visitors to meander historic alleyways and side streets to explore Old Pasadena’s wonderful history, architecture, retailers and restaurants while taking in unique artistic interventions at every turn.

CONEJO FOOD AND WINE FEST

Thousand Oaks June 23

LA DESIGN FESTIVAL

Los Angeles

June 20-23

SAN DIEGO FESTIVAL OF ARTS

San Diego

June 8-9

sdfestivalofthearts.org t The San Diego Festival of the Arts gathers critically-acclaimed artists from around the country for an elegant, high-quality showcase. Guests will enjoy exceptional dining from San Diego's favorite restaurants, sample San Diego craft beer and experience interactive activities for the whole family.

25TH ANNUAL TASTE OF GASLAMP

San Diego June 15

gaslamp.org t San Diego's original culinary tour of the Gaslamp Quarter will be showcasing the excellent dining

ladesignfestival.org t The LA Design Festival honors Los Angeles’ rich design culture and celebrates its status as a global design capital. From architecture and interior to graphic, industrial, fashion, set, costume, and experimental design, the event showcases the best of the local design scene as well as some exciting national and international voices.

options available in the vibrant district. Sample food from more than 25 restaurants on a self-guided walking tour with an after party. For VIP ticket holders, experience six additional fine dining restaurants serving larger bite portions with a cocktail at each location.

become the largest gathering of pre-1936 roadsters in the world. A designated parking area will be filled with coupes, sedans,

LA ROADSTER SHOW AND SWAP MEET

Pomona

June 15-16

laroadstershow.com t The annual Father’s Day weekend event has

CALIFORNIA WINE FESTIVAL

Carlsbad

June 21-22

californiawinefestival.com t Wine, food, music, sea and sun are the elements for the wine tasting experience at the California Wine Festival at Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Golf Club & Spa. Along the seaside setting, California’s best wineries pour vintage red and white wines complemented by dozens of gourmet appetizers prepared by region’s top

conejofoodandwine.com t The Conejo culinary community offers a sampling of the area's best food, wine, beer and desserts. Dozens of vendors including restaurants, wineries, breweries, bakeries, and distilleries will be there along with live music to round out a great afternoon.

SANTA BARBARA WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL

Santa Barbara June 29

sbnature.org t Swirl, sip and savor tastings from more than 100 premier Central Coast wineries complemented by savory and sweet bites from top local food purveyors. Mingle with winemakers, bakers, and chefs outdoors and under the oak trees. Guests will enjoy the best of Central Coast wines and try their luck in the Every Cork Wins raffle.

trucks and muscle cars.

The large swap meet is guaranteed to have some rare finds and the manufacturer’s midway vendors are some of the biggest and best in the hot rod and performance parts business.

TASTE OF VISTA

San Diego June 19

11TH ANNUAL TASTE OF LA MESA

La Mesa

June 10

lamesachamber.net t The Taste of La Mesa, a popular community food extravaganza, celebrates the Chamber’s 11th Anniversary.

Stroll table to table and eat with no limitations while sampling great food from many local restaurants.

vvba.org t Come experience the 11th Annual Taste of Vista for all food lovers. Walk along Downtown Vista’s tree-lined sidewalks enjoying bites and beverages from Vista restaurants, breweries, wineries and distilleries, while enjoying live music.

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LONG BEACH BAYOU FESTIVAL

Long Beach TBD

longbeachbayou.com t This festival offers patrons a weekend filled with cultural music, cuisine and dance from a place called ‘home’ in New Orleans and the Louisiana Bayou Country. Savor the many delicacies and flavors of the Big Easy and immerse yourselves in the specialties of Cajun and Creole cuisine. ❖

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Get the bimonthly print edition of Southern California Life magazine to discover the hidden treasures of Southern California. From entertainment and recreation options, events, points of interest and profile features, Southern California Life magazine serves as a guide for residents and visitors to live, travel, and discover the Southern region of the Golden State.

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CHANNEL ISLANDS NATIONAL PARK SCOTT HARRIS

VISITVENTURACA.COM

BY

MORE THAN 23 MILLION PEOPLE LIVE IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA, which is more than the population of 48 of the

On the boat trip back, we were fortunate to spend close to an hour alongside four orcas, commonly known as killer whales.

I share this with you for two reasons. One, because so few people realize that these islands are right off our coast and are absolutely stunning, offering views and experiences many of us have traveled around the world to try and match. While I have no way of knowing for sure, it strikes me that if these same five islands were much further away than they are, if they qualified as “exotic,” more of us would visit them than do because they are right in our own backyard.

And second, because Channel Islands National Park, while a decades-long favorite of mine, is only one of the many overlooked or forgotten gems in this remarkable place we call Southern California.

How about our own redwood forest at Carbon Canyon Regional Park in Orange County, or the massive and beautiful Hindu Temple in Malibu?

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch have more than 50 acres of ranunculuses (fancy name for beautiful flowers) that can only be seen from right now through May. And right in my own backyard, Wildwood Regional Park in Thousand Oaks has miles and miles of trails that, because of the winter rains, are currently covered with deep green grasses and acres of wildflowers.

There are so many more gems, natural and man-made, scattered across our collective backyard. Don’t get me wrong, I love Disneyland and Dodger Dogs as much as the next guy, but sometimes, every once in a while, it’s fun to reach out and try something new, different, and maybe, if you look hard enough, right around the corner. ❖

50 United States, California and Texas being the exceptions.

Approximately 18 million people a year, or roughly 40,000 people per day, visit Disneyland. The Los Angeles Dodgers average almost 50,000 fans per home game and the Los Angeles Rams average more than 70,000 per home game.

And yet, by comparison, only about 30,000 people per year, or fewer than 100 per day, visit one of the five islands that make up Channel Islands National Park. I have been a frequent visitor to these islands (Anacapa, Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, San Miquel and Santa Rosa) since 1972 and remember the excitement when they became a National Park in 1980. I have hiked their hills, scuba dived, boated, waterskied and fished their waters.

Just after the first of the year, I took a day trip to Santa Cruz Island. I was with a small group of friends, some of whom had never been before. They were shocked by the beauty, serenity and wildlife that we experienced over the course of the day.

On the boat trip over, which takes a bit more than an hour, we saw hundreds of dolphins and at least a dozen gray whales on their way to their breeding grounds off the coast of Mexico.

As we hiked the beaches and hills of Santa Cruz Island, which is the largest of the five islands, we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views and frequent sightings of island foxes, which can only be found on the Channel Islands. For those who love birding, the islands are a paradise, with species that can only be found on the islands and one — the island scrub jay — that is found on Santa Cruz Island and nowhere else in the world.

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Moving and Relocation Specialist

Let Teri Sangster’s passion for making houses feel like homes fill your living space with beauty and order. Allow yourself to enjoy your surroundings and live peaceful and unruffled.

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Downsizing, Donate and Discard Service Packing and Unpacking Moving Boxes Arranging Kitchens, Bathrooms, Drawers Decorating/ Redesign Organizing Closets Uncluttering Homestaging Outdoor Staging

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SAN DIEGO, CA ERIC PLANTE

Downtown San Diego at dusk

ERIC PLANTE is a travel photographer-writer based in Glendale, CA. He feels very fortunate to be living in such a sensational region of the country. From the captivating coast along the Palos Verdes peninsula to the parched Mojave Desert down to sunny San Diego, Plante’s pursuit of photographing SoCal is never ending. He offers custom private photography workshops in SoCal and beyond. If you have a particular photographic adventure in mind, send an email: picturesbyplante@gmail.com or visit his photography site, www.picturesbyplante.com.

While people around the world may only associate Southern California with the glitz and glamour of Hollywood or the laid back attitude of sunny San Diego, SoCal has so much more to offer. Just outside of its celebrated urban centers, it is a rugged place, a place of extremes, with hot red rock deserts, cold water Pacific islands with wild kelp beds, and snow capped mountain peaks.

At least, that’s how I see Southern California. How do you see it? We want to know! We at Southern California Life magazine are devoted to showing you all that it has to offer. We’ll close each issue showcasing the beauty of our region with its landscapes and landmarks. And we want you, our readers, to participate. For a chance to be published on our “My Southern California” photo page, follow us on Instagram (@socallifemag) and use these hashtags in your favorite photos of the landscapes, landmarks, and lifestyles that you think define our home: #ThisIsMySoCal #SoCalLifeMagContest

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Gourmet kitchen • Custom cabinetry and built-ins Private yard with gas bbq waterfall and fireplace End of cul-de-sac location

Three-car garage with abundant shelving • Peaceful neighborhood

JoAnn Tattersall

BRE#00814760 Broker/Owner, GRI, SFR, SRES, e-PRO, PMC

Tattersall Team • Active Real Estate 818.991.9931 www.TattersallTeam.com