topanga guide

TOPANGA CANYON: Fun, Adventerous, Eclectic

For those looking to get active, Topanga Canyon has plenty to offer. The area is home to a number of hiking trails, including the popular Backbone Trail, which offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding mountains. Visitors can also take part in yoga classes, horseback riding, and even rock climbing. Topanga Canyon State Park is a must-visit for those looking to explore the great outdoors, with over 11,000 acres of hiking trails, campgrounds, and picnic areas to explore.

In addition to its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Topanga Canyon is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The area is home to a number of galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists and artisans. Visitors can also attend live music events, theater productions, and other cultural events throughout the year, including the Topanga Days Country Fair, an annual celebration that has been a tradition in the community for over 40 years.

Topanga Canyon is a great place to relax and unwind. The area is known for its laid-back vibe and sense of community, making it the perfect place to escape from the stresses of everyday life. Visitors can take part in yoga or meditation classes, enjoy a massage or spa treatment, or simply take a stroll through the canyon and soak up the natural beauty that surrounds them.

A visit to Topanga Canyon is a must for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience. From shopping and dining to outdoor activities and cultural events, there is something for everyone in this stunning destination. Whether you’re looking to explore the great outdoors or simply unwind and relax, Topanga Canyon is the perfect place to do it. So why not plan a trip today and discover all that this magical place has to offer?

Inn Of The Seventh Ray

Elegant Energy in Topanga

Topanga Canyon is blessed to be the home to the Inn of the Seventh Ray. Frequently cited as the most romantic restaurant in Los Angeles, this is a well earned and often repeated accolade. Founded in the early 1970s by Lucile ‘Lucy’ Yaney and her husband, Dr. Ralph Yaney.

The couple discovered the property that offer numerous stories. Located at the convergence of Topanga Creek and Old Topanga Creek, it may have been a meeting place of the indigenous Chumash natives. In the 1930s, evangelist, Aimee Semple McPherson built a personal retreat complete with a small church for worship. Later the property was used as a feed store; a gas station was the home of the local junkyard when Lucy found it. But the energy was so strong that Lucy was struck with the inspiration that would become the Inn of the Seventh Ray.

Lucy and her husband purchased the property and began to restore it to its natural beautiful state. Lucy has always felt a deep connection with the pure energy that surrounds this ethereal wooded enclave. Establishing a retreat and restaurant reflecting Yaney’s healthy lifestyle based on simple, locally sourced organic foods. The menu today still follows their philosophy and has been elevated by talented and passionate Chef & Co-Owner Brad Miller.

Brad’s passion began like so many great chefs, beside his grandmother in the kitchen as a child. His passion carried him through a Cordon Bleu program in Scottsdale, Arizona. Working his way up the culinary food chain to become the Master Chef of the Inn. Brad is well known in culinary media, appearing on several notable television shows. At his side is another culinary star, Executive Chef Gabriel Hatton. The trifecta of talent is complete with Sommeliers, Stephen Jordan, who continually seeks wines to pair perfectly with the chef’s magical flavors.

The setting of the Inn embraces the canyon oaks, serenaded by the flowing creek, which creates a serenity of life and love. Be it a romantic date, a special celebration, or a wedding, the Inn provides charing memories that last a lifetime. The team of professionals at the Inn makes everything from date night to a once-in-a-lifetime wedding flawless.

Before you leave the Inn, stop in The Cellar Wine Shop to take home some of Mr. Jordan’s liquid magic to extend and share the Inn of the Seventh Ray experience with family and friends. Wine Spectator gave the Inn the Award of Excellence in 2022, expressing the elevated nature of Mr. Jordan’s inventory.

Lunch, brunch, dinner, dessert, or special holiday meals are offered daily. Online reservations are the most convenient method to pick your date to visit the Inn. You can also email reservations@ innoftheseventhray or call 310-455-1311 to reserve your place at the Inn. The Inn is located just off Topanga Canyon Boulevard (CA State Hwy 27) at 128 Old Topanga Canyon Road.

Jalan Jalan Imports

A Jewel in the Canyon

On a recent spring drive through Topanga Canyon, we made a most memorable stop. Like historic explorers on a journey of discovery, we came upon the home of Jalan Jalan Imports and Topanga Rocks, boutique importers of crystals and Balinese design elements. As we meandered through the property, we were transported to a different time and space. The tapestry of Topanga is so rich, but this significant piece of the Topanga mosaic made it richer yet. We soon witnessed Owl Falls, a natural three-story waterfall spilling into what can be described as a sanctuary setting. It was both sublime and surreal.

Owner and curator Brian Gibson, a resident of Topanga since 1997, has focused on his love and passion for collecting interesting design elements from mysterious corners of Bali, Java, and Sumatra. Brian’s Jalan focus is on hand-chiseled statuary and exotic teak furniture intended as focal points for gardens and private sanctuaries of his many clients. Although some pieces are set indoors, they thrive in outdoor settings aging with the patina of natural elements. Moisture, mosses, sunlight, and time all play a part in their journey. These are not inanimate objects but living things exuding an aura of peace and serenity.

On a more intimate scale is Topanga Rocks, which strives to offer the most diverse collection of crystals and rocks in the L. A. area. The selection and variety of crystals and other pieces are filled with natural wonders. The store’s interior is beautifully lit and displayed like a kaleidoscope of color and vibration. Topanga Rocks has curated a wonderful collection of magnificent crystals, art, jewelry, and unique gifts. This is surely one of the most interesting shopping experiences Los Angeles has to offer.

Jalan Jalan Imports & Topanga Rocks can be found at 525 South Topanga Canyon Boulevard or online at jalanjalanimports.com. 310-455-2254