Happy Summer!
Summer in Temecula unfolds with a rhythm all its own—sun-drenched mornings, golden evenings, and a landscape that invites both adventure and stillness. Amid the familiar cadence of our daily lives, there’s an opportunity to embrace the unexpected—to find joy in the unplanned.
We had a moment just like this while working on this issue. During our visit to the Santa Rosa Plateau for a shoot, we took time to walk the trail, sit beside the water, listen to the birds, and feel the warmth of the sun and the brush of the breeze on our faces. It was a gentle reminder that some of life's most meaningful moments occur when we step away from our schedules and allow space for discovery.
This summer, we encourage you to seek out those moments. Attend a local concert under the stars, explore a new hiking path, or simply take a different route through town. Let curiosity guide you, and allow the spirit of exploration to open the door to new experiences and connections.
In this issue, you'll find stories and features designed to inspire your own adventures—whether close to home or just beyond the horizon. We hope they serve as a warm invitation to embrace the season with curiosity, presence, and a sense of wonder.
Warmly,
SEAN ARNETT
DESIREE ALLEN
@TEMECULACITYLIFESTYLE
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Sean Arnett | sean.arnett@citylifestyle.com
MANAGING EDITOR
Desiree Allen | desiree.allen@citylifestyle.com
SALES DIRECTOR
Sean Arnett
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Desiree Allen
INTERNS
Seth Haden, Zoe Cardno, Mariana Gomez, Emma Mangan
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Seth Haden, Ava Sarnowski, Chris Comella, Melissa Colombo, Sean Arnett, Helena Lambert
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Shawna Sarnowski
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Matthew Endersbe
LAYOUT DESIGNER Amanda Schilling
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1-3: Temecula City Lifestyle celebrated its 1-Year Anniversary and Ribbon Cutting—marking twelve months of storytelling, partnerships, and community connection with co-owners Sean and Desiree.
Photography by Temecula Valley Chamber of Commerce
DIY Paint & Sip at GrapeSeed Spa
Daily at 11 a.m. | GrapeSeed Spa Veranda
Unwind with a glass of wine and let your creativity flow during this selfguided painting experience overlooking the vineyards. Choose a blank or stenciled canvas to spark inspiration. $50 for walk-ins; $45 for spa or resort guests. To reserve, call 951-719-8359. Details at southcoastwinery.com/activities/ event-calendar
Scan to read
ARTICLE BY SETH HADEN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWNA SARNOWSKI
WHERE WILD BEAUTY Still Whispers
ROSA PLATEAU ECOLOGICAL RESERVE
High above the hum of the city, where sunlight weaves through ancient oaks and the air smells of warm earth, the Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve invites quiet discovery. Just west of Murrieta, this 9,000-acre sanctuary offers something deeper: a return.
A return to stillness.
To wind-swept grasslands and open skies.
To the kind of quiet that stirs something essential.
Part of the Santa Ana Mountains, the Reserve protects one of Southern California’s last native ecosystems. Trails like the Granite Loop, Monument Hill, and Vernal Pool Trail welcome hikers of all levels. In spring, wildflowers bloom in vivid waves. In wetter months, rare vernal pools shimmer—fragile mirrors of cloud and sky.
Birdsong accompanies each step. Wildlife thrives, but so does something subtler: awareness.
Families discover nature’s wonders. Those seeking solitude find the space to slow down. Whether you come for photos, picnics, or peace, each visit becomes a quiet homecoming.
Take the turn onto Clinton Keith Road. Let the land reawaken your sense of wonder.
Santa Rosa Plateau Ecological Reserve 39400 Clinton Keith Rd, Murrieta | 951.677.6951 | rivcoparks.org
“You don’t always need a plane ticket to find adventure—just a trail, some curiosity, and a moment to breathe.”
SANTA
Joy Found Beside the Sea
Observations of a wandering beach dweller
People reveal their talents without charge beside the ocean. A painter, attempting to capture the scenery on canvas, seeks to prolong its beauty. Or fishermen, casting their lines from the bridge and patiently waiting for fish to take the bait. Perhaps there is a musician, strumming on a guitar and allowing the ocean breeze to carry their voice far away. Placed at their feet is a guitar case containing spare change that has been dropped by generous strangers passing through.
Out across the water, surfers perch on boards, buoying in wait. Watch as they holler for joy when catching waves, only to tumble off their boards and plunge into the water. Then they surface, pushing wet hair out of their faces with laughter in their throats. Behind them, a few sailboats glide across the water, interspersed with a lone speeding jet ski.
Across the street, bungalow porches fill with neighbors chatting and sipping drinks, their sunglasses catching the colors of a pink-and-orange sky. Cyclists roll by. Then come joggers and roller-skaters—movement that mirrors the day’s energy and ease.
Near the shoreline, sand turns dark and damp. A frisbee sails overhead. A golden retriever splashes after it, tail wagging, while nearby volleyball players gear up for the next serve. Seagulls stroll through it all, unaware of cameras pointed at the setting sun.
ARTICLE BY AVA SARNOWSKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWNA SARNOWSKI
The waves, as always, come and go. They polish smooth rocks and uncover half-buried shells. They remind us: the sea will always be here—for peace, for play, for perspective.
It’s an unspoken privilege to see the ocean with one’s own eyes, a joy many will never know.
Breathe deep, bask in the enhanced serotonin. Let the sinuses clear, feel the lungs expand. Take solace in the fact that the ocean remains an unmoving expanse, one that will always be there for comfort or realization. When exploring the beach, what will you see?
A Mindful Approach at Murrieta Hot Springs Resort
Meet Sarah Goudie, MPhil, FDN-P, Doctoral Candidate
Among the soothing geothermal waters of Murrieta Hot Springs Resort, you’ll find a calming, knowledgeable presence: Sarah Goudie, MPhil, FDN-P, Doctoral Candidate. Working closely with Executive Chef Matt Steffen, Sarah lends her expertise to align nourishing, research-backed, nourishing food strategies with the resort’s culinary experiences. Together, they’ve created a dining experience that supports wellness across a variety of lifestyles. Their offerings cater to a range of guest preferences— gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and carnivore alike—at Talia Kitchen, Café Azuli, and Guenther’s Lounge.
“My overall philosophy about health and wellness is that when we are at a state of ease, we are walking away from a state of disease,” Sarah said. “When I talk about nutrition and lifestyle medicine, my goal is to remind people to be at ease.”
Through nutritional strategy, Sarah helps embed mindfulness into the dining experience, creating a more inclusive, intentional approach to wellness. Her work extends into associate training,
where mindful eating and balanced living become part of the resort’s culture.
She believes the journey toward health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. “Small shifts lead to meaningful change. I try to make wellness approachable for everyone I work with,” she says. “No one should feel left out of a conversation about health.”
Many guests come to the resort seeking relief from stress or chronic burnout. Sarah gently guides them toward the preventative power of geothermal water therapy. The cornerstone of the resort’s appeal: its healing water. “The geothermal water meets you where you are,” Sarah explains. “It offers therapeutic benefits through its minerals, buoyancy, and warmth—helping guests naturally reduce stress.”
Sarah’s commitment to community is just as strong. It’s emotional, communal, and deeply personal. In April, she served as a panelist at the National Girl, Me Too Retreat by Pure Clarity, held at the resort. There, she empowered women to reconnect with themselves and prioritize wellness. She shared her philosophy and best
advice for achieving optimal health and longevity with women in a safe space to allow for deep connections and renewal.
Multitasking and overstimulation often mask the signals our bodies are sending. But Sarah encourages mindfulness in everyday moments:
“Do less, not more.” She encourages intentional rest. “Take a walk without headphones. Sit in an infrared sauna without checking your email. Drive in silence. Let yourself be at ease.”
Because when we learn to slow down, our bodies respond with clarity, peace, and resilience. That’s wellness worth exploring.
SUMMERT IMEHEAT
There’s something special about summer—the longer days, the golden light, and the urge to be outside enjoying it all. Whether you’re firing up the grill, heading to the beach, or taking a stroll through wine country, this season is all about exploring the outdoors and feeling good while doing it. But as you chase the sunshine, don’t forget: a bit of preparation goes a long way in keeping your body energized, healthy, and balanced.
SUNLIGHT: NATURE’S VITAMIN D FACTORY
The sun doesn’t just brighten our days, it also plays a vital role in our health. One of the biggest health benefits of spending time in the sun is Vitamin D production. Often called the “sunshine vitamin,” Vitamin D is synthesized when UVB rays from the sun hit your skin. It’s essential for bone health, immune function, and even mood regulation. Studies have linked adequate Vitamin D levels to lower risks of heart disease, certain cancers, and depression. Vitamin D is necessary for your body to absorb Calcium, which keeps your bones strong.
Why Sunlight and Hydration Are Your Summer Essentials
ARTICLE BY CHRIS COMELLA - PROGRESSIVE HEALTH + PERFORMANCE
Unfortunately, many people are unknowingly deficient due to indoor lifestyles and long hours in front of screens. While supplements can help, there’s no substitute for time spent outdoors. Just 10 to 30 minutes of midday sun exposure a few times a week is often enough to support healthy Vitamin D levels. Try to get a little sun before applying SPF—and always protect your skin during longer exposure.
HYDRATION: YOUR BODY’S COOLING SYSTEM
Now here’s the part most people underestimate, and something we cannot stress enough, the importance of hydration. Your body relies on water to regulate temperature, maintain blood flow, and support every single cell and organ. When you're out in the sun your body works overtime to keep you cool by sweating. That lost fluid needs to be replaced, or you risk dehydration.
Dehydration can sneak up quickly. Watch for early signs like fatigue, headaches, dizziness, or muscle cramps. Left unchecked, it could lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
As a general rule, drink half your body weight in ounces each day. For example, someone who weighs 180 pounds should aim for about 90 ounces. But in the summer heat, your body often needs more. If you're thirsty, drink. If you can’t remember your last sip, drink. If you’re active or sweating, definitely drink more. Water-rich foods like cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon make hydration easy—and delicious.
Staying hydrated and getting consistent sun exposure helps maintain energy, boost immunity, and support digestion, mood, and overall well-being.
Sip smarter this summer—keep your water bottle close and hydration top of mind.
TIPS TO KEEP YOU BALANCED
• Catch the sun early: Aim for sun exposure before 11 a.m. or after 3 p.m. to avoid the most intense rays. If you do find yourself outside in the midday, be mindful of how long you’re exposed to the sun.
• Hydrate before you're thirsty: By the time you feel thirsty, you’re already mildly dehydrated.
• Bring a bottle: Keep a reusable water bottle with you when you're out and about. It's a simple habit that makes a big difference.
• Dress smart : Lightweight, breathable clothes and a hat can help you stay cool longer. Wear a good sunscreen if you're going to be out in the intense sun for extended periods of time, and remember to reapply it.
• Snack smart : Choose fruits and veggies with high water content to help stay hydrated naturally.
• Track your water. There are many great apps you can download that will help you track how much water you’ve had over the course of the day, some even with friendly reminders when you go too long between inputting drinks
This summer, don’t just soak up the vibes— soak up the benefits. Step outside, feel the sun on your skin, and breathe in the fresh air. Take advantage of the Vitamin D boost to help with your mineral absorption, help your cells, and better your mood on rough days. But don’t forget your water bottle! A healthy summer isn’t just about catching rays, it’s about finding the balance between sunlight and self-care. So, go ahead and get glowing, and keep the water flowing. Your body will thank you.
Sunshine and smiles—midday rays help support immunity and mood all season long.
ARTICLE BY AVA SARNOWSKI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHAWNA SARNOWSKI
A LEGACY OF TRANQUILITY:
The Story Behind Murrieta Day Spa
What began as a simple investment in a growing community has blossomed into a beloved family-owned sanctuary of rest and renewal.
In the 1980s, Ronald and Michelle deGroot purchased a property in Murrieta, initially leasing it to the local school district. When the district relocated, the deGroots saw an opportunity in the empty building and dreamed of creating something lasting.
Their daughter, Monique deGroot, embraced this vision. After beauty school, where Michelle focused on facials and Monique on hair, Monique worked as a stylist in Los Angeles before returning home to raise her children and help grow the family dream.
In 1997, Monique took over Murrieta Day Spa, growing it into a flourishing wellness retreat. Today, her brother and sons join her in keeping the family legacy alive.
“This place is built on family, trust, and a deep love for our community. We cannot wait to welcome you,” she says.
The spa invites guests into a carefully curated experience. Under swaying palms, one may find stillness in the Zen Garden or repose by the shaded cabanas surrounding the heated pool. Inside, restorative treatments—ranging from hot stone massages to oxygen facials—offer an experience of luxurious renewal.
What truly distinguishes Murrieta Day Spa is its soul. “A third of our team has been here since the beginning,” Monique reflects. “We’ve grown together, and I believe guests feel that warmth the moment they arrive.”
For those looking to spend the day, the on-site café offers an inviting place to refuel. With made-to-order options like chicken wraps, shrimp cocktails, avocado toast, and fresh salads, the menu is as satisfying as it is nourishing. The full bar features local wines, craft beer, champagne, and signature cocktails—perfect for a poolside toast with friends.
Murrieta Day Spa is more than a retreat. It is a community cornerstone, a multi-generational legacy where every visit feels like coming home.
Discover more and plan your visit at MurrietaDaySpa.com
Lush palm trees and a heated pool welcome guests into the spa’s serene outdoor escape.
HISTORIC COURSES AND CHARACTERS, CALIFORNIA'S RICH GOLF LEGACY IS STILL ALIVE AND WELL.
ARTICLE BY SEAN ARNETT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY THE LODGE AT TORREY PINES
Growing up in Southern California, I guess it was inevitable that I would try golf at some point. This spring marked 40 years since I first picked up a club. It was a hot spring day and my friend Neil and I snuck onto the local community college course and played a few holes before we got caught. I was hooked. Since then, I’ve considered myself a golfer — or at least a weekend hacker.
We’re lucky here. Not just for the weather, but for the sheer number of quality courses within an hour or two of our front door. And the history behind them isn’t just local — it’s legendary. From Bing Crosby’s Clam Bake at Pebble Beach to the star-studded Bob Hope Classic during its heyday in Palm Springs, golf in SoCal has always attracted attention, and Hollywood stars. Some of the most iconic courses in the country are within driving distance. Many of them were shaped by names like Arnold Palmer, Pete Dye, and Tom Fazio — designers who didn’t just build courses, they built icons.
Like many of you, I’ve got a long mental list of courses I’ve dreamt of playing. And one that still sits at the top isn’t a private course that none of us could ever play — and it’s just a short drive from Temecula — Torrey Pines.
Perched above the Pacific in La Jolla, Torrey Pines Golf Course is owned by the City of San Diego and open to the public. But don’t let the “municipal” label fool you. This is no ordinary city course. Torrey features two full 18-hole layouts: the North Course, which is more forgiving and scenic, and the South Course, a championship monster known for punishing rough and stunning coastal views. Designed by William Bell, the course went from dream to reality following a 1956 special City Election that set aside 100 acres of what was once Camp Callan, a military training center.
It’s the South Course that grabs the headlines — and rightly so. Redesigned by Rees Jones, it stretches over 7,800 yards from the tips and has hosted two U.S. Opens (2008 and 2021), not to mention serving as the annual site for the PGA Tour’s Farmers Insurance Open.
And then there’s the drama.
If you’re a golf fan, you probably already know that Tiger Woods won the 2008 U.S. Open at Torrey — on a torn ACL and a double stress fracture. He sank a 12-foot birdie on the 72nd hole to force a playoff, then gutted out a win in sudden death. It’s one of the most iconic finishes in modern golf. And it happened here — not across the country, but right down the coast.
That’s the thing about living in this part of the state. You don’t need to get on a plane to play somewhere with history, beauty, and true challenge. You can check boxes off your golf bucket list while still sleeping in your own bed.
If you have the chance to play Torrey, why not make it a truly great experience. The Lodge at Torrey Pines is just steps from the course — and it’s every bit as legendary.
Built in the Craftsman style with timbered ceilings, stained glass, and fireplaces tucked into nearly every corner, the Lodge feels like a retreat in every sense. From the moment you arrive,
there’s a quiet elegance to it. The staff welcomes you like family, the ocean breeze drifts through the courtyard, and the views from the balconies stretch from the fairways to the sea.
Inside, it’s a different pace. Spa treatments, fine dining at A.R. Valentien, and little moments like sipping a local wine by the fire pit make it a true escape. Even if you never touch a club, The Lodge is the kind of place that reminds you how to slow down.
For golfers, it’s magic. You wake up, step out onto your balcony, and the South Course is right there — just waiting for you to tee it up.
This is what makes living here special. We’re surrounded by courses with personality and prestige — and some of the best don’t require jet lag or cross-country planning. Whether you’re chasing a number, a memory, or just an excuse to unplug, it’s all within reach.
Who needs azaleas or a 17-mile drive?
We’ve got Torrey.
The Lodge at Torrey Pines offers luxury just steps from the fairways, with Craftsmanstyle charm and five-star amenities.
A public course with a major championship legacy—Torrey Pines welcomes players of all levels.
Golf as it was meant to be—natural beauty, thoughtful design, and a hint of challenge in every hole.
Explore Explore
DRINKS UP
Crafting Cocktails with Fresh Garden Ingredients
Summer is here and what better way to quench your thirst than with drinks crafted from the season’s fresh produce? Embrace the natural sweetness of sun-ripened fruits and the invigorating zest of garden-fresh herbs. From crisp berry infusions to fragrant herbal blends, enjoy the art of crafting delicious and revitalizing beverages that celebrate the fresh flavors of summer.
LIME MINT
OSE
MOJITO
Ingredients:
• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons white sugar (or simple syrup, to taste)
• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce rose water (adjust to taste, as it can be potent)
• Club soda or sparkling water
• Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedges, edible rose petals (optional)
Instructions: Muddle:
Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Add sugar. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint and lime. Pour the white rum and rose water into the glass. Stir well. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wedge, and, if desired, edible rose petals.
ROSEMARY GRAPEFRUIT
PEAR FIZZ
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Gin (or Vodka)
• 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• 1 oz Pear Liqueur (or Pear Juice)
• 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 sprig of Rosemary
• Sparkling water
• Garnish: Rosemary sprig, grapefruit slice, pear slice
Instructions:
Place the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle the rosemary to release its oils. Add the gin (or vodka), grapefruit juice, pear liqueur and lime juice to the shaker. Add ice. Shake well until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or Prosecco. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a grapefruit slice, and a pear slice.
GARDEN HERB
&BERRY SANGRIA
A Lime Mint Rose Mojito adds a floral twist to the classic mojito, creating a refreshing and elegant cocktail. Here’s a recipe that balances the traditional lime and mint with the delicate aroma of rose.
Ingredients:
• 1 bottle wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio or Garnacha)
• ½ cup brandy or rum
• ½ cup elderflower liqueur
• 1 cup sparkling water
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup fresh raspberries
• ½ cup fresh blueberries
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 lime, thinly sliced
Instructions:
In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, brandy (or rum), and elderflower liqueur. Stir gently to mix.Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mint leaves, rosemary sprigs, and cucumber slices to the pitcher. Gently muddle the berries and herbs slightly to release their flavors. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, add the sliced lime and sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently. Serve the sangria over ice, ensuring each glass gets a mix of fruit and herbs.
STAY CONNECTED TO YOUR COMMUNITY
Inspiration for your best local life.
Good news happening right in your neighborhood.
This magazine exists because Sean said ‘Yes.’
Behind every City Lifestyle magazine is a leap of faith — someone who chose to shape the story of their city. They saw a chance to inspire, connect, and elevate the voices that make their community shine.
Now, new cities are waiting for someone to say yes. What if it was you?
Temecula City Lifestyle
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CAPTURING LIFE’S GREATEST ADVENTURES
Lifestyle photography for the Temecula Valley and Beyond! Let us capture the special moments in your family’s life! The big game, that special performance or a day at the beach. We’ll capture your Star’s Big Moment!
APRIL 19TH – OCTOBER 25TH
U-Pick at Sunmist Fruit Farm
Sunmist Farm - 26700 Avenida Del Oro
Harvest sunshine every weekend at Sunmist Fruit Farm. From juicy tangerines to ripe avocados, enjoy a hands-on experience picking fresh, flavorful produce straight from the source. Stroll lemon groves, explore blueberry fields, and savor the simple joy of farm-fresh fruit. Price: $5 Weekends, 10 AM–2 PM
JULY 10TH
Summer Concert Series: Eagles/Ronstadt Experience
Temecula Civic Center & Town Square Park | 7:00 PM
Experience the sounds of summer with the Eagles/Ronstadt Experience at the Civic Center’s free Summer Concert Series. Bring your lawn chairs, dancing shoes, and enjoy an evening under the stars filled with timeless hits and community vibes.
