California Road Trip Part II

When we rented a car while staying in La Jolla, I knew that we would want to drive up and down the coast visiting other areas. But, I have to say, one of the best parts of the trip was an early morning near Shell Beach (still in La Jolla). The color, the other worldly beauty! It honestly felt like I was back in Ireland.

Yes, so much beauty.

Another drive we took was to the Cabrillo National Monument. There are two sections of the area, and the back side was very remote. With views for miles, it felt like we had found the ends of the earth! Breathtaking, really.

The Cabrillo National Monument is part of the US Parks. You can still view/tour the lighthouse that is there. I love history and anything that is considered a "step back in time", so definitely right up my ally. Not to mention, you can get an amazing view of San Diego from that vantage point.

Also, getting to travel alone gives me a little time rekindle my love for photography. I forget how much I enjoy until I take my camera out again!

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Your Guide to La Jolla California

For our anniversary, we wanted a relaxing, extra long weekend. While looking up places to visit in California, I stumbled on the web site for La Jolla, California, and I was sold. We also wanted to rent a convertible. When we arrived in San Diego, we headed to the Payless Car Rental desk, and the young man on duty was extremely helpful. He spent several minutes working out details so we could get the car that we wanted, printed off maps for us, gave us personal recommendations (which ended up being one of our favorite stops!). I wish I had taken time to write the young man's name down, because I was very impressed. In a world where customer service appears to be fading, you REALLY notice companies who go above and beyond. We are new fans to Payless!

We stayed at the La Jolla Cove which was directly across the street from the ocean (stunning views from our balcony). While it was an older hotel, it had been remodeled in a chick beach theme, and the lobby was STUNNING. Besides the fact it smelled like heaven (seriously, I should have asked about the candles they were burning), they had snacks, drinks, a sitting area, and a beautiful fountain. What really sold me on staying there, however, was the fact they offered complimentary breakfast on the roof! So every morning, we sat on the roof taking in views, and enjoying the breakfast. I fell in love with the Mango juice, and yogurt parfaits. Best granola EVER.

Another reason we chose La Jolla is the wildlife that is located directly across the street from the hotel. You can walk right up to the Sea Lions, Seals, and tons of tropical birds. I knew Josh would love it, and I was right! They also have gorgeous cliffs, walkways and beaches to enjoy.

The views were absolutely stunning.

My favorite thing in the whole world is taking walks along the beach, coffee in hand. There's  nothing quite like it, and honestly, it's such a simple tribute to the beauty of God's handiwork.

We took time to visit the SALK institute in La Jolla. My husband works in architecture, so we generally look up cool buildings to see. Oddly enough, I think I was more excited than Josh to see it. It's extremely modern, but very unique. It's worth stopping by for a photo op!

The town is very charming...it's full of boutique stores, art, architecture, coffee shops, and the best Gelato shop we've ever visited. It was also home to one of the best meals, ever! I'll be doing a separate post all on that, too.

We can't wait to visit again, but next time, I think we are gong to make it a family getaway!

Travel Love: SoCal Anniversary Style

Josh and I booked a trip to California via Southwest Vacations. It was my first to book through southwest, and honestly, it was SO easy, and very affordable. I love that you can research everything on your own, plug in your destination then fine tune the trip to fit your budget and vacation needs.

Also, I am always impressed with Southwest Customer Service. I've flown pretty much every airline within the US, and nothing compares to their friendliness and ease. Basically, they are the Chic-Fil-A of Airlines. Ha!

I visited California with my parents when I was a teenager, and I still vividly remember all the things that I fell in love with then. They are still my favorite things now as an adult. The weather, the coast, the small boutique beach towns. Everything feels tropical right down to the food. We arrived late afternoon and hit the ground running. First stop was visiting the Sea Lions & Seals located just steps from our hotel.

We tackled In & Out Burger on our second night. Josh grew up eating there regularly (he's from California), and I've heard about it a LOT from his family. It didn't disappoint. The person in front of us ordered extra sauce, so I copied them and did the same. Wise. ;) My only regret was not ordering a shake. I've heard rave reviews on their ice cream, but I'll be sure and try them again next time. ;)

Another foodie location that I was dying to try was Salt & Straw. I had heard about their ice cream via another blogger, and ya'll...it was LIFE CHANGING. There are simply no words. Okay, I have lots of words, but without further ado, my favorite flavor was Peanut Butter Stout Ice Cream. Part of me wants to cry that this ice cream is only available via West Coast...

Last, but not least, we rented a Camaro convertible for the trip. I had no idea I was a Camaro girl until now...oh me oh my...want a FUN car to drive. I think we could have drove the entire time and I would have been happy.