Since I didn't get the chance to hit the beach during last weekend's getaway to San Diego with my folks, a couple of my gal pals and I decided to drive to Laguna Beach for the day.
Despite having to overcome the noise of July 4th the previous night, we all arose early and were on the road a little before 6am. Cruising on the I-15 out of Nevada is incredibly peaceful in the morning and allows you to admire the glory of the desert.
Upon reaching our destination, we had brunch at The Cottage at an intersection of the Pacific Coast Highway, and enjoyed mimosas and breakfast fare, meanwhile soaking in the marvelous view of the seaside backdrop and the cool weather. We then gathered up some of our things and took a short walk to the beach where we relaxed until the early afternoon.
A pretty little town of roughly 24,000 residents, Laguna draws not only tourists but also aspiring and experienced artists alike, who often settle into life there, inspired by the culture and aesthetic of the location. Laguna's downtown area of Forest Avenue and its surrounding streets are lined with a variety of shops, mostly artists selling their work. After walking through the downtown area, we strolled over to the Sawdust Art Festival, where more local artists showcased their talents. There was live entertainment, various booths of painters and sculptors, and even a special booth for a glass blowing demonstration. None of us bought anything at the event, but enjoyed the sensory experience, nonetheless. We decided to return to the beach after that to cap off our visit.
So why go to California for only a day, you ask? Well, first off it's a holiday weekend, and the idea of having to be stuck in traffic in either direction for several hours with masses of vacationers didn't strike a chord with any of us. So driving out and back on Thursday and Sunday was ruled out. And holiday weekend lodging prices? No, thanks. A one-day visit would be sufficient. Secondly, the weather in Las Vegas is currently reaching record highs in the 110+ degree range, and it is absolutely intolerable to be outdoors for more than a few minutes - even in the shade. Southern California can be hot sometimes, but even at 85 degrees and 80% humidity, it's not as painful as the desert heat. Lastly, what better place to spend a summer day than the dazzling beach? Sure, there are lakes and rivers scattered in closer vicinity to Vegas, but nothing matches the beauty and ferocity of the ocean: the liveliness, bliss, and rich diversity of people; the foamy, crashing blue waves; the smell of saltwater, seaweed, and sunscreen; the picturesque scenery. The three-and-a-half hour drive is most certainly worth it.
Despite having to overcome the noise of July 4th the previous night, we all arose early and were on the road a little before 6am. Cruising on the I-15 out of Nevada is incredibly peaceful in the morning and allows you to admire the glory of the desert.
Upon reaching our destination, we had brunch at The Cottage at an intersection of the Pacific Coast Highway, and enjoyed mimosas and breakfast fare, meanwhile soaking in the marvelous view of the seaside backdrop and the cool weather. We then gathered up some of our things and took a short walk to the beach where we relaxed until the early afternoon.
A pretty little town of roughly 24,000 residents, Laguna draws not only tourists but also aspiring and experienced artists alike, who often settle into life there, inspired by the culture and aesthetic of the location. Laguna's downtown area of Forest Avenue and its surrounding streets are lined with a variety of shops, mostly artists selling their work. After walking through the downtown area, we strolled over to the Sawdust Art Festival, where more local artists showcased their talents. There was live entertainment, various booths of painters and sculptors, and even a special booth for a glass blowing demonstration. None of us bought anything at the event, but enjoyed the sensory experience, nonetheless. We decided to return to the beach after that to cap off our visit.
So why go to California for only a day, you ask? Well, first off it's a holiday weekend, and the idea of having to be stuck in traffic in either direction for several hours with masses of vacationers didn't strike a chord with any of us. So driving out and back on Thursday and Sunday was ruled out. And holiday weekend lodging prices? No, thanks. A one-day visit would be sufficient. Secondly, the weather in Las Vegas is currently reaching record highs in the 110+ degree range, and it is absolutely intolerable to be outdoors for more than a few minutes - even in the shade. Southern California can be hot sometimes, but even at 85 degrees and 80% humidity, it's not as painful as the desert heat. Lastly, what better place to spend a summer day than the dazzling beach? Sure, there are lakes and rivers scattered in closer vicinity to Vegas, but nothing matches the beauty and ferocity of the ocean: the liveliness, bliss, and rich diversity of people; the foamy, crashing blue waves; the smell of saltwater, seaweed, and sunscreen; the picturesque scenery. The three-and-a-half hour drive is most certainly worth it.
1 comment:
Let's go back..right now! Our day in Laguna was incredible. A fun trip with wonderful friends. Can't beat that!
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