The Huntington Library & Botanical Gardens
http://www.huntington.org/
My perfect place for a Sunday stroll, the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens boasts twelve lush gardens, including the Rose, Japanese, and Subtropical, to name a few. An idyllic oasis, the grounds also feature an impressive collection of American and European art, and rare books such as one of the eleven remaining Gutenberg Bibles.
Balboa Island
A stroll down memory lane and quainter times tucked into the OC Harbor... I love grabbing a balboa bar and exploring the blocks upon blocks of charming homes that dot the island. Cruising at sunset in a Duffy boat packed with friends, wine and charcuterie is one of my favorite ways to spend spring and summer nights.
Serafina
http://www.shopserafina.com/
Nestled on San Marino’s most adorable street, Mission, Serafina has the absolute best selection of women's clothing in the Pasadena area. (Elisa B, I love you, too!) From Jennifer Meyer jewelry for everyday wear to the chicest unique brands we've never ever heard of, they have everything we need to wear, ever. And they give you mimosas or lattes while you shop, too. The best.
The Beverly Hills Hotel
http://www.dorchestercollection.com/en/beverly-hills/the-beverly-hills-hotel
Also known as The Pink Palace, it's one of the world’s most iconic hotels. PS - the chocolate souffle at the Polo Lounge is something you won't soon forget!
via @townandcountrymag
Sushi Gen
http://www.sushigen-dtla.com/
For the best sushi outside of Japan, go to Sushi Gen in Downtown's Little Tokyo enclave. If you're feeling indulgently adventurous, I recommend ordering omakase, a five-course meal of the chef’s choice... "Omakase" is Japanese for “I’ll leave it to you.” Whether you opt to sit at the sushi bar or at a table, leave it to Sushi Gen. You can’t go wrong.
Image via @ericafishman
Centre Fitness
http://centre.fitness/
A local favorite place to workout. Maybe it helps that the studio looks more like a NYC loft than the usual cold fitness studio/gym atmosphere. Centre Fitness has every kind of class, from spin to barre to Pilates to circuit training and buresque, with notable instructors that are all top-notch and really kick your butt into shape, fast.
The Hollywood Bowl
http://www.hollywoodbowl.com/
There is something so magical about an open air concert, in a place in the middle of Los Angeles... the acoustics here are simply unparalleled and the whole experience so purely iconic. Bringing a picnic dinner to enjoy in the box seats to the highly anticipated singalong series, where classic movies are accompanied by a live symphonic orhcestra, is one of the best nights out you can have living in this city.
image via @picturemattersagency
Le Muse
http://lemusecoffeeandwine.com/
This darling cafe in Pasadena serves artisanal roast coffees, fresh pastries, and French sandwiches during the daytime but doubles as a wine bar in the evenings. Their sensational coffee will keep you focused all day long until you’re ready to unwind with a glass of your favorite wine.
Cinespia
http://cinespia.org/
This summertime haunt has certainly grown in popularity over the past few years and is packed now, but it's still just as fun of an event at its core. Just like being at the Bowl, anytime I can be outside is a win in my book. Plan to get there when the gates open and pay to park inside -- that way you can get a great spot to spread out your many bottles of wine on!
Sweet Lady Jane
http://sweetladyjane.com/
The best indulgent treat. A celebrity favorite, this bakery creates truly decadent confections with mouthwateringly decadent flavor in every bite.
The Sunset Tower Hotel
http://sunsettowerhotel.com/
The best staycation. Lounge by the rooftop pool, rejuvenate in their renowned spa, and call their glamorous suites your home throughout your stay. This is the view you'll enjoy during your morning room service... Need we say more?
The Ivy At The Shore
http:///theivyrestaurants.com/ivy-at-the-shore/
The lobster ravioli, seafood risotto, and lemon bars are to die for. Similar to its predecessor, The Ivy, The Ivy at the Shore is a consistently delicious lunch and dinner spot, but sans the paparazzi and hordes of tourists.
@iactuallylickedthat
The Malibu Country Mart
http://malibucountrymart.com/
Distinct from the many cookie cutter shopping malls clustered around LA, the Country Mart is a truly unique shopping center filled with upscale boutiques, fine art galleries, and gourmet farm-to-table restaurants. It's the perfect place to visit and kick back in the heart of California's best beach city.
Image via @kejschwartz
Bluemercury
http://bluemercury.com/
This is the store I trust to find the best natural beauty brands and products to look and feel radiant from the inside out. Everything from makeup, to skin and sun care, to indulgement yet completely worth it spa treatments like oxygen facials and glycolic peels.
I discovered Gant in Le Marais in Paris and then again in Cannes, the whole time thinking it was a wonderful French secret... but after a little digging, found that they have a location in Venice Beach. For the man in your life, look to Gant for super high quality everyday duds that are classic with just a bit of on-trend edge.
Image via @aalchemikaapparelco
Where are some of your go-tos? Maybe someday I’ll write a more lengthy list, but for now, I highly recommend these spots.