Long Weekend On The West Coast

View gallery

What To Do

When on the west coast make sure you rent a car – even though travel apps make it easier to get around these days, LA is so huge in terms of area and there is so much to see, I love picking up an SUV from Enterprise car rental but make sure you consider LA traffic in your plans!
Visit some of the best places to view the greater city of Los Angeles like Runyon Canyon, the Hollywood sign or Griffith Observatory – I usually opt for sneakers, a baseball cap and a camera for these kind of adventures
If you like art, check out the Getty Center – it is an amazing museum and a must do – I like to arrive around opening time to avoid the crowds
Go shopping on Rodeo Drive of course – I manage to fit this kind of fun ‘adventure’ into my schedule everytime I visit the west coast!
Explore Santa Monica, Venice or any of the beaches south of LA – stop for a juice and check out any of the local stores, cafes and beaches of course all the way to San Diego – I really love 1000 Steps Beach

Gracias Madre is a modern yet unconventional Mexican restaurant on Melrose – it is fun take on vegan food and also has great cocktails in a picture perfect setting with rustic decor
Delilah and Nice Guy are LA hot spots for late night dining and cocktails
Jon & Vinnys for the best pizza on the west coast
The Ivy in Beverly Hills for a long, leisurely lunch in a magical setting, with almost guaranteed celeb sightings
Nobu Malibu for gorgeous romantic evenings, date nights and fine Japanese cuisine
Bestia in downtown LA has a super cool industrial vibe and a must do if you like modern Italian cuisine – the antipasti selection is second to none and combined with their pastas will ensure you visit more than once

Beverly Wilshire is the best place to stay for shopping and exploring tourist attractions, it also has a great after work bar scene too
Petite Ermitage – has a great brunch, craft cocktails and a fun roof top scene both day and night
Shutters is a magnificent hotel on Santa Monica beach near the boardwalk – stay in a sea view room, they have beautiful decor, supreme service and a spectacular pool scene, and is great for exploring Santa Monica and Venice Beach
The Beverly Hills Hotel is a great place to stay in LA for exploring the city – make sure you check out the iconic pool and The Polo Bar Lounge
Hotel Bel Air captures the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age with contemporary design and secluded luxury – great for couples, romance, relaxation and privacy