The Cliff in Laguna Beach is a Must-Visit Restaurant

I'm at that age where I still want to have birthday parties, but I'm a little old to celebrate in grand fashion each year. This year I decided to arrange for my girlfriends to all meet up in Laguna Beach for dinner. All I wanted was to sit near the water and take in the view. After researching, I decided on The Cliff. The main factor was reservations. None of the seaside establishments take reservations (I'm assuming because it's so popular during the summer), but The Cliff does take call-ahead seating an hour before arrival. I actually called a bit earlier than that, and they accommodated my request.

Before dinner, my friends and I arrived early and sat in the bar area as we waited for our "reservation" time. If you visit and there is a wait, this is a great option to sit and grab a drink. There are also little shops surrounding the restaurant that serve as a good time killer. It is a strange setup, so you have to navigate to find the restaurant seating, bar, and restrooms.

I was really impressed that they were able to seat us at our desired time, with a great view, and a party of nine. Seating is very limited, but there really isn't a bad spot since all tables are outside. The Cliff truly provides sweeping views of the beautiful Pacific Ocean. Our table, though, was right above the beach so we could see the sand, waves, and beautiful sunset.

Unfortunately, I didn't get any food photos because I was so busy talking and by the time we ate it was a bit dark. My only complaint was that it was so dark I could barely see my food. I had to actually pick my bowl up and tilt it to the side to try to see as I ate. Despite the low visability, everyone raved about their food. I regret not getting the clam chowder fries because I heard they were amazing. As for the drinks, they weren't the best but they were definitely strong. So that isn't such a bad thing!

One thing to note is parking isn't great in Laguna and the valet was full by 6. It took us 20 minutes find a spot in a nearby structure (just under $12 for three hours). The walk was about five minutes though, so not too bad.

Overall, I would recommend The Cliff for a celebration or any meal. Just take advantage of the call-ahead seating and arrive a little early.

The Cliff

577 South Coast Hwy

Laguna Beach, CA 92651

P: 949-494-1956

Crystal Cove Christmas Tree

Christmastime in Southern California may not involve snow, but we find our ways to be festive. So when I heard about a Christmas tree right on the beach I knew I had to see it - and it was just as magical in person as I imagined!

Located at Crystal Cove, a section of coastline between Laguna and Newport beaches that's also referred to as Newport Coast, the tree is a bit hard to find if you don't know where you are going, but that's also part of it's charm. There were quite a few people making it hard to get unobstructed views in photos, but it wasn't as crowded as I expected and with a little patience I was able to get some good shots. I also went at sunset which I imagine is the most popular time.

The easiest way to find the beach and tree is to search for directions to The Beachcomber Café which will direct you to the Los Trancos lot across the street from the beach (which you can't actually see from the street). When you park in the lot you can either take a 5-10 minute walk on a path that leads under the street or you can take a Beachcomber shuttle for $1.50 a person each way. The lot parking is $5 an hour/$15 max or if you go to the Beachcomber and spend $15 you get three hours validated. The food at the restaurant is really good and I suggest that option!

The display is put on by Crystal Cove Alliance that preserves Crystal Cove, including historic beachfront cottages that you can rent. If you live locally, try to get out there to see it this year. Otherwise, add it to your bucket list for next year!

Day Trip: Malibu

Although I've lived in Southern California my whole life, I rarely go to beaches outside of Orange County. With amazing places like Huntington and Newport Beach, there's really no need to travel any farther. But, I always love exploring so I decided to make a trip north to Malibu for the day and I'm glad I did.

There have been rumors that Gladstones, a perfect, beachy restaurant right on the water, will be closing next October. Despite news reports, the Pacific Coast Highway eatery says there are no plans to shut down. Fingers crossed that is the case because it would be a shame to lose such a great place.

It was my first time visiting so we opted to sit outside for the ambiance, however; the tables inside are also great and the windows are large so you get a great ocean view. I don't think there's a bad seat in the house.

I chose the ahi sandwhich ($21) and my mom went with the fish and chips ($26). The fish and chips were huge and my mom loved them. While my ahi wasn't the best, probably because the pieces were so large that they couldn't be properly seasoned, and my side salad wilted in the heat, the bun and toppings were very good. Don't get me wrong - I ate that whole sandwhich, so I don't feel like my money was wasted. Our server was great, and that added to the positive experience. Lunch is only served during the week, so if you can visit Monday through Friday I recommend it as you'll pretty much have the place to yourself and the beach won't be too busy.

When you valet for the restaurant, $9 gets you parking plus beach access. While we only walked around for a bit, visitors can bring their beach gear and make a whole day of it.

After eating we decided to drive up the coast and take in the beautiful views - which included some incredible beach mansions. If you decide to go to one of the many beaches, the lots are much cheaper than those of OC beaches and there is plenty of street parking. The only problem with street parking is you have to find beach access in between homes which can get a little tricky.

Have you visited Malibu? What's your favorite thing to do there? I'd love tips for my next trip!

Free Birthday Trip to Catalina Island

Just about 30 miles off the coast of Southern California lies the tiny island of Catalina. Although small in size - 22 by eight miles - it's rich with California history and provides and abundance of activities for the lover of outdoors. From zip lining to snorkeling and kayaking, you're sure to be entertained. I planned this trip because you can get a free birthday ride to Catalina through Catalina Express and Friday was my birthday!

When we arrived we headed to the beach to lay out for a bit. You can lay your towel down and gaze at the sailboats and yachts parked right in front of you. I highly recommend doing that first since there are only a few small beaches. Next we headed to pick up our golf cart which is the best way to see Avalon, one of the island's two harbors and the main area on the island. We booked with Catalina Island Gold Cart Rentals & Tours online and had to reserve a six-seater because the site said they were sold out of the four-seater. The good thing is you get an extra hour for free by reserving online. The bad thing is the company is lying and you cannot reserve a four-person cart online. That's ridiculous but in the end with the free extra hour, three hours to rent the six-seater ends up being the same as the four-seater for two hours so it worked out.

After driving around, we stopped to see some fun buildings, taste some beer and eat delicious pizza and free pretzels at Catalina Brew House, and grab my free birthday ice cream at Lloyds. Overall it was a fun way to spend my birthday and I recommend a visit if you've never been!

Interesting Catalina facts:

• Actress Natalie Wood drowned while visiting and the circumstances of her death are still questioned by some.
• The Chicago Cubs sprig training camp used to be on the island.
• Marilyn Monroe, then Norma Jean Baker, lived there with her Marine husband.

Create Your Own Fashion Statement With Zazzle

I am a sucker for a sunset photo. As a Southern Californian, I've grown up with Newport and Huntington Beaches right in my backyard and it's really magical to go to the coast and watch the sun go down. My Instagram feed is full of these pictures. That last one is my fave.

When I heard about Zazzle and their shirt customization I knew right away I wanted to select that sunset shot to create a cute, beachy tank. How fun is this top I made? ...and by made, I mean I literally just uploaded the picture. That easy.

If you're looking to create a personalized item, check out Zazzle. In addition to photos, you can also upload logos and/or add various fonts to make unique items such as mugs, phone cases, invitations, and so much more. Great gift idea for the fast-approaching holidays.

Shop the look:

tank  |  cardigan  |  sunglasses  |  necklace

watch  |  bracelet  |  pants  |  shoes  |  purse (similar style)

I am not ashamed to admit that those black pants are actually Old Navy jeggings. They are amazing. They look just like jeans and are so comfy. I live in them. Get get them now and thank me later!

Disclaimer: I was given my tank by Zazzle for free, in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.