This More-Than-A-Decade Old Camp Offers the Wild Isolation We All Need Right Now

Hikers take in the view of the San Gabriel Mountians, just north of Downtown LA. Photo via Alyx S (Hipcamp)

A SPOTLIGHT ON THE HISTORIC STURTEVANT CAMP

Contributed by Kelsey Pegher

The trip to the local mountains seemed doomed from the start. COVID-19 cases in California were on the rise. Testing requirements had changed from anyone with or without symptoms to those most at risk. Then there was a fire at the trailhead that temporarily shut the area mere days before our 4-mile hike in. Going to camp in the San Gabriel Mountains wasn’t going to be easy.

I got the idea after a previous long hike to Sturtevant Falls in the Angeles National Forest in late May. I emerged feeling refreshed. We didn’t have cell service the entire hike. We wore masks during the hike and ate sandwiches by the falls at a safe distance from everyone. We stopped at the local mule-pack station on our way out and asked about the cabins dotted along our trail. Could people rent those?

One of the cabins located 4 miles into San Gabriel Mountains at Camp Sturtevant. Photo by Natalie Rose.

No, but there is a camp with cabins where you could spend the night, the helpful woman behind the counter replied. After we left the trail and drove down Santa Anita Canyon toward the city, toward cellphone service and emails and a steady stream of notifications, I was ready to plan my next escape.

The more-than-a-century-old camp

Sturtevant Camp looked like a typical sleep-away camp, according to the online photos. There’s a lodge with a cafeteria and cabins with twin bunk beds. It was founded in 1893 and eventually sold to a Methodist church association, which ran the camp until 2011. Now it’s run by volunteers with the Sturtevant Conservancy, said board member Deb Burgess, who runs the board.

The bliss upon arriving was like none other. There’s absolutely no cell service near Sturtevant Camp. There’s a small nature trail that leads to a helipad overlooking the canyon. If we were truly the hiking type, we could have used our Saturday to hike to Mt. Wilson or Mt. Zion.

Instead, we spent our time mostly luxuriating in the quiet. We watched young bucks and fawns come right through the camp, unbothered by our presence. We walked down to the creek and counted butterflies. We tried our hand at archery and played card games.

The swing outside of the main lodge at Camp Sturtevant. Photo by Alyx S (Hipcamp)

Photos inside the lodge show black-and-white images going as far back as women wearing prairie dresses. In that way, it was not like a typical sleep-away camp. Sturtevant Camp was founded 12 years prior to the founding of the Forest Service. In the early half of the 20th century, Angelenos would stay for the entire summer as their big getaway.

Just a half-hour from downtown Los Angeles, Big Santa Anita Canyon remains a reprieve for many. Day hikes to Sturtevant Falls and Hermit Falls are popular even on weekdays, with an often overflowing parking lot at Chantry Flat. (During the pandemic, hikers are turned away when the lot fills.)

In 2015, Burgess purchased the camp for “a whopping $25,000.” With a small team, she and others spent months painting and making repairs to the camp and formed a nonprofit organization to run it. “Until COVID happened, it [was] not unusual for that camp to be completely full,” Burgess said.

How the pandemic changed camp

Like everything else, the camp was closed through April and May. In the last two months, volunteers worked toward a slow reopening, with just a couple of cabins in rotation and more rigorous cleaning measures.

The lodge, typically open to any hikers passing through for coffee and water, now is closed to passers-by. People usually first encounter Sturtevant Camp on a day hike and then follow up by booking a spot. “We just want to keep Sturtevant Camp alive,” Burgess said.

The lodge, typically open to any hikers passing through for coffee and water, is currently closed to passers-by due to Covid-19 - but just another reason to book into the camp to experience it for yourself. Photo by Alyx S (Hipcamp)

I planned the trip with friends at the end of May, when cases were trending downward and it looked like the city was gearing up to reopen by July 4. As the trip came closer, and cases began to rise, we started making compromises and rationalizations. Could everyone get tested the week before? Could everyone isolate themselves as much as humanly possible prior to seeing each other? What precautions could we take to ensure we could remain socially distanced — aside from sleeping?

Then I learned the Forest Service was closing down the Chantry Flat trailhead because of a small fire. How would we get there? I sent several panicked emails to our volunteer counselor, who assured me we would be allowed in the canyon because of our reservation.

Finally it was time to go. I prepared our meals and packed them in bags. The day before, we dropped everything off at Adams’ Pack Station. Burgess said Sturtevant Camp is the No. 1 revenue driver for the last remaining mule-pack station in L.A. County. On Fridays, mules make the slow climb to camp loaded down with groceries, gear or duffel bags. The pack station charges $1 per pound, as it has for more than 100 years.

Then it was time to go. The hike to Sturtevant Camp can be deceiving. The fire road at the start of Chantry Flat slopes downward, giving a false sense of hope that the hike is long but not challenging. Though the website noted it is a difficult hike, it also said even small children can make it. “Maybe kids in California,” a friend quipped as we made our first ascent.

The views nearly made up for the grueling climb.

“It’s one of the very, very few canyons in the Angeles [area] that has a really nice canopy and has water running through it. It’s a beautiful place, nearly 10 degrees or plus cooler than Sierra Madre,” Burgess said.

The hike to camp is no joke but it’s worth it!. Photo by Lindsay Vacek.

The 4-mile hike includes crossing bridges and streams. Photo by Lindsay Vacek.

The last half-mile is the most unforgiving, with switchbacks and a near-constant climb up to an elevation of 3,200 feet. When I arrived at the final sign — with Sturtevant Camp 1/10 of a mile away, out of water and out of breath — I nearly gave up.

Burgess called the last mile a tease. “The sign says it’s a half-mile — it’s a mile.”

Under the Tree Canopy in the San Gabriel Mountains. Photo by Lindsay Vacek.

Once we arrived, we were met by a volunteer camp counselor who takes care of the property on weekends. Electricity comes on every evening from 5 p.m. till dusk, and refrigerators run on propane. We were able to keep our distance from the other couple staying at the camp, and we used separate bathrooms to keep risks low.

Our two nights passed quickly by the fire. Our volunteer camp counselor, Teah Vaughn, spent much of the weekend working through a to-do list of items to repair or check on around the camp. She also found time to bake cookies and brownies after dinner and made breakfast pastries in the morning.

“There’s something special about the fact it hasn’t changed much in almost 130 years of folks being there,” she said. “There’s a lot of hard, dirty work that goes into maintaining a very old, off-grid camp, but there’s never any complaints.”

The camp counselors at Camp Sturtevant are all volunteers and spend most of their time making repairs and upkeeping the off-grid camp. This is Jake posing in front of the Ranger Cabin. Photo by Alyx S (Hipcamp)

Later, Vaughn said she realized our weekend trip was her one-year anniversary as a volunteer counselor. Though the volunteer counselors don’t often see one another, they do all share one cabin. Vaughn described different pairs of hiking boots under the bed and extra jackets from other counselors.

“There is something so unique but so familiar in the whole experience, and I can’t imagine not being a part of it.”

When The Times wrote about Sturtevant Camp in 1986, the location boasted many of the same amenities that exist today, including its biggest draw: seclusion.

“The adults really know how to enjoy it — there are no phones up there, no way for them to be bugged,” Gary Keene, a Methodist minister who worked at the camp from the late 1970s through the mid-’80s, said in the piece.

The appeal of seclusion

More than 30 years later, I could relate. The relentless barrage of news notifications on my phone over the last four months left me tired and burnt out. The seclusion was the biggest and only motivation for planning the trip in the first place.

Because of the fire a week prior, the canyon was closed to everyone except for cabin owners. There are just 81 cabins, built at the turn of the 20th century, which have a laundry list of requirements for the owners. One such requirement is that owners cannot reside there year-round. The few people we ran into warily asked how we got into the canyon. Without the steady stream of day hikers, the canyon felt more like the wilderness than the woods.

On Sunday, refreshed from the silence, we retraced our steps to head out. It felt like seeing the journey for the first time. As we made it down to the little dams that are part of many day hikes in the canyon, we heard a rustle in the bushes.

A small brown bear climbed out. We made our presence known, and rather than running away, the bear took a dip in the creek. It took its time, and eventually climbed up the sloped mountain. I had never seen a bear in my life, let alone one a mere 40 feet away from me. Rather than fear, I was in awe.

I don’t think I’ll ever become much of a true camper. The idea of carrying a tent with me and sleeping on the ground has never been appealing. When my parents sent me to a two-week sleep-away camp as a child in Pennsylvania, I wrote daily letters filled with grievances.

But in a time period of deep uncertainty, where renting an Airbnb or going to a hotel room feels unsafe, a cabin in the woods was enough.

How to go

You can book a trip to Sturtevant Camp at its website: sturtevantcamp.com. We stayed in the Retreat Cabin, which sleeps up to six and costs $270 per night. The honeymoon cottage for two runs $90 per night, and guest cabins that sleep up to eight are $320 per night. You’ll find a pack list of what you need to bring, directions to the trail head and other information.

BOOK HERE: http://www.sturtevantcamp.com/

Inside the main lodge, you’ll find a ping-pong table and lots of games. There is even a music room where you can play guitar and piano and sign around the fire with friends. Photo via Camp Sturtevant.

The camp kitchen is open to all guests to cook their meals. It includes pots and pans, you just need to bring your own food. Photo by Emily T (Hipcamp)

Inside the Retreat Cabin, which can sleep up to 6 people. Includes its own bathroom and kitchen as well. Photo by Alyx S (Hipcamp)

Best way to keep warm when it’s pouring rain outside. Photo by Lindsay Vacek.

When Friends of the San Gabriels took ownership of the Camp, one of the volunteer hosts restored this historic Ranger’s Cabin to its original decor. Photo by Alyx S (Hipcamp)

The camp kitchen might not be the most glamorous but there is plenty of space to move around and you can store your perishables in the communal fridges. . Photo by Emily T (Hipcamp)

Who’s ready to come with us? Photo via @Hikeology (Instagram)

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FREE BIRDS: An Adventure in Downtown LA.

Routine and formulated plans. Monotony. One in the same. 

...Or maybe that’s simply the teenage response to laziness and failed alarm clocks. But of course, when your plans to go to Los Angeles with your best friend are created within a 10 minute window from waking up from her phone call that morning (you both woke up late and wanted to hitch a ride with her parents) to driving like a maniac to her house, a day nothing short of unbridled vigor and carpe diem is what you can expect. We’re young and alive. 

And awake (somewhat on time).
And we both serendipitously happened to be wearing matching leather jackets. Yes, take heed.
After getting ready in the bathroom of a corporate building and breakfast at 11:30 am from a restaurant's lunch menu...the city of angels is ours.

Rooftops, abandoned buildings, glorious lighting, fire escapes (complete with almost horribly gone moments with an all too clumsy friend), adventure and exploration at its finest—which you can confirm when, by day’s end, your already ripped boyfriend jeans are actually completely frayed to a point of no return.

Upon reviewing the visual glory of that day, I noticed the images of birds and feathers paralleling us humans were all too blatant, thus the title of this post... Motifs aren't just for the books, ladies and gentlemen. (May the skills you learned in english class forever alter your symbolic perception of the world)

And so, I suppose we come to the conclusion together, dear viewers:

The pursuit of fire escapes and rooftops. The pursuit of happiness. One in the same.

I swear we live for moments like this. 

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This adventure originally appeared on ADIMAY - Submitted by photographer and blogger, Aditi Mayer for sharing on Established California.

THE BEST SPOTS ALONG CALIFORNIA'S COAST: LOS ANGELES

Great White Venice. Photo by Nikki Lazaran

From guest contributor: Nikki Lazaran of Resfeber Junket

Planning a California Coast road trip? If you’re not, you should be. From the sunbathed shores of San Diego to to the thick groves of NorCal’s redwoods, California is arguably one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the contiguous United States.

I’ll be sharing my favorite spots all month, so stay tuned to read up on what gives “The Golden State” its signature sparkle!

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LET’S EXPLORE: LOS ANGELES

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Photo by Michael Palumbo from @nikkthequick

VENICE BEACH

If you’re cruising the California coast, you’d be remiss to skip over Venice Beach. This LA-adjacent beach brings the slower-paced Beach Boys vibes to the big city. Start your day by munching on LA favorites for breakfast or brunch, like avocado toast and grain bowls at The Butcher’s Daughter, the blue açaí bowl at Great White, or pretty much everything on the menu at Gjelina. Once you’re fed and caffeinated, make your way to the famous Venice Sign!

Pro tip: Wait for the crosswalk to allow crossing in all directions to snap the perfect photo without getting hit by public transit. Had to learn this tip the hard way…

Gjusta, Gjelina’s casual little sister. Photo by Nikki Lazaran

Venice Canals. Photo by Michael Palumbo from @nikkthequick.

Once you’ve snagged your sign photo without getting hit by a bus, head down to the boardwalk and take a leisurely stroll to visit Muscle Beach, the rainbow lifeguard tower, and skateboarders and bikers frequenting the beach. If you’re over the chaos of Muscle Beach, it’s time to head to the Venice Canals to take in the views and window shop for your dream vacation home.

Santa Monica Pier. Photo by Michael Palumbo from @nikkthequick

SANTA MONICA

Bike along the beach or jump in a car to head up the coast to Santa Monica. First stop is walking Third Street Mall to take in the street performers and peruse the shops. Feeling the need for a reprieve from the crowds? Head up to the top of the Hotel Shangri-La and enjoy a refreshing drink on their rooftop. If you’re looking for a sea view with all the vibes, try Elephante - make a reservation before you go to ensure you get a table. 

Grab a bite while you’re there or venture to Flower Child for one of my favorite healthy alternatives. End the day with a sunset stroll down Santa Monica Pier for treats, rides, and subpar restaurants.

Downtown LA. Photo by Michael Palumbo from @nikkthequick

DOWNTOWN LA

Los Angeles is one of those rare cities where downtown seems to have less going on than the outskirts of the city, but in recent years there has been a veritable culinary resurgence. While it shouldn’t comprise the majority of your trip to LA, it is absolutely worth a stop. Kick off the day with breakfast hopping at Grand Central Market. You need coffee from G&B and an egg breakfast sandwich from Egg Slut. Go early to avoid long lines, bring a camera for pics of all the neon signs, and come hungry. Also parking is a nightmare - take a rideshare if you can.

If museums are on the docket, a pre-booked visit to The Broad art museum downtown is a must.

Grand Central Market. Photo by Nikki Lazaran

Once you’ve refueled, make your way to adjacent Hollywood…

HOLLYWOOD

Hollywood is known for well…the Hollywood sign, actors, and the Walk of Fame. The best way to experience the he Hollywood sign is to get out and hike! Hollyhock trail head offers a leisurely climb up the mountains with views of the sign. The Wisdom Tree trail head offers a more rigorous route to the top with equally stunning views. And if hikes aren’t your thing, drive right up to Lake Hollywood Park for views sans incline.

Hollywood Sign hike for the last sunset of the year

From there, it’s just a short drive to the Walk Of Fame to see the handprints of your favorite actor or actress. Maybe consider not touching them because, well...I’ve personally people pee on that sidewalk. If the mood strikes, catch a movie at the famous Grauman’s Chinese Theater. Post movie, take a late afternoon cruise down Mulholland for those La La Land views - you can even stop at several of the turnouts they used to film the movie! During your time in Hollywood, if you plan in advance, you can also book tickets online to The Stahl House (Case Study #22), an architectural marvel and LA icon with unreal sunset views. Start looking into these tickets more than a month in advance to secure them and Uber to the house to avoid the parking nightmare.

The Stahl House. Photo by Michael Palumbo on @nikkthequick

Photo by Michael Palumbo on @nikkthequick

That night, rest your weary had at Hollywood’s famous Roosevelt Hotel or the iconic Chateau Marmont. If you’re staying closer to Hollywood, sample old school Italian at Dan Tana’s, rocker themed Thai at Toi On Sunset, or a martini (and Hollywood glam eats) at Musso and Frank’s.

View of DTLA from The Ace Hotel Rooftop by Nikki Lazaran

For a more modern look in one of LA newer properties, head downtown to The Ace Downtown, The Freehand, or The NoMad Hotel for the night. Enjoy dinner downtown at one of the many amazing establishments nearby, from The Exchange at The Freehand for delicious mediterranean, 71Above for 360 downtown views, and Preux and Proper for southern fair, to Bar Ama for elevated Tex-Mex.

Little Dom’s in Los Feliz. Photo by Michael Palumbo on @nikkthequick

EAST LA

If you’re in the area, grab breakfast at Little Dom’s (their french toast skillet is a must) or brunch at Trois Familia. The best coffee can also be found nearby at Eightfold, Dayglow or Woodcat, if espresso is your jam. For delicious pour-overs, Dinosaur has got you covered. Closer to lunch time? Night Market + Song is a on of my all-time favorites when I’m craving Thai.

If you have it in you, consider another hike - this time to the Griffith Observatory. head to the Fern Dell Park (near Trails Cafe) to begin your hike. Take the leisurely hour walk up to stunning views of the city below and the free planetarium! Head out early to avoid crowds.

Sunset at Griffith Observatory. Photo by @nikkthequick

LACMA. Photo by Nikki Lazaran

BEVERLY HILLS, MIRACLE MILE & WEST HOLLYWOOD

A mere hop, skip, and a jump from East LA is Miracle Mile and a cluster of some of LA’s best museums. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art regularly features fantastic interactive exhibits from the likes of James Turrell and is recognized by it’s signature street light display out front. If there is a popular exhibit you’re looking to see, check online a few months in advance to purchase tickets. Plan on a few hours at the museum before grabbing lunch.

Backyard Bowls acai bowl. Photo by Nikki Lazaran

Try Cecconi’s for Italian and all the decor. Need a quick bite? Try Potato Chips for sandwiches, Mainland Poke for…well..poke, or Backyard Bowls for acai bowls.  Something cute, but still sit down? Joan’s On Third, Croft Alley, Republique, or Gracias Madre (vegan friendly) are all safe bets.

Photo by Nikki Lazaran

Post-meal, it’s time to do what we Angelenos do best – drink coffee and shop. Hit up Melrose for vintage or eclectic clothing, Rodeo Drive for designer, or The Grove and The Beverly Center for a traditional mall with a potential celebrity citing. If it happens to be a Sunday, pay $3 cash to check out the Melrose Trading Post for everything from vintage furniture and succulents to records and handmade jewelry.

Some of my favorite cafes in the area include Verve Coffee Roasters, Coffee For Sasquatch, Smith & Tait, Coffee Commissary, and King’s Road Cafe. It may not be the best espresso in the city, but Carrera Cafe’s is known for their Ryan Gosling’s lattes, if that’s your jam.

Carrera Cafe Ryan Gosling latte art. Photo by Nikki Lazaran

Sunset at El Matador Beach in Malibu. Photo by Nikki Lazaran

MALIBU

It’s time to get out of the city and back to the beach, where every California dream begins. Head up the coast to Malibu and straight to the pier to enjoy lunch at Malibu Pier Cafe before jetting to El Matador Beach. If it’s too crowded for your taste, Zuma is also quite beautiful and slightly less popular.

Malibu Farms’ cauliflower pizza. Photo by Nikki Lazaran

For wine and some gorgeous Santa Monica mountains views, purchase tickets several weeks in advance online for the Malibu Wine Safari giraffe tour. You’ll spend the afternoon feeding and viewing exotic animals, including a giraffe named Stanley, and sipping wine in some of the most picturesque spots in Malibu wine country.

Malibu Farms giraffe tour with Stanley the giraffe. Photo by Michael Palumbo from @nikkthequick

“Malibu Wines Safari got me like the emoji.” Photo by Michael Palumbo on @nikkthequick

Spend the night at the newly opened boutique property, The Surfrider Malibu for all the California vibes you can handle or grab one of the many unique AirBnB’s in the area.

Have you been to Los Angeles? Comment below and tell us what your favorite place is! Or use #estcalifornia on social media to share with us!

Meet Nikki

Hi, I’m Nikki Lazaran, travel TV producer, avid wanderer, and the creator & author of Resfeber Junket. I plan extravagant dates and exotic travel for a living as one of “The Bachelor” franchise producers. On my occasional days off, I like to help you do the same.

“Resfeber” is a Swedish word which describes the “jitter” before an impending trip or “travel fever.” Pronounced, “res/feb/ə(r).”

I chose “Resfeber Junket” to encapsulate the travel fever I hope you experience when you join me here for your curated travel and romance content. I aim to help you feed that hunger to explore and point you towards what you need to live an intrepid life, whether you are fearless in your pursuit of travel or love…or both!

FOLLOW NIKKI

INSTAGRAM/PINTEREST/TWITTER/FACEBOOK

THE BEST SPOTS ALONG CALIFORNIA'S COAST: ORANGE COUNTY

Nikki at a Lifeguard tower in Orange County - Photo from @nikkthequick

From guest contributor: Nikki Lazaran of Resfeber Junket

Planning a California Coast road trip? If you’re not, you should be. From the sunbathed shores of San Diego to to the thick groves of NorCal’s redwoods, California is arguably one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the contiguous United States.

I’ll be sharing my favorite spots all month, so stay tuned to read up on what gives “The Golden State” its signature sparkle!

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LET’S EXPLORE: ORANGE COUNTY

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ORANGE COUNTY

Just a few hours drive from San Diego, you’ll find plenty of quintessential California “fun in the sun” in Orange County. First stop?

Photo by Meg Crade from @nikkthequick

ANAHEIM

Anaheim, better known as the home to Disneyland. No trip through Orange County is complete without it. Scoop up a day pass, plan to head to the park before they open and on a weekday to beat some of the crowds, and make sure to eat an oversized churro for me.

What are the must-do rides? It’s tough to choose, but some of the classics and a few of my favorites are:

• The Haunted Mansion

• Thunder Mountain

• Splash Mountain

• Indiana Jones Adventure

• Space Mountain

• It’s A Small World

• Pirates Of The Caribbean

• Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride

• Mad Tea Party (the “Tea Cups”)

• Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room

Grab all the fast passes you can to skip to the front of the line at your favorite rides.

Photo by Meg Crade from @nikkthequick

LAGUNA BEACH

If you’re looking for a relaxing seaside day sans the hoards of people at Disneyland, opt for a day in Laguna Beach, cruising Route 66. Grab a burger and milkshake from one of the many vintage diners, such as the cliffside Ruby’s on PCH (also called Crystal Cove Shake Shack), and go tide pooling during low tide at Shaw’s Cove or Crystal Cove Park. Don’t forget your water shoes so you can explore for critters on the sharp rocks!

Photo by Nikki Lazaran

Pro tip: Check the tides on the “Tides” app so you can determine the best time of day for your tide pooling adventures.

Not into exploring for creatures? Meander Crystal Cove State Park instead and take in the sea views. Or head to Victoria Beach to see the old stone light house. Fair warning: it pretty much disappears at high tide and can get quite crowded on weekends or during midday low tides.

If the surf is more your speed, join the locals at The Wedge or Thousand Steps Beach, but be prepared to walk the steps in (and more importantly) out. Once you’ve worked up an appetite from climbing all those steps, grab breakfast burritos or banana pancakes at Coyote Grill or make reservations at Nick’s Laguna Beach for a delectable steak dinner.

Have you been to ORANGE COUNTY? COMMENT BELOW AND TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE THING! OR USE #ESTCALIFORNIA ON YOUR FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNEL TO SHARE.

Meet Nikki

Hi, I’m Nikki Lazaran, travel TV producer, avid wanderer, and the creator & author of Resfeber Junket. I plan extravagant dates and exotic travel for a living as one of “The Bachelor” franchise producers. On my occasional days off, I like to help you do the same.

“Resfeber” is a Swedish word which describes the “jitter” before an impending trip or “travel fever.” Pronounced, “res/feb/ə(r).”

I chose “Resfeber Junket” to encapsulate the travel fever I hope you experience when you join me here for your curated travel and romance content. I aim to help you feed that hunger to explore and point you towards what you need to live an intrepid life, whether you are fearless in your pursuit of travel or love…or both!

FOLLOW NIKKI

INSTAGRAM/PINTEREST/TWITTER/FACEBOOK

Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Image via Cinespia

For years I have been wanting to see a movie at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery (an event put on by Cinespia).  I was finally able to get a few close friends together to see the cult classic Empire Records (1995) a few weeks ago and let me tell you -- What a blast!!  This was such a fantastic way to spend a Saturday night in the summer than spending too much money on a fancy dinner or going out to a bar. It was an experience, an ADVENTURE and the best part is that it would be appropriate for a group of friends, family, colleagues or.. even a date night. [hint hint guys]

Even though Los Angeles has some of the greatest weather [almost] year round, the movie nights only run from May through September and tickets (almost always) sell out a few weeks before the event.

Speaking of planning ahead, here is what I learned and wish I knew going into the experience. I want to pass along to those of you who are reading this; consider it a bit of a “How To” or “Do’s and Don’ts” (alter accordingly of course)

Image via

Do not wear heels.  No – I did not go to the movies in a cemetery and wear high heels but I did wear a boot with a heel and even that was too much.  Chances are you will be standing in line for quite a bit of time on cement, uneven grass and dirt and then walking to the massive field where you eventually find your spot.  I took my shoes off immediately upon settling down and had to put them on and off to make trips to the bathroom.  Next time, I will wear flip flops.

Bring a jacket or sweater!  Even though our summers have hot days as soon as the sun goes down it gets chilly and a little damp.

Food: if you have time to pack your own picnic great!  If you don’t and probably for about the same cost you can pre order picnic boxes from the amazing Food + Lab and save yourself a bunch of time.  Food + Lab is literally down the street and you can pick it up with just a quick stop over.  The picnic boxes are twenty bucks and include a big sandwich, deli salad, side salad, cookie and small bottle of water.  All of the food is delicious.

Beverages.  Ok, for fear of running out of wine we packed way too much and didn’t get through it all.  The biggest drag about that is that glass is heavy!  These days there are great boxed wines you can get from wine shops or Target and I would probably do that next time to lighten the load.  They allow beer and wine only.

I have a few other tips that I think could be useful: If you can get a seat near the edge of the field it makes it so much easier coming in and out throughout the movie and when you are ready to leave.  The one thing, that hopefully they will maybe come up with in the near future, is creating some marked out pathways because, as of now, people literally have to walk through your picnic to get to the inner seating areas.  This is clearly because this has become such a popular thing to do and they want to maximize the amount of people they can invite to enjoy.

Remember: Movies are always on Saturday nights. Buy your tickets at least a few weeks in advance.  Gates open at 7pm (with a long line so get there early) and shows start at 9pm.

Oh – and one last important thing.  For those of you that feel it’s kinda creepy to be in a cemetery, don’t worry! You aren’t sitting on gravestones (unless you are in the smoking section which is ironically appropriate) and it really wasn’t strange at all!

For additional “How To’s” you can visit their website for the basics.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Nicole Woods is a California native who has worked in the entertainment industry for sixteen years.  She is an internationally traveled entertainment executive by trade, yet a California woman at her core.  California identifies who she is; down to earth, successful, beautiful (inside and out), positive and always looking for more. 

With a passion for finding her own journey and a love for all categories this publication includes, now, no matter where she is in the world, she can always have a part of home with her and a community to share it with.

FOLLOW HER ON:  INSTAGRAM  / TWITTER  / PINTEREST 

WORK OUT LIKE A LOCAL: LOS ANGELES

Fitness is front and center as part of Los Angeles' draw. There's no shortage of juice bars to satiate your thirst, yoga studios to get your Downward Dog on, or running paths to help you hit the road. And if it's the latest fitness trend you're seeking, it's got that too. 

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Runyon Canyon

If you want to see where the locals go, then make sure you hit Runyon Canyon (2001 North Fuller Ave.) during your stay. From a leisurely dog walk to an intense 5-mile run up and down the trail, there's something here for everyone — including free yoga classes every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. With great views offered at the top, make sure you've got a stash of water on you since the canyon offers little in the way of shade.

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YogaWorks

A favorite amongst our LA-based editors, YogaWorks (multiple locations) offers a wide variety of yoga and Pilates classes for the beginner to the advanced. But even if an intense Vinyasa flow is not calling to you, look to one of the non-yoga offerings (DanceWorks, BarWorks, and SculptWorks) to captivate your interest.

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Santa Monica

With a perfect seaside location, there's little that can't be done in Santa Monica, making it a one-stop dream for the fitness fanatic. Bike rentals are readily available near the Santa Monica Pier, or join the locals for a run (if you're feeling really adventurous, take The Strand, a 25-mile paved bike path that runs along the coast from Pacific Palisades to Redondo Beach). While cruising down the coast, make sure to stop off at Muscle Beach (just south of the pier) for a back-to-basics workout in the gymnastics training area. But if it's a stretch you're needing, hit up local studio faves, Hustle & Flow (2321 Abbot Kinney Blvd, Venice, CA 90291) or Hot 8 Yoga (1422 Second St., 310-866-5280). And no visit to the area is quite complete without a visit up and down the Santa Monica Stairs (4th St. and Adelaide Dr.)!

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YAS Fitness Centers

These hybrid yoga and spinning classes at at YAS (locations in downtown LA and Silverlake) burn calories and strengthen muscles, but don't look for any quiet reflective-style yoga when coming here. One of the most popular classes ($18) at YAS offers students 30 minutes of heart-pounding cardio on the spin bike before 30 minutes of "yoga for athletes," which we like because it helps warm up the muscles for a deeper stretch.

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Box N' Burn

Get ready to SWEAT! This bootcamp style work out is great at mixing cardio, toning and taking out some aggression! ;) Box n Burn was started by Olympian Bronze Medalist, Tony Jeffrees and certified trainer, Kevan Watson, the two have taken this boxing community to new levels and started a gym that Los Angeles was desperately missing.  Don't be afraid to jump in the ring with these guys.. they'll be easy on you.. kind of. 

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Groov3

Now here's a class that will leave you feeling so energized and full of laughter! The Groov3 Movement is happening all over Los Angeles at local dance studios but the thing we love MOST is the rooftop series that happens on top of the Montalban Theater in Hollywood.  The party starts June 9th at 7pm and you can not miss out! 

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WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE LOS ANGELES WORK-OUTS? LET US KNOW IN THE COMMENT SECTION BELOW AND BE SURE TO SHARE WITH US USING #ESTCALIFORNIA ON YOUR SOCIAL CHANNELS! 

THE WIND IN OUR SAILS: An Adventure in Redondo Beach, CA

What happens when you put four photographers, their cameras and a bottle of wine on a sailboat? A really fun time!  The Established California Team decided to head out on Saturday for a day out on the water in Redondo Beach. With help from South Bay Sailing, we were able to get out on the water, sit back and enjoy the wind in our sails. After lots of laughter, dancing and photos, we watched the sun set over the horizon and couldn't help but feel our hearts fill with love for our beloved California lives -- thankful to be sharing it with the best of friends. 

What's your California? Share with us by using #estcalifornia on your social devices and submit your own Adventures here. 

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These photos are the product of a collaboration by Ashley Williams, Renata Amazonas, Lindsay Vacek & Thomas Williams / Foreword by Lindsay Vacek for Established California. 

ALONG THE VENICE BOARDWALK

When the early morning light touches the boardwalk in Venice Beach, California - it could feel as if you have the entire place to yourself. A truely rare moment for the always-populated landmark and visitor destination. However, photographer & stylist couple, Aaron and Lwayn Smith, managed to capture this perfect "Golden Hour" moment with model, Torian Ellison, and the results are simply phenomenal.  

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Photographer: Aaron Smith / Stylist : Lwany Smith / Hair/Make Up: Mel Daniel /Assistant: Keith Oshiro & Noah Mensink / Model: Torian Ellison

Fashion Credits:

Pocket Tee Look: Sunglasses, Raen / Pocket Tee, James Perse / Black Pant, Knomadik by Daniel Patrick  / Slip-Ons, Vans   | Blue Hoodie Look: Optics, Raen / Short Sleeve Hoodie, Unyforme /  Black Pant, Knomadik by Daniel Patrick  / Slip-Ons, Vans  | White Thermal Look: Sunglasses, Raen / Thermal Crew, 7 For All Mankind / Black Pant, Knomadik by Daniel Patrick  / Slip-Ons, Vans  | Leather 5 Panel Look: Black Tee, Calvin Klein / Brown Cardigan,Your Neighbors by Urban Outfitters | Quilted Jacket Look: Sunglasses, Raen / Quilted Jacket, Sacai / White Button-Up, Hugo Boss / Gray Sweater, H&M / Black Pant, Knomadik by Daniel Patrick 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

We are a husband and wife, photographer and stylist team. Our lives collided while living in the dorms of the Savannah College of Art and Design. We were both pursuing our BFA’s in Photography and Fashion Design, Marketing and Management. After loosing touch for a couple years, our paths crossed and we fell madly in love. Our move to Los Angeles, like our collaborative career paths, were never discussed, always assumed and one of the greatest things to ever happen to us. Since tying the knot in October of 2013 our work has become more intertwined as we push each other’s creative boundaries and redefine what marriage means to us.

FOLLOW US:  WEBSITE / HIS INSTAGRAM / HER INSTAGRAM

FIVE SUPER SCARY HALLOWEEN ADVENTURES

As Halloween creeps closer, most people are already prepared with a costume, plans and/or what type of candy they’re giving away at the door.  If you’re like me and have zero of those things done, I’ve compiled a list of some last minute options, in case you don’t LOVE dressing up, or you do, but need a change of plans.  Here are five LA-based super scary adventures...  not for the faint of heart.

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Los Angeles Haunted Hayride @ Griffith Park

4730 Crystal Springs Ave.

Los Angeles, CA 90027

Hours and ticket info here

Firstly, the Los Angeles Haunted Hayride has become an iconic Hollywood tradition that started six years ago. The hayride trail this year is bringing a new 25-minute experience where “armies of demonic and dark forces and demonic presences litter the ground and are frantic to strike at their favorite “hayriders.” With all new scare zones, The House of Horsemen will be terrifying. With each room in the house symbolizing the four elemental apocalyptic terrors, like pestilence, war, famine and death, there will be no place to hide. The creative team has innovatively made a new special effects challenge, that has not been done in the haunted attraction world, making this hayride a unique and utterly bone chilling experience well worth it.

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Halloween Horror Nights @ Universal Studios

100 Universal City Plaza

Universal City, CA 91608

Hours and ticket info here

Universal Studios produces the “most terrifying 360-degree Halloween event in Los Angeles with More Dead than Ever!” Featuring scares from tons of Hollywood’s most terrifying movies, music, and TV shows like AMC’s The Walking Dead. With mazes featuring movies like Alien vs. Predator, From Dusk til Dawn, Dracula, and my least favorite scary “thing,” Clowns 3D. For the Clowns 3D maze, legendary guitarist Slash will bring a frightening new sound that will make you “experience a mind-blowing sensory overload of your darkest fears.” I don’t want ANY part of that one. Besides mazes there’s a Terror Tram, an apocalyptic journey trough the Walker-infested Universal back lot.

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Knotts Scary Farm

8039 Beach Blvd.

Buena Park, CA 90620

Hours and Ticket info here

Knotts Scary Farm brings back Trapped: Lock & Key. Bringing extra rooms, and more complex puzzles to solve, and an extreme and shocking finale that will come to life. With Trapped, “you become part of the terror and are forced to face your darkest fears, confront your inner terrors and descend into the madness of a maze with no way out.” Other attractions consist of Black Magic, with the motto “will you be part of the disappearing act?” Creepy.  Back by popular demand is Elvira. In the 1,800 seat Charles M. Schultz Theatre, Elvira becomes the “ring Mistress of the Park” and will feature amazing dance performances by hip-hop based Academy of Villains, who danced on Fox’s “So You Think You Can Dance.”

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Blackout Halloween

500 Mateo Street 90013

Downtown Los Angeles

Hours and Tickets info here

This may be the scariest of Halloween events out there. First started in New York City, it has made its way West to the Arts district. A haunted house, where you don’t get to go in it with a group, but alone, not knowing what could happen. So scary, no one under the age of 18 is allowed. If you’re a horror enthusiast and love those types of uncomfortable situations, Blackout Halloween is for you. One review in New York City’s Slant said, “ If you prefer rubber bats and cobwebs over genuine fear-inducers like confinement and sensory deprivation, don’t even think about buying a ticket.” So there you have it, the scariest most chilling Halloween event ever.

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Queen Mary’s Dark Harbor

1126 Queens Hwy

Long Beach, CA 90802

Hours and Ticket info here

What better way to be frightened than by going to the actually haunted Queen Mary in Long Beach? New mazes are being introduced this year, Voodoo Village, Soulmate and B340. It will be an exclusive encounter onboard the infamous ocean liner, unlike any other haunted experiences you’ve done. The creepiest part is that all the Queen Mary mazes take you through some of the most active paranormal areas aboard the ship. Hope you’re not scared of little kid ghosts, because a girl from third class thought she could slide down the banister and sadly, fell and broke her neck. Apparently, she now wanders the pool area and nursery looking for a doll or her mother. “The Queen Mary is home to a bunch of casualties but she was also surrounded by death” during WWII. It is reported that while avoiding enemy ships, she zigzagged into a companion ship, and was nearly cut in half and sadly had to leave 300 survivors in the water. Apparently, there is a pounding on the side of the Queen Mary sometimes, by those men trying to come on board. So, Halloween on the Queen Mary um… fun.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Keyla Vasconcellos is originally from Brazil and grew up in Virginia. When she moved to California, it immediately stole her heart. After attending Pepperdine University, she worked in restaurants where she grew to love all types of cuisines. She is aspiring to be a Gastronomist Extraordinaire by eating her way through Los Angeles and sharing her adventures with anyone who enjoys a delicious meal. 

FOLLOW HER ON: TWITTER / INSTAGRAM 

Catching Up with Australian Indie Rock Band, Boy & Bear, at the Fonda Theatre in Los Angeles, CA (Video)

Are you in a music rut? You know.. when you have played out every band you've been vibin' the last couple weeks, the radio seems to be constantly on repeat and you wish that you could discover something new to stimulate your musical eardrums? Well, you're in luck because I have just the band for you: Boy & Bear. 

I've been following these Aussie native's for quite some time and they do not disappoint. Their classic indie-rock-meets-Americana sound is ever-evolving.. paired with heartfelt vocals and a genuinely solid group of guys, you can't go wrong. 

Formed in 2009, the band consists of David Hosking (vocals and guitar), Killian Gavin (vocals and guitar), Timothy Hart (drums and vocals), Jonathan Hart (vocals, banjo, mandolin and keyboards) and David Symes (bass). The band has released two albums, Moonfire (August 2011) and Harlequin Dream, (August 2013) both reaching the top ten of the Australian album charts. 

Currently, the band is on their third lap (this year!) around the globe and kicked off their most recent tour in Los Angeles at the Fonda Theatre (Don't worry - If you missed it, they are playing in San Francisco November 1st!).

We were able to catch up with Killian Gavin and Dave Symes before the show (after the guys took a quick walk around the bustling Hollywood streets, grabbing snacks at a nearby Trader Joe's). Take a peek at our video & interview below. 

Want More? YOU CAN READ THE WHOLE INTERVIEW BELOW:

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Welcome to California!

D & K: Thanks! We’re happy to be here.

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So it’s been a year since you released Harlequin Dreams. How has this last year been for you?

K: It’s been pretty far out – We left, literally, about a year ago to start touring and this is our third lap of the globe right now.  It’s been long, it’s been fun and it’s been great. It’s been so awesome to travel through here and Americas and all over Europe to  play shows. We've been busy! It’s sorta like a blink and then you blink again and it’s a year later.

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Are you guys looking forward to going home after this tour wraps up?

D: Ya, sorta – but it’s exciting to be here.  We just arrived again [to the States] yesterday - and before that we were just touring all around Australia for a whole month, so we were able to go home. It’s great to have a change of scenery and actually be back to America. 

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This is your third time back to the States, right?

D&K: This year. Yea. [laughing]

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That sounds exhausting [laughs]. Well, I know when you are playing for crowds, the energy is different from place to place. Is there a place that sticks out to you more than another?

K: I hate to give some credit to your North American friends up in Canada but they are a great audience. They’ve been really supportive – not that America is not by any means – but they are a particularly, different kind of crowd. They are in their own little category of "Happiness". I don’t know what it is.

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Do you prefer playing festivals or more intimate settings?

D: I think the difference is good for us, as a band. I think we have a show that actually suits theatres and more intimate gigs but it's also really great at festivals. We really enjoy the variety and I think it’s important for us to play both of them.

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Well, seeing this is your third lap around the world - what are some of your favorite venues that you’ve played?

K: Well, I’m biased being a Sydney boy and because I grew up in Sydney. There’s a particular room called the Enmore Theater  – which is the kind of a venue that I went and saw all my favorite bands growing up. We’ve played it four or five times now and it was always my goal in life to play there so I’m stoked to have been able to tick that box off the bucket list.  Other than that, what was really cool, although a smaller venue here, the Troubadour. It’s a really cool room with the sorta of U-shaped crowd and there is so much history there. [Dave agreeing]. Another one we love is the Paradiso in Amsterdam. It’s pretty famous and really old and cool. I think it’s an old church actually.

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Do you have a favorite song off the new album?

D: I think it changes for me. I think in terms of playing live – we allow our songs to keep growing so I have different favorites all the time but I really like the song called “Stranger.”

K: "Old Time Blues." Although, all year I’ve been saying “Real Estate” and I think it’s just finally switched.

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How about on the first album, Moonfire?

D: I like "Big Man", personally.

K: "Part-time Believer."

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Do you have a favorite place you like to write?

K: It’s sort of an odd process. The writing, we don’t really do on the road. I know Dave (the other Dave) he’s always coming up with some ideas and little melodies but hardly a complete idea. When we finish touring, we’ll get together as a band and hire a house for a couple days and try to start the process. Try to get into a different headspace.  Also, on tour, you don’t really get your instruments with you often. It’s always with the crew and the venue and traveling around to it’s definitely a different process, different world – so when we finish touring, we’ll start that again. 

D: The last time we did that, we hired a house about an hour an a half north of Sydney, near the beach up there, and just played all day. We'd go for a swim in the morning, cooked a big dinner at night. I think for us, just being all together, food, a bit of exercise – it’s always really helps our writing.

K: Ya, getting out of your own space – getting out into the sticks or the beach – is really helpful for our productivity. It just goes through the roof and we have so many more ideas. Opposed to being in a rehearsal studio somewhere – that usually has a boring, bad vibe – it’s not very inspiring, by any means. I feel like if we put in the time to go somewhere and set up a nice place – it’s good for us. That’s how we did the first and second record.

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I think I could find some inspiration off a beach in Australia!

K: Absolutely

D: It’s not a bad place to end up.  We’re very lucky.

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I always hear about the surfing there.

K: Love Surfing.

D: Oh yeah. Big surfing culture there.  Me – very basically – but I always love to get into the water.

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Have you guys tried surfing here yet? In California?

D: We got a swim in yesterday! We didn’t surf, but we went down to Santa Monica and jumped in. It was really refreshing.

K: Yea, it was beautiful. I haven’t surfed ever in America though. I tend to go over to Bali a lot (in Indonesia) – there’s some really great surfing there.

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Do you guys ever get sick of each other?

K: Never.  [laughs] Sort of.

D: We’re pretty good actually, considering we spend so much time together. I think everyone really understands each other’s space and what they need – but we do a lot together. We all hang out eating, going around and seeing space. We’re a pretty good group of guys.

K: It’ll be about a year and a half on the road by the time we finish, you gotta be able to get along to make that happen.

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Have any advise on how you stay balanced while you are touring?

D: I’m not sure if there is one piece of advice. I think it changes all the time and it’s different for everybody but I think as long as you are enjoying what you do and you keep yourself inspired to make your life better and better – then you’ll be happy in your career which makes dealing with your personal life that much easier.

K: It’s definitely difficult. But we put a lot of effort into exercising, even if we don’t quite look like it, we try. Going for a run, or anything like that, definitely does help to keep your head sane.  It helps you manage everything else when you are feeling good about life. There is definitely a learning curve and you are always learning how to do it better. And sometimes, what works one day, might not work another. But we’ve had about six years now of practicing and trying and we’re in a pretty good place.

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Where do you find your inspiration?

D: Musically, there are lots of things out there. Lots of music and stuff from many decades ago – there are so many things to check out on the internet. I, personally, really love seeing other bands play around the world. It gives me an amazing amount of inspiration. Apart from that, I think trying to get out and see some of the cities we are at. I always feel better when I get out and can walk around and take in the culture.

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I know you guys just came back from Trader Joe’s (before we met up) – what’d you buy?

D: We bought some Vanilla Essence actually – extract is what you call it here. We’re going to clean the fridge because it’s our first day on the bus and it doesn’t smell that amazing. So we are gong to clean the fridge with a little vanilla extract. It’s the Aussie way of cleaning things.

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We, at Established California, are all about the pursuit of a "Golden State of Mind". What does that mean to you?

D: It sounds like a great name for an album! [laughs] I think it’s about lifestyle – which is similar to the Australia lifestyle with health and swimming and good food.

K: I feel like “Kale” sums it up for me.  Not to tease anyone about their city [laughs]

D: Kale and Quinoa.

K: and Goji Berries. I think that’s a big thing for LA – or at least that’s the stereotype.

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Is that what the world thinks of us? [laughs]

K: Mediation, Tattoos, Yoga… Kale – that, for me, sums it up.  To be honest though, Sydney’s pretty similar.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts. 

Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives. 

FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM  /  TWITTER  /  PINTEREST

The Line Hotel Commissary

Images via The Line Hotel

For anyone living in LA, or if you’re thinking about coming to visit, check out The Line Hotel in Koreatown.  Not only is there amazing food and great karaoke in the area, but Chef Roy Choi, known for Kogi Truck, A Frame, and Sunny Spot (to name a few), has really out done himself with the Food and Beverage aspect of the hotel.

The newest restaurant recently opened, Commissary, is definitely one to put on the to do list of where to eat next.  On the second floor of the hotel, the restaurant is set up in a green house surrounded by beautiful plants, which sits next to an outdoor pool deck bordered with chairs and comfy couch seating.  The concept is plant based but it’s not all veggies, it’s just what’s highlighted.  One can find a burger, or a steak, French dip and other fantastic eats.

Once seated, a menu is handed to me, and all that’s shown are pictures of ingredients such as egg, lettuce, and scallops.  After ordering, they surprise you with a dish featuring that ingredient that was chosen.  It’s a highly innovative way to do a menu and I’m sure some people may freak, but I enjoyed the new take on it .  Since no descriptions are given of the food creations, diners must have complete trust that if the ingredient is liked, the dish created will be delicious.  My favorite dishes were the carrots, scallops and eggs.  It’s tough to give descriptions being that there were none to go by on the menu, but the eggs were over medium and came with sauces that were delicious and really packed some heat.  The prices are reasonable with a steak being the highest price at $28.

The drinks were fabulous as well. I tried the blueberry, bourbon, cucumber, Peruvian black mint drink and it totally delivered. It was smoky yet refreshing. The White Peach cocktail with pisco was also very refreshing and perfectly sweet.  Commissary is the best place to go right now to have a fruity delicious drink and then go to the pool on the deck and hang out to cool off with this September weather.

Commissary is now open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.  With the beautiful and colorful space, it’s hard not to enjoy a drink casually or go for a romantic dinner. Anyone can feel good about going there to have some veggies, a gin and juice and lay out by the pool.

Established California | Grub | The Line Hotel

Established California | Grub | The Line Hotel | Bon Appetite

Established California | Grub | The Line Hotel | Fresh Corn

Established California | Grub | The Line Hotel | The Menu

Established California | Grub | The Line Hotel | Interior

Established California | Grub | The Line Hotel | Orders Up

Image via DesignLove

Established California | Grub | The Line Hotel | Bartop

Established California | Grub | The Line Hotel

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Keyla Vasconcellos is originally from Brazil and grew up in Virginia. When she moved to California, it immediately stole her heart. After attending Pepperdine University, she worked in restaurants where she grew to love all types of cuisines. She is aspiring to be a Gastronomist Extraordinaire by eating her way through Los Angeles and sharing her adventures with anyone who enjoys a delicious meal. 

FOLLOW HER ON: TWITTER / INSTAGRAM 

The Secret Speakeasies of Los Angeles

The weekend is here and we can't be more excited. After a long week of work, sometimes, all you need is a nice cold adult drink to wash away the stress. Speakeasies are becoming very popular all over California so we wanted to share with you our favorite ones in the Los Angeles area. 

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The Varnish is located in Downtown LA, tucked away inside one of LA’s oldest restaurants, Cole’s French Dip Sandwiches.  It used to be a storage room for the restaurant and then became one of Los Angeles’s original craft cocktail bars. The Varnish was nominated as a James Beard Award Semi Finalist last year. The drink menu varies with usually 5 types of cocktails and a bartender’s choice. The Varnish Originals are a take on classic cocktails, without straying too far. Grab a sandwich at Cole’s and head in and enjoy a crafted cocktail. Just have a little patience, because it’s all a process, but don’t worry, it always delivers. Also, on Sundays, Mondays and Tuesdays they have Jazz Night after 9pm.

THE VARNISH

118 E 6th St, 

Los Angeles, CA 90014

Image via Flickr/ Leah Grace

Image via ZagatBuzz - Flickr

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La Descarga known as Hollywood's rum bar, is located in Hollywood near Santa Monica Blvd. and the 101 Freeway.  This Cuban themed speakeasy mixes class, elegance and intrigue with Cuban music, libations, and old-fashioned Cuban flare. Upon entering, well-dressed customers are lead up a dark stairway to a hostess who reveals a secret passageway inside.  Once through the disguised threshold, guests are immediately transported back in time to pre-Castro Havana.  Above the central bar, filled with Havana inspired rum based cocktails, bands play four mini-shows throughout the night and Latin dancers entertain customers. If choosing between 75 different handcrafted rums wasn't special enough, guests can enjoy an in-depth selection of cigars on La Descarga's quaint outside patio.  

LA DESCARGA

1159 North Western Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90039

WEBSITE

Image via My Best Address Book

Images via Huffington Post

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Blind Barber: Located in Culver City, a Barber Shop is your entrance. Arrive while people get their haircut, and walk into what looks like a storage room. You’ll find yourself in a dark bar where bartenders are mixing all kinds of beautifully crafted cocktails. Not only are you drinking delicious drinks like the Strawberry Fields, which incorporate Vodka, lemon, honey, strawberries and parsley together, but also they have a variety of grilled cheeses. Try a double cream Brie with Parmesan, dates, walnuts, honey and sea salt among many others, or a Nutella, mascarpone, seasonal berries, strawberries and pistachio dessert grilled cheese. Get a haircut, than go in for an awesome cocktail and grilled cheese.

BLIND BARBER

10797 Washington Blvd, 

Culver City, CA 90232

WEBSITE

Image via Yelp

Image via Winnie L/Yelp

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Good Times at Davey Waynes: This is the newest of the speakeasy concepts in the heart of Hollywood.  Once you see the house, you’ll see a garage. After walking through a garage sale, there is a refrigerator, that you open and it will take you inside the house. A super retro concept with all 70s themed interior decorating, one can get a drink from the bar inside, or venture outside to a bar that is in an Airstream Trailer. BBQ food can be found like “Not” So Dirty Dog which is a bacon wrapped hot dog with avocado lime crema and pico de Also, alcoholic snow cones are a thing for the reminiscent teenager in all of us.

GOOD TIMES AT DAVEY WAYNE'S

1611 N El Centro Ave

Los Angeles, CA 90028

WEBSITE

Image via Good Times at Davey Wayne's

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The R Bar: Located in Koreatown, a popular speakeasy that offers craft cocktails and known for their karaoke nights and different themed nights like the best old school hip hop, all 70s vinyl night and recently just had a Galaxy Quest drinking game night. To get in, you need a password where can be found on their Facebook or Twitter page.

R BAR

3331 W 8th St

Los Angeles, CA 90005

FACEBOOK

Image via R Bar

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The Red Door: If you ever find yourself in Toluca Lake, find the alley on Riverside Dr. with a red door. There is no signage and this speakeasy style bar is super dark but has black and white TVs with a Latin themed concept and great bartenders. There’s live music on Mondays, and the food is good and there is a secret menu if you ask. Grab a date and take them to this romantic, casual atmosphere. 

THE RED DOOR

10057 Riverside Dr 

Toluca Lake, CA 91602

FACEBOOK

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Keyla Vasconcellos is originally from Brazil and grew up in Virginia. When she moved to California, it immediately stole her heart. After attending Pepperdine University, she worked in restaurants where she grew to love all types of cuisines. She is aspiring to be a Gastronomist Extraordinaire by eating her way through Los Angeles and sharing her adventures with anyone who enjoys a delicious meal. 

FOLLOW HER ON: TWITTER / INSTAGRAM 

EST. SPOTLIGHT: MILKFARM, ARTISAN CHEESE SHOP

I’m not sure if anyone loves cheese as much as I do but it’s pretty out of control. With that being said, I was extremely excited to check out Milkfarm, an artisan cheese shop in Eagle Rock, near Glendale. They carry over a hundred different cheeses from a variety of countries.  The cheeses are on a rotation depending on season and availability. The owner, Leah Park Fierro, is a pastry chef - made cheese monger - who has worked over 15 years in the food industry.

Once you walk in, the setting is very bright and rustic. One can come in for lunch and order charcuterie or sandwiches that change every day. The one sandwich that you can always count on being there is their Grilled Cheese. It was rich, gooey and full of flavor. For charcuterie, options include prosciutto, jamon, porchetta, pates, sausages and other meats.

If you don’t have time to eat there, grab a wine, or seasonal jam, bread, cheese and take it to go. Another option is their Picnic Box. For $30, they sell ready-to-go picnic boxes, which include two pieces of cheese, salami, olives, cornichons, seasonal fresh fruit or grapes and a half baguette. Perfect for that picnic on the beach or a day in the park.

Not only is Milkfarm LA a cheese shop, you can find an abundance of flat breads, baked pretzels, pies and tarts. So, if you’re in that area, and it’s nice out, consider picking up a picnic box and head outside to enjoy this amazing September weather. Need some inspiration? Here are some events that are happening this month:

For more info:

MILKFARM LA

Address: 2106 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041

Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-7pm & Sunday: 11am-5pm

Phone: (323) 892-1068

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

When she moved to California, it immediately stole her heart. After attending Pepperdine University, she worked in restaurants where she grew to love all types of cuisines. She is aspiring to be a Gastronomist Extraordinaire by eating her way through Los Angeles and sharing her adventures with anyone who enjoys a delicious meal. 

FOLLOW HER ON: TWITTER / INSTAGRAM 

OUR TOP 5 FAVORITE LOS ANGELES ROOFTOPS

Image via Standard Hotels

Summer is ending, but us lucky Angelenos get to enjoy the warm weather for a bit longer than other cities.  Thinking of something outdoors to do?  Something that involves great views and an adult beverage?  These are our top five LA Rooftop Bars.  

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Perch: Located in the heart of Downtown LA, the French inspired rooftop bistro shows a panoramic view of Downtown.  It has two outdoor fireplaces to keep you warm on colder nights, fire pits, a lounge and table seating indoors and outdoors. The 15th floor restaurant is beautifully decorated with antique furniture and French inspired décor.  One can sit inside or outside on the patio and enjoy delicious French cuisine.  If you’re looking for a more casual vibe, you can move up to the 16th floor rooftop lounge and enjoy a specialty cocktail and live jazz or a DJ under the stars.  All of which can be enjoyed with a 360 degree view of Downtown Los Angeles.

Image via Perch LA

PERCH LA: 448 South Hill St. Los Angeles CA 90013

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The Standard Downtown: A little more of a trendier spot, The Standard Downtown delivers on so many levels.  Not only do they have a heated rooftop pool, but they have waterbed cabanas as well.  One can find a bar, red Astroturf deck, a dance floor and nightly DJs to pump up the night.  You can’t pass up The Standard Biergarten for some pretzels, wieners, strudels and beer.  Come check out the glorious views at this spot.

Image via Standard Downtown

STANDARD DOWNTOWN LA : 550 South Flower at Sixth Street Los Angeles, CA 90071

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The Ace Hotel: One of the newest hotels downtown, The Ace Hotel is located in the historic United Artists building built in 1927.  As hipster as this place gets, the atmosphere is wonderful with an eclectic drink menu.  Relax poolside and enjoy “bright, world-traveled twists on traditional tropical cocktails – with raw fruits, teas and spices converging on a regular United Nations of spirits.”  My favorite is the El Toro Verde which includes blanco tequila, cucumber, lemon, thyme agave, lillet blanc and absinthe.  Come with a group of friends and enjoy the casual vibe.

Image via California Home + Design

THE ACE HOTEL: 929 South Broadway, Los Angeles CA 90015

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Hotel Erwin: Situated blocks from the beach and Venice boardwalk, the Hotel Erwin boasts the only rooftop bar in Venice.  With casual seating and a refreshing outdoor vibe, High Rooftop Lounge is a great place to hang out after a long day at the beach, or to start off your night.  This rooftop perch offers a wide variety of snacks and appetizers, as well as an extensive drink menu.  The panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Marina Del Rey, Venice, and Santa Monica create a breathtaking environment day or night.

Image via Hotel Erwin

HOTEL ERWIN : 1697 Pacific Avenue, Venice, CA 90291

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The Roof on Wilshire: Located just east of Beverly Hills near Fairfax and the Grove, The Roof on Wilshire is a hip, popular rooftop restaurant and bar.  It boasts an impressive menu of new age American cuisine created by celebrity chef Eric Greenspan.  From 3 pm to 7 pm Monday through Friday, a sunset menu is offered and includes discounts on some of its refreshing cocktails.  With views of the LA skyline and Beverly Hills, The Roof is a great place to enjoy delicious poolside dining and craft cocktails while keeping warm near its cozy rooftop fire pit.   

Image via The Roof on Wilshire

THE HOTEL WILSHIRE: 6317 Wilshure Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90048

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Keyla Vasconcellos is originally from Brazil and grew up in Virginia. When she moved to California, it immediately stole her heart. After attending Pepperdine University, she worked in restaurants where she grew to love all types of cuisines. She is aspiring to be a Gastronomist Extraordinaire by eating her way through Los Angeles and sharing her adventures with anyone who enjoys a delicious meal. 

FOLLOW HER ON: TWITTER / INSTAGRAM 

EST SPOTLIGHT: TINI - THIS IS NOT IKEA

One of my favorite things about being a Californian is the appreciation this state has for the re-use of great furniture. Vintage represents everything Californians love: upcycling, recycling and going green. Vintage shopping is the ultimate example of going green.  And while you can find yourself with endless flea market options on the weekend, there is one place that does the hunting for you.

Today my little vintage dreams came true when I went to the one and only T.I.N.I. {This Is Not Ikea}. TINI is an amazing vintage store located in the heart of Los Angeles with one of a kind vintage finds from all eras. I’ve wanted to go there for some time and this weekend I made sure I made the time.  And when I say it didn’t disappoint, I couldn’t be any more truthful. It was everything I had hoped it would be and more.

As I walked up the to store front, its vine covered entrance immediately had me excited. Two steps in the door and I was in love. I will warn you, when you first walk in, it can be a bit overwhelming. There is so much vintage amazingness to look at, your eyes will freak out! There is even a second floor and rooms that stretch back for days. The place is huge!

I found so many amazing treasures and the prices were not unreasonable. Check some of my favorite finds below.  

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Image by Jennie Warren for LA Weekly

Co-owners Alexis Hadjopulos and Tom Whitman began TINI as a vintage and retro online shop for those who shared in their passion of vintage finds. But when fabulous finds filled the home of Alexis, the two opened their retail space. Coming up on the fifth birthday of their Fairfax and 6th home, TINI’s finds are better than ever. If you can’t make it out to their space, you still take a look online. But trust me when I say, it’s better in person.  One more thing, it gets better… if you’re in the market to really redo your space, they make house calls! Happy vintage hunting!

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TINI (This is Not Ikea) is located at:

515 S Fairfax Ave,

Los Angeles, CA 90036

(323) 938-9230

Contributed by estCA staff, Megan Araujo

 FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM / TWITTER / PINTEREST

AUTHENTIC MEXICAN TACOS AT LA OTRA TAQUERIA ESCUELA

Image via Elizabeth Daniels

California is well known for their Mexican food and culture and if you were to ask any Californian what their favorite food is, I bet they would all tell you the same thing: Mexican.

Living in Southern California, we are so close to the Mexican border so Mexican food becomes a staple in our everyday life. We are cursed and blessed with knowing what authentic Mexican dishes taste like – so when I find myself on the road traveling for weeks at a time (or even just one week, lets be honest) – I’m always craving Mexican food. I will search the internet for random restaurants to get my fix and guess what: they just aren’t the same. Our Mexican food is just better (Sorry, Texas)

One of my favorite spots to grab a taco in Los Angeles just happens to be hidden off a busy street near The Grove in Beverly/Fairfax district: La Otra Taqueria Escuela.

Owner & Creator, Steven Arroyo, is no stranger to tacos as he also owns Cobras & Matadors and Escuela Taqueria (right around the corner). The rustic decor and unique menu of tacos, including Pork Belly, Lobster or Ground Beef & Pickle, get me coming back every time. Their tortilla chips are homemade and the salsa is out-of-this-world delicious; The perfect mix of spicy and sweet. Their prices aren’t as cheap as the taco trucks that frequently drive around the city, but they are affordable at $8-12 for two tacos. However, if you want a salty margarita to wash it down, you better plan on bringing your own because La Otra Taqueria Escuela is a BYOB spot and doesn’t serve alcohol.

Image via LA Eater

Image via The Delicious Life

Not in Los Angeles? That’s okay! You can still have tacos at home!

Check out my Healthy Taco Recipe here!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts. 

Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives. 

FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM  /  TWITTER  /  PINTEREST

GRIFFITH PARK: HIKING IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA

Last Sunday morning, I woke up feeling a little groggy and hazy. It definitely was those few drinks I had at Megan's engagement party coming back to remind me that I am no longer in my early 20's. I made a mental reminder: implement a glass of water between drinks in the future. However, this is definitely not the first time I've told myself this but somehow I convince myself that one day it'll actually stick. But guess what? That's wasn’t keeping me down! It was absolutely beautiful outside and I planned on taking the bull by the horns and running with it (that's how the saying goes, right?).

Living in Southern California, there is an abundance of hiking trails from the Santa Monica mountains all the way down to San Diego. I happen to live in the center of Hollywood so I frequent the trendy and popular Runyon Canyon (which is fun for celebrity spotting and chatting with friends) but I wanted to get a little running in. Plus, it was a Sunday and Runyon would be super crowded.

So, I got my bum off the couch and I put some of my favorite running gear on. I decided to head over to Griffith Park Trails. The trails are wide and the inclines are not too steep which gave me the perfect opportunity to work on my cardio and interval runs. Plus, hiking is a great way to work on building those leg and booty muscles.

Aside from the running trails, Griffith Park is also home to the famous outdoor music amphitheater, The Greek (which if you missed Monday’s post, click here to read more about it), the Griffith Observatory, a Golf Course, pony rides, an abandoned Zoo.. even, a Merry-Go-Round. It’s the perfect place to bring the little ones to run around and play - or - a place to lay a blanket out with your beau and snack while reading a good book. Or you can try the cute Trails, a cute cafe located off Ferndale, surrounded by huge oak trees. You’ll forget you are in Los Angeles.

Don’t live in California? That’s okay! Jump on the interweb and do a search for some local hiking trails in your city. i bet you’ll be pleasantly surprised all the hidden trails you’ll find. Just pack a small bag and grab a good friend and get out and enjoy the sun.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts. 

Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives. 

FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM  /  TWITTER  /  PINTEREST

Everything you need to know about LA's favorite vintage store, Jet Rag.

Image via Downtown Dreamers

It was a rough week in my wardrobe department. Seasons are changing and in typical Eleni fashion, I have grown tired of what my closet has to offer. On a super tight budget this month (and a NEED for some “new” clothing pieces to punch up my wardrobe) I had this genius plan to hit up the mecca of vintage thrift shopping - Jet Rag’s Sunday Dollar Sale on La Brea in Los Angeles.

This sale has been a weekend staple for vintage collectors, designers, hipsters, and clothing hoarders for sometime now. I have driven past the Sunday morning crowds several times but never managing to stop. As a Jet Rag Sunday virgin, I did a quick Google search our my way there for tips and tricks from avid Jet Ragger’s but no amount of research could have prepared me for what was going to happen. I only wish I would have remembered to check YouTube.

I scored front row parking which gave me the advantage to do a quick scout before exiting the car. In the driveway of Jet Rag, two rows of tents were pitched and commercial sized laundry bins lined the perimeter. To the left, clothes were spread out on the ground from last week’s leftovers. To my right, the early birds were hawking over bundles of clothes tightly bound in plastic. It is not until 11:00am that employees cut the bundles free and all is revealed.

At 10:57am, an employee went over the rules: no one may touch a bundle until all have been cut open. I had assumed with the sound of the clip from the last band, everyone would have graciously sifted through what pile was in front of them. What the hell was I thinking?! EVERYTHING IS A DOLLAR! What transpired next became such a blur [much like the high school jungle scene from one of my favorite movies “Mean Girls”]. CATFIGHT! I was unexpectedly shoved clear out of the way. Crews of hipsters went diving, collectors were scrambling and hoarders were screaming to grab as many clothes as possible in one fell swoop. While in survival mode, I tried to regain focus and join in with the same conviction but I was too late. As people are hitting the ground around me, I left my childhood etiquette rules behind and started tugging and pulling on anything I could get my hands on. There is not a Black Friday sale that could compare to what this was.

Not expecting such a war zone, I walked away with a measly pile to go through (compared to my competitors whom had bins full). Pulling two items from my original grab (and a couple more from people’s rejects) I was able to walk away with a few finds that I felt would be great additions to my wardrobe. Hoping to return as a veteran, I am excited to fully embrace the experience.

With only $8 spent, check out how I mixed my thrifty vintage finds into my wardrobe.

Photography by Debi Prince

The Jet Rag $1.00 sale happens every Sunday, rain or shine, 9am to about 5pm.

Jet Rag
825 N La Brea Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90038-3340
Phone: (323) 939-0528

Cost: All items in parking lot are $1.00. They request exact change in the mornings.

Note: Metered street parking on La Brea is free on Sundays till 11am. Make sure to feed the meter after 11am because they will start to ticket.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Eleni Hopkins grew up in a home where art and fashion were always the forefront of conversation. A Native to San Francisco, her passion for style, color and texture have made her fearless to take risks in order to stay on the cutting edge of fashion and beauty trends. It was her craft with palettes of color and make-up brushes that prompted her move to Los Angeles and her love for clothing, designers and street trends that have kept her here.  With a creative but critical eye, Eleni is excited to share her love for dress up and show readers how to spice up their wardrobe and enjoy their time in front of the mirror. 

FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM  / TWITTER  / PINTEREST

LA'S BEST MUSIC VENUE: THE GREEK THEATRE

California has an abundance of unique buildings and structures. From beautiful bridges to abandoned zoos, there is always something the satisfy an adventurous soul. During the summer months, we always love to take in the warm 80 degree weather. Pair it with live music, a picnic of red wine and sharp cheeses and you can understand what it’s like to be a Californian on any Summer evening.

Los Angeles is home to three popular outdoor music amphitheaters: The famous Hollywood Bowl, The Greek Theatre and the Ford Theatre. Musicians, both newcomers and famous, have played on their stages to audiences waiting to drink up the experiences. My personal favorite is The Greek Theatre.

The Greek is situated in Griffith Park (3,000 acres of land left to the city by Griffith J Griffith back in 1896). The theater was built in 1929 and holds 5,900 people. The canyon site was chosen because of its good acoustics and has been home to many concerts, stage shows and graduations since.

If you find yourself in Los Angeles, The Greek is definitely a must-see venue. Be sure to pack a picnic and eat on the park grass or picnic tables prior to a show. Make sure leave all glass bottles at home and throw away any trash when you are finished. You won’t be able to bring the food inside with you but they offer bottles of wine for sale which is great to sip on during a show. But, if you can’t make it to The Greek Theatre, why not pack a picnic and head to your local park on a Saturday night with a loved one. Bring a portable speaker and your iPod and have your own musical night under that stars. You’d be surprised how relaxing it is to lay down and listen to your favorite music outdoors.

For more information about upcoming shows at the Greek Theatre, check out their official website at www.greektheatrela.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lindsay Vacek has a passion for style, details and design. As a Fashion Editorial Photographer, she's worked in the Entertainment Industry for over 10 years and has a love for adventure and travel. She spends her spare time globe-trotting her way through foreign countries and loves new cultures, food, music and the arts. 

Being a California Native, Lindsay loves meeting new people and sharing her version of life with others. With an infinite list of things-to-do, places-to-go and sights-to-see - she believe everyone can have a little more California in their own lives. 

FOLLOW HER ON: INSTAGRAM  /  TWITTER  /  PINTEREST