10 Things We’re So Excited To Do In LA This Spring
After all the rain and the unseasonably cold temperatures here in SoCal, we’re so ready to kick off the spring season. We’re looking forward to the delicious sunshine, blooming flowers, and of course, the abundance of outdoor activities the season brings with it. Here are a few fun things on our agenda this spring.
1. Visit the Getty Villa
The Getty Villa is one of the most picturesque spots in all of LA. It’s just a short drive up PCH but it feels like you’re worlds away. Nestled atop a cliff in the Pacific Palisades overlooking the sparkling ocean, the Getty Villa is a great place to spend a Saturday afternoon admiring the ancient Greek and Roman artwork and awe-inspiring architecture. We especially love the dreamy outdoor courtyard. Instagram opportunities abound.
2. Run the LA Marathon
On Sunday, March 24, thousands of LA Marathon runners will take over the city. With such incredible sights along the way, it’s no wonder it’s one of the top marathons in the world. You’ll start at Dodger stadium and zoom past tons of LA landmarks including the Disney Concert Hall, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Rodeo Drive before crossing the finish line in Santa Monica. Even if you’re not participating in the race, it’s still so much fun to hang out on the sidelines and cheer people on.
3. Ride through CicLAvia
If you’re more of a bike rider or skater than a runner, CicLAvia is perfect for you. This year, the pedestrian-friendly event takes place on Sunday, March 3 and runs for 6.5 miles through some of our favorite westside neighorboods of Culver City, Mar Vista, and Palms. All the streets are closed off so the city essentially becomes your playground for the day and you’re free to bike through or just explore what the communities have to offer.
4. Shop for a home with outdoor space
Spring is often a busy real estate season and with good reason. Spring cleaning vibes are in the air and people are ready to declutter, take off their winter coats, and move into a fresh new home for the warmer season. With all the gorgeous weather up ahead, we especially recommend opting for something with some outdoor space, which is perfect for soaking up all the spring and summer sunshine, hosting alfresco soirees, and living that enviable indoor/outdoor California lifestyle.
5. Meditate at Lake Shrine
The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine is one LA’s most tranquil hidden gems. Tucked away in the Pacific Palisades, the quiet paradise is the perfect place to head to if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. You can get your zen on in the meditation garden, listen to spiritual lectures in the temple, or just roam around the glittering lake enjoying the peace and quiet. That sounds like a heavenly Saturday afternoon to us.
6. Enjoy a staycation at Hotel Casa del Mar
The change of seasons is all the excuse we need to book a staycation at the dreamy Hotel Casa del Mar in Santa Monica. Inspired by Mediterranean villas, the luxury beachfront hotel offer delicious dining, sweeping views of the coastline, a serene spa, a beautiful pool, and lots of other plush amenities. We can’t think of a chicer and more relaxing way to celebrate the arrival of spring.
7. Go shopping at an outdoor mall
Hitting up an outdoor shopping center is another one of our favorite warm weather activities. Lucky for us, there are so many of them here in LA. The Brentwood Country Mart, the Third Street Promenade and Century City Mall are at the top of our list. You can seriously spend the entire day just strolling, shopping, eating, and taking in the sunshine.
8. Check out the farmers market
Speaking of outdoor shopping, once it’s not as chilly outside, there’s really no excuse for not checking out the farmers market on the regular. No matter what LA neighborhood you call home, there is always produce-filled market near you. Some of our favorites include the ones in Mar Vista, Venice Beach, Main Street in Santa Monica, and Culver City.
9. Have a picnic at the beach
Although it may not be warm enough to pull out your favorite bikini, that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy some time at the beach. We recommend grabbing a towel and packing a picnic you can enjoy in the sand while you watch the waves crash. Bonus points if you’re there during sunset. Pro tip: The further up PCH you go, the less crowded the beaches will be. We’re big fans of Point Dume in Malibu. The view from atop the cliff is incredible and you may recognize all the Instagram-worthy rocks from cameos in various movies, tv shows, and commercials.
10. Go on a Malibu Safari Tour
Yes, you can totally go on a safari without ever leaving LA. Situated at the sprawling 1,000-acre Saddlerock Ranch, this adventure includes riding in an open-air safari jeep, making stops to sip some wine and enjoy the views, and even encountering lots of wildlife including zebras, alpacas, and the famous Stanley the Giraffe.
