Give the Beach a Break

Are you tired of the same weekend routine? Do you feel like your weekends are lacking a bit of spontaneity? If so, I want to help you give the beach a break and venture out into all the other options the OC has to offer you. Here are some of my favorite things to do with my friends on the weekends.

Museums: While this may seem like an odd choice and something you dreaded doing in elementary school, it has actually become one of my favorite weekend activities. If you’re unsure of this option give it a chance this weekend. On Saturday, January 30th, 2016 So Cal Museums are offering free admission all day. Yes, you read that right: a college students’ favorite word, FREE. There are a plethora of options to choose from since over 20 museums are taking part in this event. I’m going to give you a few of my recommendations but be sure to check out socalmuseums.org for a full list of participants.

• Orange County Museum of Art: I recently went to OCMA for my first time and loved it. They show work from modern and contemporary artists. Every showcase I went through while I was there intrigued me.  They are located just a short drive away in Newport Beach; If you can’t make it this Saturday try and stop in on any Friday for OCMA’s ‘Free Friday’ offer.

• The Getty Center: If you and your friends are willing to take a mini road trip to The Getty it is definitely worth the drive! It is located In LA and offers beautiful views of the city and ocean. The Getty features Fine Art that includes paintings, sculptures, drawings and photographs. The Getty is definitely a must if you find yourself in West LA.

• The Broad: Located in Downtown Los Angeles, the Broad is a new attraction that just opened in September of 2015. Honestly, I have not been to the Broad yet but I can say it is at the top of my Bucket List. This museum is home to over 2,000 pieces of contemporary art. They offer two floors of aesthetically pleasing art. If you check out The Broad, go ahead and walk around downtown once you’re done.

Coffee Shops: We are so blessed to live in an area with so many amazing coffee shops just minutes from us.

• My first recommendation is owned by none other then Vanguard Alum; Neat Coffee is located right in Costa Mesa and serves Stump town coffee.

• Another great spot located in Costa Mesa is the Gypsy Den at the Lab. The Gypsy Den has a cozy atmosphere despite all the random rugs and paintings hanging from the walls that make for a great Instagram post. Occasionally on weekends they have live music, so be sure to stop in and check it out.

• If you’re down at The OC Mix check out Portola Coffee Lab. The open atmosphere and multiple seating areas make Portola the perfect place to kick back and talk with your friends. Since it is a coffee lab you’ll notice they have a plethora of brewing techniques and roast their own coffee in house, providing you with a quality beverage.

•  Last but not least, Milk + Honey located at the Camp is an awesome choice. Milk + Honey does a great job of providing a comfortable and well decorated space for their customers, and also offer an outdoor setting area. If you find yourself down at The Camp check it out and grab a Lavender Latte or an Acai Bowl and hang out with your friends.

Hiking Trails: As you may have noticed the OC is surrounded by breathtaking views and the following are some beautiful spots that I have come across.

• Turtle Rock: Located just down the 405 Turtle Rock is located in Irvine. It is less of a hike and more of a walking trail, but still offers an amazing view without putting in as much work. Day or night its a beautiful sight.

• Crystal Cove State Park: This spot in Laguna offers scenic beach views along with a few trails and hikes. If you find yourself doing this as a morning hike stop by at Beachcomber after for an awesome brunch with your crew .

• Griffith Park Trail: If you are looking for a fun weekend hike attached to a mini road trip, the Griffith Trail is just right. Located in the Hollywood Hills of Los Angeles this hike will take you all the way up to the iconic “Hollywood” sign. You’ll find breath taking views of LA from the top of the Griffith Trail.

Well guys, thanks for taking the time to read my suggestions on how to spend your weekend. I hope that this sparks a new interest for you and your friends; Now go out and see all the hang out spots the OC has to offer you.