And that's what Emmett and I did yesterday. For the past couple of weekends, we relished in the U.S. Open tennis matches and enjoyed lazy brunches in bed while watching Federer, Nadal, S. Williams, Murry, Djokovic, Stosur (yay for the Auzzie) and the like battle it out at the net and baseline.
But after spending two weekends in a row at home (and a few weekends before that too) I declared Sunday to be "Get the Heck Out Dodge Day." In spite of checking off many things on our "Things to See and Do in LA" list these past eight years, it is still ridiculously long. For ages, Emmett and I have been wanting to explore the Rancho Palos Verdes peninsula, which lies at the end of the 110 freeway roughly 40 miles south and slightly west of us. The day was perfect (temps in the upper 70s along the coast, the fall sun was not too hot, a light breeze) and the company was even better (hardly any crowds since it's back-to-school season...in fact, we saw more dogs than we did families with kids!). The area reminded us very much of the central coast in California. If someone had told us we were in Monterey or Pismo Beach instead of LA, I wouldn't have been surprised at all.
We started the trip at the top of the peninsula at Malaga Cove, a lovely stretch of beach backed by huge bluffs overlooking the Santa Monica Bay. Surfers, paddle boarders, kayakers, divers, and swimmers dotted the water and beach walkers (like us!) and picnicers spread out on the sand.
Then it was on to the Point Vicente Interpretive Center and bluffs trails where we enjoyed a picnic lunch while taking in the view of the Point Vicente Lighthouse and perfect 180 degree views of the Pacific. Afterwards, we walked a bit along the bluff trails.
Our final stop for the day was the Wayfarer Chapel, built by Lloyd Wright, son of Frank. The small chapel is made mostly of GLASS and what it lacks for in size it makes up for in beauty and tranquility. It is perhaps one of the most unique buildings I've ever been in. Lloyd Wright, like his father, was very much about bringing the outside into the inside. In addition to the glass walls and ceiling, stone, trees, and plants make up the chapel and emphasize the natural surroundings. And then there are the grounds...
It's nice to know that our "getting the heck out of Dodge" days can be filled with ocean, beach, gardens, interesting architecture, and great views. Our "Things to See and Do in LA" list may be a tad shorter but we also added a few new destinations. There are several other great parks (with TIDEPOOLS!!) in the Rancho Palos Verdes area that are definitely worth checking out. But those will have to wait for another weekend. Sometime soon, if I have anything to say about it. And I usually do.