ML Interest Tag: spanish-colonial

Try This on Your Next Palm Springs Getaway

by Andie Huber

For a storied vacation full of history, charm and more pools you can shake a stick at, La Quinta Resort & Club is a must-visit for your next Palm Springs getaway. Set against the rugged Santa Rosa Mountains on 45-acres of lush landscape, we have the intel on all there is to do and eat at this desert spot just 120 miles from downtown Los Angeles.

Resort Overview

Andie Huber

Located in La Quinta (the town was named after the resort), La Quinta Resort & Club, was originally built and designed as desert hideaway in 1926 and offered Hollywood celebrities more privacy than adjacent Palm Springs.

And as you turn down the long driveway, you'll immediately see why. It feels as though you are transported to another era thanks to the blooming flowerbeds, layered against the Spanish Colonial Revival buildings and the looming mountains.

The lobby, thanks to a recent renovation, highlights the architecturally stunning dark wood beams and Mexican-tiled floors, lending a historical gravitas to this fun-filled vacation spot. And while the resort is vast, each area feels intimate and private—like your very own desert oasis. 

Good to Know: The resort is pet-friendly too! No need to leave four-legged family members back in LA if you don't want.

Pool Time

La Quinta Resort & Club

The resort has 41 temperature-controlled pools on the property—yes, you read that right! There are 41 pools! Included in that number is a large, main pool that has lunch and drink service.

There is a dedicated pool in each courtyard, surrounded by a set of accommodations that is perfect for last-minute dips, evening swims, or if you don't feel like walking more than twenty feet to get your family swim game going.  

On-Site Activities

Andie Huber

In addition to swimming, there are 23 tennis courts, six golf courses, and a fitness center for everyone in the family to work up a sweat. Or just go for a walk or jog on the spectacular grounds. If you do go for a walk, keep an eye out for plaques on the property that detail famous guests, like Frank Capra, who spent the winters at La Quinta and wrote the script for "It's a Wonderful Life" at the resort.

Make sure to swing by the spa and make an appointment for a mommy-to-be-massage ($170 for 50-minutes) or one of their signature massages like the Sacred Stone Massage ($235 for 80-minutes) that uses warm basalt stone combined with a Swedish massage.

Insider Tip: Plan to spend some extra time before and after your massage at the spa. The waiting rooms are so relaxing you might find yourself taking a nap before the massage even starts. There are also some gorgeous outdoor spots to hang, post-massage. And even better? You can order lunch, drinks, and snacks here too.  

The Rooms

Andie Huber

The resort is made up of casitas, suites and villas which gives families flexibility for their stay—crucial if you plan to spend more than a couple days out in the desert. The suites are generously-sized and can easily accommodate a family of four. The sofa pulls out into a bed and is roomy enough for two kids to sleep there while you and your partner can claim the bed to yourselves.

All the rooms come with a fireplace in the room, but if you can, request a room with a patio that has an outdoor fireplace. That way you can hang outside while the kids sleep inside, and enjoy those desert, star-filled nights by a cozy fire.

Where to Eat

Andie Huber

There are lots of dining options, in addition to room service, at the resort.

For breakfast or a casual American-bistro style dinner, Twenty6 has plenty to offer everyone in the family. Both offer extensive kid's menus and are amenable to special requests for picky eaters. At breakfast you can choose buffet or you can order off the menu.

The main pool has a bar and lunch menu—perfect for eating poolside and keeping the kids properly fueled. 

For dinner, make a reservation at Adobe Grill for the freshest, Mexican food that gives LA dining hot-spots a run for their money. And definitely splurge on the dulce de leche for dessert. We promise, you won't regret it.

Entertainment

Andie Huber

There is usually live music on the weekends and it's definitely a must-attend. The atmosphere is relaxing and festive and gives everyone an extra reason to lounge and linger on the lawn after dinner. It's exactly the type of event you want on a vacation—picture kids having fun, running around while the parents can relax and enjoy themselves. It truly was the cherry on top for this family-friendly getaway. 

In the past, the resort has transformed itself into Bedford Falls in honor of the Frank Capra's famous script, "It's a Wonderful Life." Add to that fireside movies, cooking classes and more, the resort offers loads of entertainment options throughout the year. Make sure to check out their calendar when planning your next getaway.

Insider Tip: Loads of kids had scooters with them and zoomed their way around the various pathways on the resort. If you have room in the car, definitely pack yours.

Nearby Attractions

Andie Huber

If you haven't been to this side of town before, there are a ton of family-friendly activities close-by (and some that are even closer to La Quinta than Palm Springs).

First thing in the morning, head to The Living Desert (just 15 minutes away), or go visit the old town of La Quinta (2 minutes away), that is, if you can convince the kids to leave the pools. For more fun things to do with the kids, check out our comprehensive list of what to do in Palm Springs.

Insider Tip: On the property, is one of the best gift shops that we've ever seen. Between the clever books and cactus-inspired collectibles, make sure to stop here for unique, one-of-a-kind gifts and souvenirs. And don't forget to stop at Lollipops for their sweet treats. 

Room rates start at $159 per night.

49-499 Eisenhower Dr.
La Quinta, CA 92253
Online: laquintaresort.com

Room and meals were provided by La Quinta Resort & Club but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.

To see what Red Tricycle Editors are up to on the weekends, follow us on Instagram!

—Andie Huber

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Your Family Guide to Malibu

by LeTania Kirkland Smith

Malibu is full of great places to play, eat and soak up an array of culture all within a 21 mile stretch of PCH. So if you haven’t already, load up the family to explore this wonder that right in our backyard. From beaches to shopping and great places to eat, here is your quintessential guide to Malibu.

photo: LeTania Kirkland Smith

Beaches

Let’s face it: the beach is one of Malibu’s premier draws and it’s certainly worth the trek to explore the unique bits of the coast this city has to offer. These are our fave spots when you have the kids with you!

Malibu Lagoon/Surfrider Beach
Within walking distance to the Malibu Pier, this beach is a premier spot to watch surfers in action. The water is clean and when the tide is low, tide pools appear to reveal amazing marine life for your little explorers. Walk along the sand to explore shells, rocks, seaweed, birds and all the other goodies that come with the Pacific. Parking is $3-$12 and includes a short walk to the water. You can also park for free along PCH, but the traffic you face when crossing can be daunting with little ones.

23050 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Online: californiabeaches.com/beach/malibu-surfrider-beach

photo: Andie Huber

Paradise Cove
Paradise Cove is the perfect spot if you want to enjoy a little extra TLC on the beach. If you don’t feel like packing a picnic, The Paradise Cove Cafe offers a menu complete with clam chowder and other seafood favorites that you can enjoy right near the sand. There are also chaise lounges, umbrellas and even terraces for rent if you feel like really entertaining yourself in style. Otherwise, you can bring your beach towels and enjoy a simple day on the beach. Parking is free on PCH if you don’t mind a bit of a walk. Otherwise, it is worth making a purchase at the Cafe where if you spend $30 (which is easy to do with drinks, snacks, or a full lunch) means you can enjoy 4 hours of validated parking for $6 during the week and $8 on weekends and holidays. Otherwise, parking is $35 on weekdays and $50 on weekends (yup, you read that right!).

28128 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Online: paradisecovemalibu.com

Point Dume
If you want to combine a beach day with a hike, Point Dume is the spot. First, enjoy a scenic walk along the sand where the kids can take in the amazing rock cliffs (complete with climbers) and possibly even see seals soaking in a little sunshine along the way. Once your beach babes have had ample water and sand time, be sure to take the hike up top to the lookout. From there, enjoy the spectacular views of the coastline.

Insider Tip: Plan your day so that you end it here. While the sun starts to set, you can still see the dolphins (and sometimes even whales) from your perch on top of the cliff.  

7103 Westward Beach Rd.
Online: parks.ca.gov/

Zuma Beach
Located up the beach from Point Dume, Zuma has ranked as one of the healthiest beaches in LA County thanks to its clean water conditions. Aside from swimming, there’s plenty to do here including windsurfing, fishing, volleyball and flying kites.

30000 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Online: beaches.lacounty.gov

Playgrounds

Malibu Bluffs Park
We know the beach is the earth’s most obvious playground but Malibu is also chock full of playgrounds that are worth there weight in sand. With all of the beautiful distractions of the Pacific Coast Highway, this gem can be easy to miss. Just south of PCH and across from Pepperdine University, this community park offers a spectacular perspective on the Pacific.

Here you can take in the whole of the Pacific Coast through telescopes (where you can sometimes spot whales and dolphins!). There are picnic tables, a playground, zip line, a soccer field, two baseball diamonds and a whale watching station. A perfect spot to start the day or wrap up the afternoon.

Insider Tip: Take the path along the edge and hike down to the ocean with your explorers.

24250 Pacific Coast Hwy.
310-317-1364
Online: malibucity.org/facilities/facility/details/Malibu-Bluffs-Park-6

photo: LeTania Kirkland Smith

Las Flores Creek Park
Another hidden gem tucked into the canyons just north of PCH, this pocket park is a perfect pit stop where the little players can stretch their legs and use a clean bathroom (yes!). The playground is beautifully crafted with wood structures — a nod of old-school play structures. There are climbing webs, a multi-person spinner, play boat and an old-school see-saw.

The park is surrounded by awe-inspiring sycamore trees. Take a walk along the trail to view 45 native plants species and the creek below.

3805 Las Flores Canyon Rd.
310-456-2489
Online: malibucity.org

Explore

Malibu Library
Looking for a retreat indoors? This welcoming space has the obvious draw of books but also hosts a number of family-centered activities and events through the week include music time for toddlers and tots, shows for the older set, crafts and concerts for the entire family. Check their website for details and calendar of events.

23500 Civic Center Way
Online: malibucity.org

photo: Meghan Rose

The Getty Villa
Bring the entire family for a walk through the beautiful grounds that are a replica of a Roman Villa. This place is full of spectacular views, an incredible collection of art and amazing gardens. Be sure to visit the family room where the kids can build and draw on Etruscan vases, search for art treasure or become part of a shadow play. Plus, the Villa Cafe has Mediterranean meals that range from penne pasta and pizza to tasty salad and Mediterranean platters complete with tabbouleh and hummus for the entire family.

17985 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Online: getty.edu/visit/villa

photo: Melanie Wynne via Flickr

Historic Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum
Malibu is full of history and the Adamson House and Lagoon Museum is no exception. What was once home to the Chumash Indians until nearly the end of the 18th Century, the Rindge family bought and built this famed house. Designed in the Spanish Colonial style, it is full of colorful and original tile.

Insider Tip: Because of the delicate nature of the house and, quite frankly, all that beautiful tile we recommend this Adamson House tour for kids 7 & up.

23200 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Online: adamsonhouse.org

photo: Pepperdine Center for the Arts

Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts at Pepperdine University
The Center for the Arts at Pepperdine hosts a wide range of performances all year long as well as hosts family art days, free backstage tours and tours of the Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art. Check their website for this year’s schedule. And be sure to frolic on the amazing Pepperdine lawn that overlooks the ocean. There’s nothing else like it around.

24255 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Online: arts.pepperdine.edu/events/family-performances

Hiking

Corral Canyon Park
If you have hikers in your house, this is the spot for your family. This 1,000-acre park sits on PCH between Kanan Dune Rd. and Malibu Canyon. Bring a hat, sunscreen and a picnic in your backpack. Explore the trail that leads to spectacular mountain and ocean views. As you head back down take in the marsh, native grass, and Corral Creek. Hungry? Grab a picnic table and enjoy that picnic after working up an appetite.

25623 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Online: lamountains.com

photo: Don Barrett via Flickr

Solstice Canyon
If you have a variety of hiking levels in your home, head to Solstice Canyon where easy, moderate and strenuous trails all offer mountain and ocean views. If you have little hikers in tow, the Rising Sun Trail is perfect, which will give you a view of a charming waterfall and the remains of the Keller House — a stone hunting canyon that is over 100 years old and was damaged by a fire in 2007. Make it to the Solstice Waterfall and you will also discover the ruins of The Roberts Ranch House designed by architect Paul Revere Williams in 1952. Solstice Canyon is a combination of natural beauty and human ingenuity.

3455 Solstice Canyon Rd.
Online: nps.gov/samo/planyourvisit/solsticecanyon

Another of our fave hikes is Malibu Creek Park, which has two hikes of varying lengths that each end at a natural pool you can swim in!  Check out our coverage of this gorgeous natural hike and swim (and other spots where you can swim in nature) here.

photo: Andie Huber

Eat

Kristy’s Village Cafe
Located on the green in Trancas Country Market, this casual dining spot is what every parent looks for — good food and ample seating both indoors and out. If you score a spot outdoors, antsy kids can run off all that energy on the central play space while you get to sip your coffee (or bloody mary) like an adult.

Insider Tip: A summer concert series runs every Fri., 6-9 p.m., starting Jul. 13 through Sept. 14 and movies on The Green will be every Thurs. at sunset, starting Jun 14.

30745 Pacific Coast Hwy.
310-457-1018
Online: kristysvillagecafe.com

Vintage Grocers
If you’re headed to the beach or a playground and you need those picnic provisions, be sure to stop at Vintage Grocers. Along with high-end grocery offerings that you can create a meal with, there are also fresh salad and hot bars, plus pressed paninis at the deli. Be sure to take a look at the bakery where you can snag their generous samples while you make your decision. Vintage Grocers also happens to have clean bathrooms in the store. Let’s not kid ourselves — our lives as parents so often revolve around such discoveries.

30745 Pacific Coast Hwy.
310-457-2828
Online: vintagegrocers.com

photo: SweetBu Candy

Sweets

SweetBu
Run by Malibu-local Melissa Smith, this old-fashioned candy shop with a modern twist is the only place in all of Malibu to get candy and chocolate that will satisfy parents as well as the kids. Don’t forget to check out the hard-to-find international treats as well as throwback candy that will have your nostalgia kicking into overdrive. Lip Licking Lip Balm anyone?

30745 Pacific Coast Hwy.
866-379-3382
Online: sweetbu.com

Malibu Kitchen and Gourmet Country Kitchen
If it’s a sweet treat the family is looking for, everyone will find something at this classic spot. This old-school bakery offers traditional cookies, innovations (mmmm, the Oreo brownie bar) and cupcakes; all so big they could feed an army. The Country Kitchen also boasts jars of classic candy that your sweets fiends can peruse and you can pay by the bag. Grab something to go and enjoy it with the rest of your lunch by the playground if you’d like. Let them burn off that sugar.

3900 Cross Creek Rd.
Online: facebook.com/malibu-kitchen-gourmet-country-market

Grom Gelato
If it’s a cold treat the family craves head to Grom Gelato also in the Country Mart. Grom offers authentic gelato with ingredients directly from Italy. Whether it’s pistachio or biscotti your crave, Grom has you covered. Grom also offers sorbet if you need or want to avoid dairy. Though Grom posts are popping up all over the city now, this is the original West Coast storefront, and there’s just something about gelato by the beach.  While the kids attack cookies bigger than their heads from the Country Kitchen, you may want to pop next door for a small cup of sinful indulgence (we recommend the Cioccolato Extranoir, if you’re a chocolate fan; it’s to die for).

3886 Cross Creek Rd.
Online: grom.it/en

Shop

To get that easy, breezy Malibu look (both in your closet and in your home), head to Trancas Country Market for off-the-beaten-path finds that will get you one step closer to living that Malibu beach life. There you’ll find clothing stores that offer linen dresses, tops, and pants that will make you want to re-think your entire wardrobe as well as home decor stores filled with furniture, decorative objects, and unique gifts and candles you won’t find anywhere else.

photo: Andie Huber

Malibu Beach House
Rustic decor mixes with effortlessly sophisticated pieces for the home and beyond. Spend time smelling the various candles, perusing the coffee-table books and never-before-seen gift trinkets. Just try and leave here without buying something.

30745 Pacific Coast Hwy.
310-457-5600
Online: bubeachhouse.com

photo: Andie Huber

Hiptique
Part clothing retailer, part home decor and gift shop, this California shop stocks hard to find designs in the most crave-worthy fabrics and prints. Send the kids over to the crafting table at the 98% Angel next door (pick something up for them while you are there too) while you take your time finding that perfect linen sundress that will channel your inner Malibu Mom (all zen right?!) any day of the week.

30745 Pacific Coast Hwy.
310-399-6105
Online: hiptique.com

 

What are your favorite spots in Malibu?  Let us know in the comment section below!

—LeTania Kirkland Smith & Andie Huber

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LA’s Best Hidden Hoods for Families

by Jennifer O'Brien

Our sprawling city is filled with some of the most beautiful and eclectic neighborhoods of any city in the country. But for families looking to move here, or wanting a larger home for a growing brood, it’s intimidating to know where to start.  Hot neighborhoods means bidding wars and famously family friendly zips come with prohibitive price tags.  For great schools, lots of amenities & eats for small fry and safe streets for walking or biking, these are some of our favorite zips for families in LA.

photo credit: Kristine M. via Yelp

Montecito Heights (Near Downtown)
Known as the “Wilderness in the City,” the picturesque neighborhood of Montecito Heights is ripe for becoming the next big thing for families. Located in the hills of Northeast LA just 10 minutes from downtown, this small community is filled with rich history. With exquisite and affordable Victorian homes being restored at a lighting-quick pace, some of the best views in LA, and easy access to downtown spots like Olvera Street, MOCA, the Disney Concert Hall and Dodger Stadium, parents are discovering the beauty of a quick commute for family outings. But pint-sized nature lovers gain the real advantage here with all the incredible wildlife Montecito Heights has to offer. Ernest E. Debs Regional Park features hilltop lakes, hiking trails, grassy fields and beautiful picnic areas overlooking downtown and the San Gabriel Mountains. Not to mention the Audubon Society’s first urban nature reserve which offers a children’s area with play-house, water and sand features.

photo credit: Richard L. via Yelp

Cheviot Hills (Westside)
Located near Century City and Beverlywood, the up and coming “it” neighborhood of Cheviot Hills is uber family-friendly, especially for broods with very young kiddos. With lovely houses, many of which look like they’ve been plucked straight off a movie studio lot, it’s fitting this neighborhood is just a hop, skip and a jump away from both the FOX and Sony Studios (read: speedy work commute for parents in the biz). Families also love having award-winning local public schools like Castle Heights Elementary and Overland Elementary within walking distance. What’s even better? Many homes in area are just steps away from what will be the future light rail system linking Santa Monica to downtown. And with Cheviot Hills Park, Rancho Park Golf Course and Hillcrest Country Club anchoring the area, active families never lack for things to do after school and on weekends.

photo credit: California Heights Neighborhood Association via Facebook

California Heights (Long Beach)
California Heights is a cozy neighborhood in Long Beach’s largest historical district filled with adorable family homes, most of which are designed in the Spanish Colonial, Period Revival and and craftsman styles. Residents take great pride in their area’s small-town feel and enthusiastically participate in the famous Home & Garden Tour, frequent block parties and community gardens with neighbors. Since Long Beach is also striving to become the most bike-friendly city in the U.S., California Heights helps host fantastic programs like Beach Streets and Kidical Mass to educate families on bicycle safety and encourage the joy of riding together. And the biggest bonus of all? You don’t have to pillage your piggy bank to live here as most homes start at a much lower price than their LA brethren.

photo credit: Friends of Brookside via Facebook

Brookside (Hancock Park Area)
Hancock Park is all movie stars, mansions and old money, right?  Well, there’s certainly some of that, but there are some smaller HP adjacent neighborhoods that are booming, and actually great for young families. The quaint neighborhood of Brookside is named after the Arroyo de los Jardines, a beautiful brook filled with koi, crawfish and goldfish that flows from the Hollywood Hills through several backyards in the neighborhood all the way to Ballona Creek. The Brookside area is made up of only eight streets and offers the 1920’s charm of Hancock Park with more affordable price tag (key for those saving for college!). Brookside spans from Wilshire to Olympic and Highland to Muirfield. Residents love the community’s close-knit, small-town vibe as evidenced by Brookside’s annual block party—a local tradition for over 35 years. Every summer, neighbors gather for a fun-filled day of face painting, pony rides, bounce houses, dessert eating contests, petting zoos and music. The only issue with this lovely hood is inventory. Because of its precious size and fantastic appeal, homes here can be extremely hard to come by, so make friends with a local realtor if you’ve got your eyes on a home here.

photo credit: Carpenter Community Charter via Facebook

The Doñas (Studio City Area)
Lately lots of Westsiders are moving to the Studio City area because of everything it offers families—more space, award-winning public and private schools, a plethora of creative classes for kiddos, the same dining and boutiques and farmers markets that they’re used to, and it’s still close to civilization for those shuddering at the thought of living over the hill. One specific hood that’s really thriving when it comes to an influx of families is The Doñas. Most homes in this community were built in the 1960’s and have retained their impressive Mid-Century architecture, as well offer sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley. The Doñas are nestled in the hills south of Ventura Boulevard and are located on either side of Laurel Canyon. This superb location is close to great hiking trails at Fryman Canyon, is only a 3-minute drive to the popular Carpenter Community Charter and is an easy peasy commute to WeHo and Mid-City.

What makes your family’s neighborhood special? We’d love to hear more about the best little communities in this big town and why you love them!

–Jennifer O’Brien

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