Camille STYLES Los Angeles, Pt. III

Pacific Coast Highway

“It’s one more day up in the canyons, and it’s one more night in Hollywood,” famously sang the Counting Crows, and it’s sad but true for us as we wrap up our tour of LA.  But not without visiting a few more of my favorite spots in the city to drive, drink, & dine.

PLAY:

Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway

A can’t-miss California experience, hop in a convertible and cruise down the PCH towards Malibu.  On your right, the Santa Monica Mountains rise above the sea.  On your left is a fantastic view of the Pacific Ocean, interrupted only by the multi-million dollar beach cottages where the rich and famous park their surfboards.  Take a spin up the hilly roads that go through Pepperdine University, and get a glimpse of what must be one of the most picturesque campuses in the world.  Check out Malibu pier, an historic structure that provided backdrops for “Gidget” and “The Rockford Files.” From LA, travel west on I-10 to Santa Monica.  After passing Santa Monica Beach, you’ll find yourself on Hwy One (the PCH) without ever having to exit.

The Getty Center

The Getty Center

My favorite art experience in the city, The Getty Center never fails to take my breath away with its dramatic architecture and incredible collection.  The museum houses Western art from the Middle Ages to the present, including an internationally-renowned collection of European paintings.  But I must admit that the true object of my affection is the ever-changing gardens at the heart of the Center.  Trickling streams, cascading vines, and brilliant flowers provide a sensory experience like no other.  End the visit by heading to the top of the property for unrivaled views of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Pacific Ocean, and the entire city of Los Angeles. 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, 310.440.7300, getty.edu.

EAT:

Beso

Beso

The first time I went to Beso, I expected the typical trademarks of the newest Hollywood hot spot: trendy music, swanky decor, gorgeous diners, and of course an uber-famous owner (Eva Longoria, in this case.)  Beso certainly pulled through on the glamour front, but I was in for a treat that I hadn’t anticipated: excellent Cali-Latin fare turned out by celeb-chef Todd English, including shrimp and chorizo flatbread, seafood paella, and some of the best chili-rubbed steak tacos I’ve ever tasted (coming from a Texas girl who’s had a LOT of tacos!) Don’t miss the “Adult Juice Bar,” where mixologists whip up fruity cocktails like the Barbados Cooler and the Blueberry Patch. 6350 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, 323.203.0558, besohollywood.com.