Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

AN ADVENTUROUS (AND ROMANTIC) BABY MOON IN MORRO BAY

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

Since we’ve found out we were expecting, it feels as though we’ve been “babymooning” non-stop. We made a list of all of the spots we wanted to be sure to visit pre-baby, and did our best to make it happen. With the exception of the Maldives (one day!!), we hit up nearly every place on our list!

As we’ve neared the impending due date, we’ve followed our doctor’s advice and kept the trips closer and closer to home. We decided to make our last and final hurrah before baby a scenic road trip up the coast of California to the coastal town of Morro Bay. We loaded up our car seat (just in case), and headed four hours north of our home in Orange County… and it was the perfect ending to the most special season.

Below are some of the trip highlights that we highly suggest y’all do - we share about where we stayed here, and where we ate here. (Two very important details, that clearly demanded their own blog post.) ;)

KAYAK WITH CENTRAL COAST OUTDOORS

The friendly husband and wife duo that run Central Coast Outdoors offer all kinds of adventurous and scenic tours - from biking, to hiking, to kayaking! We went on a half-day private kayaking tour to the dunes, where John (our knowledgeable and witty guide) set up a picture-perfect picnic lunch. And the lunch was as good as it looks!

We saw sea lions, sea otters, and harbor seals, several types of rare birds, learned about the incredible National Estuary, and thoroughly enjoyed our time out on the water. I (Alli) expected to have a harder time sitting in a kayak at eight months pregnant, but it was actually quite comfy! (Just make sure you go to the bathroom beforehand.)

John prepped our lunch while we explored the dunes!

EXPLORE THE MORRO BAY EMBARCADERO

During our three days in Morro Bay, we basically lived on the Embarcadero. Our vacation rental was steps away, most of the restaurants we visited were there, and the shops and views kept us entertained for hours. This iconic stretch is a must-see, as it’s home to some of the best scenic overlooks and many of Morro Bay’s finest attractions. Some not-to-miss spots include Crills 2 (the best saltwater taffy in town), The Shell Shop (a famous seashell sanctuary), The Garden Gallery (a jaw-dropping plant and home shop), and The Morro Bay House of Jerky (for a delicious salty snack).

We wanted everything at The Garden Gallery

ENJOY A COUPLES MASSAGE AT THE BLOOMING ROSE DAY SPA

We’ll take any excuse for a couples massage, and when we heard about Blooming Rose Day Spa, we immediately booked an appointment! This waterfront day spa (located conveniently on the Embarcadero) is warm and inviting, and the owner Alexis and her team couldn’t be nicer. Our massages were excellent (Alexis gave me an incredible prenatal massage) - and we both said we’d drive back to Morro Bay just for this! They’re mobile as well, and will happily come to your hotel/vacation rental for a more personalized experience.

SEE THE SEA OTTERS

Hands down the cutest, most playful and photogenic friends in Morro Bay are their resident sea otters. This small, sheltered bay is a perfect habitat for these adorable furry creatures, and seeing them bob and play in the water is absolutely magical. We couldn’t get enough of them! Our favorite spot to watch the otters was near the T-shaped dock by the Great American Fish Company, where there’s a giant kelp bed for them to feast on. Don’t forget your cameras!

HIKE ALONG BLACK HILL TRAIL

For the best views of Morro Rock and the surrounding area, spend an afternoon hiking along the stunning Black Hill Trail. This is the perfect hike for a babymoon, as from the parking lot, it’s an easy .6 mile round-trip trail… yes please! (For those looking for a longer hike, you can start further down Black Hill.) The sights from this 661 foot volcanic peak left us breathless, and the best part is, it’s free to the public!

TOUR THE MORRO BAY MARITIME MUSEUM

Open Thursdays-Mondays, the small but mighty Morro Bay Maritime Museum is well worth a visit. Guests can learn about California’s fascinating maritime history, walk around a rescue submarine - and if you’re lucky, you may even get to go inside! (We did, and it was SO cool.) And just like the Black Hill Trail, this beautifully executed museum is free! Win/win!

TAKE A SUNSET CRUISE WITH ESTERO ADVENTURES

One of our favorite memories from our time in Morro Bay was the sunset cruise we did on a pontoon we rented from Estero Adventures. Starting at $90 for a one-hour rental, it’s a fun and leisurely way to take in the sights of Morro Bay - and see the sea otters up close! We had the boat to ourselves, but they seat up to 8 people, so be sure to invite your friends!

WALK ALONG THE MORRO STRAND STATE BEACH

On our last day in Morro Bay we went for a morning beach walk along the Morro Strand State Beach, and it was the perfect way to close out our trip. This gorgeous coastline is absolutely spellbinding, and the views of Morro Rock are unparalleled. We didn’t want to leave! (Depending on how much time you have, we recommend bringing some blankets and a picnic, and making a day out of it!)

Nothing like long walks on the beach at 8 months pregnant :)

We really feel like we ended our babymoon adventures in the best possible location… and we’re already dreaming about the day that we get to bring our baby back to Morro Bay! Until then, we’re hunkering down and getting our home (and ourselves) ready for the baby. Any day now!!

Alli Talley

February 19, 2020

California, USA, Babymoon

Pacific Grove :: California's Best Kept Secret

Alli Talley

February 19, 2020

California, USA, Babymoon

We’ve been making the trek to Carmel and Monterey for years (see a list of our favorite spots here), and every time we discover something new. New restaurants, new hiking spots, new scenic drives… But this year we discovered a quaint little town that we had no idea existed. Pacific Grove (or “PG” as the locals like to call it) sits right between Carmel and Monterey, and it perfectly embodies the charm and rugged character of both. It’s just “off the map” enough that it feels like a local secret, with an untouched coastline, cozy restaurants, quaint B&B’s, and so much more.

By the end of a few short days in Pacific Grove, we were officially hooked. And after you see the spots we visited, we have a feeling you will be too...

ASILOMAR STATE BEACH

The name of this beach means “A Refuge By The Sea”, and that’s exactly what it is. There’s over 105 acres of forest, sand dunes, walking trails, and stunning ocean landscapes. It’s a haven for wildlife, as we saw several whales, sea otters, dolphins, and several different kinds of birds. Come at sunset, and you’re almost guaranteed a neon show… and the best part about it all? Asilomar State Beach is free to the public!

Sunsets are FIRE at Asilomar State Beach!

THE MONARCH BUTTERFLY SANCTUARY

If you happen to visit Pacific Grove between October-February, a stop at their beloved Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary is a must. Starting in October, thousands of Monarch butterflies call this Eucalyptus grove home, as they seek a warmer climate. The sanctuary is free, and visitors of all ages are invited to explore, admire, and photograph these stunning creatures… but don’t touch! (Tampering with a Monarch butterfly will result in a $1,000 fine!)

Take a stroll through the butterfly sanctuary! It’s beautiful!

CREMA

We’re big breakfast people, so when we discovered this homey cafe that proudly serves brunch all-day, we knew we’d be fans. Crema’s brunch menu is as extensive as their ingredients are fresh, with specialties such as chicken and waffles, eggs benedict, avocado toast, and their signature Bacon Cheddar Biscuits & Tamie’s Slightly Spicy Sausage Gravy (A must according to Bobby!). Plus, they offer bottomless mimosas for only $17 - yes please!

WILD FISH

Pacific Grove’s culinary scene has a lot to offer, especially when it comes to fresh seafood. While you truly can’t go wrong with the many seafood options, we think Wild Fish just may be one of the best. Everything they serve is 100% local and organic, with an ever-rotating menu that is sourced several times a week from local farmers, fishermen, and foragers. It’s as fresh and “farm to table” as you can get, and that’s exactly why we like it! Make a reservation in advance, and ask for a window seat - our favorite spot to sit!

LOVERS POINT PARK AND BEACH

Maybe it’s the hopeless romantics in us, but we absolutely adore this scenic park and beach. In the warmer months it’s a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and boating, and even in the cool of January we enjoyed exploring and picnicking in this stunning location. Plus, its unique East-facing location makes Lovers Point Park and Beach one of the only places on the West Coast where you can watch the sun RISE over the water!

Picturesque views all over Lovers Point Park.

THE SEVEN GABLES INN

While we already did a full review of our stay at The Seven Gables Inn (you can find it here), we couldn’t help but include it here too. Set in a historic home that dates back to 1886, not only is the architecture and ambiance of the property a marvel in and of itself, its prime oceanfront location is the real star of the show. Every room (there are 25) has an ocean view, and every room has a distinct personality and charm. When it comes to accommodations, it doesn’t get more idyllic (or romantic) than the Seven Gables Inn.

Could the location of the Seven Gables Inn be any better?

Next time you’re planning a trip up the California Coast, spend a few days exploring Pacific Grove. From the beaches, to the restaurants, to The Seven Gables Inn, we know you’ll love it. We’re absolutely sure of it.

Alli Talley

January 10, 2020

Babymoon, Mexico

Babymooning :: Paradisus Los Cabos Style

Alli Talley

January 10, 2020

Babymoon, Mexico

Alli here!

When people ask us about our name, we like to reply that we’ve been “honeymooning” since we got married. Whether it’s exotic trips to Europe or weekend staycations in Laguna Beach, every trip together is special to us. We’ve chosen a life of experiences over things, and we haven’t regretted it once! Since being pregnant, that mentality hasn’t changed - just the verbiage has! “Babymooning” has taken center stage these past few months, and it’s been a blast. We’ve taken the bump (or as we affectionately call it, “Boss #1), to France, Greece, Florida, Catalina Island, and Arizona. Each trip has been so special and unique in their own ways.

Couples are sometimes hesitant to book a babymoon, and we get it. Tight schedules, tight finances, a growing belly… but we’re BIG advocates for making it happen. We just returned from a babymoon at one of our favorite all-inclusives in Cabo (and one of our favorite places just in general), Paradisus Los Cabos, and we couldn't recommend it enough. No matter your travel style, we think you’d dig this kind of a babymoon. Here’s why:

CONSTANT PAMPERING

The further along you get in your pregnancy, the more you want to put your feet up. It’s a fact. As I’m nearing the end of my second trimester, my desire to relax has hit an all-time high.

From the moment we arrived at Paradisus Los Cabos I entered complete relaxation mode. Check in was a breeze and consisted of tropical mocktails and thoughtful snacks (splurge on Royal Service, their adults-only VIP experience - because let’s face it - your “adults only” days are numbered). We were introduced to our butler for the week, Octavio, who we could contact for just about anything our hearts desired. Octavio would make reservations for us, bring us ice, prep our bathtub, bring us pillows from their exclusive pillow menu, the list goes on… I tried to take Octavio home with us, but he politely declined. Not sure why.

We put on a few pounds while we were here.

EAT UP!

Food is clutch on a babymoon. I live in a constant state of hunger. And at Paradisus Los Cabos, you can eat whatever you want, whenever you want. With 12 restaurants and bars, and a fantastic 24-hour room service menu, it’s truly a pregnant mama’s dream. I’ve been craving chips and guacamole on the daily this pregnancy, and let me tell you, Paradisus makes some killer guac.

We’d alternate breakfasts at La Palapa and ordering room service, Gabi Beach became our go-to for tacos, and Tokimeku made me some pregnancy-safe sushi rolls that I’m still dreaming about. When it came to authentic and flavorful Mexican food, there’s nowhere better than Mole, their chic and contemporary Mexican restaurant.

Bobby would go back for the French toast

And one night we treated ourselves at Gastro Bar Signature dining, a romantic and glamorous culinary experience unlike anywhere else in Los Cabos. Their innovative team took notes of my dietary restrictions and came up with a special menu that was just as creative and flavorful as what Bobby was having… it was an evening we’ll never forget!

THREE WORDS: SWIM UP POOL

Nothing says “vacation” more than a swim up pool. Again, splurge on an adults-only Royal Service room, most specifically one with a swim up pool. It’s worth the extra cost to wake up in the morning, roll out of bed, and dip into the pool. Convenience is a very important buzz word on a babymoon, and what’s more convenient than that? If I wasn’t swimming around outside our room, I was reading baby books and working on my registry from our private balcony. It was hands-down my favorite spot to relax.

Breakfast in bed? We’ll do you one better…

UNLIMITED MOCKTAILS

The first thing most people think of when they hear the words “All-Inclusive” is unlimited drinks. And I don’t blame you, that’s what I think too! Prior to our trip I wondered if I’d be bummed by my alcohol restrictions, but I was SO pleasantly surprised. The Paradisus Los Cabos bartenders are pros at making creative mocktail concoctions - so much so, that I didn’t even feel like I was missing out! I almost always had a drink in hand, whether it be a virgin frozen mango margarita (my favorite), virgin mojitos, fresh juices, you name it. I even found Bobby sipping on my drinks when I wasn’t looking - they were that good! And I could have as many of them as I wanted.

DREAM LOCATION

Besides Cabo being a stunning backdrop for a babymoon, it’s also incredibly easy to get to. It was a quick 2-hour flight for us Southern California kids, which felt like nothing! We left for the airport and were in the pool with a drink in a matter of hours - when it comes to international travel, you can’t beat that! Their white, sandy beach is totally idyllic, and the sunset views from the resort took our breath away.

We also love where Paradisus Los Cabos is situated, right in the middle of San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. You’re an easy twenty minute drive to both towns, making it the perfect in-between spot to explore both! (Which we highly suggest doing!)

If you’re looking to head out of the country for a pampering, easy, and worry-free babymoon, this is it. Paradisus Los Cabos was everything we’d hoped it would be and more. And we can’t wait to bring our little baby back with us again one day! (They have an amazing kids club… but more on that in a year or two.) ;)

Alli Talley

December 19, 2019

Babymoon, Florida, Weekenders

The Traveling Newlyweds' Itinerary From Our Babymoon on Captiva Island

Alli Talley

December 19, 2019

Babymoon, Florida, Weekenders

If you’re looking into babymooning on the Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel area (learn why you should here), here’s a detailed look at where we stayed, where we ate, and what we did.

As we’ve said before, everyone’s pregnancy is different - so listen to your body and do as much (or as little) as you feel comfortable with. We love this area (specifically Captiva Island!) for babymooning for so many reasons, one of which being that it’s so relaxing and stress-free… which is what a true babymoon is all about!

STAY

’Tween Waters Island Resort & Spa :: This resort has a lot of things going for it. The location is ideal (in the heart of Captiva and steps from the water), the chic and spacious rooms, the beautiful grounds and luxe amenities (three words, adult-only pool), and our favorite, the award-winning Spa At Tween Waters! Whether you decide to stay here or not, I highly suggest a prenatal massage here… it’s absolutely heavenly.

Steps from our room were paths to glorious beaches!

PLAY

Yoga on the beach with Ambu Yoga :: We kicked off our babymoon with sunrise beach yoga, and it was definitely one of the highlights of our trip. They graciously customized the stretches to be pregnancy-friendly, and it felt amazing to stretch my sore and aching body. (And doing so with the sun rising and the waves crashing in the background was incredible, too!)

Relax Beachside :: There wasn’t a day that went by that we didn’t spend at least a few hours soaking up the sun at one of Sanibel or Captiva’s white, sandy beaches. Pack a book, water and some snacks, and head to Blind Pass, Bowman’s Beach, or Lighthouse Beach Park - three of our favorite beaches in the area.

Spa at Tween Waters :: I’ll mention it again because I loved it so much, a prenatal massage here is a must in my opinion. Their trained masseuses know exactly how to calm and care for your sore and achy body... You’ll thank me later. ;)

Rent Bikes with YOLO Watersports :: Based in Captiva, this sports rental company has everything from paddleboards to golf carts (and if we’d had more time we would have rented more equipment). But because our time was short and a bike ride sounded fun, we opted for their bike rental. We had a blast exploring Captiva by bikes, and at only $12 for an eight hour rental, it’s an amazingly affordable way to see the island!

Day Trip to Boca Grande :: The friendly folks at Captiva Cruises offer day trips to Boca Grande, a town located on Gasparilla Island. This captivating “Old Florida” town has no traffic lights or billboards, and couldn’t be more charming. We walked along the shops downtown, enjoyed pastries and a light lunch at some local spots, and even rented a golf cart for a few hours! Note… Boca Grande has an incredible hotel called the Gasparilla Inn that we may be sneaking a night or two in next time we visit. Check it out!

Riding bikes to some yummy Mexican food!

Captiva Cruises whisked us over to Boca Grande

If you’re prone to seasickness (like Bobby), no issues on this ride!

We were obsessed with the colors and the lighthouse!

Renting a golf cart is the BEST way to explore the island, and it’s cheap!

DINE

When it comes to eating out on Sanibel and Captiva, you really can’t go wrong. We’ve eaten almost everywhere, and have yet to have a bad meal. The restaurants here are all quirky and cozy in their own way, and depending on what you (or the baby) are in the mood for - you’ll be sure to find something to satisfy even the weirdest pregnancy craving! ;) Here are just a few of the places we enjoyed this time around:

Green Flash Restaurant :: We love this waterfront spot for lunch, as the views from inside (or outside) are stunning, and the food is delicious! Pregnant mamma’s, order one of their indulgent virgin pina coladas - and their shrimp tacos are to die for!

Mucky Duck :: While the food is great, we love hitting up the Mucky Duck for cocktails at sunset. Since I couldn’t order my typical rum punch this time around, I opted for simply the punch - and it was just as tasty!

Old Captiva House :: Our favorite place for a romantic date night is the Old Captiva House, as it’s elegant and chic without feeling pretentious. Known for their fresh seafood, we highly recommend the Grouper or the Chilean Sea Bass!

Cantina Captiva :: If you’re anything like me, you crave Mexican food with a passion almost daily. This hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant was just what I was dreaming about, with tostadas so tasty and crispy, I cleaned my plate in a matter of minutes!

The Bubble Room :: Mamma’s with a sweet tooth, this is your place. While they serve a full menu (that looked really good), we come here for one thing only: cake. The Bubble Room is known for their Christmas themed decor and nostalgic decor, but in our opinion the real winner here is their mouthwatering cakes. Try the Orange Crunch. Trust us.

Cheers to lunch dates and virgin piña coladas!

Feeling close to home at Cantina Captiva

Check out all the bills on the walls at Cantina Captiva!

The Bubble Room gets its name from all the little lamps with bubbles… there are SO many bubbles!

We may or may not have consumed all of this cake. Don’t judge.

This babymoon was exactly what we needed. Warm weather, a tropical setting, fun activities, delightful meals, and tons of good, quality time together. If you have any questions regarding our time on the Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel (and Captiva), or babymoon-specific details, leave a comment and let us know!

The Sanibel Island Lighthouse in all its glory.

Alli Talley

December 19, 2019

Babymoon, Weekenders, Florida

Why You Should Babymoon on Captiva and Sanibel Islands

Alli Talley

December 19, 2019

Babymoon, Weekenders, Florida

Shortly after we found out that we were pregnant we made a list of the places that we love, places that we hoped to return to before the baby comes. Places that are not only dear to our hearts, but also are relaxing and pampering and fit our “babymoon” criteria. The Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel area was at the top of that list.

Since we were first introduced to this hidden gem of a spot back in 2016, we’ve been obsessed. (If you’ve been following us for awhile, you probably already knew that!) We’ve always said it would be the perfect place for a babymoon - and now that we’ve babymooned there, we can confidently say that it TRULY is. Here’s why this Floridian oasis should be at the top of your list, too:

IT’S EASY TO GET TO & EASY TO EXPLORE

Key word here, “easy”.

No matter how far along in your pregnancy you are, or how good you’re feeling, you want your babymoon to be as uncomplicated and trouble-free as possible. Long travel days are hard on your aching body, and dealing with crowds and delays is not ideal. Thankfully, no matter where you are in the US, chances are it’s an easy flight (or two) away.

We flew from our local airport, John Wayne (SNA) in Orange County to Dallas (DFW). We had a short layover (but enough time to hit the fame Centurion Lounge), and then headed to Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW). It’s our favorite kind of airport, busy enough that getting flights in/out aren’t a problem, but small enough where going through security is hassle-free and (usually) very quick. (Plus, if you’re like me and craving bagels during your pregnancy, they have a great bagel shop right after security!)

It’s just about an hour drive from the airport to the Fort Myers/Sanibel area. We actually look forward to the drive - it’s jaw-droppingly scenic, especially as you near Sanibel (we spent the majority of our babymoon in the Sanibel/Captiva area). Once in town, the speed limits are between 25 - 35 MPH throughout the whole island - making every outing and activity perfectly leisurely. Why rush when you’re on vacation?! (And trust us - you’ll never have to deal with traffic!)

Smiling because we’re back in paradise! It feels great to slow down and get on “island time”.

IT’S LUSH & TROPICAL & OFF THE BEATEN PATH

If you’re on the hunt for a tropical babymoon destination, this is it. Turquoise water, white sandy beaches, neon sunsets… it’s absolutely picture-perfect.

But what we love most about the Sanibel/Captiva area specifically is how remote it feels. You won’t find the big crowds or the inflated prices that you would at a resort in Maui or in the Caribbean. Instead you’ll find family-owned establishments, calm streets, and scenic beaches that aren’t heavily populated. You might even have the beach to yourself!

We had this beach to ourselves most days, with the occasional people scouring the sand for shells.

YOU CAN EAT FOR TWO - THE FOOD IS THAT GOOD

One of my favorite excuses since I’ve been pregnant is that I am now eating for two - and what baby wants, baby gets! I’ve always been a foodie (it’s a lifestyle) but with heightened hunger pains and a growing appetite, my food obsession has reached a whole new level.

If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to pick a babymoon destination that has plenty of culinary options - and that’s exactly what you’ll find here! From mouth-watering seafood to decadent key lime pie, you’ll be able to satisfy your every craving. I can proudly say that I ate my way around Sanibel and Captiva. (See more about where we ate in Sanibel/Captiva here.)

Bobby wanted to eat at Key Lime Bistro daily

Bobby’s new obsession for 2019 has been oysters - and he was loving them at the Green Flash Restaurant

Deciding if we were going to take down all the cake at The Bubble Room

Mexican culinary delights at Cantina Captiva

IT CAN BE AS RELAXING OR ADVENTUROUS AS YOU WANT IT TO BE

Planning a babymoon weeks (or months) in advance can feel daunting, because you really have no idea how you’ll be feeling when the time comes. Whether you’re thriving living an active lifestyle or your pace is slowing down drastically, the Sanibel/Captiva area can truly meet your needs.

We had days where all we did was eat, lay by the beach, eat, play cards, and eat some more. On the days where we wanted to be more active, we’d go for bike rides, on a day trip to Boca Grande, walk the beaches, and more. It’s the kind of place where time moves slowly, and you’ll never feel the need to rush or “see it all” - but there IS a lot to do!

Bobby gets restless, so he plays in the sand. Maybe he needs a child to entertain?

What’s a trip to the beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel without some shelling

Mucky Duck sunset views are always glorious!

Exploring Boca Grande. We found some stunning hotels!

IT’S AFFORDABLE

Because the Sanibel/Captiva area is off the beaten path, you’ll be able to have the tropical getaway you’ve been dreaming of for a fraction of the price at other more popular destinations.

Saving money on resort fees and expensive plane flights means you can order that extra slice of pie or indulge in a longer prenatal massage… and all my mama’s said “AMEN”! We think that couples should treat their babymoon like a honeymoon, and here you can do exactly that - guilt-free!

Since we’re saving money, we decided we may as well indulge in a couples massage!

The best way to end a relaxing day… sunsets on the beach!

Our tagline has always been, “Who says the honeymoon has to end?” In this new stage of life we’re in, we really should change that to babymoons! And while this season WILL end inevitably (in about three months), we’re embracing every moment that we can just the two of us. Though we spent the majority of our babymoon in the Sanibel/Captiva area specifically, we can’t recommend the entire Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel area enough. If you have any questions about our time there, leave a comment and let us know. We’ll do our best to answer!