Alli Talley

March 30, 2021

5 Reasons to Visit Catalina Island Now

Alli Talley

March 30, 2021

As we’ve officially hit the one-year mark since everything shut down (we base that on Jude’s birthday—it all seemed to hit while we were in the hospital), we’re sure everyone’s feeling that itch to *safely* travel again. (We sure are!!!)

As we’ve begun to plot and plan our family adventures, we’ve realized how picky we are now about the destinations we visit. Not only because of post-pandemic fears, but because traveling with a one year old is NO JOKE. Our most recent family getaway could not have been more perfect (or more convenient). Beautiful, uncrowded, socially distant, and an easy one-hour boat ride from OC/LA…

That’s right. We’re talking Catalina Island! It’s the perfect spot for anybody to ease back into travel and get on island-time. Here are 5 reasons to go to Catalina now!

Easy Plan, Pack and Go

For our Southern California based crew, Catalina Island is such an easy getaway. Whether you’re the planning type that likes to book months in advance or you’re more like us, and you decide to go the day before, either way works! Whenever you’re ready, just hop on to the Catalina Express website and book your tickets. Pack light, since the weather will likely be delightful. Or don’t pack at all… hop on the 7:05 AM departure from Long Beach and head back on the 6:30 PM boat. Talk about an epic day trip!!

Light on the Crowds

We’ve visited Catalina Island on cruise ships before, and while it’s always charming, this quaint little island can get crowded. Not right now!! As cruises are halted and capacities are limited, the island feels calm and peaceful. From the boat ride over, to our favorite mini golf course, to even the submarine adventure we went on were all mellow and crowd free. Considering we’re currently traveling with a loud, crawling baby boy, it was delightful.

We love when crowds are minimal on Catalina Island!

Affordable Activities for the Family

One of our favorite things about Catalina is that it is affordable and accessible for everyone! Some of our favorite activities are mini-golf, renting a golf cart, and the submarine adventure. Jude was OBSESSED with the submarine and all the fish. He even took the wheel :)

Jude was mesmerized on the submarine adventure!

Covid-safe

Catalina has done a fantastic job of implementing safety measure that will give you peace of mind while you visit. Everybody must wear their masks on the boat trip over, which goes as far as no eating and drinking so that masks aren’t even lowered. Once on the island, there are areas that remind you when/where you need to mask up. There are also hand sanitizer stations on the boat, in the hotels and restaurants… basically everywhere you need to make sure you’re germ free. We felt safe throughout our stay!

Eat, Drink, Sleep, Repeat

We could have a whole separate blog on this, but this is why we go to Catalina. Eating, drinking, and sleeping… in any order you prefer. For food and drink, here are some of our favs -

Bistro at the Atwater - The Bistro at the Atwater will deliver your morning caffeine fix, or everything you need for a beach picnic. Grab one of their refreshing salads or a hearty and healthy sandwich and head out for your day in the sun
Catalina Coffee & Cookie - Great for coffee, even better if you add a cookie
Original Jack’s Country Kitchen - Hearty eggs benedict or mouth-watering steak burgers, this spot is solid for breakfast or lunch.
Descanso Beach Club - Drinks, lunch, and lounge chairs. We love the vibe at Descanso Beach Club for lunch with the family, or sunset just the two of us. Sorry Jude.
Maggie’s Blue Rose - One of the best things that happened to Maggie’s Blue Rose during the Covid-era was that they were forced to move dining onto the sand. Not next to the sand. ON the sand. Combine that with their mouth-watering Mexican food, and we’ll be there every time we’re in town. Two margaritas, please!
Avalon Grille - Date night! Such tasty food and drinks, Avalon Grille is perfect for a more romantic evening. Get the Ribeye!
The Lobster Trap - A local favorite for seafood, we ate here on our last trip (pre-Jude) and loved the vibe and food.
Antonio’s Pizzeria and Cabaret - Wine and delicious pizza on the beach? Yes please!
Luau Larry’s - Our go-to spot for Buffalo’s Milk, the official drink of Catalina Island
The Naughty Fox - This is on the top of our list for our next visit. We haven’t been to here yet, but have heard AMAZING things about their cocktails and seaside inspired menu.

First stop of the day - Bistro at the Atwater

Our daily breakfast sandwich from the Bistro!

Drinks with a view at Descanso… we can’t get enough!

Dinner on the sand at Maggie’s Blue Rose

Having stayed in a few different hotels as well as on board sailboats, we’ve experienced of variety of Catalina’s accommodations. Our favorites are the Pavilion Hotel and Hotel Atwater. The Pavilion is right across from the sand, and we love enjoying our morning coffee looking out on the water. We love the design and cozy beds at the Atwater, and Jude was a big fan!

Jude’s already addicted to hotel life :)

While Catalina will always be an easy getaway where you can find both rest or adventure, we’d really recommend sooner rather than later. Eventually, cruise ships will be back and business will be booming on the island… great for them but not as great for the super relaxed vibe. So maybe leave the kids and go tomorrow! We’ll see ya there!

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

California, Weekenders, USA

VACATION RENTAL GOALS :: MORRO BAY

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

California, Weekenders, USA

Maybe it’s because we’re getting older, or maybe it’s because we’ll soon be a “traveling family”, but whatever it is, we’ve recently been really intrigued by vacation rentals. Don’t get us wrong, we still love a good hotel… but there’s something to be said for having an actual home-away-from-home. Having space to spread out, a kitchen to cook in, a cozy living room… it really makes such a difference!

On our last trip before baby, we headed up the California coast to Morro Bay, where there is an amazing variety of unique, picturesque, and surprisingly affordable vacation rentals. We stayed at the Salty Sisters Boutique Hotel, a vacation rental under The Seven Sisters (which we LOVED), and we toured a few others too! Depending on the kind of getaway you’re looking for, and how big your group is, here’s 3 phenomenal vacation rental options in the quaint seaside town of Morro Bay:

THE SALTY SISTERS BOUTIQUE HOTEL

This pristine (and brand new!) vacation rental property sits just steps from the many shops and restaurants along the Morro Bay Embarcadero, and features panoramic views of Morro Rock. There are 6 individual units on the property, that can be combined depending on how many people are joining in the adventures. All of them have kitchens/kitchenettes, and each has its own bright, coastal character.

The location couldn’t have been more ideal, as it’s walking distance to the beach, all of the best Morro Bay shops and restaurants, and there were sea otters basically right outside our door! (Cutest EVER.) We loved every minute of our time there - and are already planning a trip back with our family!

The views from the upper deck at the Seven Sisters was the best part!

Stunning kitchen layout! Love the light and bright living space!

Best time of day - wine time on the roof!

THE PELICAN HOUSE

This luxury four-bedroom beachfront home is perfect for a large group, as there’s plenty of space… and it sleeps eight! Plus, the ocean views and patio are nothing short of dreamy. We enjoyed a sunset happy hour by their firepit, and the setting couldn’t have been more idyllic!

The Pelican House is about a five minute drive from downtown Morro Bay, and a quick and easy walk to the beach. They even have the home stocked with surfboards, boogie boards, beach chairs, and more! It’s the perfect oceanfront getaway!

We were obsessed with the patio at The Pelican House!

THE FISHERMAN’S HOUSE

For a more quirky, cozy, and distinctly “Morro Bay” experience - the vibrant Fisherman’s House is a must! Located steps from the Embarcadero, this one-bedroom bungalow is hands-down one of the most special and unique vacation rentals in town… and the spacious dock is its crowning feature! We ate breakfast one morning there, and it felt like we were in a movie. We have plans to return someday soon and when we do, we’ll most definitely spend most of our time on the dock. (There’s even a spot to clean your fish, if you’re the fishing type!) The decor inside is quaint and welcoming, with a fully-stocked kitchen and a snug little living room area. We know you’ll be as obsessed with it as we are!

It goes without saying that there are countless other vacation rentals in Morro Bay (you can find more here), but these are three that really stood out to us. (And that we will most definitely be returning to for years to come! If you visit one, be sure to leave a comment and let us know! (And can we join you?!) ;)

No matter where you stay, be prepared for the cutest otters!

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

California, Babymoon, Weekenders

AN ADVENTUROUS (AND ROMANTIC) BABY MOON IN MORRO BAY

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

California, Babymoon, Weekenders

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

March 23, 2020

California, Weekenders, Foodies

WHERE TO EAT (AND DRINK) IN MORRO BAY IN 2020

Alli Talley

March 23, 2020

California, Weekenders, Foodies

You know that “seafood diet” joke? The one you probably grew up hearing your dad say - that he’s on the seafood diet - he sees food, and he eats it? (Enter a laugh track here.) Well during our babymoon in Morro Bay, we were literally on a seafood diet - nearly all of our meals involved seafood… and it was AMAZING. You wouldn’t believe the amount of oysters Bobby consumed in a 72-hour period.

Anyway, this quaint seaside town is bursting with cozy restaurants and fabulous fresh fish, and if you’re on a “seafood diet” - it’s a definite must. (And even if you’re not a seafood fan, there’s plenty of spots for you too!)

Here’s our list of where you should eat (and drink) in Morro Bay:

BREAKFAST SPOTS:

BUTTERCUP BAKERY AND CAFE :: If a warm latte and a light breakfast is your jam in the morning, then Buttercup Bakery and Cafe is the spot for you. This homey and welcoming cafe has everything from breakfast bowls to avocado toast, and their baked goods are out-of-this-world delicious. It’s a casual, order-at-the-counter type place, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a favorite among locals. We’d hands-down be regulars here if we lived in MB!

FRANKIE AND LOLA’S :: For a more hearty, full-service breakfast experience, there’s no place better in town than Frankie and Lola’s! From their specialty omelettes to their famous iron skillet potatoes, to their hearty breakfast burritos, this is the kind of place you come hungry. If you’re in the mood for a sweet treat, try one of their delectable brioche cinnamon rolls!

Delicious breakfast bowls at Buttercup Bakery!

Breakfast sandwich goals at Frankie & Lola’s

SEAFOOD SPOTS:

TOGNAZZINI’S DOCKSIDE TOO :: Ask any Morro Bay local where to get to go for lunch, and chances are they’ll send you to the family-owned Tognazzini’s Dockside Too! This fish market sells some of the freshest, most delicious fish in town, and their spacious patio nearly always has live music. AND, it’s dog-friendly… so bring your pooch!

THE GALLEY SEAFOOD GRILL & BAR :: We’re big fans of this cozy seafood restaurant for two reasons - the unparalleled ocean views, and their dedication to fresh, local seafood and ingredients! Most of their fish is supplied from local fishermen, and their produce comes directly from their head chef’s farm! Oh, and if that’s not enough, The Galley Seafood Grill & Bar has a really impressive wine list, too!

DUTCHMAN’S SEAFOOD HOUSE :: You can’t go to Morro Bay without popping into Dutchman’s Seafood House and having a bowl of their famous clam chowder. It’s absolutely delicious, as is the rest of their extensive and affordable menu. (If you’re looking for a break from all of the seafood options, try their burger!)

WINDOWS ON THE WATER :: Our pick for a classy date night, Windows On The Water serves some of the finest, highest quality seafood in town, and boasts picture-perfect views of Morro Rock! They also have some incredible steak and woodfired pizzas on the menu (we opted for those), and the ambiance couldn’t be more romantic. Make a reservation in advance!

Do you think we have enough food at Tognazzini’s?

Had to try the steak at Windows on the Water!

SPOTS TO HAVE A DRINK:

TOP DOG COFFEE BAR :: We love stumbling upon local spots, and this fun and welcoming coffee shop is definitely one of them. Top Dog Coffee Bar serves some of the best micro-roasted coffee in Morro Bay, and every purchase aids local dog shelters! Talk about a win/win! (They specialize in some pretty delicious hot dogs too, if you’re hungry!)

LIBERTINE BREWING COMPANY :: We knew we loved this bar from the moment we walked in and saw they were playing reruns of The Office on their TV’s. Known for their Double IPA’s, Barrel-Aged Stouts, and Belgian Sours, Libertine Brewing Company is a must-stop for beer drinkers. And Wednesdays-Saturdays they have live music!

And his favorite beer at Libertine Brewing

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.