It would appear that Los Angeles is my second home because I am there so often. I think it just might be! It seems that every flight I take I connect through LA. Many of the workshops I attend are also in the LA area. I have been in the LA area more times than I can count in the last 7 months. I’m happy to connect through LA anytime; it is a great place to be. If any place will become my home away from home I am happy to make it LA. Was I meant to be born a California girl?

On my way to Australia I had an 11 hour layover in LA. There was no way I was going to waste my day in LA by staying in the airport. As soon as I landed, I ventured out to see all that I could see and hadn’t seen before on previous trips. There are endless opportunities in the LA area and as much as I’ve seen in the past, there is still more for me to see! Luckily, I know a few people in LA, so my good friend picked me up from the airport and we were off for a fun filled day in one of the best regions in California.

We first headed to Malibu direct from the airport. Malibu is a quaint beach town North of Santa Monica on the Pacific Coastal Highway. We first explored Malibu’s pier to soak up the sun with the turquoise water all around. Next, we headed to Point Dume State Park where we stumbled upon one of the best beaches I have seen in California. Giant rock cliffs tower over the shore, while rock climbers dangle from above with the dolphins surfing the waves and putting on a show for us. The sand pipers and gulls play on the beach while running from the waves. As much as I wanted to stay there all day, I knew there was more to see. We reluctantly moved on to search for other new spots. Along the way, we stopped at a roadside fruit stand to pick up a flat of fresh California strawberries (my favorite) to nibble on along the way! The last beach stop for the day was Zuma beach where the sand stretches for miles. Volleyball players enjoy the weather on the warm winter day. Although not as hot as Miami, the perfect weather was waiting for my arrival. After a walk along the beach, we headed to Los Angeles for lunch at the infamous Roscoes Chicken & Waffles. When I first heard of chicken and waffles being eaten together (with syrup) I thought people were crazy, but now I know the obsession. Roscoes also claims to make the best mac and cheese in LA. It was pretty tasty. I wish I knew Roscoes secret waffle recipe because they are the best waffles I have ever had (and that’s saying a lot since my boyfriend makes me the most amazing waffles from scratch).

After lunch, we went to The Grove and the Farmers Market. I spent the rest of my afternoon exploring the booths and shops. There is nothing better than wondering endlessly (and with no purpose) in a farmers market. I believe that you can get a really good sense of a place by looking around the local farmers market. The foods sold, local fruits and vegetables, hand made crafts, and one of a kind delicacies say more than a brochure. Not to mention, at a farmers market you can sample and nibble the day away.

The tell all market left me wanting to stay in LA all evening. I stayed at the market as long as I could before having to return to the airport for my flight to SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA (can you sense my excitement?). I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect day in LA. I don’t think I could have squeezed in another stop if I tried. I filled my 11 hour layover in LA to the max and left with some of the best memories I have of LA. If ever you are stopping through LA or have a layover, know that you can see lots in little time. Anything is possible with a creative mind. It also helps if you are a busy traveler like me (I have labeled myself a hyperactive-tourist). I am glad there is no cure for my limitless curiosity and determination to see this world.

There you have it, what to do with a day layover in LA.