A Farewell to Boston & Hello to California

It's been almost two weeks since I left Boston. Leaving the almost tangible humidity and bipolar weather tendencies behind, I have returned to my roots for a summer holiday. So I boarded the plane for California. Before you (like everyone else I've ever spoken to) ask if I'm from "Norcal or Socal," I am not from either of those parts of the state. I mean, yes, technically I am from one of them -- but the San Joaquin Valley of California is more aptly referred to as "Cencal" by the natives. It's basically the Biblebelt of the West. Flying in you see small scattered towns and expansive acres of farmland. If you've ever eaten produce (I'm hoping so!) you've probably had something grown in the Valley. No matter how numbingly hot it gets here, it happens to produce some of the best produce in the world. It also so happens that I'm part of this agricultural landscape. My family is in citrus farming primarily, so all you Cutie lovers can send a warm internet thank you to my daddy for those! 

Despite the warm return I was greeted with, 113 °F to be exact, my small town can make one feel a bit confined.  So what is a girl to do?

Well this girl hops in the car with her best friend for a girls only beach getaway. Who could ask for a better escape that's only two hours away? Put that in Game of Thrones terms, it's the equivalent of two episodes. Either way, we were both excited to flee the heat. When we finally arrived in Pismo Beach, a small beach town on the California Central Coast we were greeted with low 70's °F and a light breeze that brushed your hair from your face. 

After we settled in that first evening, we decided it was time to fill our travel hungry tummies. As we ventured outside, the setting sun graced us with a mystical scene. The ocean creates this misty fog that rises up around the coast line. At times, it can feel rather ominous--but this was different and beautiful. 

The next morning, we were up and about bright and early. While we are at the coast, we try to hike as much as our legs will permit. My favorite hike is to this small cove that leads down to a secluded beach. Its only about a mile, but it has a decent incline and gorgeous views (especially for us city gals). 

 The above photo is about ten minutes in to our hike. You can see the small cave opening in the distance. The below photo is inside the small cave. It drops right off into the ocean, teeming with seals and gulls. This part of the coast is also known for its sharks.... but I'd rather not think of them, just the cute seals flipping and flopping about on the rocks below. 

 After a little visit to the cave, the next move is to go up, around and down to the small beach. It's a secluded little beach called Pirate's Cove. It's really beautiful and generally has no other people on it which makes you feel like it's your own private beach. Sounds lovely? It is -- but be warned, it is a nude beach. Few people take advantage of it, but there are still some free birds that bask in the opportunity, quite literally!

Okay, where are my fellow foodies? 

This is a Pismo Beach legend. The famous Splash Cafe is known for their award-winning clam chowder that they make in-house daily. They've been around for over 20 years and there is consistently a line that snakes around the small blue building.  If you know the drill, you'll order ahead of time and bypass the long lines.  It's conveniently located a block from the pier and continues to be one of the best spots to get a clam chowder bread bowl despite attempts by local competition. I got mine to go and planned on eating it on the beach, but a chilly drizzle convinced us to take it back home. 

First off, as a devoted bread lover, I can't help but smile at the golden buttery crust on this bread bowl. The center part of the bread bowl is my absolute favorite.  It's my preferred utensil for the chowder actually. 

The chowder itself is magical though. You can actually taste the sea in it if you know what I mean. There are clams in every mouthful, perfectly cooked potatoes, celery and onions: basically the holy trinity of chowder. Each of these elements are scrumptious, but the chowder wouldn't be famous without its decadent chowder base. Its salty and smooth, but never overpowering. No wonder they serve 30,000 gallons a year. I know I'm not the only one who is happy as a clam! (Lame joke, I know).

For the Fourth of July, we met up with some friends at a local beach near the cliffs. People go there to drink, play beach sports and casually mingle with other beach goers. It really is a beautiful sight to see. The ocean truly makes man feel small, doesn't it? 

J.Crew tank in Modern Red

Round Glasses

J. Crew's Classic Tank is my new summer staple. I recently bought it in Modern Red, Black, Heather Grey and a Navy & White Striped pattern. Its wonderful for hot weather and has a flattering shape. On a second note,  please excuse my iPhone selfie. But, drinking, oceans and sand don't mix with cameras!  Hope everyone had a safe and fun Independence day! 

Much love, 

xoxo Lady Clementine