So, where next?
Surf, ski and skate on this epic California adventure with @SavannahSachdev
Learning to surf, skateboard, ski or snowboard is no mean feat, but anything’s possible in California - the ultimate playground! With such a diverse landscape, it’s the kind of place where visitors can experience them all in a single trip (and sometimes, all in one day).
Take when London-based running and sport influencer Savannah Sachdev jumped at Visit California’s Trifecta challenge. From the scenic coastline of LA to the snowy slopes of Big Bear Mountain Resort, follow in her footsteps to find out just why California is a playground for the outdoorsy.
“10 days playing in California was an absolute dream. I’m looking back at photos of us surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding in California thinking ‘woah, that really happened!’ This was the trip of a lifetime…who knew California literally had it all!”
LA Like a pro
For the ultimate skateboarding experience, there’s no better spot than the iconic skate park in Venice Beach. Lined with palm trees and facing the Pacific Ocean, this famed spot is where novices and pros come to play, and where Savannah took to the board to learn the California way.
Get things rolling with a lesson from LA’s favourite skate school. Then wander down Abbot Kinney Boulevard (skates off) to check out the effortlessly cool boutique shops, cute restaurants and local hipster vibe.
It doesn’t get much cooler than hanging with Rob and Will from Coyote Skate School. Whether you’re a first timer or an advanced skater, these guys will have you rocking the runway on four wheels in no time.
Try The Butcher’s Daughter on Abbot Kinney Boulevard for delicious vegan-friendly cuisine.
Ride the Venice Beach waves
"I’m a surfer girl now – I’m going to start saying words like ‘rad’ and ‘gnarly’ all the time. A surfing lesson at Venice Beach was the most classic LA experience and I loved it so so much”
The official sport of California, surfing is a must-try experience in the Golden State and was the second California Trifecta challenge during Savannah’s stay. Hitting the early morning waves is, as locals would say, the only way to start the day here. And Venice Breakwater is one of the most surfable spots in Los Angeles.
If like Savannah you’re raring to keep going, don’t miss the renowned Muscle Beach, “home of bodybuilding”, for an unforgettable workout.
Unleash your inner surfer at Aqua Surf School. With 27 years of experience, it offers both private and group lessons for all abilities.
Check out the Great White café: Instagram heaven serving delicious Californian cuisine and coffee.
Mindfulness in Malibu
“I’ll never ever forget this day! Our first day in Malibu was like a pretend honeymoon and I literally don’t know how it could get any better”.
Nothing’s quite so iconically Californian as the beaches of Malibu. Setting off from Surfrider Beach, Savannah’s next challenge was paddleboarding. And with dolphins frolicking besides her in the ocean, it didn’t disappoint.
But the outdoor adventure in Malibu doesn’t stop at the water, with scenic hiking trails inland too. Check out the cascading waterfalls at Escondido Falls or wildflower-lined paths at Zuma Canyon. When it’s time to slow down, stop by Malibu Country Mart and Malibu Village for boutique shopping and dining, and, if you’re lucky, a celebrity spot.
Ask for Nicole at Paddle Surf LA – she’ll have you paddling with dolphins in no time.
Want a view with your lunch? Head of Malibu Farm restaurant (or the more casual café) located on Malibu Beach Pier.
“The cutest little community in the mountains”.
Idyllwild-Pine Cove is a cool, artsy mountain town located not far from Palm Springs in the San Jacinto Mountains. Full of independent shops, cute cafes and endless hiking trails, this was a great spot for Savannah to soak up the mountain and pine forest views. If you want to follow in Savannah’s footsteps, try the 8.1 mile Tahquitz Peak via Devil’s Slide Trail.
If you thought having two movie stars as Governors was oh-so-California, then maybe you haven’t heard about Idyllwild’s Mayor. The town’s elected leader is a golden retriever named Mayor Max III. Yes, really.
Visit Idyllwild Brewpub to sample their impressive 18 local beers on tap.
If you love pastries as much as Savannah, don’t miss a visit to Amelia’s Donuts Bakery Cafe in downtown Idyllwild, but be sure to get there early!
Big Bear Adventure
“Going from a sunny beach to the slopes in a few hours was pretty wild. It’s mad that this is California”.
Skiing in California? Yep, we’re serious. Just two hours from LA, Big Bear Mountain Resort makes the California Trifecta a seamless experience. With over 400 acres of terrain for beginner to expert skiers and snowboarders, Big Bear and Snow Summit were the perfect spots for Savannah to take on a new challenge. Plus, learning to ski in the small-town charm of Big Bear Lake while still vibing with California’s laid-back energy makes this a totally unique experience.
The team at Snow Summit Adventure Academy can sort your mountain gear and ski school lessons.
Dine at the rustic Oakside Restaurant & Bar for American comfort food – you deserve it after working hard on the mountain.
