Endless Summer: Living in Sunny Southern California

Enjoy the sun

Although the Pacific Ocean is quite cold compared to the Atlantic Ocean, you can still enjoy the beach and water all year round. Snorkeling and surfing are popular activities in the Golden State.

My favorite beach activity in Los Angeles is riding my bike on the path directly on the sand. I start at home and ride the streets to the Ballona Creek Trail, then head west to Playa Del Rey. From there, I join the cycle path on the beach and head south. This path can be tricky as it is surrounded by sand, so be careful when riding the beach bike path, especially at higher speeds. I usually drive to Hermosa Beach or Manhattan Beach, have a late breakfast, and return home the same way. This beautiful coastal walk is approximately 30 miles in both directions.

If you prefer to relax, I recommend spending the day on the beach reading a good book. Enjoying the ocean breeze and walking barefoot on the sand will invigorate your body and mind.

Don't want sand between your toes? Enjoy the sun by the pool. A great vacation option is to spend a sunny day poolside at a luxury hotel or resort in the area.

Whether you choose to enjoy sunny Southern California days on the beach or poolside, be sure to wear plenty of sunscreen, drink plenty of water , and always have a swimsuit on hand tomorrow. Here are some great choices that are comfortable for any impromptu dive:

These swimsuits are very light and easy to carry in your bag throughout the day. They also dry very quickly, making getting home much easier.

Other outdoor activities

One of the best things about living in California is its incredible natural beauty. For those who love the outdoors, California is a true paradise. The state is home to numerous national parks, including Yosemite, Redwoods, and Joshua Tree, and the opportunities to explore and experience breathtaking landscapes are endless.

One of the most popular day trips in Southern California is hiking the Santa Monica Mountains. Even in winter, you can enjoy stunning views of the ocean and mountains. A few weeks ago, I went hiking with my husband and some friends at Topanga State Park. There are many trails in this park and you can never go wrong. This time we visited the Lois Ewen Overlook.