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| Early morning view from the villa ... Catalina in the background |
More specifically, I am now making my first visit to the gorgeous resort known as Terranea. But as one who visited this area innumerable times growing up in Los Angeles, I have a hard time not thinking back to the original occupant of the site, namely Marineland.
Marineland and I both got our starts in 1954, even pre-dating Disneyland by a year, so maybe that is why I may be a bit nostalgic. To imagine what it was like back in the day, think about today's SeaWorld but with the added bonus of awesome Pacific ocean views. Of course the drive undoubtedly took much longer and I doubt there were any "interactive" features but this was the original theme park that we so enjoyed. Then, as well as now, anyone taking off from LAX and seated in a left-side window seat knows what I am talking about, this incredible perch of land on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Read more about Marineland's history and ultimate demise here ...
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| Almost makes me want to cook (but not quite) |
And now on to the
visit at hand. Fortunately for me, the
hubby's client owns one of the 2-bedroom villas here and has given it to us for
the weekend. Shhh, don't tell the kind
resort manager that our anniversary is actually in August because we so loved
the cheese, wine, and cupcakes sent up with their kind wishes! (This visit is really for my recent
birthday).
This particular unit
has 2 bedrooms plus den, 2-1/2 baths, gorgeous kitchen, living room, garages, laundry,
and outdoor terrace with fireplace. If
one wanted to cook, the kitchen is fully equipped to do so. What’s lovely is all the amenities of a fine
resort are also included – robes/slippers/twice-daily service plus room
service. So it is really the best of
both worlds!
We enjoyed their famous Seafood Buffet on Friday evening which looked to
be populated both by resort guests and others coming for the meal
itself. And why not? If you like crab legs, you'll likely tire out
from eating and cracking due to the non-stop onslaught of them.... 
Saturday was our time to explore the property. The view is magnificent from everywhere, but particularly at the edge of the Ocean Lawn -- obviously an ideal spot for weddings. There were tons of dolphins quite visible diving in and out of the water. We opted to lunch at Nelson's, named as a tribute to the star character (Mike Nelson) of Sea Hunt, a T.V. series which filmed often at Marineland. Ok, all you baby boomers, who played the lead? (Answer is below if you're having a senior moment) The spa, fitness center, and pool all take maximum advantage of the views so working out is more pleasurable!
One brave soul was actually swimming in spite of the record low temps California is experiencing this weekend. As my friend and client notes, we Angelenos are known to get out the puffy coats when it dips below 65, but this is a bona-fide cold snap!
For dinner I researched top-rated restaurants in the area and selected Restaurant Christine, long established in the area. Full disclosure, I don't agree with Zagat's 27 food rating but they were so hospitable and welcoming and the food was fine, all making for a very nice evening. Best discovery was the ice cream served with the really delicious homemade strudel, a local brand called Dandy Don's. Might just have to go to their location in Van Nuys and/or order some other flavors online, it was that good!
After breakfast at the Marmalade location in Rolling Hills, it was back home in no time flat. And the best news? Coming back here again in a few weeks with my business colleagues (and great friends) for our annual Spa Weekend. These very accomplished women know how to work hard and relax hard as well. Yippee ... cannot wait!
(And the answer is of course Lloyd Bridges)
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