Travel Guide, Southern California
California-based stylist, Leah Bradley, grew up on the road with her family and developed a deep love for traveling and spending each minute enjoying the simple things around her. Now with her own little babe, Zippy, and her second on the way, she is teaching her the roots of living simply while capturing each moment as they explore the world around them.
We asked Leah to show us around her hometown of Newport Beach in California, and share with us her favourite places to take her little family of three, soon to be four! Captured on film by Leah's husband and best friend, Jakeh, we hope you love this little Travel Guide of Newport Beach.
How long have you lived in Newport Beach, California?
My little family and I have lived in Newport Beach off and on over the past 6 years but we aren't planning on leaving this cute town anytime soon; it's a great place to raise our minis!
What’s your favourite thing about living here?
Living biking distance to the beach is so much fun, especially when you have a tiny human who could spend the whole day collecting shells and splashing in the water. I love that we can decide right before sitting down to eat that we should pack up our dinner and head to the beach for sunset.
What are your favourite beaches in your area?
One of our favourite beaches that's just about 5 minutes from us is Orange Street beach. It's super family friendly and easy to access, especially if you're hauling all the baby items. Another one of my absolute favourite beaches is a secret little cove beach in Laguna Beach. It's about a 12 minute drive from our home, but worth it. The beautiful cliffs block any sort of wind, so it warms up nicely, the water is crystal clear and has amazing snorkeling. And even if there is swell, you can find a safe spot for the kids to play in the water with the tide pools close by.
Where do you get your caffeine fix?
There's a super cute surf shop that also has a great coffee bar called Day Dream Surf Shop. It's a great place to shop, relax (on the cutest mustard couches), and have a coffee or tea. There's even a little pug named Penny that'll come say hi when you visit.
Best spots for a bite out?
Our favourite place to eat is Seabirds Kitchen. It's a plant-based restaurant with the most delicious and creative dishes and vegan sauces. I could eat here for every meal. They also have the cutest outdoor space, so when the weather is nice we love to dine out in the sun. For anyone with a sweet tooth, Pressed Juicery is the best thing to ever happen to you. They have mastered their own version of ice cream with just five ingredients; cacao, almonds, dates, vanilla, and sea salt. Add some fruit and almond butter to it, and you're set!
Favourite place to get outside?
One of our favourite hiking trails close to our home is El Moro. The landscape is full of dirt trails, cacti, and amazing views of the ocean down below. Zippy especially loves this spot because there are plenty of wildflowers to pick and rabbits to chase after.
The best hidden gem in Newport Beach?
My favourite spot to spend time at is just down the street from our home. It's called King's Road Park. It's a tiny little spot overlooking both the harbour and the beach. Our family walks here almost every night to watch the sunset. It's so peaceful watching the sailboats pass by as the sun goes down over the ocean.
Leah and her family take the Travel Towels in Wanderer and Adventurer to the beach, along with the Macrame Tote and Butterfly Petite Poncho for Zippy. Shop Leah's beachside essentials below.