WINERY REVIEW: Scribe Winery in Sonoma, California

WINERY REVIEW: Scribe Winery

Address: 2100 Denmark Street, Sonoma, California

Reservations Required?: Yes, must be made in advance - Call: 707.939.1858

Cost?: $$$ but includes a meal and tasting for $60 per person

Food?: YES! Awesome food at that.

Website: http://scribewinery.com/

There are so many options when looking at Napa and Sonoma for wine tasting it’s overwhelming! I’ve been to Napa quite a few times and there is always a new place to discover and tons of wine to try! We went to Scribe on our last trip and it was divine! Food was served, wine was poured, good times were had by all!

With a drive-way lined with palm trees, this is a true California vineyard! A beautiful house sits atop the property with a fabulous patio to enjoy wine along with a few courses AND a stunning view! Inside, the house was so cute and chic, looking like it came straight out of a home and garden magazine. 

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ABOUT SCRIBE

The history of the winery is interesting. The winery was founded in 2007 on a property that pioneered pre-prohibition Sonoma Valley winemaking. As stated in their About section on their website:

Managed by fourth-generation California farmers and brothers, Andrew and Adam believe that the best wines are a result of a healthy relationship between man and nature, and that a vineyard managed in harmony with the greater ecosystem results in more site-specific wines that represent a sense of time and place. When vinified with non-interventionist methods, the result is a distinct wine that faithfully reflects what the vineyard naturally expresses.

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FOOD AND WINE

Scribe was on my list of wineries to visit last year but for the price of the tasting it seemed too expensive. Wrong! Not only do they have generous pours, but a delightful meal that goes along with the tasting at cute picnic tables.  

Scribe is known to produce vibrant, terroir-driven wines, my favorite wine was the estate Chardonnay, not too buttery and rich, but refreshing.

For $60 per person, we tried the Hacienda Menu including 4 wines paired with the perfect food. We started with olives, almonds and radishes with our first course. We were pleasantly upgraded with a second course including salad, then a third course with a chicken dish and focaccia bread!

The wines were pricey, but we did get a bottle of their sparkling wine and it was one of the best I’ve ever had. 

We’ll definitely be back!

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ICE CREAM REVIEW: Bi-Rite Creamery in San Francisco, California

ICE CREAM REVIEW: Bi-Rite Creamery

San Francisco, California  

3692 18th St, San Francisco, CA 94110

San Francisco is known for many things and ice cream is definitely one of them. One of the most popular ice cream destinations is Bi-Rite Creamery. Part of the Bi-Rite family, the Bi-Rite Market opened in 1940 and eventually opened their own creamery in 2006. They serve homemade organic ice cream and also have a soft serve window. We went on a warm day in February and the line was about 20 mins long wrapping around the street corner. Go with cool friends, it makes the line go faster.

Once you take a step inside, it's very small, the ice cream freezer case is right there, but the faces behind the counter are warm and friendly! See all flavors here: MENU

They not only make the ice cream in house, they also have a bakery attached and make all brownies, marshmallows, toffee in the ice cream. They also make toppings such as peanut brittle and hot fudge. If you're lactose intolerant, don't worry, you can join in on the fun too, they offer a vegan, dairy-free ice cream daily! SO MANY OPTIONS!

Happiness is definitely one scoop at a time.

I took my delicious coffee toffee, Cookies & Cream, chocolate cone and decided to eat it in the park across the street. I texture had the perfect balance of creamy and soft. My favorite was the cookies and cream. I tried the rose, salted caramel, and a peanut butter fudge type.

Since it was so warm, my friends and I walked across the street and decided to enjoy our ice cream, and the views, from Dolores Park. 

Related Post: 10 Hella Cool Things to do in San Francisco

We were definitely a fan of Bi-Rite and will come back next time we are in SF! 

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Looking for more things to do in NorCal? Try these:

5 Best Wineries to Visit in Sonoma County for Wine Tasting (with map)

GUNDLACH BUNSCHU WINERY in Sonoma Valley

5 Best Wineries in Sonoma, CA for Wine Tasting (map included)

We love visiting Sonoma and Napa but are always overwhelmed by where to go in our short time we are there! So many wineries, so little time! What is the most picturesque winery? Which winery has the best wine? Is Sonoma far from Napa? It can get confusing, so let me give you a little tour! Also, I suggest you check out the 7 Best Kept Secret Wineries in Napa! Open that in a new tab to check later!

Sonoma County borders Napa County and encompasses Sonoma, Santa Rosa, and Russian River Valley. See the google map below!

We knew we wanted to stop in Santa Rosa to go to the Russian River Brew Company, so we decided to spend the night at the Hyatt Regency Sonoma on Friday night so that we could have a full day in wine country! 

From Santa Rosa, there are 2 ways to get to Napa:

1. Up the 101 through Russian River and come around via the 128 through Yountville, Callistoga, and Rutherford.

or

2. Drive through Sonoma on the 12. Either way, you will find wine, see our favorite wineries in Sonoma County!

I even made a google map to help me lay out the land to see where the vineyards are:

When we head up to the Napa/Sonoma area, we love staying at the Hyatt Regency Sonoma or the Cabernet House! Also, check out our perfect weekend itinerary from last year: Wine Tasting Weekend in Northern California

ONTO THE WINERIES! :) 

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BEST SONOMA WINERIES FOR WINE TASTING

Scribe Winery - Sonoma

SCRIBE WINERY

Address: 2100 Denmark St, Sonoma, CA 95476

• Reservations Required?: Yes, must be made in advance - Call: 707.939.1858

• Cost?: $$$ but includes a meal and tasting for $60 per person

• Food?: YES! Awesome food at that.

See more in our detailed post on Scribe: Winery Review: Scribe Winery

With a drive-way lined with palm trees, this is a true California vineyard! A beautiful house sits atop the property with a fabulous patio to enjoy wine along with a few courses AND a stunning view! Inside, the house was so cute and chic, looking like it came straight out of a home and garden magazine. 

Scribe Wine was on my list of wineries to visit last year but for the price of the tasting it seemed too expensive. Wrong! Not only do they have generous pours, but a delightful meal that goes along with the tasting.  

My favorite wine was the estate Chardonnay, not too buttery and rich, but refreshing.

For $60 per person, we tried the Hacienda Menu including 4 wines paired with the perfect food. We started with olives, almonds and radishes with our first course. We were pleasantly upgraded with a second course including salad, then a third course with a chicken dish and focaccia bread!

The wines were pricey, but we did get a bottle of their sparkling wine and it was one of the best I’ve ever had. 

I would definitely go back to this one!

See more in our detailed post on Scribe: Winery Review: Scribe Winery

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GUNDLACH BUNSCHU WINERY

GUNDLACH BUNSCHU WINERY

Address: 2000 Denmark St, Sonoma, CA 95476

• Reservations Required?: No, but they are recommended. Make yours today: GunBun.com

• Cost?: $$ Range of flights $20+

• Food?: Cheeses and snacks can be found at the Donkey bar (no reservation required)

Not only fun to say but great wine too! Call it GunBun for short!

We had some time to kill before our tasting at Scribe, so we stopped at GunBun right next door, no appointment required. It’s the oldest family owned vineyard by 6 generations and is bonded winery #64 in California. They know what they're doing here. 

Kathryn, our wine hostess, was lovely and went into great depth of the history of the vineyard and its founders. With 320 acres, the grounds were gorgeous and they even have cave tours seasonally ($45 per person). 

Specialties included more red wines, we especially liked the Cabernet and Malbec best, but also really enjoyed the cuvée as a bonus tasting! If it had been a tad warmer, we would have loved to sit on the patio.

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BEST RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY WINERIES FOR WINE TASTING

Korbel Winery

KORBEL CHAMPAGNE CELLARS

Address: 13250 River Rd, Guerneville, CA 95446

• Reservations Required?: Nope, but click here for their free tour hours!

• Cost?: $ FREE! That's right, free tastings! No purchase required! 

• Food?: There is a little cafe that has snacks and sandwiches.

Champagne is my favorite type of wine and you can always find a bottle of Korbel in my fridge! For over 135 years, Korbel has mastered making the perfect bottle of champagne. Free tours are offered throughout the day and FREE wine tasting are provided in their tasting room. 

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BEST SANTA ROSA WINERIES FOR WINE TASTING

Kendall-Jackson Winery

KENDALL-JACKSON WINERY

Address: 5007 Fulton Rd, Fulton, CA 95403

TASTING COUPON: Click here to print a Two for One Tasting Coupon for our Estate Tasting. Offer available for up to 4 guests.

• Reservations Required?: Nope

• Cost?: $$ Wine flights range from $15-25 - try their Stature! 

• Food?: Wine and Food pairing available by Appt or there is always a chocolate or cheese pairing available.

Kendall-Jackson makes my favorite Chardonnay so we had to check it out while we were there! Also, take a stroll through their garden and say hi to the chicken coop! 

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Paradise Ridge Winery

PARADISE RIDGE WINERY

Address: 8860 Sonoma Highway, Kenwood

• Reservations Required?: Nope

• Cost?: $$ Tasting Fee: $15 -$20 refundable with a 2 bottle purchase

• Food?: Wine and Cheese tastings. There are tables outside for picnics! 

Unfortunately, the Russian River Estate is closed as most of the vineyard was lost in the Tubbs 2017 fire. Their Kenwood location is up and running as they rebuild! 

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Planning a Napa Valley Trip?

If you’re visiting Napa for the first time, these guides can help you plan the perfect trip:

- Where to stay in Napa Valley

- Best time of year to visit Napa

- Napa Valley itinerary (2–3 days)

When we head up to the Napa/Sonoma area, we love staying at the Hyatt Regency Sonoma or the Cabernet House! Also, check out our Wine Tasting Weekend in Northern California itinerary and the 7 Best Kept Secret Wineries in Napa.

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HOTEL REVIEW: Hyatt Regency Sonoma County

I love our annual trip to Napa for my birthday weekend! It’s a great way to relax and enjoy some tasty wine. Having a Hyatt Credit Card gives us an annual free night and spending it in Napa is definitely the way to go. We fly into Oakland on a Friday and drive to Santa Rosa to stay at the Hyatt Regency Sonoma County.

When staying in Sonoma, the Hyatt Regency Sonoma County is the best place to stay. Located in the heart of Santa Rosa, this Hyatt is not far from wineries and walking distance to many restaurants and shopping areas. Most importantly, it is a quick 5 minute drive from Russian River Brewery, our favorite place to stop for good brews! I know it’s wine country and I love it all, but this brewery is one of the best!

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Lobby

The lobby has a rustic outdoor chic decor with shovels above the fireplace and wooden sticks holding up lamps. In December, a beautiful Christmas tree is placed in the middle of the lobby for all to see and admire! Oh Christmas tree, oh Christmas tree…

Also, coffee is available in the morning but in the afternoons there was usually Apple Cider or Hot Cocoa out for guests (free of charge)! Such a great perk!

Just off the lobby is the patio with an enormous fire pit, perfect to enjoy a glass of wine from the vineyard you stopped at that day. ;-) This is the view for most rooms, there isn’t much of a view otherwise!

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Bedroom

The rooms are a decent size for 2 people with a very clean and modern design. I love that there are outlets EVERYWHERE and even USB ports to charge almost anything. Your standard amenities were available: safe, big TV, iron, and mini bar. The room is fairly quiet, you can hear people in the hall if they are talking by your front door, but it wasn’t too noisy.

Had a nice sized closet for a weekend stay! I always think it’s weird when they put the hair dryer in the closet!

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Bathroom

The bathroom renovation makes the bathroom feel twice as big with their fresh design. With a standing shower and a sink in the corner, this bathroom had all the space I needed.

Nothing makes me happier than a nail file! I ALWAYS need one!

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If you go to Russian River, you must try Pliny the Elder and order their pizza bites!

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HOTEL REVIEW: Cabernet House, an Old World Inn - Napa, California

Napa has quite a few options of places to stay and I loved our stay at the Cabernet Inn. This bed and breakfast had a different theme for every room.  It wasn’t quite like the Madonna inn, but still a nice place to stay! 

Related Post: Sonoma County Wineries

Located near the heart of downtown, nothing was too far! Restaurants, shops, wine tasting rooms all found within walking distance!

Also, the room rate was under $200 a night and came with breakfast! What a steal! We ALWAYS find THE BEST rates through Booking.com. See deals of up to 50% off! You can save a bunch of money if you book a bundle flight+room+rental car! They even have apartments, lodges, and houses you can rent, just like AirBnB or VRBO! By booking through this link, I receive a commission at no additional cost to you! PLEASE support our blog and bookmark this link!

This post contains affiliate links in which if a room is booked, I receive a commission at no cost to you. Please save this link! 

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Related Post: Napa and Santa Rosa Weekend Itinerary

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Starry Night Room

We chose the room, Starry Night, which had a skylight above our bed! At night we saw the stars and even the moon orbit from window to window! 

There was also a patio that had a jacuzzi tub. Not a whirlpool jacuzzi, a bath tub. Weird, right? 

We probably would have used it if it wasn't 40 degrees outside. Speaking of bathtubs, the bathroom had a footed tub with an old fashioned toilet where you pulled a lever to flush! 

I loved this room, I would definitely stay in here again!

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Bella Tuscany Room

The house had multiple bedrooms upstairs, but there were only 3 bedrooms downstairs. It was perfect, our friends picked the Bella Tuscany Room and it happened to be right across from us. 

Decorated with an Italian flair including some fine Tuscan accents, this room was a fairly good size! But it also had a bathtub in the middle of the room. Again, weird, right?

But these hedges and doors were adorable! This room had very little natural light, but was fine for a quick night stay!

Check out more themed rooms here: Cabernet House Rooms

Find the BEST rate for a room at the Cabernet House here: Booking.com

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Common Areas

Since this is a bed and breakfast that used to house a family (see the history toward the bottom of this page), it is basically a large house with the works including a family room, dining room and kitchen. Since we went in December, it was decorated for Christmas and felt like home!

There was fresh coffee in the morning and hot water for french presses, hot cocoa, or tea available 24/7.

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Breakfast

Served from 8:30-10am

For breakfast, we waltzed out in our sweats and socks and sat at the dining room table. There were a couple of ladies who had prepared the food and were serving the dishes. It was almost like a restaurant except everyone gets the same thing. I grabbed a coffee and when I came back to my seat a place setting was setup for me. Minutes later, one of the ladies brought me a plate that had an egg souffle, a cranberry muffin, and fresh fruit. DELICIOUS! 

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Happy Hour

The inn hosted a wine and cheese party at happy hour in their wine cellar from 5:30-6:30pm at their main location, Hotel Napa Valley, featuring local Napa wines. As we were finishing up, the power went out. Not creepy at all when you’re alone with your friends in a dark basement. Emergency lights lead us to the first floor and we discovered the whole block was out! 

Extras!

1. For a small fee, the Cabernet House can provide massages in your room, wine, flowers, and even offer breakfast in bed!

2. Room service hours are from 8:45-10:00am and from 3:00-11:00pm.

3. At 7:30pm, small handmade chocolate nibbles (made from Ghirardelli and Callebaut dark chocolates) are provided until they run out! 

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Parking

There was a parking lot in the back but there weren't any spots available. Luckily, there was a ton of street parking and we parked right in front.

History 

This hotel is rich in Napa history! Per the Cabernet House website, it was built in 1906 by E. W. Doughty, a master craftsman responsible for building many of Napa’s landmark homes and churches, including the Noyes Mansion, current home of Wine Spectator Magazine. Doughty also built Napa’s library and train stations. Many of his buildings still stand more than 110 years later, a testament to Doughty’s skill and expertise. 

Doughty built it to house his family and as such, it is a classic contractor’s home, full of rich architectural detailing he could show to potential clients. 

In the 1970's, a spa tub builder added a few spas in the shape of grapes and years later her actually purchased the house! He began the extensive restoration and renovation to convert the home into one of Napa Valley’s very first bed and breakfast inns.

One of the inn’s first guests back in 1980 was Paul Newman, who stayed here when he raced his cars at Sears Point.

Read more here: Cabernet House History

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Convinced yet?! Find the BEST rate for your stay at Cabernet House just like we did by clicking here: Booking.com

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HOTEL REVIEW: Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa - Best hotel in Maui, Hawaii

Our Best Kept Secret, Stay at the Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa in Hawaii!

The Sheraton Maui Resort and Spa is located on the Ka’anapali Beach stretch of hotels and is the last hotel buried into Black Rock. This place has EVERYTHING: gorgeous ocean front views, the best snorkeling on the island, a great pool, a relaxing spa, delicious restaurants, what more could you need?! It’s about 45 mins to an hour from the airport with a gorgeous coastal drive and just 5 minutes away from Lahaina.

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii

I might be a little biased on the review because two of the biggest events of my life have happened at the Sheraton Maui, first I was proposed to then we came back with our family and friends and were married on the property making this place unforgettable.

Don’t forget to wave to Oprah on your way (her pad is up on the mountain on your drive in).  

Relative Post: See How to Spend 4 Days in Maui

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Where to stay in Maui: The Sheraton Resort

The resort first opened in 1963, and is massive! Depending on where your room is, you’ll definitely be hitting your daily step goal. There are some pictures of what it looked like when it first opened in the hallways.

Everything you could possibly need is on the property: restaurants, spa, bars, gift shop, snorkel, and other water activity rentals. Nearby, there is access to zip-lining, snorkeling, golfing, shopping, hiking, star gazing spots, anything you can think of!

Check out what to do: The 10 Best Things to do in Maui

Parking is always available and conveniently located next to Whaler's Village, a shopping center with clothing stores, an ABC Store (good for snacks and booze for the room), and restaurants.

Resort fee and Parking

A resort fee of $26.04 is charged per night, per room that is in addition to our rates and that will be automatically added to your bill by the hotel. The Resort Fee provides the following:

• Complimentary valet parking on the day of arrival

• Shuttle service to the area Westin hotels and town of Lahaina

• Adult pool floats

• A resort photo session and digital keepsake

• A signature tote bag

• Access to PressReader

• Local telephone calls on Maui

• Wi-Fi access in guest rooms and public areas

• Access to the fitness center and coin-operated laundry room

• Access to the Maui Ocean Center educational Hawaiian marine life hale near the pool

• Trolley service in Kaanapali

• 25% off greens fees at the Kaanapali golf courses

• Cultural activities like lei-making and hula demos

• In-room coffee and tea

Parking fees:

• Electric car charging stations: 4, For a fee

• On-site parking, fee: $24 USD daily

• Valet parking, fee: $32 USD daily

How to get to the Sheraton Maui

• Airport shuttle service, fee: $60 USD (one way)

• Alternate transportation: Hawaiian Executive Private Car Service; on request

• Estimated taxi fare: $100 USD (one way)

• Uber and Lyft are available but prices can range from $50-100 depending on availability.

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Guest Rooms

All the rooms were newly renovated this year giving the rooms a fresh new modern look. We like to stay in Building 6, where all rooms are deluxe ocean view rooms. Although it is located on the opposite side of the hotel, the building is on a bluff above a drop-off, leaving the area quiet and private.

The bed is a perfect balance of firm and soft, allowing for a good nights sleep.

These rooms are fairly large for 2 people, and also have an empty mini fridge and a microwave, perfect for things like wine and popcorn (my faves). There are not mini bars in these rooms, so stop at an ABC Store and stock up on your way in! 

The bathroom has a shower tub combo, with a shower head that you can use as a hose, which is great for washing sandy feet! Their amenities are pretty standard with shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and shower cap. The best part of the renovation of the bathrooms is they added a bidet!

Honestly, it’s the view here that keeps us coming back. I mean, can you blame us? 

Sheraton Maui Views

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POOL VIEWS AT THE SHERATON MAUI

Swim time!

The lagoon-like pool consists of two big pools that funnel like a river to connect and even has a small slide. There are usually bean bag floaties available in the pool which are perfect for towing your Mai Tai around. They just added some lounges around in the pool cabanas!

You’re also a few steps away from swimming in ocean! Although it is the Pacific and thought to be cooler waters, sometimes the ocean is warmer than the pool! The Sheraton is located against black rock, which is the perfect place to snorkel! You can typically see turtles in Maui almost anywhere, but I always have the best luck when snorkeling around Black Rock. If you go in the little shallow cove, they are usually eating in there!

Although the black rock is dark and jagged above water, a beautiful reef lies below the surface where you will often see huge green sea turtles swimming around along with tons of aquatic life including butterfly fish, beautiful colored wrasse, rays and you might even find an octopus (if you look very closely). Watch where you swim, many vacationers like to jump off Black Rock into the water! If you’re adventurous, plunge away, but be careful climbing up the rocks! 

Please protect the reef and get some reef-safe sunscreen:

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Restaurants at the Sheraton Maui Resort

There are 5 restaurants on the property and beach access to more hotels and Whalers Village. You won’t go hungry, that’s for sure.  

Before you go, check out everything you need to pack for Hawaii here: Packing Checklist for Hawaii

Breakfast views from ROCKsalt

Coral Reef Breakfast (fka ROCKsalt)

I’m not typically a buffet person but everything here is amazing! There is something for everyone bacon, eggs, frittatas, pancakes, waffles, fruit, French toast, and there is also an omelet station where the chef makes it right in front of you! Definitely try the guava juice! 

Drinks at the Cliff Dive Grill

WATCH THE CLIFF DIVERS FROM THE CLIFF DIVE GRILL

Cliff Dive Grill

Located by the pool, great for lunch or an afternoon snack. Can’t go wrong with their burger or chicken sandwich. At sunset, the cliff diver lights all the torches around the pool and along the top of black rock, then jumps into the water. 

Mai Tai Bar

Similar to the Cliff Dive Bar, located next to the pool and a short walk from the beach, Mai tai’s are a must here! Food is also served here, sandwiches, burgers, fries, but this bar is only open from 10a-3p. Head over to the Cliff Dive bar for Happy Hour!

Shave Ice!

A Shave Ice spot replaced the hot-dog joint and I couldn’t be happier! It’s open earlier in the day and great for taking down to enjoy on the beach, by the pool, or even on your room balcony!  

See more of our favorite restaurants in our post, 10 Best Restaurants in Maui. 

Maui Nui Lu’au

Discover the remarkable stories, history, and culture of the Valley Isle and Kaanapali through the songs and dances of Maui and the Pacific at the Maui Nui Luau! Pro Tip: You can get discount tickets for the Maui Nui Lu’au HERE!

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ENTRANCE TO THE SPA AT BLACK ROCK

The Spa at Black Rock

We love getting our annual couples massage at the resort, especially after a few scuba dives or doing a trip to Hana (see our favorite things to do in Maui and Road to Hana posts for more on that).

We usually get a basic full body massage for 50 mins ($130), but this last time we went for the 80 mins ($180) and it was worth every penny. The spa rooms are patio like with natural sunlight peaking from the top, complete with soothing Hawaiian tunes. The spa offers a variety of massages and invites travelers to relax on the massage tables around the resort! There are a couple closer to the ocean for that soothing sound of waves crashing.

Ahhh.. it’s relaxing just thinking about it. 

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Perfect for a Destination Wedding 

Josh proposed to me up on Haleakala at sunrise while we stayed at the Sheraton in 2013. As we started wedding planning on our balcony, we decided we wanted to get married on the lawn directly below us. A year later, we were married on that exact lawn (Moana Lounge) and hosted our reception on the ocean lawn with 70 of our closest friends and family. It was literally the best day of our lives in our favorite place.

If we weren’t already sold on the location, the ice cream bar option sealed the deal! ;-) We had a lovely coordinator for the day from the hotel and they worked with the best vendors!

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Would you stay here?! Have you stayed somewhere you loved? Let us know in the comments below! 

We always find the best rates on Booking.com - always check there prior to booking anywhere else!

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Indulge in the Hidden Delights of the Museum of Ice Cream: A Sweet Wonderland of Art, History, and Unforgettable Experiences - Los Angeles, California

Update: Please note as of January 2025, the only locations open are in Austin, Boston, Chicago, New York, and Singapore. The location in Los Angeles, California, is no longer open and closed in 2018.

Check out the official Museum of Ice Cream website for current locations and tickets.

We went to my happy place, aka the Museum of Ice Cream, on April 30th, 2017. I loved everything about it since it was slathered in pink and involved ice cream and other sweet novelties. It's an Instagram haven, a social media dream, and a place to play in plastic sprinkles. Did you miss your chance to purchase tickets? I'll give you the grand tour!

Also, check out the best ice cream in Los Angeles ranked with a map: Best Ice Cream in LA

Welcome to the Museum of Ice Cream, where art, history, and unforgettable experiences swirl together in a sweet wonderland. Indulge your senses and embark on a whimsical journey through this delightful institution that celebrates the iconic frozen treat. With its vibrant and interactive exhibits, the Museum of Ice Cream invites visitors of all ages to dive headfirst into a world of pure imagination. Step inside and be greeted by a sensory explosion of colors, flavors, and textures. From a magical candyland, a sprinkle pool filled with joy awaits you, offering the ultimate Instagram-worthy moment. Explore rooms inspired by ice cream flavors like mint chocolate chip, strawberry, and vanilla, each one carefully curated to immerse you in the essence of these tasty treats. Gain a deeper understanding of the history and cultural significance of ice cream through fascinating exhibits that showcase its evolution over the years. Whether you're a die-hard ice cream fan or simply looking for a unique and interactive museum experience, the Museum of Ice Cream promises to deliver a memorable and delightful adventure. Come, indulge your senses, and let the magic of ice cream transport you to a world of pure sugary bliss.

Last summer I saw the Museum of Ice Cream in New York and thought, "I MUST GO, would it be unreasonable to buy a plane ticket just for it?" I didn't end up going and I'm SO GLAD it came out here. I started seeing rumblings on Facebook and my dear friends from all over tagged me in the Museum of Ice Cream post is coming to LA. My next question was, "WHEN/HOW DO I GET TICKETS?!" Luckily, we are platinum American express card holders and I was able to purchase my tickets on presale for $29! I ended up purchasing tickets a month in advance and for the next month anytime someone tagged me in a Museum of Ice Cream post, I simply let them know they were not to worry, tickets were sold out, but I was all set. 

Hot Pink Telephones

I sat with my sister the night before picking out the perfect outfit to represent my love and affection for ice cream, saying, "the shirt with popsicles, strawberries, or plain bubblegum pink?" The big decision was the ice cream backpack or my Kate Spade ice cream purse. I feel like I chose wisely. 

NOW ENTERING THE MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM!

There was a long line outside, which went relatively fast since they would let 12 people in at a time. You have a guide for the first 2 rooms and then you are on your own. There is a guide in every room to give samples, information, and make sure people are flowing from room to room. The only thing was, once you enter a new room, you can't go back. 

We were given our first ice cream tasting of the day, and I was excited it was McConnell's ice cream. The flavor was earl gray and biscuit, it wasn't amazing and kinda disappointing.

There were many rooms, here is a collection of those rooms to get the coolvibe:

VEN-ICE CREAM... I GET IT!

THIS ROOM IS BANANAS.

The next room had banana wallpaper that was banana scented and cute swings!

Hanging yellow and pink Bananas at the Museum of Ice Cream art sculpture

Ice Cream CONE textured WALLpaper TO MATCH MY sweet Ice cream BACKPACK.

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Next up, the mint chip room, where they are literally growing mint chip. “A fresh start is always an option. This room is for you.” So true! Also start fresh with the mochi! YUM!

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This room had a fun house mirror and an arcade game with sun block. Didn't seem ice cream enough to me but it had lots of PINK!

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The Popsicle and Gummy Bear Room

MELTING POPSICLES art exhibit at the Museum of Ice Cream

Trying to pull a popsicle off the wall

I WANT A PINK ONE! 

Giant Gummy Bear sculpture Art

MY NEW FRIEND!

In the Gummy Bear Room, there were giant gummy bears, and they give you a sample of gummies! They lady running the room had 3 fun trivia facts about Gummy Bears, and Josh knew the answers to all three questions! When was the Gummy Bear invented? Where? What flavor is the green gummy bear? 

IF YOU PRESS THE BUTTON THE LIGHTS ALONG THE WALLS OF THE ROOM CHANGE COLORS RAPIDLY.

RELATED POST: Check out the best ice cream in Los Angeles ranked with a map: Best Ice Cream in LA

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Charcoal Ice Cream Exhibit Room

Black Charcoal Ice Cream Sculpture by Abel Bentin

Peruvian Artist Abel Bentin designed this room, expressing the corruption of the world. Pretty dark and depressing for an ice cream museum if you ask me. 

Black Charcoal Ice Cream Sculpture by Abel Bentin

In this room, they served cones with charcoal cookie dough. It didn't taste very good. It was warm and the consistency was weird.

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THE SPRINKLE POOL

There was about a 10-minute wait for the sprinkle pool, which they let you in 8 at a time. Upon entering the room, you take off your shoes and put your belongings into their lockers on the side. You then have about 3 minutes in the sprinkle pool. They are made of plastic and aren't actual sprinkles! 

Sprinkle Pool - PLASTIC SPRINKLE filled pool at the Museum of Ice Cream

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Finally we made it to the last room where they serve ice cream sandwiches. Instead of cookies they used pancakes and put vanilla ice cream in between - I Scream for Breakfast. 

There was a gift shop at the end that had a few things, but nothing worth buying really. I was hoping for a spot to buy ice cream or a cone, but that didn't exist either. We took pictures of the merchandise instead.

I think I need an Ice Cream Sandwich swing for my porch!

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RELATED POST: Check out the best ice cream in Los Angeles ranked with a map: Best Ice Cream in LA

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Disneyland Resort Halloween Time 2018

The Disneyland Resort has really upped their game this year with the Halloween decorations. Not only is Disneyland all decked out for the harvest, but Downtown Disney and California Adventure are getting in the spirit too.

SO MANY PUMPKINS! Downtown Disney's planters were filled with perfect pumpkins! You can enjoy the spookiness of Halloween Time from September 7th through October 31st, 2018.

What started out as a "Mickey's not so Scary Halloween" at Disneyland with pumpkins here and there, Disney has added more of a scary element to California Adventure with headless horsemen and ghoulish echoing laughs throughout the park. I think it could be a little scarier to compete with Six Flags and Universal Studios, but maybe they need a few more years.

Also, don't forget to check out the Halloween decor at Disneyland Paris.

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CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE

Now, California Adventure has been getting into the spirit of themes and celebrations, such as when the Guardians of the Galaxy ride opened with their Super Hero promotion #heroup. Also, I love their annual Food and Wine festival and this year has been the best yet with new food options and adding a beer garden! ANYWAY, I am thrilled they have added more decorations for Halloween along with some delectable treats you cannot miss! Let's start with the main entrance during the day and lit up at night...

CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE MAIN ENTRANCE DAYTIME

CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE MAIN ENTRANCE NIGHTTIME

After entering the gates, Buena Vista Street had lots of bats and purple banners and lights, which I liked because it differentiated from Main Street at Disneyland that is filled with pumpkins and orange harvest decor.

I loved also the bats coming out of the top tier of Carthay Circle and the green and purple lights at night! My favorite is the Headless Horseman, who greets you just before you enter Hollywood. He laughs about it too. Muahahahhaa... Might be too scary for Disneyland, but perfect for California Adventure.

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CARS LAND - Halloween Time

The next area haunted was Cars Land. It was the entire street and they covered every inch of it. 

I LOVE these posters! They literally made me LOL, especially Hocus Spokus because Hocus Pocus is the best Halloween movie out there.

So I started to think that I hadn't paid enough attention to detail without the halloween decorations, because have they always had these tire planters? So clever!:

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS CARS LAND

I loved how they lit everything at night with green and purple lighting. I'm really glad I took a picture of this because I did not spend nearly enough time absorbing everything that was happening on this building.

Trunk or Treat… Get it?

Trick-or-treat! Speaking of, let's talk treats. In the Cozy Cone Motel, according to the Disney Parks Blog there were the best Halloween food options at the various cones:

·       Slow Burnin’ Mac & Cheese Cone – Fresh-cooked pasta with spicy red pepper cheese sauce topped with crushed chile-cheese puffs, served in a Black Cauldron Cone

·       Spoke-y Cone Macaron filled with marshmallow buttercream and candy corn

·       Junkyard JamBOOree Mix – Choice of flavored popcorn with optional “nuts and bolts” (e.g., green M&M’s, candy corn, chocolate-covered pretzels, Boston baked beans, etc.)

We had to try the Slow Burnin’ Mac & Cheese Cone and got lemonades with pomegranate limeade on top! Review: Mac & Cheese = good, edible cone = bad. It definitely had a nice spice to it but for $8 I was expecting more both palate wise and by size. The crushed chile-cheese puffs were a nice touch. As for the lemonade, you had the option to add vodka to it!

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ICE CREAM

At the end of Buena Vista Street, Clarabelle’s Hand Scooped Ice Cream had a treat that I HAD to try! The Bat Wing Raspberry Sundae which had white chocolate-raspberry swirl ice cream with raspberry splatter, blood-red sprinkles, whipped cream and Bat Wing cookie.

BAT WING RASPBERRY SUNDAE

I WAS SO EXCITED! 

They also offered a Spider Silk Ice Cream Sandwich, a black macaron with charcoal-tart cherry spun ice cream topped with popping candy and raspberry sauce, but we'll have to try that next time!

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COCO

There was a special section that was loco with Coco!

We started to trek our way over to Disneyland and kept finding cute decorations!

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DISNEYLAND

Disneyland was all decked out with pumpkins and fall foliage!

As we were walking around before the fireworks started, we walked right by the Walt and Mickey statue that had carved pumpkins that were carved from the front and back (they weren't real, but they looked like they were)! 

Haunted Mansion Nightmare Before Christmas Haunted Holiday

I loved Nightmare Before Christmas as a kid and love that they decorate the Haunted Mansion every year for the holidays. I can’t believe this movie has been out for 25 years!

THIS IS HALLOWEEN, THIS IS HALLOWEEN.....

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FRONTIERLAND

Dias de los Muertros took over Frontierland!

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SPACE MOUNTAIN

Space Mountain was even Halloween themed launching you into darkness with an evil space monster chasing after you in the dark!

What a great day! I can't wait to go back! Hurry baaacccckkkk, hurrry baaaaaaaaaccccckkkk! 

Reference: For more info on the special Halloween treats served at Disneyland and California Adventure, check out the Disney Parks Blog.

Check out what's new for 2018 on these blogs:

Disney Tourist Blog: https://www.disneytouristblog.com/halloween-disneyland-guide/

·       Check out what they say about Guardians of the Galaxy – Monsters After Dark

Foodie Guide: https://disneyparks.disney.go.com/blog/2018/08/foodie-guide-to-halloween-time-2018-at-disneyland-resort/

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Don’t forget these guys on your magical day:

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Malibu Wine Safari - Things to do in Los Angeles, California

Malibu Wine Safari – Malibu, California

Location: Malibu Wines | Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, 32111 Mulholland Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265

Website: https://www.lasafaris.com/#home

Hidden in the hills of Malibu are miraculous creatures that you wouldn't expect to run into, especially while wine tasting! 

Stanley the giraffe!

For my best friend's birthday, we decided to go on a safari, a wine safari that is! After all, it IS her birthday, so wine not! Haha. The price of the ticket was $65 but we had a special deal on Groupon. The jeeps held about 9 people so it was perfect for our group of 8. There are also bigger jeeps for transporting larger parties.

Malibu Wine Safaris is part of Malibu Wines and just up the street in a parking lot on the right. We checked in and were picked up in a jeep safari vehicle and ventured through the 1,000 acres of Saddle Rock Ranch.

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ANIMALS AT MALIBU WINES

The safari started by rolling through the property among the vineyards and getting acquainted with the animals. We were able to get up close and personal with them! Not only did we pet the animals but we also fed them! Animals included zebras, camels, alpacas, bison, water buffalo, yaks, and even Stanley the Giraffe!

Our guide was awesome! He let us take tons of pictures and showed us how to feed the animals or care for them with a sweet pet. We fed most of them carrots and boy were they excited to see us! An alpaca smelled my hair and I touched a Zebra, I couldn't believe it.

Look at the baby zebra!

Baby Zebra at Malibu Wines Safaris

We spent a lot of time with Stanley the giraffe! He loves lettuce and is not afraid to invade your personal space to get it! His tongue is rough and slimy as expected. He fur is coarse, but he has the best eyelashes you’ve ever seen! Fun fact: Stanley is named after Marvel’s Stan Lee!

Isn’t he the cutest?!

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WINE TASTING AT MALIBU WINES

We tried their 6 different wines (mainly Saddlerock wines) in 2 locations across the ranch and even gallivanted through the vineyard.

Chardonnay and vineyards

My favorites were the Sauvignon Blanc and the Sangiovese, Alexander Valley (but I would also never say no to Rose bubbles). At the second tasting location there was a cheese pairing along with the wine and they had a really good gouda. 

The grounds were gorgeous and had many different setups for weddings and events. If I hadn't already planned my wedding at the time, this place would have been a candidate!

Afterwards, we celebrated my friend’s birthday and enjoyed more wine at Malibu Wines where they have a lovely outdoor area with picnic tables and tasting bars. On weekends, they even have live music! Malibu Wines does not serve food but there is usually a food truck around. I recommend bringing your own food (don’t forget cookies or cupcakes)!

UPDATE: Malibu Wines tasting room burned down in the 2018 fires and haven’t reopened yet! But they do have another tasting room in West Hills: Malibu Wine and Beer Garden

Malibu Wines is the perfect place for any occasion: Birthday parties, Bachelorette parties, bridal showers, brunch, and friends gatherings.

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Malibu Wine Safaris Review - Los Angeles

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