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TAKE NOTE

By Allison Hata | Contributor

SUMMER 2024 ISSUE

SPRING 2024 ISSUE

A RARE DINING EXPERIENCE

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Photo courtesy of Rare Society

Looking for a summer dining experience that combines the sizzle of a steakhouse with the cool breeze of the coast? Head to Rare Society in San Clemente, where vintage Las Vegas glam meets modern seaside dining. The family-style menu is a carnivore’s dream, featuring the signature wood-fired, Santa Maria-style grilled steak and other cuts like the succulent Snake River Farms Wagyu tri-tip and the 35-day dry-aged bone-in ribeye. For those who prefer surf over turf, the raw bar serves up fresh oysters on the half shell and a seafood tower that’s as impressive as it is tasty. Let's not forget the progressive cocktails that are perfect on a warm night, including The Bookkeeper, made with mezcal, grapefruit, lime and cinnamon. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, Rare Society is the place where summer evenings come alive with delectable dishes, vibrant vibes and unforgettable memories.

 

RARESOCIETY.COM | IG: @RARESOCIETYSTEAKHOUSE — A.E. 

SAILING UNDER THE STARS

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Photo courtesy of Ocean Institute

Embark on a summer night’s dream with the Ocean Institute’s bioluminescent cruises. Just as dusk falls over the Pacific Ocean, the R/V Sea Explorer sets sail off the coast of Dana Point and promises a spectacle of light, where marine life like plankton, squid and fish illuminate the waters with their natural luminescence. This two-hour voyage is a maritime ballet, a dance of light and life, all under the starry embrace of a summer night. Don’t miss this luminous adventure, which is only offered through October. 

 

OCEANINSTITUTE.ORG | IG: @OCEAN_INSTUTUTE — A.E. 

A NEW ERA FOR AN ICONIC DESTINATION

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Photo courtesy of The Resort at Pelican Hill

The Resort at Pelican Hill, a beacon of luxury on the Newport Coast, is embarking on a new journey under Marriott International’s stewardship, transitioning under its management beginning July 1. Bringing the coastal five-star resort under the fold of Marriott's global hospitality portfolio is sure to bring enhanced experiences, including access to the Marriott Bonvoy program and rewards. Marriott will operate the 504-acre destination under the current name until it transitions to the St. Regis brand at a later date. As the doors open to this new era, locals and guests can expect a seamless blend of Pelican Hill’s iconic charm with the longstanding heritage and bespoke service of St. Regis. 

 

PELICANHILL.COM | IG: @PELICANHILLRESORT —A.E. 

PICTURE-PERFECT POP-UP

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Photo courtesy of Culterra

For fine art photographer and filmmaker Taylor O’Sullivan, one thing is clear: If you take the time to stop and look at the world around you, you’ll find beauty in nature. Nowhere is this more evident than at Culterra, a pop-up gallery opened by Taylor in early June. “I really didn’t see anything like Culterra in Laguna Beach,” she says. “… Nature’s artistry is everywhere you look. The gallery itself is steps from the ocean, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.”

 

Open through July 25, the space offers museum-quality prints for the home, with materials sourced from Italy and framed locally. These snapshots explore scenic destinations from across the globe, running the gamut from aerial shots and landscapes to minimalist and abstract pieces. Stunning images from Slovenian rivers, the Egyptian desert and Italy’s verdant mountains are nestled among photographs taken at beaches in Laguna Beach and San Clemente. After the pop-up runs its course, her work will be available on the Culterra website with customizable sizes, styles and frames. 

 

CULTERRA.ART | IG: @CULTERRA_ —A.R.

RESCUE AND RELEASE

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Photo courtesy of Pacific Marine Mammal Center

From the mountains to the oceans, Orange County’s wildlife is surrounded by things that can cause them harm. For local pinnipeds, the most common issues arise from injuries due to boats, fishing line, nets and humans themselves, or illnesses like infection, pneumonia and malnourishment. The Laguna Beach-based nonprofit Pacific Marine Mammal Center (PMMC) is quick to step in and provide a safe space where seals and sea lions can rest and recover.

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Summer is one of the center’s busiest seasons, with events taking place regularly to release rehabilitated patients back to the sea. Few things are as heartwarming as watching these playful creatures return home. While the center undergoes a renovation and expansion, supporters can stay connected by purchasing an annual pass that will provide access to these release events. Available on the PMMC website for $300, the passes include an invitation for you and a guest for all events for one year. Proceeds will allow the center to buy fish (a.k.a. food) and medicine for its pinniped patients and provide specialized care and treatment. 

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Last year, PMMC rescued more than 260 patients from the ocean and welcomed more than 38,000 people to its facility in Laguna Canyon. When the center reopens, tentatively scheduled for this fall, it will resume its education, ocean stewardship and outreach programs to ensure a better marine environment for these spirited creatures. 

 

PACIFICMMC.ORG | IG: @PACIFICMMC —A.R.

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