OOO—Here’s How to Spend a Day Dedicated to Yourself
Between catering to busy work schedules and tending to our loved ones, it’s easy to forget to take time for ourselves. Whether you prefer a serene day at the spa or a quiet brunch with a good book, prioritizing our own needs and wants is necessary to live a fulfilled and balanced life. That said, get ready to take the day off and enjoy time to yourself with this self-care itinerary in coastal Los Angeles.
Show Your Locks Some Love at Bonita Salon
Located in Marina del Rey, Bonita Salon is a laid-back, luxury salon that’s home to some of the most renowned independent stylists in the city. You’ll be transported to Tulum as soon as you enter with the space’s relaxed, boho aesthetic. Whether you need a fresh balayage or a clean new cut, the experts at Bonita Salon will leave you looking and feeling better than ever. In addition to luxury hair-care services like extensions, cuts and colors, Bonita also offers a variety of treatments that will leave both your hair and scalp feeling softer, smoother and more hydrated. You can also opt-in for special add-ons like a conditioning treatment or gloss with any standard service. We recommend also getting a blowout to start the day feeling oh-so fab.
Location: Marina del Rey
Enjoy a Spa Day at Osea Skincare Studio
Osea Skincare Studio in Venice sets the scene for a beachside spa day with its airy, bungalow-inspired interior and plant-filled outdoor courtyard. This quaint and intimate spa uses nutrient-dense formulas inspired by the sea to aid in everything from anti-aging to banishing blemishes. Osea offers three different facials that range from 50 to 80 minutes, all of which include product credit for a little follow-up shopping. The Cranial Wave Facial is customized to your skin’s specific needs and aids in reducing inflammation, while the Deep Sea Age-Defying Facial hydrates and stimulates your body’s natural production of collagen and elastin. Finally, the Sculpt & Lift Gua Sha facial uses everything from crystals to vibrational sound therapies to curate the ultimate self-care experience.
Brunch at Gjusta
What originally started off as a commissary kitchen in 2014 has since turned into one of the most popular bakeries and cafes in LA. Located in the heart of Venice, Gjusta specializes in fresh-baked breads, pastries, seasonal sandwiches and more. The locally sourced meats and fresh produce yield high-quality results across the menu, but if you come after noon, you’ll definitely need to order the pepperoni and olive or mushroom flatbread. There’s no denying that carbs and self-care always manage to go hand-in-hand.
4/25
Get a Mani-Pedi at Ellie and Sass
Since 2017, Ellie and Sass has been welcoming locals and visitors alike to kick back and relax in the light and airy atmosphere while indulging in a classic mani and pedi. Ellie and Sass combines neutral tones, modern furniture and lush greenery to create a restorative space that is much more modern and inviting than your typical nail salon. In addition to luxe manicures and pedicures, patrons can also book facials, waxes and eyelash extensions and lifts, making Ellie and Sass a one-stop shop for all of your best beauty needs. You can even spend some time in the outdoor lounge, soaking up the LA sunshine with a good book in hand.
Shop Around Abbot Kinney
Abbot Kinney is home to renowned restaurants like Felix and Gjelina and high-end clothing stores and boutiques like Rag & Bone and Zadig & Voltaire. This palm tree-lined, mile-long strip is ideal for fashionistas or foodies looking to enjoy a “me” day filled with some leisurely strolling and window shopping. Treat yourself to a new fragrance at Le Labo or keep an eye out for your favorite celeb while basking in the California sunshine.
5/10
Buy Yourself Flowers from Flowerboy Project
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As Miley Cyrus sings, you don’t need anyone else to buy you flowers. Thankfully, Flowerboy Project makes treating yourself to a beautiful bouquet more fun and interactive than ever. This vibrant flower shop doubles as a coffee bodega, allowing you to get your caffeine fix while admiring the colorful and diverse blooms. After building your own bouquet, take some time to explore the shop’s apparel, jewelry and apothecary sections, or post up at one of the bistro tables outside to enjoy the rest of your cappuccino.
Head to the Proper Hotel for Dinner, Drinks or a Poolside Hang
The Proper Hotel in Santa Monica has it all: chic accommodations, a rooftop pool and two stunning on-site restaurants. With the only rooftop pool on the entire Westside, there is no better place to kick back and catch some sun. Enjoy a spicy margarita poolside along with a mezze spread and some garlic fries, or save your appetite for a sit-down dinner at Calabra. The sunset views from the rooftop restaurant are awe-inspiring, making this the perfect way to end a restorative self-care day in coastal LA.
Allie Lebos graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2017 with a BA in Communication. While in school she was a staff writer at The Daily Nexus for nearly two years. Since graduating she has written for The Palisades Magazine, as well as Hidden Hills Magazine. Currently living in Santa Monica, Allie loves to indulge in good food, hot yoga, and daily walks along the beach; writing articles on travel, special events, as well as features on local businesses and individuals.
