This summer we're taking Weezie on the Road! Come along as we bring Weezie goodies to some of our favorite cities. Each time we visit, we're asking our host to share an insiders look at favorite spots! Next up: Newport Beach with Allison Rolfes!
Allison Norton Rolfes is the Chief Creative Officer & Founder of @anrcreativegroup, a boutique digital media & creative marketing agency based in Newport Beach. The agency works with lifestyle brands and businesses to create elevated and compelling content while also providing guidance in social media strategy, branding, and partnership planning.
Allison is a wife, mother to two baby boys, William (2) and Oliver (4 months), and loves a daily walk to the coffee shop, going surfing with her husband, and hosting weekend dinner parties with family and friends.
Where to Stay...
Hotel Joaquin or the newly remodeled Hotel Laguna, are both nestled above the beautiful Laguna Beach. Both boast great views, a rich coastline and flawless service.
Lido House in Newport Beach gives off the ultimate beach vibes. With nautical themes and a Cape Cod aesthetic, this hotel transports you into the coastal lifestyle of your dreams.
The Montage in Laguna Beach is all about luxury. Perched above the Pacific, you can pass your time tanning by the pool, relaxing at the spa, or eating at one of their three signature restaurants.
Hotel Joaquin
Where to Eat...
My husband and I love a date night at Arc Butcher & Baker –– I get a glass of their sparkling rosé and we always share the wedge salad and short rib tacos!
Bear Flag is a great casual spot with the freshest poke burritos in Southern California –– get a side of Tommy Sauce!
A Restaurant is fun to visit with friends for delicious steaks and martinis, and the bar scene goes off at night. Next door is their sister restaurant, A Market, which has great coffee, sandwiches and chocolate chip cookies.
A Market
Where to Shop…
It’s not vacation without a little shopping! All of the shops at Lido Marina Village are the best! My favorites are Minnow for cute swim trunks for my boys; Sugar Paper, which I frequent weekly for cards and gifts; Jenni Kayne for chic clothing & accessories basics; and the newly opened Roller Rabbit for printed pjs and cover-ups.
Jenni Kayne Store
Where to Play...
We love to pack up the car with all of the beach essentials and spend the afternoon at Crystal Cove Beach.
Balboa Island is a sweet little spot with restaurants and shops –– grabbing a Balboa Bar (an ice cream bar dipped in chocolate with sprinkles and nuts) is a must! We also love walking the boardwalk of the island with the kids.
Whenever we have guests in town, we love to take them out on a Duffy boat. You can rent these easy-to-drive boats and pack up a cooler with snacks, charcuterie, and refreshments for a perfect evening cruise on the bay. Hot tip: Some bay-front restaurants valet your Duffy for a dinner reservation if you call ahead!
Crystal Cove
Not headed to Newport Beach, but making a stop in our hometown of Atlanta, Georgia? We've got you covered on all the go-to places. Our friends at Neighborly Paper put together the best Atlanta guide! Check it out here!