I recently spent five days in Los Angeles visiting my friend Sheena of Space.Plate.Create. I love California but this was my first time in this city. I fell in love with the city so today I’m sharing my recommendations on what to do while you are in Los Angeles. 

Day 1

Eat: Lunch at Larchmont Bungalow

Drink: Grab happy hour at Mama's Shelter

Shop: Spend the afternoon shopping in Larchmont Village

Love: Score some scenic views and Instagram-worthy shots of the Los Angeles city skyline with a trip to Griffith Observatory

Day 2

Grab a rental car from Skirt and head up the PCH to spend the day at the beach in Santa Monica and Malibu. 

Eat: Grab lunch in Santa Monica on the pier at Pier Burger

Drink: Grab a refreshing juice blend from The Hive. 

Shop: Spend part of your afternoon shopping at Malibu Country Mart. 

Love: Spend the day at Zuma Beach  and El Matador State Beach in Malibu. These are both great places to score some Instagram-worthy shots. 

Day 3

While you still have your rental car from Skirt head to Pasadena for the day. 

Eat: Grab lunch at Tender Greens. Order the Happy Vegan salad. 

Drink: Grab tea at this Intellengista, a trendy coffee shop. Order the Turmeric Tonic. 

Shop: Spend the day shopping in Old Pasadena. 

Love: Take the scenic route to Pasadena and drive down Mulholland Drive. You'll be able to get up close views of the famous Hollywood sign. 

Day 4

Eat: Grab some pho at It's Pho

Drink: Enjoy happy hour at the vegan Mexican restaurant, Gracias Madre.

Shop: Visit one of Los Angeles' many outdoor markets. 

Love: Start your morning with a workout at Exhale Spa in Hollywood. If they are still offering it take the Helicopter Skydeck yoga class. It's an experience of a lifetime. Imagine taking a yoga class thousands of feet up in the air. 

Day 5

Eat: Grab brunch at Tart. Order the chicken and waffles. 

Drink: Soak up some liquid libations and scenic views at Ivory on Sunset

Shop: Spend your last day shopping at the Grove in Los Angeles

Love: Craving dessert? Grab ice cream or dessert from MILK. 

Live in a city that you love? Want to share your favorite places to Eat.Drink.Shop.Love. E-mail me at Jewel@eatdrinkshoplove.com about contributing to my city guides column.