I got to spend forth of July weekend in Newport Beach and man was it one amazing holiday weekend. I got to see so many of my favorite people and do a ton of fun things with them. We ate, drank, and explored our was through OC. If you didn't already know, I went to college in Orange County so some of my absolute best friends still live there.

I actually don't even know where to start. If you follow me on instastories you already know it was a nightmare getting there, but one I was there, it was perfection. The weather was in the 80's and I was on PTO! No need to worry about work emails and I could just relax. My friends Sammie, Sheila and myself started the weekend off with a little best friend photo shoot. My girl Shannon Righetti of Shandru Photography happened to be in town for the weekend, so we got spoiled getting to shoot with her. The moment we got these photo's back we just about died.

If you ever go to Orange County, I've explored a ton! I will share with you some of my favorite things to do that I did this weekend with my these beautiful girls.

Eat at Javier's

If you haven't been to Javier's in Newport Beach, do yourself a favor and go! They don't take reservations, so show up early to grab a skinny margarita and eat all the chips you can. Once you get seated (sit on the patio if possible), get to ordering. My favorites are the fajitas, the lobster enchiladas, and the chile relleno. Don't go here if you're looking to be healthy, this is a splurge meal and SO worth it!

Rent a Duffy Boat

Every time I go to Newport we rent a duffy boat for a few hours. A duffy boat is a small boat thats usually covered and sits from 8-12 people. When we go we pick up a ton of wine, snacks and bring some music. It's fun during the day, but this week we went at night during sunset and it was breathtaking.

Vaca- Costa Mesa Tapas

We tried Vaca, a new Spanish tapas spot in Costa Mesa with Top Chef Amar Santana. This place was amazing. We ordered SO many things on the menu. Skirt steak, paella, brussel sprouts, shishito peppers, their kale salad, potato balls and calamari. I told you we went to town. Everything I would order again in a heart beat.

No Rest For Bridget

No rest for Bridget is a super cute boutique that always has the perfect summer dresses and rompers at a really affordable price point. Whenever I go to the OC we are sure to hit this place up. I just got this romper and am obsessed with it.

Corona Del Mar

Corona Del Mar is where we took these photos. There are so many little beaches that are definitely worth exploring. Our favorite is called China Cove. It reminds me of Italy.

When you're on vacation, don't forget to treat-yo-self. Our favorite is Dry Bar in Fashion Island. My favorite look to get is the Cosmotai with the ends straightened.

Drinks @ Bungalow

If you're in Huntington, be sure to check out the new rooftop bar, Bungalow. If you want a chill night out, this is the cutest happy hour spot around. It's brand new & if you go just make sure you order the Bitchin' Sangira.

Bear Flag- Poke

Bear Flag has the absolute most delicious and fresh poke i've had in California. They have a spot in both Newport and Huntington. What I like about this place is you order what you want at the counter and they put the fish in little tubs for you. You can either go find a spot to sit or easily take it to-go and have a nice picnic.

SoulCyle

When you're eating and drinking like me, you got to make sure to sweat. I love going to SoulCycle when I'm traveling, because it's one of those classes you can book with a group of friends. There's a pressed juice next door, so grab a juice after that sweat and you're ready to start your day.

Rollritto - Sushi Burritos & poke bar

Have you seen those sushi burritos online? Well, they exist IRL. This place has the coolest and it literally is rice, seaweed and all the sushi mix-ins you want!

There's a bunch of places I didn't hit up this time, but I will be back soon to continue exploring. If you have any must-see places, please share!