Best brunch-beach combos during study breaks

There’s no better way to enjoy a day of California sunshine than brunch on a beach. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, here are the best spots to enjoy a meal and study break before you head out to the water.  

1. Malibu – Malibu Farm  

Malibu is a little slice of paradise and entirely worth the trek up Highway 1. The panoramic views of the California coastline from your rearview mirrors are breathtaking and the perfect escape from the stress of midterms. If the beach isn’t reason enough to make the trip up the coast, the best brunch destination is hands down Malibu Farm Café. Located at the end of the Malibu pier, you can enjoy your food with a 360-degree of the ocean. Their menu features brunch essentials including a smoked salmon scramble, breakfast burrito and my personal favorite, the Swedish mini pancakes with sliced strawberries and whipped cream. To drink, the fresh pressed watermelon juice is a must or, if you need a little boost, the iced caramel latte. All beverages are served in mason jars – definitely Insta-worthy!

2. Santa Monica – Huckleberry

This cute café located a five-minute drive from the quintessential Santa Monica Pier is well worth the traffic of the 10 West. Whether you have a sweet tooth or a taste for savory, Huckleberry has it all. For all you health nuts out there, Huckleberry offers quinoa with vegetables and eggs sunny-side-up. If your mouth isn’t watering yet, let’s talk about their pastries. Huckleberry’s baked goods are the best in the game ranging from maple pecan donuts to strawberry cream cheese cupcakes to brioche donut holes.

3. Manhattan Beach – The Strand House

Manhattan Beach is a sweet escape just a short drive south of USC studded with cute cafes, shops and stunning scenery. My favorite brunch spot is The Strand House, which features prime ocean views and breakfast staples some of which include lemon ricotta pancakes, huevos rancheros and a salmon eggs Benedict. And did I mention they have homemade cinnamon rolls? To drink, I’d go with the fresh pressed grapefruit juice. Or, if you need a little pick-me-up, go for the “Sunrise Over Manhattan Beach,” which has prosecco, fresh tangerine juice and blood orange cordial. Oh, so refreshing!

4. Laguna Beach – Banzai Bowls

If you haven’t hopped on the acai bowl bandwagon yet, you’re missing out. This tantalizing treat is the perfect way to start your day. And you might as well enjoy it on the beach. Banzai bowls has the freshest ingredients blended to perfection with toppings to die for including coconut shavings and chia seeds. This oh-so-healthy breakfast will leave you feeling energized and refreshed for a day spent with your toes in the sand.