For a Peaceful Retreat...

...make friends in Topanga Canyon. Over this past Easter weekend I spent a relaxing, nourishing time at my friend's house (in the old canyon) where I used to do garden design. Cocktails on the deck on Saturday surrounded by rolling, majestic mountains. And a warm, delicious Easter brunch on Sunday surrounded by family. (Shout out to my bud, Special J (Julien).
You don't really need to have friends in Topanga to take advantage of what the landscape and town have to offer. There are plenty of trails to hike which I had done for years. Go into Topanga State Park and take off on several trails available. Visit the Nature Center in the park, where for 2 years I was a docent and learn more about the wildlife, botanics and geology of your surrounding area. Or hit the Backbone Trail off of Old Topanga Canyon and delve deeper into the wood. Stop at Abuelita's after for a mojito, margarita and chips & salsa. Or make a pit stop at Pine Tree Circle in the heart of Topanga and enter Waterlily Cafe for a refreshing beverage, a sandwich and pastry (both are 'locals' hangouts). Do some shopping in Topanga Homegrown or explore next door at Hidden Treasures for a vintage keepsake.
Just drive up scenic PCH along the coast and make a right on to Topanga Canyon. It's only 30 minutes away!