The Fantastic-Four “Castles” in Southern California^Featured

November 5, 2020

When you hear the word “castle,” you might immediately think of stone-spiraling relics of antiquity that serve as reminders of a bygone era of humanity when vassals, lords, and fiefs ruled the land. But “castle” can also be used to describe postmodern architectural phenomena that are as relevant today as they were when they were first erected. There are four prime examples of “castles,” re-imagined with class, dignity, and prestige for the contemporary Southern California resident. The Desert Castle in Palm Desert desertcastle.com The Desert Castle in Palm Desert is one of the foremost vacation retreats in the area. The 7-bedroom, 7.5-bath mansion is what opulent and lavish dreams are made of. The castle is situated rather unexpectedly on the 18th fairway of the Desert Springs Golf Course. The main house is beige in color and wonderfully rustic in design, with plenty of palm trees and welcoming archways for visitors. At night, the castle lights up with an attractive orange incandescence that infuses the observer with inspiration. Inside the Great Hall of the property is a particularly classic overhead mural on the vaulted ceiling featuring women (of possibly the Baroque era) playing instruments and dancing, in addition to a loving…

in Destinations & Landmarks

Southern California’s Signature Stairways

April 25, 2018

Southern California’s unique topographic contours have allowed for not only several “secret” outdoor stairways, but ones that wrap around, descend along hike paths, and surprise in sinuous fashion. Up until now, there have been eight stairwells in particular that were usually encountered by only land explorers, though are now revealed for all to revel in. * La Mesa Public Stairs Located in La Mesa, CA on Windsor Drive (between Canterbury Dr. and Normal Ave.), this stairwell will test your endurance and leg/calf strength. It provides such a lower-body workout that personal trainers are known to bring their clients here. If you feel up to the challenge, not only will you shed a multitude of calories, but you’ll also appreciate the exclusive ambiance of the neighborhood that contains the steps. * Hollywood Bowl/Broadview Terrace Stairs Comprised of around 420 steps and a distance of 2.5 miles, this staircase can be found on High Tower Drive (off Camrose Drive). It is very much in harmony with much of the cacti and fences of homes that embroider the path. For the sake of viewing Hollywood and the bright lights in the vicinity, these steps may offer the best views. If nothing…

in Sports & Adventures

5 Top Golf Courses to Birdie, Bogie and Backswing in SoCal

May 1, 2017

WITH COOL BREEZES AND CONSTANT SUNSHINE, SO CAL IS THE PERFECT PLACE TO TEE OFF FOR SOME GOLF FUN. WHETHER YOU ARE AN EXPERT OR JUST LOOKING FOR SOME CASUAL PLAY, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA OFFERS A VARIETY OF COURSES DESIGNED TO FLAG YOUR INTEREST AND KEEP YOU HOOKED. TORREY PINES GOLF COURSE William P. Bell, a celebrated course architect, designed and started this renowned golf course while his son, William F. Bell, completed it in 1957. There are two different 18-hole courses offered on the property, the North and South Course. The South Course offers lavish greenery with plush trees and rough sand for both viewing pleasure and an extra challenge while playing. This course also ranked third in Golfweek’s “America’s Best Municipal Courses” in 2009. The North Course drops lower to the ocean, which adds a more vast view of the coastline. In addition to the beautiful courses, Torrey Pines offers a variety of amenities that range from a restaurant, driving range and putting green. These courses are perfect for an individual looking for a stimulating game or for someone who just wants to enjoy the great weather and scenery. SANDPIPER GOLF CLUB Sandpiper’s history dates back to 1938 when it was used by ARCO for oil production. Ken Hunter purchased it in 1972 and transformed it from an oil refinery to a refined golf club. Now,…

in Food & Drinks

Go Green with So Cal Irish Pubs

March 11, 2015

There is more than one reason to “go green.” One involves the year-round conservation of our planet. Another reason to wear the color happens only once a year on March 17—St. Patrick’s Day. If you’re a Southern California resident or traveler, So Cal Life Mag has you covered so you’re informed of five fabulous Irish pubs to visit and and indulge in the most heady Irish Car Bomb cocktails concocted! Do relish in the luck of the Irish, but please drink responsibly. Dickie O’Neal’s Irish-American Family Pub & Restaurant 2155 N. Palm Canyon Dr. Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 325-2600, dickieoneal.com If you’re looking for the slight unpredictability of a dive bar combined with the warmth of a neighborhood family environment, then this is the place to be! You can also order a delicious chicken pot pie to go with your drink, like a Black and Tan, or Bloody Mary, which is certified as being the best in Palm Springs! Dargan’s Irish Pub and Restaurant 18 E. Ortega St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 568-0702, darganssb.com This establishment prides itself on attracting the blue-collar demographic, who can mingle and munch about while watching sports or…