A Side of Sweet

Beautiful Food, Travel & Design

Guide to Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

Charm, beaches and world-class food! Everything you need to know about where to eat and what to do is in this guide to Carmel-By-The-Sea, California.What to Do in Carmel By The Sea & Where to Eat Restaurant and Travel Guide

We love, love, love Carmel-By-The-Sea and try to go every couple of months.  It’s an easy getaway from San Francisco but it feels so different! There is world-class dining on every block. It’s the “beachiest” destination in Northern California with its serene white sand beaches. The city is surrounded by wine country and there are many tasting rooms in downtown Carmel. There’s so much to do! In addition, it might be the cutest town of all time, with rows and rows of perfectly manicured cottages and charming shops.

This is THE TIME of year to visit Carmel! The tourist crowds have thinned and the weather is at its best. There’s really no excuse. Here are some things we love to do when we’re in town.

Read on for what to do in Carmel-By-The-Sea…

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Glamping at Mendocino Grove in Northern California

Glamping at Mendocino Grove is the perfect way to experience nature with all of the comforts of a hotel. It’s an easy weekend getaway from San Francisco.

Mendocino Grove Glamping Review - near San Francisco Northern California

If you want to be in nature and get away from the hustle of city life, but still have the creature comforts of a hotel, then glamping at Mendocino Grove is the perfect weekend getaway! It’s an easy drive from San Francisco and there’s so much to do in the area. 

Read on for more about our stay at Mendocino Grove…
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Wilbur Hot Springs Resort Review

Detailed review of Wilbur Hot Springs Resort in Northern California, with photo tour and tips for what to bring and what to know before you go.
Review Wilbur Hot Springs Resort North of San Francisco CaliforniaHot springs are pretty much a lifestyle here in northern California. The sulfuric waters draw people from far and wide to unwind, heal and disconnect. From small hot pots that require a day of hiking to access, to luxurious resorts, there are many ways to enjoy them.

Pat and I spent the weekend at Wilbur Hot Springs, about 2½ hours north of San Francisco. This relaxing oasis literally forces you to disconnect thanks to no cell phone reception and no electrical outlets available to guests.
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North Lake Tahoe Travel Guide & Things to Do

Everything you need to know for visiting North Lake Tahoe – things to do, where to stay, where to eat, best hikes, scenic views and so much more!

North Lake Tahoe Things to Do & Travel Guide

North Lake Tahoe is a nature lover’s paradise year-round, with a wealth of outdoor activities and opportunities to connect with nature. It’s also the place to catch fall colors in Northern California. We visited the first week of November and still managed to catch the tail end of the season.

Fall just might be the best season to visit Lake Tahoe. It’s between the busy summer and winter seasons, meaning traffic from San Francisco is almost nonexistent! It took about three hours to get there from the city. Off season also means it’s easy to get a table at some of the most popular restaurants and hotel prices take a dip. There was hardly anyone on the hikes we did and the beaches were nearly empty at sunset. If you’re lucky, you may even catch mild weather – it was in the high 60’s while we were there.

Read on for what to do in North Lake Tahoe…

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Wine Tasting in Livermore, California

When you’re visiting California wine country, skip Napa and go wine tasting in Livermore Valley. First on your list should be Wente Vineyards. Here’s why…
Wine Tasting Livermore - Wente Vineyards Tasting Room & Restaurant

Last weekend I finally had a few days off from the hospital, so Pat and I did the short drive from San Francisco to the Livermore Valley wine region.  Our only agenda was a relaxing day at Wente Vineyards. Wente is honestly one of the prettiest wineries we’ve ever visited. The white buildings remind me of our trip to South Africa. The temperate fall weather and palm trees really made it feel like we were on vacation…. Read More »

The Saratoga – Where to Eat in San Francisco

Wondering where to eat in San Francisco? Check out The Saratoga restaurant in the Tenderloin neighborhood for upscale American classics + amazing cocktails!

Pat and I had a much-needed date night at The Saratoga restaurant in the Tenderloin neighborhood of San Francisco last week and I just had to share it here on A Side of Sweet. We loved everything from the ambiance to the food to the cocktails. This place is definitely going on my must-eat list for San Francisco. Here’s a peek at our meal…
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