You probably already know this if you follow me on Instagram and Stories, but I recently spent my 26th birthday up on the Mendocino Coast (like literally RIGHT ON the coast) at the magical Heritage House Resort & Spa. It is often referred to as a hidden gem, which could not be more true. Rarely am I left speechless, but when I walked through the front door of our room and saw the full ocean view I was just that –

Speechless.

We took the beautiful and scenic 3-hour drive from San Francisco to the charming little resort. It is only 3 hours away, but you truly feel like you have been transported to a totally different world. The second we arrived we were greeted with the warmest hospitality. The resort was so sweet and had fresh flowers, chocolates and champagne waiting for us in our room. Speaking of the room.. it was the most incredible place Patrick and I have ever stayed. Seriously though. Our room had a full kitchen, dining room, office, 2 fireplaces, and a HUGE private deck with chairs and a hammock that looked out at the most unreal view (you’ll see the view below! UN-REAL). Oh yea, and the bathroom also looked out at the ocean with heated floors, a large rainfall shower and a jacuzzi. It truly was a little slice of heaven. Can I just move in?

This will undoubtably be a birthday I look back on for the rest of my life because of how unbelievably perfect and tranquil the whole experience was. Each morning I woke up with the sun that crept through the curtains, only to see the waves crashing and the most beautiful sunrise. The pictures below explain the beauty much better than I ever could. If you are looking for a place to celebrate your birthday, anniversary, honeymoon – or just to escape the city – I highly suggest you visit the Heritage House Resort. I PROMISE you will be happy you took my advice!!

Each night we grabbed a big blanket from inside and cuddled up on the hammock under the stars. I swear the stars are bigger and brighter here. It is moments like this with Patrick that will stick with me forever.

I woke up on Saturday morning to the most incredible flower arrangements for my Birthday from Les Fleurs de Paris. Could they be any more perfect?! I felt like I was in a dream! And they matched my new Plum Pretty Sugar robe that I got for my birthday. So cute, right?!

Patrick and I enjoyed a relaxing breakfast at 5200 Restaurant, which is located on the resort. You have to get the french toast and a fresh fruit smoothie – SO good!! After being totally lazy all morning, we went into Downtown Mendocino for a late lunch and stumbled upon Goodlife Cafe and Bakery, which we both are STILL talking about. We even went out of our way on Sunday before driving back to SF just to have breakfast there. Like THAT good. Downtown also had the cutest little local shops. I picked up the most beautiful gold earrings for my mom for Mother’s Day made by a local jewelry designer and 2 ceramic, hand-made coffee mugs for Patrick’s stepmom! This place is literally a gold mine for cute, unique gifts!!

I begged Patrick to take pictures with me on the trip because… well, just take one glimpse at that backdrop and you’ll know why! I recently posted about the Bliss Tulle look here and the Leanne Marshall look here.

Location:

Heritage House Resort & Spa

Photographer:

Anna Perevertaylo

Flower Arrangement/Flower Crown:

Le Bouquet

Flower Boxes:

Les Fleurs de Paris

Clothing Items:

RomperRobeLace Tops | Tulle Skirt | Gown

If you choose to visit the resort, you can book directly through this link to receive the best rates. I am already planning a trip back with my parents – they were so jealous after seeing all the photos & videos that they immediately requested we go!

Hope you enjoyed this little travel photo diary!


Screen Shot 2016-08-31 at 2.10.08 PM