This past weekend, my parents came to visit Topanga. It was their first time experiencing the canyon, and I wanted to show them as much of its beauty and spirit as I could.
We packed the days with hikes, local adventures, good food, and plenty of moments that reminded me just how magical this place really is.
Returning to Tuna Canyon
On the first day, Katy and I took them up to Tuna Canyon, the place wherewe used to live before our home burned down.
To our surprise, effort were already underway to begin rebuilding on the lot using shipping containers, fitting them with windows, doors, and patios strung with lights. We spoke with a neighbor about the fire and the rebuild plans, all while standing beneath the same majestic canyon views that first inspired us to move there.
As we approached the Tuna Canyon trailhead, it was incredible to see how the land is healing. Greens were sprouting up everywhere—wildflowers, new growth, and even newly planted trees protected by little cages.
Further along the trail, we visited a large grove of trees. Though some of the land was charred, the trees stood strong, reminders of resilience.
We also visited the meditation labyrinth - a place that Katy and I discovered when we first decided to live on the Tuna Canyon lot. To us, this space has always felt touched by something a little more ancient and mystical.
The Superbloom at Point Dume
The next day, we headed to Malibu to hike Point Dume during the superbloom. Waves of yellow flowers blanketed the cliffs overlooking the ocean, and my parents were visibly amazed.
We walked the winding paths out to the point, watching sea lions bark and sprawl across the rocky ledges below. It felt lucky to catch the superbloom at its height—a rare and fleeting spectacle that only lasts a month or two each year.
Exploring the Heart of Topanga
On the third day, we kept it closer to home. We gave them a full tour of the retreat center property where we live now. Afterward, we visited Topanga Rocks, a hidden gem filled with imported pieces from Bali—hand-carved Buddha statues, wooden tables, and chairs.
We hiked a little trail above the waterfall there, then wandered down to the crystal shop to explore. It was one of those days where everything felt simple and peaceful.
Sharing Meals and Local Flavor
Of course, no visit is complete without good food.
On the first night, we grabbed pizza and drinks at Endless Color, a relaxed local hangout.
The next day, we ate at Topanga Living Cafe—twice. (Their burritos were such a hit that my parents insisted on going back for lunch!)
That night, we went somewhere special: the Inn of the Seventh Ray. Set along a stream and lit by string lights and fountains, the restaurant invites guests to dine slowly and soak in the angelic atmosphere. A particularly loud frog in a nearby fountain serenaded us throughout the night, adding a touch of humor to the romance.
On the final day, we also had some great eats, spending some time at the local recreation center—first for the farmers market in the morning, then again for Food Truck Friday. There’s something grounding about seeing the locals gather: families spread out on the lawn, music drifting through the evening air, and good food shared under the open sky.
A Weekend to Remember
All in all, it was a beautiful weekend—one that blended the ruggedness of nature, the soul of the community, and the simple joy of sharing it all with family.