Another East Coast editorial trying to understand Los Angeles hit the New York Times last week: "Something escapes me about Los Angeles. Wherever I go, I always imagine I’m finally going to grasp its essence." more ›

There's a lot to be thankful for, whether here in Los Angeles or not. Here a just a few... of course, themed to Los Angeles. First of all, I'm ever so grateful for the LAist staff. The dirty little secret that's really not a secret is that, save for Co-Editor Lindsay William-Ross (who deserves a big thanks herself!) and myself, everyone volunteers at LAist. They write and share with all of you because they have a passion for it. They love exploring and getting to know this city and coming back and sharing it with you. LAist is what it is because of them--they are the heart and soul. more ›

Recently, we've been sharing some sea caves with you over at Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park. Now we head southward to Orange County for a more terrestrial minded experience. 1,000 Steps Beach in Laguna Beach is a small and quiet and sometimes extremely private experience. There's no parking lot--park on PCH--and you do have to climb long stair case that's not quite 1,000 steps, but it can certainly feel like that many. more ›