Fall isn’t something we’re known for in Southern California. After all, there’s a reason why they refer to it as endless summer. So while fall has officially started, we’re still sporting sandals and dealing with days where the temperature gets up to 90. How can we make it feel like fall in Long Beach? Is the Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte and Autumn Squash soup at Panera really all that we have to work with?
Well, get your sweaters out and unpack your fall decorations because we’re about to find that fall feeling here in Southern California – regardless of the clear skies and pleasant temperatures.
Find Fall Chill Outside
When the season changes to fall, one of the best feelings is to bundle up with a warm beverage when the air is crisp. So how do we simulate that feeling and get into the spirit of autumn?
- Get up early. Yes, we said it, get up early. Coastal California, especially along Long Beach, Palos Verdes, and southwards into Orange County often experiences a marine layer. It can bring fog, misty air, and cool temperatures early in the morning. When the light is still low and the air cold and damp, there’s nothing greater than throwing on a sweater, getting a hot cup of coffee, and taking a walk down by the shore. Bluff Park and Seal Beach both make great places to take a stroll. A little farther south, and Laguna Beach and San Clemente both have that cozy small-town feeling.
- For late risers, open your windows in the evening and leave them open. Once the sun is down, our climate can turn cold quickly on a mild day, bringing in a chill from the sea. While it may not bring an immediate East Coast autumn feeling, it will substantially freshen the air in your home and allow you to wake up to warm blankets and cold air on your face. It’s a perfect opportunity to make yourself some tea and take in the morning from your porch while the sun is still low on the horizon. While neither of these suggestions really require it to be fall, they go a long way to simulate the feeling.
Venture Outside of Long Beach
Go on a Fall Hike
While some streets may have enough deciduous trees in our area to turn some leaves orange and red, going farther afield may provide you with even more. Try a hike in the Angeles National Forest or through the canyons in the Santa Monica mountains as well. To the south, Laguna Canyon’s Willow Canyon Trail offers views of the ocean and fall leaves.
Take a Fall Walk
Just a bit inland, Descanso Gardens is a nice place to take a stroll and enjoy a view of what many of us picture autumn looking like: golden trees with leaves falling to the ground. If you want a really cool day trip, head south to Palomar Mountain. There the variety of trees and damp weather will put you squarely in the mood for a pastry and a good warm cup of cocoa.
Julian, CA
A trip to Julian is another option. A historic mining town about an hour east of San Diego, Julian is a quaint mountain retreat with four distinct seasons. During the autumn Julian is known for its apple harvest and fall colors. This draws visitors from all over to stroll the historic streets, stay overnight in the myriad B&Bs, and enjoy apple pie and apple cider. Julian Farm & Orchard is still open this fall for pumpkin picking and hayrides!
Big Bear Lake, CA
Who doesn’t love a cozy little mountain town? If you’re craving cool temperatures and changing leaves, Big Bear Lake is a great escape from the usual SoCal weather. Their autumn season motto is “Fall into the Most Colorful Season of All”. Big Bear Lake is known for excellent fishing, snowboarding & skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. Make a weekend trip out of it and book a stay at one of the many mountainside cabins that this area has to offer.
Decorate Like You Mean Business
Obligatory pumpkins and leaves are cropping up in every store! (We’re looking at you Trader Joe’s!) So even though we don’t have “real” fall, you don’t have to abandon the idea of fall foliage and harvests.
Your garden and porch can help. Chrysanthemums come in rust reds, yellows, oranges, and maroons, and are perfectly happy to live in pots to the side of a door or on a porch step. They like the warm weather, have long-lasting blooms, and give you that little punch of color you wanted. Also, try growing some late-season veggies for an excuse to be outside early and for the benefits of harvesting in the fall. Root vegetables, broccoli, and other upcoming Thanksgiving appropriate foods are good options. More home-grown brussels sprouts with your side of dressing? Of course.
Bring some of that autumn goodness inside with you. A wreath, some spicy candles, or even just a few yellow leaves from a liquidambar or cottonwood tree can bring some color and a sense of place. Consider baking pumpkin bread or ginger cookies to bring the smell of fall into your home.
Oh, and by the way, now that we’re spending more time at home, fall is a great time to do some home maintenance!
Looking for some fun fall drinks in Long Beach? We’ve got you covered!
Real Estate in the Fall
Getting involved in real estate may not help the season feel more like fall, but it can keep you busy! It can be a great season for buyers and sellers alike. Plus you still have time to get settled before the holidays.
Buyers
If you want to spend this fall shopping for a home, there are plenty of great reasons to do so. Mortgage rates remain low and buying a home can lead to substantial long-term savings.
Sellers
Many homeowners believe that if they missed the spring and summer selling season, they should wait until the next year. But fall can be a great time to sell too. Especially now because the demand for homes is high and inventory is low. If you’re looking to sell your home for top dollar, there may not be a better time than now.
Get in Touch
If you have any thoughts of buying or selling, please fill out the form below or give us a call at 562.896.2456. We’re happy to set up a complimentary appointment and discuss your individual situation and options.
Enjoy The Idea
Don’t get too hung up about the weather and the fact many of our leaves remain green. You live in one of the best places in the country and it’s just doing what it has always done.
So get out there, put on that sweater, and find whatever pumpkin spice thing you want. Southern Californians have all the opportunities they want to enjoy autumn, just without the clouds.
Leave a Reply