A different kind of library

There is one place in Southern California that I just have to visit every time I find myself in that area.  It's called Sherman Library & Gardens and I was introduced to the place by Julie & Dave who have the Scottsdale Daily Photo and the Tamarindo Costa Rica daily photo blogs.  The place gets it's "library" name from its collection of books about the Pacific Southwest.  It gets its "garden" name from the gorgeous grounds and greenhouses that are overflowing with incredible plants and flowers.

The garden is located in the heart of Corona del Mar right on the Pacific Coast Highway.  It's hard to tell what awaits you when you are standing at the entrance.  In one step, you will leave the busy street behind and be transported into a beautiful, peaceful oasis.

You will see dahlias bigger than a dinner platter and…..

…..exotic red ginger blooms.

Stop at the garden pond and see my favorite garden ornament, this cute little patriotic otter who holds onto the watering hose.

In addition to the flowers I've pictured here, there are also roses, orchids, ferns, cactus, and succulents and much, much more.

If you are going to visit, make a reservation at Cafe Jardin, the restaurant located inside the garden.  You can sit on the patio with a view like that pictured above and enjoy a gourmet lunch or brunch that I guarantee you will be pleased with.

The menu changes often and features fresh and local ingredients.  You might get a tasty crab cake sitting on top of creamy risotto.

And you could finish the meal with a chocolate tart.  Then walk it all off while you explore the beauties of the garden.