Inside SoCal: 7/17 wrap-up

Newport Bay Conservancy 

One of Southern California's finest wildlife observation locations, the Newport Bay Conservancy gives you the chance to connect with nature up close. The area, flush wildlife that includes crabs, mussels, stingrays, seahorses, native plants and birds like the snow egret. 

Newport Bay Conservancy is a nonprofit organization that dedicates their efforts to preserving and protecting animals within their 1,000 acre estuary -- unobstructed by the bustle of every day life. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, jog, horse ride, birdwatch, kayak, paddle board and more.

We spoke with the NBC's Heather Cieslak, who said that the local opportunity to experience such diverse wildlife up close is invaluable for guests, especially because you never quite know what you'll see.

"I hope that they get a little bit more appreciation for nature," she said. "Know that we are truly in one of these places that is just so special, we are in this Mediterranean climate where we have such diversity of plants and animals here -- unlike almost any other place around the world. We're so fortunate and able to have it, so once you come and experience it, you'll definitely be back."

The NBC is located at 2301 University Dr in Newport Beach.

Found Oyster

A local gem of a restaurant, called Found Oyster, provides the community with locally sourced and delicious seafood in a blend between East Coast and West Coast cuisine. The restaurant was started by Chef Ari Kolender and his partner, who both hail from the East Coast, with the intention of paying homage to their upbringing. Part of their charm is the effort taken to make sure that food is locally sourced or by well-trusted commercial means, often relying on either their friends who fish or their general manager's family oyster farm in Cape Cod, Mass. -- emphasizing sustainability for not only their guests, but for the environment as well. 

Kolender recommends the Maine lobster roll, topped with a lobster bisque mayonnaise that also features chives and serrano peppers for a West Coast kick. 

Found Oyster is located in East Hollywood on at 4880 Fountain Ave and is open Saturdays and Sundays from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. and Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. They are closed on Wednesdays.