Life is beautiful. Life, full of joy, vibrancy and blessings, is beautiful.

When I went to California for a week at the beginning of June, I wasn't expecting much. Perhaps I was excited about the fiery orange sunsets and the unwavering palm trees, but other than that, I was just happy that junior finally came to a close. However, when I arrived, greeted with the blistering heat of the San Francisco air, I beheld a whole new world of beauty. Here are 13 photos that portray just the least of how beautiful life is. Enjoy.

Let's start off with California wildlife.

From escaping crabs...

Crab escaping from net. Claire Lin

to bleary eyed sea birds,

Claire Lin

and seagulls,

Claire Lin

and more seagulls,

Claire Lin

California wildlife could hardly compare to the squirrels of Atlanta. Oh, did I mention seals too?

Claire Lin

Moving on to plants now, these Instagram-worthy succulents could work with #nofilter.

Claire Lin

Claire Lin

And let's not forget the scenic views of California's beaches.

Claire Lin

While nature held the keys to life, man-made architecture also captured hearts from around the world.

Claire Lin

Claire Lin

Rodeo drive held (perhaps) the most beautiful scenes inside and outside its luxury boutiques.

Claire Lin

And, of course, we must all try In-and-Out!

Claire Lin

And finally, even on the way home, beauty continued to flourish in the air.

Claire Lin

Disclaimer: All photos are my own unless stated.