With a growing resume in the modeling, music, and acting worlds, Charlotte Lawrence is proving to be a true Hollywood triple threat. The young star, who was born and raised in L.A., has appeared in the pages of Teen Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, and her two EPs, Young and Charlotte, have racked up millions of streams online. The singer-songwriter’s hits include “Joke’s on You” (from the 2020 Birds of Prey soundtrack), “I Don’t Want to Dance,” and “How It Ends.” The multitalented artist also plays Caitlin opposite costars Rob Delaney, Michelle Monaghan, and Zach Braff on the Vince Vaughn–led Apple TV+ hit series, Bad Monkey.
Here, Lawrence opens up about her many Golden State loves, from her top dance destinations and surfing spots to the splurge-worthy sushi bar she just can’t quit.
Where do you live? Sunny Los Angeles!
Why there? I was born and raised in L.A.—specifically the Westside. I grew up between Brentwood and Malibu. My whole family is still here, most of my friends are, and I just love it so much. You’ve got the best weather, beautiful beaches and nature all around, and also a fun city life. And great food! I feel like the food has gotten much better in the past few years.
Who or what is your greatest California love? Malibu! Point Dume specifically. I think it’s one of the most beautiful places ever. I love to surf, I love the ocean, I love sunsets, and I love animals so much. Point Dume has my favorite surf in the world and the coolest sea animals—you can see hundreds of seals basking on their rocks at any time of the day, and dolphins and whales and starfish—you name it. It also has the most beautiful sunsets, warm water, and my dogs are obsessed with it.
What is the biggest misperception about Californians? That everyone sucks. Search harder and you’ll find the coolest, kindest, most creative, awesome people here.
What is the stereotype that most holds true? That we have the best weather. It’s true.
What is your favorite Golden State splurge? Sushi Park in West Hollywood.
Time for a road trip—where are you going? I am going up the coast in search of waterfalls, rivers, and nature galore. I love little beach towns that feel like Europe. There are plenty in California, like Fort Bragg. I also really want to visit the redwoods. I’ve wanted to see those trees since I was a kid.
If you could decree an official state culinary experience, what would it be? I believe Los Angeles has the best sushi. I think we’ve really figured it out. So fresh and delicious. So many master chefs from Asia have moved out here to work and I truly think the sushi here is phenomenal.
What is your favorite way to play in California? I love to play with my dogs and I love to go out dancing. I’d say my favorite dance spots are in Silver Lake. I also love a game night! My friends and I do it pretty frequently. Last night, we went to my friend Blake’s house and played Celebrity and Mafia and all the fun party games. I’m a huge gamer honestly: I’m a true backgammon addict, love me some poker, codenames, running charades, etc.
Where would you go for the ultimate shopping spree in California? I’d say the Silverlake Flea market. I love a good flea. There’s also this sick vintage store called Melet in DTLA, and if I’m really going to splurge, I’ll go to YSL all the way.
Best California song? Any Red Hot Chili Peppers song. They are literally California encompassed. Name any song and it fits. “Scar Tissue,” “Californication,” “Venice Queen,” etc.
How would your California dream day unfold? Wake up at 10 a.m., drive to Malibu with my besties, surf, and then get sandwiches at Le Cafe de la Plage. Go home and relax for a while, and then see the Chili Peppers in concert at the Hollywood Bowl, followed by dancing and laughter. Or have my girlfriends come over and have a movie-marathon-do-nothing day that consists of sweatpants and Harry Potter and Anarbagh delivery. Maybe those two days back-to-back.