About Los Angeles Beach Cities

The south bay area of Los Angeles is the place to go when you're done with the freeways, tours of the movie stars homes and Rodeo Drive. The coastal area and beach cities have many places for walks on the beach, drives along the coast, surfing, diving, boating or cycling. After a few days of lounging on the beach, swimming or biking, and viewing the beautiful scenery then you might have the stamina to tackle Disneyland. There is a 22.8 mile "strand" of sidewalk along the sandy coast from Santa Monica's Will Roger's State Beach (former Baywatch location) to Torrance Beach. Along this coast: The famous Venice Beach, with its wacky street vendors and entertainers is packed on summer weekends. On the weekdays it is much easier to navigate the walkways by rollerblade, walking or bicycle. The Redondo Beach pier has the famous Tony's Fishmarket and Restaurant, and other shops and restaurants, as well as whale watching tours (310 372-2111) Hermosa Beach has dozens of small beachside bars and quaint restaurants, as well as the Comedy and Magic Club. Marina Del Rey rents boats for fishing and offers seasonal whale watching trips (310) 574 2822. Past Torrance Beach are the cliffs of the Palo Verdes Peninsula, an area of unsurpassed beautiful ocean views. The land is constantly shifting and the winding, bumpy Palos Verdes Drive passes pristine coves and scenic views. There is a whale watching center and museum where you can learn about the migration of the grey whales, which can be sited from the area during the season. Also worth viewing is the Wayfarer's Chapel, a glass church nestled among the trees, designed by the son of Frank Lloyd Wright. Places to stay: Hermosa's new Beach House has suites for lodging with mini-kitchens, balconies and fireplaces. 888-895-4559 Santa Monica's Hotel Shangri-La (310) 394-2791 Marina Del Rey: Inn at Playa Del Rey (310) 574-1920

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