visiting Los angeles

[disneyred]

For those that know the area..which is better..for first time visitors and will be tourists in L.A....should family stay in Santa Monica or Long Beach..they are looking for a base to stay and looking at beach resorts...any recommendations? While staying at base, drive for all touristy stuff in and around L.A.
And which is more affordable.....

 

[sheetz]

I'm not too familiar with hotels but Santa Monica is more upscale and touristy, and WAY more expensive than LB, especially near the beach. Actually LB is known more for its port than for its beach culture. Rates at SM hotels within walking distance of the beach range from high to astronomical.

 

[bucsfan1029]

Just got back from a week in California - first 4 nights at DL Hotel, followed by 3 nights in Santa Monica at the Double Tree Suites. The hotel was about 3 blocks from the pier and the 3rd Street Promenade, so it was a great location. We were able to get to Malibu, Beverly Hills, and Hollywood within 20 minutes or so (not during rush hour) and Venice was just a quick 5 minute drive. Drive to LAX was pretty easy as well. I'd stay in Santa Monica again in the future.