I have 3 hours between landing and needing to head to a work location to spend gazing at the Pacific ocean. If you had time to kill, what beach in the LAX area would you visit? I will NOT be sunbathing...just relaxing with a coworker...and a drink. She suggested going to Santa Monica Pier?

Where is the work location?

Manhattan Beach is very close to LAX. We spent a few hours there with our boys. There are restaurants close by. And there are bathrooms.

Where is the work location?

Santa Monica Pier would only make sense if the work location is in West L.A. or that general area. Manhattan Beach is 15 minutes away, and if you go there head to the Strand House.

http://www.thestrandhousemb.com/

Manhattan Beach boardwalk and pier. Unless of course your meeting is north of the airport and west of the San Diego/405, in which case Santa Monica.

Rooftop bar at the Hotel Erwin in Venice. http://www.jdvhotels.com/hotels/losangeles/erwin

If you enjoy people-watching and a vibrant, fun atmosphere, the boardwalk at Venice Beach--with a walk out on Venice Pier. If you're tired, maybe a stroll through the canals, as well. If you want something more "staid" ... then Manhatan Beach.

But like others, I'd want to know what direction you'll be heading.

unless you come back and let us know where you are headed after your 'beach time' - all these good suggestions are next to useless.

And the time of day could also make a big difference because of traffic.