Karen

I am looking for somewhere nice (and safe) to go in
southern California for a holiday. It should be within 4 hours driving distance to LA airport (or be accessible by bus), clean, safe, affordable, and near the ocean. I am mostly interested in relaxing, reading, nature, walkin on the beach, that sort of thing. Interesting natural landscapes or features would be a bonus. Never been to California before and want to believe that it's nicer than the 6 o'clock news would have me believe.

Tricia

Hi, Its late and I've been in the Europe forum, but I live in So. Calif and I am a native-49 years now. I live inland from San Juan Capistrano. If I were you I would stay down by Mission Bay, near Seaworld. Nice resorts etc. Another favorite of mine is Santa Barbara, but of course that is further North, and the most beautiful beaches for viewing, rather than swimming are up around Monterey and Carmel. My daughter stayed at Mission Bay for graduation. I can get names etc for you if interested. Another gorgeous spot is Santa Catalina Island, 26 miles from the mainland. That's relaxing. No cars! You rent little golf carts and drive them around or a bicycle, walk, or tour buses into the interior where there are buffalo etc. The Casino, built in the 20's is gorgeous. And Wrigley's (chewing gum fame) mansion sits up on a hill overlooking the harbor.

Karen

Sure, I would appreciate any information you could
give me on the places you mentioned. The island sounds nice, but pricey? Thanks for your response, and I will look forward to the details.

ED

Hi Karen! One place that I would recommend in
the Mission Bay area of San Diego is the Crystal
Pier Motel. They have 26 cottages that are located
on a pier by the Pacific Ocean. The cottages have
kitchenettes and patios overlooking the sea. They're
located within walking distance of many restaurants
and a short drive to many popular attractions in the
San Diego area. Their toll free phone # is
800-748-5894 or toll 619-483-6983. They're listed
in Fodor's California Guide book so you might find
more info back on Fodor's home page under "Hotels."

Good Luck,
ED
a

Karen

Hi Karen! If you want R & R in a beautiful place you can't beat Laguna Beach. One hour from LAX, as safe as anyplace these days, and gorgeous. Not much to do but browse the galleries, shop the boutiques, and go to the beaches. We always stay at the Laguna Riviera--not fancy but right on the beach, friendly, big range in room prices. Most guests return every year, so it has a family quality.800-999-2089. My second choice would be La Jolla. Good luck. Karen

holly

If your pocketbook allows it, I would recommend staying at a hotel in the La Jolla area of San Diego. I have lived here all of my life, and La Jolla is by far the most beautiful beach area in San Diego. (actually, I think there is a Best Western in La Jolla that would be reasonable). There are many nice shops and restaurants in La Jolla, and the beaches are a little cleaner. There is a nice spot called the "childrens pool" there where several sea lions have taken up residence. Mission Beach and Pacific Beach are nice, but there is also a group of undesireables who frequent there. (alcoholic homeless/drug users/rowdy teenagers/etc) Also, on Sunday nights, the gang members from Los Angeles like to come down and cruise Mission and Pacific beach. La Jolla would be your best bet. Also, La Jolla has a very nice aquarium called the Stephen Birch. Good luck to you. If you need any more info- e mail me.

Ricky

If you could pass any info on to me that you find out I would appreciate it.