Hi

Planning to visit from the UK in August for approx 16 nights.

So far planning to do LA-Las Vegas-San Diego-Disney.

What are the best areas of LA to stay in? Would like a hotel where we can walk out to restaurants in the evening and that is preferably on the beach!

Many thanks.
SB

Santa Monica?

My suggestion would be the Ritz-Carlton in Laguna Niguel. While it's not quite L.A. (the hotel is in Orange County), you'd be closer to Disneyland and San Diego, and the hotel is beautiful. Good restaurants (beyond the hotel's own) are close by in both Dana Point and Laguna Beach (not really within walking distance though), and a great beach adjoins the hotel.

I would suggest Laguna Beach. Beautiful beaches and lots of restaurants and walkable.

I second Santa Monica, if you want to be IN LA. It is right there, where the 10 freeway begins its route to the east. SM has the pier, the ferris wheel, beautiful beaches, a huge park for walking, some of the best restaurants (Ocean is my favorite), great shopping (Urban Outfitters, Anthropology, Sur la Table, and much more), lots of people watching, everything.

Last year we stayed at the Radisson there and very much enjoyed the hotel and the bar/restaurant on top. Fabulous views. I would go back there to stay in a minute. Or the Fairmont if you have a big budget.

Up the road a bit is Malibu, down the road are many other beach towns. Not too far away is Getty Center, Hollywood, Melrose, on and on. Just beware of traffic, which seems to be 24/7.

I would suggest Santa Monica. You have lots of UK ex-pats in the area which must mean it "suits" Brits. Lots of Brit-style pubs when you get tired of all your other food/drink choices. You'll have 3rd Street Promenade and other walkable areas chock full of restaurants. Terrific nightlife nearby and if it's your "cup of tea", Santa Monica Pier has a carnival-style arcade, rides and sights.