We have been in LA a few times and lately in Orange County. We will be back to LA for 3 days and again to SNA for 3.

We like to have a car for freedom purpose but parking in LA can be a challenge. Any nearby cities/towns with shopping and restaurants that you may recommend?

Thanks in advance for your help

Pretty broad.Hollywood, Hermosa, Redondo, Manhattan Beach. Carpenteria in Ventura County is great (about 1 1/2 Hr drive)
Santa Monica and Venice are always fun. I live in LA. Give me an idea of what you want and I will try and give you some ideas. It's a great city with so much to offer.

Yes, you need to narrow it down geographically. What do you want to see/do while you're here?

We like Pasadena; have rented a room at Holiday Inn Express there @ $116/night including free parking & continental breakfast. Have also stayed at Hampton Inn in Old Town Pasadena but can't remember the rate there.

There is nothing close to Pasadena.

The west side of LA or Santa Monica is where I would stay.

Santa Monica is what you are looking for... near the Beach, boardwalk, Prominade, restaurants... the Pier is great fun and you are a bike away from Malibu and Venice Beach... center your search in that area... have fun!

Pasadena isn't a bad choice if you want to explore downtown L.A., Hollywood, the studios, and of course the museums of Pasadena.

But until we know what you want to see/do, we're just shooting in the dark.