One night in LA
 

We have a stop over in LA in January, I have no idea where to stay. I need a hotel that will accommodate a family of four. I would like a lovely view.

Do you plan to rent a car to tour around in or are you looking for something near public transportation? How early do you need to get to the airport next day? Any plan on what you want to do or see on your short stopover?

We're staying one night in L.A. also and chose the Hotel Palomar in Westwood. Not sure about the view but it's a real nice small luxury hotel and has a package that includes a free dinner for 2 (sorry you'll have to pay for the other 2) at a very reasonable rates. You might want to check out tripadvisor for hotel possibilities.

A hotel with a lovely view would be in Santa Monica on the ocean side. Loew's comes to mind.

It depends on what you want to do during your stay and how much time. If you want to see some of LA and have a view then I agree that one of the Santa Monica hotels would be your best bet. You'd need a car if you want to see other sights.

If you just need a place to stay close to the airport, The Beach House in Hermosa Beach would be good. You are right on the water and there are restaurants close by. It most likely will be chilly in January especially by the ocean but you could still take a walk on the boardwalk. The Beach House is a really nice hotel and can be expensive but in January you can get some great rates.

What is your budget? Do you need to be near/convenient to LAX or are you using a different airport? Will you rent a car?

What times are your arrival and departure flights? (makes a HUGE difference re how far from the airport you can safely be).

I agree with the Santa Monica hotels for view, and walking about - also closer would be Marina del Rey and there are a host of restaurants there. If you stay in Santa Monica, The Ivy is a fun place for dinner (little on the expensive side), but you might see a movie star or two, if you are into that.

The Westin Bonaventure in downtown LA has a revolving restaurant at the top. As you dine or have appetizers and drinks, it very slowly rotates and you can see the whole city. The rooms are reasonable.