Hello, my husband and I will be taking a drive from Carmel to LA. Are there any tips on sights we can go to on our way down. We would also like to settle down in the LA area for 3-4 days. We were looking for a nice, quiet, beach town (not touristy) that is affordable. Thanks

quiet and affordable beachtown in LA? hmmm, might be a tall order. maybe southern orange county (san clemente) or north county san diego (carlsbad) and do day trips up to la or down to sd. as far as spots down the coast, perhaps morro bay, hearst castle, maybe a winery stop in santa barbara county. ventura is also nice. good luck.

Carpinteria is 70 min north of LA, there is a Best Western and a comfort suites not far from the beach.

Nearer to L.A., the Quality Inn in Hermosa Beach is affordable.

What is your definition of "Affordable?" Between Pismo Beach and Morro Bay there are many hotels/Inns in the range of $100-200/night (and less if you find specials). Lots to do and see there and nearby. Long, long sandy beach for walks and other water activities. Water is a bit chilly though. Away from the main beaches are many quiet sections and coves. Same could be said of Laguna Beach in Orange County. Water is a little warmer, but prices are much higher.

There is a great hotel ,The Beach House, in Hermosa Beach,just 7 mi. south of the L.A. airport. The hotel itself is really nice-all rooms are suites with a sitting area and fireplace. It is right on the beach and you can walk to nice restaurants. You can get at different on-line sites for $199 to $208/nt.