trippinforfun

We have 3 days we will be staying in Hermosa Beach, on the Beach! So for our other 3 days, we want to do Universal Studios. Would it be better to stay at the Sheraton or Hilton Universal or stay someplace in Santa Monica, as we had planned to do Santa Monica also one day; the Pier, Third St Promenade, etc. I've noticed the lodging in Santa Monica is extremely pricey for what you get! Any help?

xkenx

If you are really going to Universal for 3 days, stay right there. Suggestion: after Hermosa, do Santa Monica on the day you leave there, then continue on to Universal City

lvk

You will not need 3 days for Universal Studios. One day is fine. The Universal hotels are a decent jumping off point for the Hollywood attractions. I believe there is a red line Metro train that will take you from Universal to Hollywood & Highland.

boom_boom

I've stayed at both hotels and would give the Sheraton a slight edge as a better place, but both are good and easy walk into Universal Studios / City Walk. Yes, at the bottom of the hill (5 minute walk) there is a Red Line stop that will take right into Hollywood.

martyharly

I agree with the other writers. The Sheraton is not located in the nicer areas of LA. You only need one day at Universal. Its not Disneyland. Stay in Santa Monica. Lots of good restaurants, shopping, beach, etc. Yes, hotels are very pricey. Try the Holiday Inn. Its more affordable(still not cheap) than the 5 star hotels, but still well located. I highly recommend The Lobster for dinner.

xkenx

Have to disagree with previous poster about "Sheraton Universal not in the nicer areas of L.A." It is just as safe as Santa Monica, and Universal's neighbors, Toluca Lake and Studio City, are pretty upscale, where most single family homes are over $1M. If it is convenient, do not worry about staying there.

socialworker

These kinds of posts can always be useful for general info, but I am guessing that the OP has long been back from the trip to CA, as the query was posted back in June.