Santa Monica

No wonder Santa Monica is one of the most sought-after places in the area of Los Angeles. This liberal, utterly laid-back paradise of sun-and-surf culture has a big bag of goodies on offer. Let's see...cool ocean breeze, long sun-bleached beaches, relatively low crime rates and lots of unpretentious charm that is not typical for such places as the neighboring Bel Air or Beverly Hills. That's quite enough for many to move house or just sneak away to for a couple of days. Santa Monica will give you plenty of sun and fun cuddles. Should you be tensed and worried, just hit the long sandy stretches for some surfing or beach ball. Fancy some shopping? Head for the Third Street Promenade, white stucco Santa Monica Place or some hidden pockets like Montana Street or Wilshire Boulevard. The Pier is yet another draw mesmerizing for decades with its most famous feature, the Hippodrome, and a handcrafted carousel. Enjoy a cheerful ride on one of the a 46 galloping wood horses or a leisurely stroll along the pier among anglers, wet-suited surfers or frolicking kids. Put the Palisades Park on your list, too, for the scenic sunset vistas.