Originally Posted by
LAXative
Pretty much all of the LAX-area hotels have free shuttles. I'd use Priceline if you decide to make the last-minute change in plans to stay near the airport (and don't care about SPG points).
I've used The Custom in the past and like it. It's a funky little hotel, but depending how long the layover is, it's on a street corner that's got a bit more going on in terms of a good pizza joint, a fine enough bar, a good happy hour at the Mexican place called Cinco, etc... Free shuttle too of course. We had our wedding guests stay there and thought it was a better option than many other local hotels since people wanted to eat food that was a step up from what you'll find along Century Blvd. =)