Hi Pooch - to really see the sights you do need a car in So. Cal. As long as you're not in rush hour there really isn't that much drama driving here...no roundabouts and the only time you look like a drongo is when you hit the windshield wipers instead of the turn signal . A rented GPS is also worth it's weight in gold.

A couple of places I'd highly recommend are the Getty Museum (not the Getty Villa) a bit north of LAX. They have a world class art collection, some of the best views of LA and the beach, free admission and only $7 parking. The other would be Venice Beach which has every stereotypical Cali nutjob you've ever heard of - a lot of fun.

July will be warm here, but the scenery is wonderful!