I would say maybe try Beverly Hills as that is about 1/2 point from LA proper to Santa Monica.. not to mention there is more happening and it is a very nice area and nieghborhood.. I live in Hollywood and would definitely recommend the Hollywood Walk of Fame for some morning stroll.. evenings are very busy with tourists and traffic

The hotels you mentioned in Beverly Hills are exceptional and you will not be disappointed... $$$$ though.. and far beyond my budget to even try... The Sofitel is VERY nice and VERY central located in Beverly Hills

also look on www.yelp.com for hotel/ restaurant reviews.. they are great and I am on there as http://jumbojetla.yelp.com Great site for unbaised reviews of restaurants all over the LA area!


It has been very wierd weather lately from 70-100s over only a few days (but in Aug expect 90-100 city and 85-90 beach)..Santa Monica Pier also gets their new Ferris wheel this Thrusday

and YES you will need a car!! LA is very spralled out but everything is "oh about 25 min away" (very common saying)