50th birthday/First time to CA

Question

My husband and I are driving from Houston, TX to Los Angeles (San Monica) in mid July, with stops in Amarillo, Albuquerque, and Flagstaff. We would love for recommendations for once we arrive to L.A. on where to stay ($100-$200 a night/3 nights, what to visit, and where to eat? Then we will be heading to San Diego for 3 nights.

What time should we start the drive to San Diego?

Answer

Arriving in Los Angeles, specifically Santa Monica, gives you a beautiful coastal base with easy access to beaches, restaurants, and attractions. For a 50th birthday trip, you’ll want a mix of relaxing beach time, iconic LA sights, and some great dining.

Accommodation suggestions within $100–$200 per night range can be a bit limited in Santa Monica, especially in mid-July, but there are a few options to consider. Booking early is key:

Seaview Hotel: A modest hotel with easy beach access and clean rooms.
Ocean View Inn: Budget-friendly, close to the pier and Main Street restaurants.
Mid-range Airbnb or Vacation Rentals: Santa Monica has many apartments or small homes for 3-night stays within your budget if booked early.

Top attractions and activities in LA/Santa Monica for first-timers:

Santa Monica Pier and Beach – enjoy the boardwalk, small rides, and ocean views.
Third Street Promenade – shopping, street performers, and cafes.
Venice Beach – eclectic vibe, Muscle Beach, and street art.
Griffith Observatory – panoramic views of LA and the Hollywood Sign.
Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre – classic tourist stops.
If interested in art, The Getty Center – impressive art collection and architecture.

Dining suggestions for a memorable experience:

Gladstones – beachfront seafood and cocktails.
The Misfit Restaurant + Bar – casual American fare with great ambiance.
Blue Plate Taco – ocean view dining with Mexican cuisine.
Father’s Office – famous for gourmet burgers if you want a quick bite.
For a birthday splurge: Water Grill Santa Monica or The Lobster – classic seafood with ocean views.

For your drive to San Diego (roughly 120–130 miles, 2–3 hours without traffic), timing is crucial:

Start early in the morning (7–8 a.m.) to avoid peak LA traffic, especially through I-405 and I-5 southbound.
If leaving later in the day, anticipate delays; mid-day or late afternoon can add 1–2 hours due to congestion.
Consider taking a coffee/snack break in Laguna Beach or Dana Point along the way to stretch and enjoy coastal views.

Once in San Diego, you can base yourselves near La Jolla or downtown for easy access to beaches, dining, and family-friendly attractions. Key activities include Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, Old Town, Gaslamp Quarter, and a harbor cruise or kayaking in La Jolla.

Overall, plan your LA stay for a mix of beach relaxation, sightseeing, and a couple of special meals to celebrate your birthday before heading south to San Diego early to maximize your three-day visit.

50th birthday/First time to CA

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