2-3 nights after Palm Beach conference.

Question

Im flying to LA May 27, renting an SUV, and heading out to a work conference with a friend and her 5 year old at the GORGEOUS LA Quinta Country Club resort (formerly Waldorf pre-Covid. I have 2 or 3 nights to be a tourist after conference where half my time will be poolside. I LOVE a good clean calm beach. Don't need beachfront or luxury (cant afford that anyway).but I've never been IN the Pacific Ocean. I require air conditioning, safety, a decent bed and close to shops or restaurants. Walking distance to a beach would be nice. I also love clear clean lakes and have no idea what a place like Joshua Tree would offer (limited hiking due to bad knee). I'm 61 and will be with a mom and young kid but possibly alone part of time too which is not a problem for me at all. Suggestions on places to stay. Beach or lake towns? Leave LA on Tues.June 3rd. PS. Social activism,nonviolent protest to save Democracy with my LA friends could become a priority.

Answer

Given your preferences for a calm, safe environment with access to clean beaches or lakes, air conditioning, and proximity to shops and restaurants, Southern California offers several excellent options for a 2-3 night post-conference stay. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan your trip after your conference at La Quinta Country Club.

If your focus is on relaxing by the water, experiencing the Pacific Ocean, and having easy access to amenities, consider the following locations:

Santa Monica / Venice Beach: These areas offer a classic Southern California beach experience with clean sand, walking paths, and a safe environment. Santa Monica has a wide variety of restaurants, shopping, and easy public transit. Venice Beach is lively and artsy if you want more sightseeing. Many hotels provide air conditioning and comfortable beds, though they may not all be beachfront.
Manhattan Beach / Hermosa Beach: Smaller and less crowded than Santa Monica, these beaches are quieter and perfect for calm ocean experiences. Walking along the pier and beachside restaurants are enjoyable. Hotels are generally smaller boutique or chain properties with air conditioning and comfort.
Laguna Beach: Slightly further south, Laguna Beach offers picturesque coves, clear water, and boutique shopping. It’s ideal for a relaxing stay, art galleries, and restaurants within walking distance. The town is hilly, so choose a hotel close to the beach for easier walking.
Lake Arrowhead or Big Bear Lake: If you are curious about lakes, these inland mountain towns offer clear freshwater lakes, cooler temperatures, and scenic surroundings. Big Bear is larger and offers more amenities and shops, while Lake Arrowhead is more tranquil. Both provide rental cabins or hotels with air conditioning and comfortable beds. Hiking can be minimal, and there are easy lakefront walks for relaxation.

For your particular situation with a young child and potential solo time, staying in a beachfront town like Santa Monica or Manhattan Beach allows easy supervision and quick access to restaurants, while also giving you a chance to enjoy the ocean for your first experience.

Consider choosing a hotel or Airbnb within walking distance to the beach to minimize driving stress and maximize enjoyment.
Check for pool access if you prefer some poolside downtime versus the ocean.
For social activism opportunities in Los Angeles, Santa Monica or West Hollywood may be convenient as these areas often host peaceful events and rallies.

Given that you leave LA on June 3rd, you could plan to spend 2 nights in a coastal town and, if interested in a lake experience, one night in Big Bear or Lake Arrowhead for variety without overcomplicating travel.

Overall, your best balance of ocean experience, calm beaches, convenience, and safety would likely be:

Primary stay: Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, or Hermosa Beach – 2 nights
Optional inland escape: Big Bear Lake or Lake Arrowhead – 1 night

This itinerary keeps travel light, ensures comfortable accommodations, and gives you your first Pacific Ocean experience while still allowing for local dining, shopping, and potential social engagement.

2-3 nights after Palm Beach conference.

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