What to expect: The three-story stucco building is across the street from King Harbor Marina. The small lobby is furnished with comfortable light-green sofas and chairs in contemporary tropical design. Located in a south bay beach community, the hotel attracts mainly tourists and families on vacation.

Amenity highlights: The outdoor heated swimming pool is large and immaculate, with a brick terrace for lounging, and towel service. The small, 24-hour fitness center offers a treadmill, two stationary bicycles, a stair machine, and a Universal machine. This Best Western's breakfast room has outdoor seating, and for guests in a rush on weekdays, a complimentary Breakfast on the Go is available from the front desk.

Insider tip: Southern California is a hub of beach volleyball activity, and many Olympians train at the nearby courts at Manhattan and Hermosa beaches. Tournaments are scheduled throughout the year, but on most days guests can find some fiercely competitive games on nearly any sandy stretch of the Los Angeles coastline.

What to expect: Vacationers and businesspeople are beckoned to this stylish hotel that sits right between the Pacific Ocean and a marina, yet is convenient to major companies and local attractions. Although the hotel overlooks the ocean, the actual beach is approximately two blocks away. In addition to the waves, guests are treated to views of passing watercraft, dolphins and pelicans, and a colony of sea lions.

Amenity highlights: Facing the ocean are an outdoor pool and spa tub, and an indoor lounge that opens at sunset for cocktails. The hotel's signature restaurant, Baleen, overlooks the colorful marina and offers a whimsical environment for fine seafood and other cuisine.

Guests have access to a 24-hour fitness center and complimentary beach bicycles. Wireless Internet access is complimentary throughout the hotel.

Insider tip: The Redondo Beach Pier is home to numerous restaurants, both fast food and fine dining, as well as various shops and seasonal events. Also on the pier is Harvelle's Jazz Club, a classy environment to enjoy local and international jazz artists.