[Zeke]

Using Long Beach as an example, I drive them along Ocean Blvd from downtown to Belmont Shore and the marina area. Then I head up to Signal Hill which has a panoramic view of most of the L.A. basin on a good day, and at least a great view of the harbors, the airport and the general layout on as so-so day. From a perspective like that you can point out the mountain areas and the coast. Most of the world does not look like that.

If I were doing this in the SoBay, I would head up the hill in PV for that same view and hit a beach and/or a marina (like Del Rey). I'd probably hit the SM 3rd St. Promenade and maybe Beverly Hills.

It all depends on how much time you have. I've done the LB thing in an hour because there is a LOT you don't want to see.

Jared's recommendations look very good if you have that kind of time.