I'm looking for recommendations on places to go, things to do, and restaurants to try out. I'd love to know from locals where the hotspots are. I'll be staying in Santa Monica and then heading to San Diego next. I'll be showing my GF around who's never been there before.

All I've got so far is...

Hollywood sign
Walk of fame
Chinese theatre
Getty Museum
Rodeo Dr.
Japan/Korea Town
Checking out Monterey Park & Arcadia for asian food
Drive to Malibu on PCH

San Diego:
Wave House
Torey pines
Coronado Island (possibly take ferry over)
Wild Animal Park
Zoo

 

I dont know what sort of time frame you are working in, but if you hit all those spots in LA area in a weekend, you should stay at a hotel that has a spa and good room service because are going to want to kill yourself from driving all over town, parking and then walking... But if you have the energy - add in Water Grill for dinner in LA and Maestro's for a dinner in OC. Bring a sturdy credit card.

 

I'll be spending 3 days in Santa Monica and 3 days in SD.

 

The Grove and the adjacent Original Farmer's Market
The Grove

www.thegrovela.com


World famous restaurant in Arcadia:

Din Tai Fung Dumpling House

www.dintaifungusa.com

 

The Grove looks interesting. I've actually been to Din Tai Fung already. She's already been there too. No big deal anymore.

 

On your way from SM to SD do yourself a favor & stop at the Montage Resort in Laguna beach on PCH & just walk through the gardens & have lunch ,this is probably the most picturesque stretch of beach in Socal imho.

 

Red Pearl Kitchen

redpearlkitchen.com
440 J Street
San Diego, CA 92101-6980
(619) 231-1100

Great spot for dinner. I'll add some more suggestions later. Gotta get to sleep.