While Marina Del Rey isn't the best known place to stay in L.A., it is certainly the best beach location for flights you may take at LAX--and for that, you have to pay the price. Pilots, business travelers, and us regular folks who need a getaway find Marina del Rey offers some really great attractions and events, as well.

In addition to annual fireworks over the marina, a Christmas boat parade, summer concerts and outdoor beach and boating fun, the Hornblower Cruises and Events yacht sets out for brunch and dinner cruises that include dancing. One of our favorite spots to do a Hornblower Cruise, the cruise passes by celebrity homes, looks out to the ocean, the bay, and up to the hillsides lined with unique homes.

Marina del Rey is quite popular for overnight stays not simply because of its location to the international airport. It also is a bit upscale in its neighborhoods, shopping and commerce, making it a desirable destination for tourists to visit.

In the bay with a Mother's Beach and Marriott on site, there are opportunities to rent kayaks, sunbathe, have picnics, let the kids play on the sandy playground equipment, and dine at some top notch chain restaurants such as The Cheesecake Factory.

Hotels on the water include simple, affordable offerings with the same great location as the upscale, five diamond Ritz Carlton Marina del Rey. We've actually tried both types of accommodations and feel that they satisfy most travelers' needs, based on how much they want to spend each time around.

While families enjoy the destination for its kid-friendly focus, nightlife is equally appealing to the adult crowd seeking a club atmosphere.

What you especially will enjoy when visiting Marina del Rey is the shimmering reflections of the high-rise condos on they marina waters, especially at night. It looks like a mini-Chicago lakefront scene, minus the cold temperatures the windy city is known for. Marina del Rey is just the opposite. It's a Mediterranean climate of sunny, warm days, a beach balm, swaying palms, and not much cold weather, if any at all.

Fine clothiers, fancy food markets, spas, salons, sports shops and great restaurants all set the stage for an excellent trip and stay in Marina del Rey.