Hermosa Beach is a nice upscale beach just a few miles from LAX. Ventura is very nice and still has a small town vibe. Unless you really want to see LA or the Hollywood sign I would avoid LA with kids. It is very stressful getting around and a big dirty city. Where is the reunion and where will you stay? The beach towns north of LA are where I would go. Malibu, Ventura, Santa Barbara, maybe even up to Morrow Bay. There is nothing worth seeing in LA if you have never been to the beach.
The ship is at San Pedro. I thought I’d stay closer to the waterfront for a hotel, maybe an airport hotel? Thanks a lot for the beach information! I thought Santa Barbara or Malibu would be nice.
My daughter lives in Ventura and we’re headed there soon. Beaches are nice there.