Wow...
So much negativity. There is actually a lot to do, and it is perfectly safe.
I like to take out of owners up the coast to Malibu - at Ventura County Line, there is a great spot called “Neptune’s Net” - Popular with bikers, and non-biker’s alike. beautiful beaches up that way.. Whale watching, from the shore, hiking, etc.
There are a bunch of Catalina Island boats - really nice day trip to really see the Pacific, etc.
I would say that Hollywood is a bit of a bore, but then again, I work at Paramount Studios. (We have a ‘real studio’ tour - not like Universal, but I am not sure that it’s worth the money)
Also, drive Sunset Blvd. from about the 101 (or Downtown LA - to the beach)
‘Neptune’s Net’ is a place to go/eat, for sure.