If you're the sort of traveler who is more comfortable in flip flops than shoes, who prefers a laid back approach to vacationingand who wants to view the Pacific Ocean in all its glory than Santa Monica is the place for you.Los Angeles may have its share of smogand traffic but Santa Monica, which is a mere twenty minutes from LAX,is a sun-drenched haven where ample sidewalks for pedestrian traffic. All ages will enjoy the famous relicof Santa Monica....the Santa Monica Pier http://www.santamonicapier.org/). Built in 1909, this National Historic Landmark averages 3 million visitors a year. Complete with everything from a vintage-themed ferris wheel, roller coaster and carousel to cotton candy stands there's also rides for the totsand more food on a stick than you could imagine. Open 365 days of the year, the Santa Monica Pier is free to the public and parking is available both the beach and the Pier deck. The summer months brings a weekly concert series under the stars every Thursday night. Hit the Santa Monica Beach for a little more fun in the sun. This is the perfect place for avid sunbathers, surfing in typical California style and miles pedestrian roadways.The South Bay Bicycle Trail has 20 milesto cycle and you can rent just about anything to take youthere at Blazing Saddles (320 Santa Monica Pier 310-393-9778). Don't be surprised to see couples on tandem bicyclesand rollerblading mamas with their newborns in power strollers. Head down the path and a short distance from the Santa Monica Pier will bring you to Venice Beach, aka MuscleBeach as it is affectionately known. Grab a protein-infused smoothie from a nearby health food stand and watch gym-goers pump iron and flex their biceps. Catch up with the locals at the VeniceBeach Boardwalk. The jam packed stalls are filled with souvenirs,bathing suits and hand-crafted gifts. Artisans sell everything from hand made jewelry to paintings.