But there is so much more to Los Angeles than ... some of the city's best sweet treats. For surfing and swimming, the neighborhood's north-end beach, El Porto, is relaxed and clean.

So before deciding on the neighborhood ... back vibes of a beach vacation. If the latter speaks to you, then consider staying ...

The swath of flat land in northern Los Angeles known as the San Fernando Valley (or just the “Valley”) is where the hustle of the entertainment industry meets the laid-back vibes of suburban life.