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This boutique stocks quality menswear, said to be the world’s most expensive. Client names from Prince Charles to Steven Spielberg are etched into the window.

LA’s famous art museum (see Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)) presents high-brow retrospectives of a particular actor or director in its on-site theater with a top-notch digital sound system. On Tuesdays at 1pm, catch classic films for a small fee.

This stately 1887 Victorian home has a prestigious address on Pasadena’s “Millionaire’s Row.” A sedate, grownup atmosphere reigns in the elegant public areas and all the eight cosy guest rooms.

This classy place in a beautifully restored Art Deco building turns out excellent French fare paired with one of the best wine lists in town.

This lively Long Beach venue fronted by a big patio books some of the best blues performers around. Catch emerging talent during the weekday Happy Hours (4–8pm), or hang around for the main show at 10pm.

Hobnob with the sassy, fashionable crowd while sipping a signature Blue Avalon.

A show at this landmark theater, founded in 1963, is truly a treat. Seated on a fluffy carpet, children watch in wonder as the cast of marionettes and puppets sing and dance before their eyes, sometimes even interacting with them. All characters are made in the on-site workshop and many are for sale, so you can take some home with you.

This esoteric bookstore specializes in New Age topics such as mysticism and astrology. Browse the shelves or attend lectures, you can even consult the resident psychic.

Enjoy the thrill of the waves while riding a boogie board to the shore. It’s easy and fun. All the towns on the beach have rental stations on or near the sand.

This excellent independent bookstore draws a sizeable celebrity contingent with its eclectic offerings, including international publications. Try and increase your chances of meeting a star by attending one of their book readings or book signing sessions. Call for schedules.