A wonderful third stay at the ever delightful Burnham Beach House & Cottages! I can't think of a better way to relax, reunite, and enjoy the last week of 2010 than spending it on the 'compound' with Mike, Wendy and family!
With the Pier and beach literally right around the corner, the eclectic mix of restaurants and proximity to nearly everything LA, it's an ideal location for anyone.
With bikes provided, you can ride up the Strand (boardwalk ) as far as Santa Monica if you'd like; however, as I experienced myself on this trip, Marina Del Ray might be far enough (roundtrip it's a good 27 miles). Regardless, endless beach cities dot the nearby coastline and are in easy access with Hermosa and Manhattan just a few miles up the road.
And if the rare rainy day should rear it's ugly head, the Torrence Mall is just a 10 minute bus ride (#7 Longbeach but don't hold me to that), as well as plenty of other shopping/indoor experiences in any direction, inculding all of downtown LA.
Third time was a charm! Thanks again Stewarts for everything, you're hospitality, geniune nature, and homey accomodations create an atmosphere - no matter the weather - that is always comfortable and warm.

All the best,

Juris