re: Los Angeles

"Safe" in terms of crime or in terms of water quality? There's no need to worry about crime at any of the beaches, though I'd be mildly cautious about walking around certain parts of Venice or Santa Monica beaches at night. If I'm not mistaken, the worst ocean water quality in town is in parts of Malibu. Everywhere else is fine.

Also not sure what is a "reasonable price" by your standards, but there's a youth hostel in Venice and another in Hollywood. There are plenty of Best Western-type hotels scattered around town that are in good locations but aren't too expensive. Depending on whether you will have a car (a near necessity if you want to get around town... cabs are expensive, there is limited public transportation... though buses do cover most of town, they just require patience), you should stay either in Santa Monica (near the beach), Beverly Hills (centrally located), West Hollywood (also centrally located), or Hollywood (lots of the tourist stuff is up there).

Good luck.

This month, I visited the Santa Clarita Valley, one hour north of Los Angeles. It's an upscale, family-friendly community with so much to do. And if you want to take a day-trip, your options are endless. I'm going back in December because there's still so much to see! I highly recommend checking out www.scvguide.com to help you navigate the Valley--and outside the Valley! It was sooo helpful. I used it to find things that I wanted to do, and it showed me how to get there. Go to the SCV--it's gorgeous and fun!! :)