Up and at it fairly early and headed off after our fruit and yoghurt to catch a Metro bus to Santa Monica Beach. Missed the first couple of buses as at the wrong stops (?!?) but eventually on board for 45 minute (or so) trip via Beverly Hills and West LA (for the exorbitant fare of $1.50 each). Didn't have high expectations of Santa Monica and was pleasantly surprised. Palisades Park, the foreshore area bordering the Pacific Coast Highway and the beach was really quite pleasant with plaques and notices signifying the start of the famous Route 66. And of course the renowned Santa Monica Pier. All timber construction with many cafes and food outlets with limited number of cars permitted to drive on and park. Then the carousel, roller coaster and other carnival attractions - it must be chaotic on a weekend or in peak time! Had a coffee and wandered then made our way down to hire bikes. The whole area was riddled with Aussies - got advice from a guy that use to teach at Bosco and whose daughter previously went to Aquinas and wife taught at Holy Family!!! Organised our bikes for two hours and headed off for Venice Beach - passing Muscle Beach enroute though pretty light on in activity - couple of guys swinging on bars and a girl practising some gymnastics. Impressed by the beach itself - a massive expanse of sand; loved the lifesaver cubicles scattered along the beach - how could you not think of "Baywatch", especially with the blue life saving vehicle patrolling up and down (though still not up to Aussie standards of course!). Bike track follows right along edge of sand passing many impressive hotels and apartments and beachside cafes. Decided it would be a good area to stay as so pleasant. Then Venice beach - interesting!! Talk about some sights - we certainly are tame back home in comparison! Although its fairly grotty with plenty of "down and outs" the spectacle was well worth it! Stopped for a slice of pizza at Perry's beachside cafe on the way back to Santa Monica. Much fun! Enjoyed strolling through the shopping streets of Santa Monica - first job was to buy a new suitcase to fit in all our purchases! Check! The Promenade street of shops was great - few more purchases! Had a beer in an English pub before catching bus back - longer and slower trip due to peak hour traffic but great people watching value! Showered and freshened up before heading out for our last dinner on tour! Fortunately found a fabulous restaurant round the corner on La Cienega Blvd called "Weho Bistro". Just beautiful! Raym finally had a steak - a sensational filet mignon. Perfect choice for our grand finale!