For those expecting another typical airport hotel right off the 405/San Diego Freeway, the Ayres Hotel Manhattan Beach / Hawthorne is a complete surprise. The three-and-a-half-pearl hotel has surprisingly ornate interiors, and extra spacious rooms (all of which were renovated in 2015, and feature microwaves and iPod docks). There's also an outdoor pool and the restaurant has a great outdoor terrace. But some rooms have unsightly views of big box retailers, and while the short drive to LAX is convenient, the drab location surrounded by strip malls makes this choice less than ideal for all except those with an early flight out. For a more contemporary vibe and closer proximity to the ocean, check out The Belamar Hotel, a boutique with similar rates.