Cheap Hotels - The Coast

Of course, you can come to L.A. and find a cheap hotel far from everything and spend your vacation driving everywhere, or you can get a great room close to most of the things you want to see. That's not always easy, which is why we've listed three of our favorite coastal L.A. hotels for $99 or less:

Marina International Hotel & Bungalows--Located in Marina del Rey, staying here puts you close to Santa Monica, Venice and the Westside. It's got a pool, free internet access and parking, and fresh cookies in the lobby each afternoon. Their "Stimulus Package" includes breakfast.

Holiday Inn Express Manhattan Beach--Not far from the Manhattan Beach Pier and the restaurants and shops that surround it, this $99 spot (for two queens, non-smoking, advance purchase) also gives you a free continental breakfast and free wireless internet in public areas.

Travelodge Santa Monica on Pico--This one is in a quiet area, Trader Joe's market is a short walk, lots of little cafes are nearby. The parking is free, as is the internet access and most rooms have a microwave and a fridge. They'll even say OK to bringing your pet (20 pounds or less) if you call ahead.