Long Beach

One of Long Beach’s advantages is its proximity to L.A. and Orange Counties. What's more, you have the beach and the mountains, which opens up a world of active possibilities. Rent a paddleboard or kayak. Aloha SUP Rentals (alohasuprentals.com) in Long Beach is a good place to start—or just go bodysurfing. If you’re more land-focused, grab a bike or some in-line skates and cruise along the shoreline path, which runs from downtown Long Beach to Belmont Shore.

Where the athletes eat: Schooner or Later ($; 562/430-3495), right on the water in Long Beach, serves all-American fare for breakfast and lunch. You also can't go wrong at any of the cliffside restaurants along the Newport Coast, where you can watch the sunset, go tidepooling, and maybe spot a dolphin.