Hotel suggestions
Helicraig,
The ramada inn that robinson suggests is a decent hotel, nothing fancy but clean and right across the street. I'd have no problems staying there again, i think it was about 70-75 dollars a night when I stayed there. (2006)
My personal recommendation would be to drive 20 minutes north on pacific coast highway and stay at the Hotel Hermosa in Hermosa Beach. Its easy to find, right on PCH, and has a ocean view. Very nicely decorated, clean rooms, walking distance to the beach. It was around 95/night when I stayed there, but that was on a sunday so I don't know how much the rates fluctuate.
Hope that helps, enjoy your time there!
Mike