Navajo Aviation CCR
Hi--I used to instruct at Navajo Aviation in Concord, CA. It's east of SFO (about 45mins, depending on traffic, of course).
Management has changed since I was there but you'll be able to avoid the congestion of SFO and OAK.
Vegas has less choices. Try North Las Vegas.
Los Angeles actually means "congested airspace" in archaic Spanish. Good luck avoiding airspace, congestion and reduced visibility--Lots of flight schools though. For a quick trip up the coast try Santa Monica, Long Beach, Torrance. For a quick trip to the desert try Van Nuys or Burbank.
Have a great trip.