My wife wants to book a Baja cruise on Royal Caribbean Cruise Line. It will depart LA, got to SD, then Catalina Island, Ensenada, then return to LA. She wants to arrive a day or two early and visit LA. If we arrive early, can I rent a car and drive around safely? Also, what's to visit for the day? If you're wondering why we don't just grab a cruise in FL, it's hurricane season and we've cruised every island here in the Caribbean. Anyway, let the comments fly...

If you can afford a cruise you can rent a car. Tons of stuff to see and do around L.A. Museums, Disneyland, Knott's Berry Farm, Beaches, tons. It's no worse than any other big city USA. Just stay in the coastal areas.

Agreed. Its definitely safe. Do try to stay along the coast and against the hills. Thats where most of the tourist stuff is anyway.

If you are going to be arriving at LAX airport there's a lot to do within 15-20 minutes driving distance. Might be a good way to start out. What kind of things are you interested in doing/seeing?

http://www.laokay.com/

That's a good place to start.

-Tony

Getty Museum
405 N from LAX about 10-12 miles. Can't miss it. Big signs. Parking cost $5, but admission is free. Great place to wander and spend a day. Bring a picnic and eat on the lawn in the back above the gardens.