With its flashy bars, swaying palm trees, and proximity to the famous Hollywood sign, West Hollywood hosts the city's most active gay/lesbian scene. In less than two square miles, WeHo boasts Santa Monica Boulevard's liveliest stretch; fabulous restaurants and hotels along the Sunset Strip; and a wealth of outdoor cafes and art galleries. And although it's often referred to as Boys Town, there are plenty of women here, too.

But take an outing beyond West Hollywood's boundaries, and you'll find that other parts of the city offer an equally dazzling array of activities, as pleasurable and/or debauched as you desire.

That’s Entertainment
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a little star worshipping, so be sure to pay a visit to one of the studios and see a TV taping. Many shows even give away free tickets to fill live audiences. For fan favorites, like Will & Grace, you many need to reserve your spot up to 30 days in advance, but there are still some shows that take walk-ins. Or, buy a star map and follow the trail to the domiciles of the rich and famous, from Rock Hudson (1011 Cove Way) to Judy Garland (10000 Sunset Boulevard).

Get in on the lights-camera-action by catching a live theater production at one of the city's many stages. Every night, there's sure to be something going on, whether it's an old-fashioned burlesque show or cutting-edge performance art. If you're downtown, be sure to see Frank Gehry's whimsically designed Walt Disney Concert Hall, pitch-perfect home to the city's lauded symphony. Or, follow the laughs to a hole-in-the-wall comedy bar and discover the next Margaret Cho.

Sometimes it seems that everyone in Los Angeles either is a star, or wants to be one. Famous for its photogenic qualities, Los Angeles often sets the trends and styles nationwide. Shopaholics could faint from all the options, from high fashion in Beverly Hills to a dizzying selection of tattoos and souvenirs in Venice.

Life's a Beach
What's a trip to Los Angeles without a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean's rolling waves, suntanned surfers, and Baywatch-esque lifeguard scene? While you may or may not spot Pamela Anderson and David Hasselhoff running towards the coastal breakers, you're sure to sink your toes into some mind-numbing beachfront activities.

Revel in the kitsch of carnival games at the Santa Monica pier and take a romantic ride on the giant Ferris wheel. Don't miss a trip to quirky Venice Beach, where the boardwalk purrs with an endless parade of people. While in Venice, be sure to pay homage to the hulks at Muscle Beach, where body-bulging men and women pump ridiculous amounts of iron before a gawking crowd.

Further south, Long Beach's gay and lesbian scene is second only to West Hollywood. The lesbian community, in particular, tends to congregate along East Broadway Avenue, and the nearby beaches are always a great place to meet and mingle. You'll always be able to find like-minded folk working on their tans, and an impromptu game of Frisbee or beach volleyball is always a great excuse to get a conversation started.

When the Stars Come Out
Los Angelinos like to dress to the nines once the fiery sun sets into the sea. Be sure to check local papers and publications for women's nights, special events, and live musical acts in the clubs. In Silver Lake, stronghold of the city's (often lipsticked) lesbian scene, Akbar hosts a mixed crowd with a slight pick-up vibe. In spite of its grand entrance hall and Moroccan design, the bar retains a good neighborhood feel.

Back in West Hollywood, the Sunset Strip always pulses electric with fancy cars, outrageous billboards, and a club for every scene. Seek out cowboy boots and bull riding at the Saddle Ranch Chop House, or blend in with the glitterati at the Skybar, located atop the Mondrian Hotel.