Early South Bay developers designed La Venta Inn as a place to entertain prospective land buyers, it occupies a prime spot on a hill overlooking the sweep of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Built in the 1920s, its Spanish-style architecture is set off by a distinctive tower, red-tiled roofs and, in front, a courtyard with a bubbling fountain enclosed by a bougainvillea-covered arbor. The building was at one time used as a private residence, and has all the warmth and convenience of a home.

website: laventa.com

Inside, the rooms are spacious, airy and bright, with wood floors and cream-colored walls providing a neutral backdrop for decorations. The large main ballroom has lofty open-beamed ceilings, antique wrought-iron chandeliers and a handsome fireplace with a carved stone mantelpiece. French doors open out onto a Palos Verdes stone patio that spans the length of the house, commanding stunning views of the entire L.A. Basin and Santa Monica Bay below. Two steps lead down onto a broad semi-circle of lawn surrounded by flowering shrubs and palm trees. A simple white gazebo stands at the lawn's edge, with the sweep of the coastline as a dramatic backdrop. The developers chose this site well-it has a view that makes you want to stay here long after your celebration. < click here to go back to vendors >