Hermosa is very nice; or Manhattan Beach pier at sunset is gorgeous;
La Brea tar pits is very nice stop.
If there's a Laker game, the scene at LA Live when the game lets out is not to be missed; you can hang at the bar at the JW Marriott next door as the crowd streams out.
If its beach, unbelievably there is a huge stretch from Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach down to Palos Verdes that's just open beach with gorgeous water and most importantly available street parking.
Even as a Giants fan, a game at Chavez Ravine is fantastic; cleanest stadium (Disneyland like), great Dodger Dogs, great weather.
But yeah most importantly, stay off 405 if at all possible.
BTW, LA does not mean Orange County, they are two different time zones practically (driving wise) don't think you can be in downtown LA then just "hop" over to the OC. Then you'll be in the 405 gauntlet for 90 mins easy.