LA’s Reid Speed has been holding down bad-assery for female DJs since she began her career in 1996, just shy of graduating high school. Known not only for her extensive drum & bass background – she cut her teeth working at DJ Dara’s Breakbeat Science shop – but for electro, fidget and dubstep, Reid is one DJ that makes the word mashup sound good. Between running her label Play Me Records, extensive touring and her own production, LA’s leading lady found the time to share a few of her favorite local spots with us.

1. Best Place to have a drink watching the sunset:

Hotel Shangri-La

1301 Ocean Avenue

Santa Monica, CA 90401-1019

What makes this the ultimate destination for taking in a beautiful sunset? Stunning art deco decor aside, the breathtaking view from the rooftop bar and patio makes this destination a no-brainer. With a vista that spans from Santa Monica’s pier to the mountains of Malibu, an eclectic variety of internationally inspired food options, and an unrivaled selection of signature beverages to sip, it’s no wonder international DJ and fashion talent call this boutique gem their home away from home. It’s a place where you can really unwind, relax and disconnect in style, contemplating the sun disappearing behind the Santa Monica mountains.

2. Best local hike:

Will Rogers State Park

Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

As Sunset Boulevard winds its way towards the Pacific Ocean, on a street of million dollar mansions, one side street is the entrance to one of Santa Monica’s greatest outdoor recreation areas, Will Rogers State Park. Blink and you’ll miss it, so keep an eye peeled for the sign. At the end of the winding lane you are greeted by a spectacularly groomed polo field, usually adorned with soccer or frisbee players, and the occasional horse. Head left, and choose one of many trails of varying difficulty, from an easy mile to a grueling 15 miles of mountain terrain – each will reward you with a gorgeous view of the ocean and the Los Angeles area. On a clear day you can see all the way to downtown. Usually un-crowded, this hike offers an enjoyable romp through nature for all ages and athletic abilities.

3. Best neighborhood brunch any day:

Ocean Park Café

3117 Ocean Park Boulevard

Santa Monica, CA 90405

As an avid brunch lover, but with a schedule that often forces me to miss out, this unassuming neighborhood cafe is my favorite place to get my favorite meal any day of the week. They offer their full menu until 3 every day, and seating is available outside for those who want to catch rays. Their breakfast tacos are the best I’ve had anywhere, with eggs and cheese smothered in homemade pico de gallo, avocado and their homemade chipotle dressing. French toast, pancakes, huevos rancheros and omelets are also on offer alongside the usual sandwiches and salads. No alcohol here – but strong French roast coffee and fresh squeezed OJ make this a delight any day of the week.

4. Best place to just sit and watch:

Where Venice Boulevard meets the ocean sits a strange piece of modern art.

It is perched on a slight rise, and from its three foot peak you can sit and take in a panorama of happy activity: the ocean doing its thing, surfers trying to wrestle with it, bike riders, skaters tearing up the new skate park, graffiti artists painting the legal walls, rollerbladers, sunbathers, artists, hippies, skaters and tourists all having a blast by the Pacific Ocean.

Bring a blanket, some tunes and a book, plop down, and you have a natural theatre of sights, sounds and smells of Venice Beach!

5. Best sneaker store:

UNDFTD Santa Monica

2654-B Main Street

Santa Monica, CA 90405

http://www.undftd.com/

With new limited editions coming in twice a week or more, this is definitely a must-see for any sneaker fanatic. Their hip location just a block off the beach in the heart of the Santa Monica/Venice shopping district makes this outpost of the popular niche brand an even more desirable destination.

They even serve Red Bull!

Words by Dani Deahl and Reid Speed, photos by Reid Speed