From quaint cottages to luxury beach-front homes, Manhattan Beach rentals are just waiting to turn California dreaming into California reality. Located just minutes from Los Angeles, Manhattan Beach rentals are ideal for those who want to enjoy a slower pace without missing out on all the action of the big city.

Finding the right Manhattan rental to suit your personal needs will require some advanced planning. But don't fret, with the number of choices, there's no reason not to locate the ideal Manhattan Beach rental.

Before seeking out a Manhattan Beach rental, it's a good idea to narrow down what exactly is desired in a vacation place. Since the options here include freestanding homes, hotel rooms, cottages and beyond, personal choices can almost always be met. Here are some questions to ask yourself to help narrow down your search for a perfect rental:

* Is location important to you? Are you insistent upon being right on Manhattan Beach or will a few blocks away do? How about being near a park? The pier?

* Price, does it matter? If it does, set a limit to help narrow your search for a perfect rental. Make no mistake, the prices for Manhattan Beach rentals can be high, but there are some very reasonable accommodations to be had, as well.

* Does size create a concern? Are you willing to keep four family members in a two-bedroom rental or do you want a sprawling home with four bedrooms and multiple bathrooms?

* Kitchen and/or kitchen privileges. Do you want these or do you intend to each out three meals a day during your stay?

* Special features. Are things such as a Jacuzzi, DVD player, big-screen TV and so on important to you? If they are, list them out. A lot of Manhattan Beach rentals offer all the conveniences of home, but it's important for you to list out what you want in a rental to make the search more targeted.

* Freestanding or not? Is your heart set on staying in a Manhattan Beach rental home or are you okay with a duplex, hotel or even a timeshare where others might be staying next door or above or below your rental space?

Once you've figured out what out of a Manhattan Beach rental, it's time to start looking. Some of the best places to turn for great Manhattan Beach rentals include the Internet, area Realtors and even your own personal real estate agent in your area. Check out rentals before signing a contract and do be certain to look at pictures and ask pointed questions.

Remember, Manhattan Beach rentals might not be the cheapest accommodations going, but they do offer some serious perks. Considering the beaches, the proximity to big city action and the fact these rentals are generally full homes, they provide guests with ideal home bases for great getaway vacations. Perfect for families or even couples on romantic vacations, Manhattan Beach rentals give a different view of the Los Angeles area.