Five teenage dreams in Los Angeles

Santa Monica Pier. Photo / Getty Images

Alana Rae suggests five ways to entertain teens in Los Angeles.

1 SOUTHCOAST PLAZA

Kiwi teenage girls will simply be in awe of the largest mall on the west coast, which deserves at leastawhole day trip. With nearly 300 stores, this complex in Costa Mesa hasall the US brands usually only in NZ via online shopping, like Abercrombie & Fitch, Forever 21, and department stores Macy's and Bloomingdales. Visit during Thanksgiving, Christmas or Halloween for festive celebrations and elaborate decorations, some of which ascend three storeys high.

2 DISNEYLAND AND DISNEY CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE PARK

Every teenager has a special place in their hearts for their original childhood entertainment source. Seeing beloved characters and poignantly themed rides (think the classic Disney Princesses or Radiator Springs from Cars) brings back memories from simplertimes, before the dreaded teenage years struck. To satisfy that adrenaline-craving spirit, rides like Space Mountain and Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission: Breakout! are sure to please.

3 SANTA MONICA PIER

More than 100 years old, this iconic landmark has exciting encounters dotted along the whole boardwalk, from a diverse range of performances, to the odd freelancing caricature artist. A beautiful sight at sunset, with the option for a stroll on the beach either side of the pier earlier in the day, it's perfect for that Instagram shot yourteen will be actively pursuing. Arcade games and carnival rides are also on offerif you're okay with spending a little extra.

4 SIX FLAGS: MAGIC MOUNTAIN

If yourteens are a little too mature forthe aforementioned Disney magic, Six Flags could be the answer, with a number of rides that provide the thrills, spills, and fearthey're chasing. Superman: Escape from Krypton involves acceleration from 0-100mph in just 7 seconds, as well as 6.5 seconds of weightlessness… definitely not for the faint-hearted.

5 BIG BEAR MOUNTAIN

For those willing to pack their winter woolies, Big Bear Mountain is a must see, particularly in December. The whole family will enjoy the feel of humble ski villages and the multitude of cosy cafes, and opportunities for skiing, snowboarding and tubing are ever-present. Finding the perfect snowman-building and snow angel-making spot is pretty painless too, should the teens want to flex their imaginations.