Don't know about LA but bhphotovideo.com is the best mail-order house
that I know of.  You might be able to order it and have it shipped to
your hotel.  Being out-of-state, you might even avoid sales tax.  I
have no idea about their shipping policy for shipping to a hotel,
though, so you might do best by calling them.

But there must be good places out west, too.

I suppose it depends what you're looking for.  For high-end stuff, people
shop at Samy's Camera ( www.samyscamera.com ).  I think their in store
prices are a bit higher than on their website but close.  The problem with
the better out-of-state companies like B&H, JR Electronics, etc., is that
they generally only ship to the address that matches the billing address of
the credit card.  Shop online for your best prices and walk into a couple
stores like Best Buy, CompUSA, Computer City, Fry's (beware of repackaged or
refurbished goods at Fry's), Ritz Camera, and more and check prices for
product.  These stores generally carry the mainstream digital stuff up to
say Canon Rebel class cameras, maybe even 30D.  If you're looking for the
real high-end stuff, Samy's is a good place to go.  They have been around
for several decades.  Their store is huge.

Don't forget to add our VAT to your purchase.  It's called California state
sales tax and runs around 8% plus or minus depending what county to shop in.
Unlike the Commonwealth, it is not included in the price.  If you buy from
the majority of these places, you will get a USA warranty.  I don't know
what happens if you encounter problems after you return home with a USA
warranty.  I wonder if you have to send it back to the US for service?  Good
luck!

I spent a delightful 10 days in Queensland (Port Douglas).  Aussies are the
best!

rg