Named after Theodor Herzl, the father of Zionism, Herzliya goes some way toward fulfilling its namesake’s idyllic dream—that is, if you think LA and Utopia have a lot in common. A definite contender for the coveted title of Israel’s most beautiful beaches, this high-tech industry hub boasts the country’s largest film studio and the spacious, whitewashed mansions of some of her richest residents. That said, as you go further inland, the city becomes more a matter of urban grunge than pastoral paradise. You’re better off heading north along the secluded coast to visit such curios as a cliff-borne mosque and a hermit’s house o’ trash. Only a 40min. bus ride from Tel Aviv’s center, Herzliya is an ideal daytrip—especially because the dearth of affordable accommodations prevents you from staying much longer anyway.