Ian Edwards at Malibu by the Sea

Malibu by the Sea earned the title of Best Tanning Salon of 2009 by readers of Monterey County Weekly for its advanced equipment and battery of complimentary services to keep skin glowing. Booths and beds deliver low- and high-pressure UV tanning, which bathes skin in either a combination of UV rays or UV-A rays alone to quickly inspire bronzed tones. To mimic this effect without having to take a bath in melted crayons, laser sprayers and airbrush technicians deftly coat skin in DHA bronzers from brands such as Australian Gold and California Tan.

Capable of complex treatments such as color correction and Japanese straightening, the salon's extension experts are trained in six attachment techniques and can special-order human hair for each client. Bridal packages streamline the trips of those heading to the altar, and the salon's cabana-esque décor evokes a honeymoon escape to Acapulco.