I know that Lynn's Jewelers in Ventura (don't know if that is too far to drive to) has some amazing stones, including a selection of eightstars. It is a nice high-end store, but some of the salespeople don't know what they are talking about, so if you do go, talk to the owner instead.
There are also a lot of Robbin's Brothers Jewelry stores around L.A. I would call the one closest to you and ask if they have a selection of H&A stones that they can show you in your quality/carat range.
That way you can get an idea of what the buzz is about.