Where to Stay in Los Angeles: Angeleno-Approved Insider Advice
Planning a trip to Los Angeles? That’s awesome, we love it here! But we know firsthand that choosing where to stay in this sprawling city can feel like navigating a maze. Having lived here for over 20 years, we’ve seen the good, the bad, and the soul-crushing traffic jams that only LA can dish out. Trust us, figuring out where to stay in Los Angeles is KEY to having an amazing time. Luckily for you, we have spent our entire careers working in the Los Angeles tourism and hotel industry. We have all the insider tips and tricks to make sure you pick the perfect place to stay in LA for your trip.
First things first: LA isn’t like those other cities where everything is packed into a neat little downtown. Nope, it’s all spread out here, a patchwork of unique neighborhoods, each with its own distinct vibe. So, whether you’re a foodie, a beach bum, a culture vulture, or a nightlife enthusiast, there’s a perfect spot for you.
Want our best insider tip? If you are staying in Los Angeles for more than a few nights and want to see all of the best that the city has to offer, breakup your stay into two different areas. Stay a few nights on the Eastside, say Downtown, Los Feliz or Koreatown, then move over to the Westside (West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica) or the South Bay. With a little planning, this will really help you avoid spending all of your precious vacation time in traffic. And while we’re at it…Disneyland is not in Los Angeles. If the Happiest Place on Earth is on your bucket list, do yourself a favor and stay a night or two in Orange County.
Getting Around in Los Angeles
Before diving in, let’s cover logistics. LA is a car city, so unless you stick to one walkable neighborhood, you’ll need wheels. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are convenient, though they can be pricey. Renting a car works too—just know where you’re parking and have a playlist ready for traffic. The Metro is an option but won’t get you everywhere, as LA’s public transit lags behind other big cities. For short-term needs, try hourly rentals like Zipcar, Turo, or Getaround. And if you’re into biking, rent one to cruise the beach or bike-friendly neighborhoods.
Alright, now that we’ve got that covered, let’s get to the fun part – where to stay in LA!
Downtown Los Angeles: Where Grit Meets Glamour
Downtown LA is such a lively and ever-changing urban hub, where the past and future come together in the coolest way. It has this unique vibe that really adds to its charm, and it’s making a strong comeback after the pandemic. When you stroll through the streets, you’ll be amazed by the mix of architectural styles, from those gorgeous art deco buildings to the sleek new towers.
The cultural scene is great! World-class art museums like The Broad and MOCA are showing some incredible exhibits, and the historic theaters are buzzing with shows again.
Foodies, you’re in for a real treat! Downtown has everything from trendy gastropubs with awesome craft cocktails to Michelin-starred restaurants for an unforgettable meal. And when the sun sets, the nightlife is totally buzzing! Rooftop bars with amazing views, hidden speakeasies…whatever you’re into, Downtown has it all.
What to Do Nearby
- Catch a Lakers, Dodgers, LAFC, or USC game
- Enjoy a concert at one of the nearby theaters
- Explore Chinatown and Little Tokyo
- Immerse yourself in the Arts District
- Visit the Broad, MOCA, Natural History Museum, or California Science Center
- Discover the Grammy Museum
- Sample diverse cuisine at Grand Central Market
- Take a scenic ride on Angels Flight
Where to Stay
Luxury Options:
Conrad Los Angeles: This newest 5-star hotel in Downtown Los Angeles, designed by Frank Gehry, features a rooftop terrace with pool, downtown views, cocktail bar, gym, spa, and sauna.
Downtown LA Proper Hotel: This boutique hotel offers a beautiful rooftop restaurant and pool, along with comfortable, design-driven rooms.
Level Downtown Los Angeles: With large apartment-style suites, this modern hotel is perfect for both short and extended stays, and it’s pet-friendly too! Enjoy their rooftop cinema in warmer months.
Mid-Range Options:
Hotel Per La: Housed in the historic Giannini Building, this boutique hotel offers grand public spaces and a rooftop bar with stunning skyline views.
Moxy Downtown Los Angeles: This brand new hotel boasts a great location and the best rooftop in Downtown, including a cathedral-themed bar.
Value Options:
Freehand Los Angeles: This unique hotel offers a mix of hostel-style shared rooms and individual accommodations, along with a beautiful rooftop bar and pool.
Eclectic Enclaves (Los Feliz, Silver Lake, Echo Park, Koreatown): Where the Cool Kids Hang
Let’s talk about the real LA. You know, the LA where the artsy souls and indie music lovers roam free, the one that’s not all about red carpets and paparazzi. If you’re looking for that artsy, laid-back vibe with a pulse of creative energy, then you have to check out Los Feliz, Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Koreatown.
This cluster of neighborhoods is like a treasure trove for anyone seeking an authentic LA experience. It’s where artists, musicians, and all-around cool cats call home, and it’s bursting with that unique energy that makes LA so special. Think vibrant street art, vintage shops filled with one-of-a-kind finds, cozy cafes where you can sip on the best latte of your life, and live music venues showcasing the next big thing.
From the charming streets of Los Feliz to the hipster haven of Silver Lake, the buzzing energy of Echo Park, and the cultural richness of Koreatown, these neighborhoods are the beating heart of LA’s creative scene. It’s where community and creativity thrive, and where you’ll feel like you’re truly part of something special.
What to Do Nearby
- Visit Griffith Park and Observatory – Watching the sunset here is my absolute favorite thing to do in Los Angeles!
- Catch a show at the Greek Theater
- Stroll or take a pedal boat around Echo Park Lake
- Hike to the Hollywood Sign
- Explore Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House
- Enjoy the Barnsdall Art Park
- Get a taste of Hollywood at Universal Studios or Warner Bros. Studios
Where to Stay
Luxury Options:
Cara Hotel: This boutique oasis boasts a tree-lined courtyard, pool, and a farm-to-table restaurant.
Silver Lake Pool & Inn: This hidden gem offers chic, modern rooms with Nespresso machines and a stylish Italian restaurant and bar.
Mid-Range Options:
The LINE LA: Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, a unique greenhouse-enclosed restaurant, and a fun 80s-themed karaoke bar, this hotel is a trendy choice.
West Hollywood & Beverly Hills: Glitz, Glamour, and Everything in Between
West Hollywood and Beverly Hills are where dreams are made of (and where a lot of celebs live), and they offer a glamorous escape that’s pure LA. In West Hollywood, you’ll find yourself immersed in a vibrant scene, with trendy restaurants, chic bars, and electric nightlife that pulses with energy. It’s the perfect place to see and be seen, with a mix of upscale lounges and stylish rooftop bars. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot someone famous!
Close by, Beverly Hills exudes a sense of refined luxury. Stroll down the iconic Rodeo Drive, where high-end designer boutiques line the streets, showcasing the latest in fashion and jewelry. But it’s not just about shopping; Beverly Hills also offers a wealth of cultural attractions, from world-class art galleries to historic landmarks. Whether you’re indulging in a lavish spa treatment, savoring a gourmet meal at a celebrity hotspot, or simply enjoying the perfectly manicured streets, Beverly Hills promises an unforgettable experience of opulence and sophistication.
What to Do Nearby
- Enjoy the nightlife and comedy shows in West Hollywood
- Shop on Rodeo Drive, Robertson Blvd., Melrose, or at The Grove
- Visit LACMA or the La Brea Tar Pits
- Explore the Academy Museum, Petersen Museum, or Greystone Mansion
- Immerse yourself in art at The Getty Museum
- Reflect at the Museum of Tolerance
Where to Stay
Luxury Options:
Hotel Bel-Air: This is my absolute favorite hotel in LA. If money is no object, this is where you want to stay. It’s tucked away in the hills of Bel-Air, surrounded by lush gardens, and feels like a world away from the city. Total luxury and privacy, with a touch of old Hollywood glamor.
The West Hollywood EDITION: This super stylish hotel is a magnet for the young and fashionable, with a happening nightclub and a delicious vegetable-focused restaurant, Ardor.
1 Hotel West Hollywood: This sustainably designed hotel focuses on wellness, featuring natural elements, local lumber, and a rooftop bar with stunning skyline views.
Mid-Range Options:
Cameo Beverly Hills: This charming hotel has an Italian vibe and is a great option if you want to be close to Rodeo Drive but away from the crowds.
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills: A centrally located urban resort with relaxed California elegance, an upscale French restaurant, a chic lounge bar, a terrace, and a full-service spa.
Kimpton Hotel Wilshire: Located on Miracle Mile, this hotel is a great central base for exploring LA. It has a rooftop pool and restaurant, plus freebies like morning coffee, wine hour, and bike rentals.
Santa Monica, Venice, Marina del Rey & Culver City: Beach Vibes and City Fun
The Westside of LA is a cool mix of beach life and city excitement. Whether you want to chill by the ocean, soak up some artsy vibes, or check out the latest trends, this area’s got you covered.
Santa Monica is your classic beach town, with a fun pier and a lively outdoor shopping mall, the Third Street Promenade. Picture yourself soaking up the sun on the sand, riding the Ferris wheel, or checking out all the cool shops and restaurants.
Venice is where things get a little funky. The Venice Beach Boardwalk is full of life, with street performers, artists, and vendors everywhere you look. You can also explore the peaceful canals or head to Abbot Kinney Boulevard, once named the “Coolest Street in America” Here you can find trendy boutiques and fantastic restaurants.
If you love being on the water, Marina del Rey is the place to be. This harbor is filled with fancy yachts, and you can rent a boat, learn to sail, or just relax by the water.
And just a short drive away is Culver City, which is becoming a hot spot for creativity and technology. It’s home to movie studios and tech companies, and the art scene there is really taking off, with galleries, theaters, and awesome restaurants popping up all over.
What to Do Nearby
- Explore the beaches and piers of Santa Monica and Venice
- Wander through the Venice Canals
- Shop and dine on the 3rd Street Promenade
- Take a Sony Pictures Studio Tour
- Discover the art galleries and studios of Culver City
Where to Stay
Luxury Options:
Hotel Casa del Mar: If you’re looking for old-world charm, this 1926 Renaissance Revival hotel is a stunner. Think Italian linens, serene rooms, and a prime location on the Santa Monica coast. It’s perfect for families wanting a touch of luxury.
Shutters on the Beach: This beachfront icon is all about airy rooms, breezy vibes, delicious restaurants, and jaw-dropping ocean views. It’s like a little slice of the East Coast in SoCal.
The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey: Overlooking the marina, this hotel offers easy access to LAX and Venice Beach. Each room has a private balcony, and the hotel has everything you need for a luxurious stay – bike rentals, a spa, and a saltwater pool.
The Shay: This new hotel in Culver City is super chic, with an industrial-modern aesthetic and the only rooftop pool in the area.
Mid-Range Options:
Hotel Erwin: This cheerful, mid-century modern boutique hotel in Venice Beach overlooks the boardwalk and is a short walk from Abbot Kinney Boulevard and the Venice Canals. Amenities include free gym passes, a Southern Californian eatery, and a buzzy rooftop bar with panoramic views.
The Culver Hotel: If you’re looking for a boutique experience with a touch of history, this Beaux-Arts hotel in the heart of Culver City is a great choice.
Hotel June West LA: This modern hotel in Playa Vista is a bit off the beaten path but offers stylish rooms, a heated pool, and a chill vibe.
The South Bay (Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach): Laid-Back Beach Life
If your LA bucket list involves endless sunshine, salty air, and sandy toes, the South Bay is where you want to be. This trio of beach towns—Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach—is where the laid-back SoCal lifestyle truly thrives.
Picture yourself spending sunny days surfing the waves, playing volleyball on the beach, or just chilling with a good book and a cold drink. And when the sun starts to set, grab a seat at one of the many oceanfront restaurants and enjoy some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. Trust us, the sunsets here are unreal.
These towns have their own unique personalities too. Manhattan Beach is a little more upscale, with fancy boutiques and gourmet restaurants. Hermosa Beach is known for its lively bar scene and laid-back surfer vibe. And Redondo Beach has a cool pier with arcade games, rides, and even a brewery. So, whether you’re looking to relax and recharge or soak up some sun and fun, the South Bay is calling your name.
What to Do Nearby
- Stroll along the Manhattan Beach Pier or Redondo Beach Pier
- Relax on Hermosa Beach
- Visit the Korean Bell of Friendship at Angel’s Gate Park
- Catch a LA Galaxy game
- Tour the Battleship USS Iowa
Where to Stay
Luxury Options:
Terranea Resort: This sprawling resort on the Palos Verdes Peninsula is like a Mediterranean escape, offering bungalows, casitas, and villas with upscale amenities, eight restaurants, a nine-hole golf course, and a 50,000-square-foot spa.
westdrift Manhattan Beach, Autograph Collection: This stylish hotel is just minutes from LAX and has a beachy-chic vibe, complete with a golf course and art-filled interiors.
Beach House: Located right on the Strand in Hermosa Beach, this all-suite hotel is steps away from the beach, restaurants, and shops. All suites include a fireplace and balcony or patio.
Mid-Range Options:
Sonesta Redondo Beach & Marina: Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this hotel is close to the Redondo Beach Pier and offers easy access to nearby restaurants.
The Belamar Hotel Manhattan Beach: Located off the Pacific Coast Highway between LAX and Manhattan Beach, this hotel features a polished restaurant, an airy lounge, and a courtyard with a pool, hot tub, cabanas, and a seasonal bar.
Budget Option:
H Hotel Los Angeles: Technically at LAX, this sleek, modern hotel offers airport shuttle service and a rooftop deck with views of the Pacific.
Hollywood: Where Dreams Are Made (and Tourists Flock)
There is a reason we left Hollywood for the last neighborhood on the list. We realize that this is the place most people think of when they think of LA… the Walk of Fame, those legendary theaters, and all that star-studded history. But here’s the thing: It’s also a total tourist trap.
Crowds, overpriced souvenirs, people dressed up as your favorite movie characters trying to get a selfie with you… It’s not exactly the chillest vibe. If you’re into that whole Hollywood spectacle and want to feel like you’re in the heart of the action, then sure, go for it. And if you’re here to pitch your next big TV show to Netflix, then obviously, you gotta be in Hollywood. But for everyone else? There are way better options.
If you must stay in Hollywood, the plus side is that there are some really nice hotels to choose from. But trust us, you’ll get a much more authentic LA experience in West Hollywood, just a hop, skip, and a jump away. Or, head east to Los Feliz for a more laid-back, artsy vibe. Both neighborhoods have great restaurants, cool bars, and plenty of that Hollywood magic, minus the touristy chaos.
What to Do Nearby
- Experience the nightlife
- Attend a concert at the Hollywood Bowl
- Take a tour of Universal Studios, Warner Bros. Studios, or Paramount Studios
- See the Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theater
If you must stay in Hollywood
Luxury Option:
Aster Hotel: This adults-only boutique hotel sits on the corner of Hollywood and Vine and offers spacious suites with a modern design.
Mid-Range Options:
Dream Hollywood: This trendy hotel has stylish rooms, buzzy restaurants, and a rooftop pool with a view.
Kimpton Everly Hotel: With views of the Hollywood sign and a convenient location, this hotel is a solid choice.
Hollywood Roosevelt: This historic hotel, host of the first Oscars ceremony, boasts a cocktail lounge, nightclub, beer garden, upscale restaurant, 24-hour burger joint, and game room with bowling.
Mama Shelter: This funky boutique hotel has a playful vibe and a rooftop restaurant with views of the Hollywood sign.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor trying to figure out where to stay in Los Angeles or a seasoned Angeleno looking for a change of scenery, this city always has something new to offer. So, pick the perfect neighborhood for your vibe, book a hotel that speaks to your soul, and get ready to experience the magic that makes LA so unique!
