Where to stay in Los Angeles

Few regions of the world have been as idealized and mythologized as California – and yet it seldom fails to live up to the hype. The glamour, surf beaches and near-endless sun of the Southern California coast are rightly celebrated, with Los Angeles, the second-most populous city in the US (after New York City), at their heart. No wonder travellers clamber to stay in Los Angeles. If you're planning your trip and wondering where to stay, you're in the right place: here's our guide to the best area to stay in Los Angeles.

What is the best area to stay in Los Angeles?

We'll go into much greater detail below, but here's a quick overview of where to stay in LA:

• Hollywood Boulevard: Classic sightseeing area with iconic attractions like the Walk of Fame, Hollywood Sign, and TCL Chinese Theatre. Ideal for experiencing Tinseltown's glamour.
• Downtown: Vibrant hub for culture, arts, and entertainment. Features world-class museums, Grand Central Market, and walkable streets. Great for art enthusiasts and urban explorers.
• Los Feliz: Family-friendly neighborhood with Griffith Park, Observatory, and Zoo. Offers outdoor activities, hiking trails, and a laid-back atmosphere perfect for families.
• West Hollywood (WeHo): Nightlife hotspot with famous music venues, comedy clubs, and LGBTQ+-friendly bars. The Sunset Strip is a must-visit for entertainment seekers.
• Koreatown: Food lover's paradise with diverse Korean cuisine, from traditional BBQ to fusion dishes. Also known for karaoke bars and vibrant nightlife.
• Beverly Hills & Westwood: Luxury shopping on Rodeo Drive, celebrity hotspots, and high-end dining. Home to art museums and the historic Fox Theater.
• Santa Monica: Ideal for first-time visitors with its iconic pier, beaches, and laid-back California vibe. Offers outdoor activities, shopping, and dining in a walkable area.
• Venice Beach: Eclectic and bohemian neighbourhood perfect for people-watching. Features the famous Boardwalk, Muscle Beach, skate park, and trendy Abbot Kinney Boulevard.
• Silver Lake: Hip, trendy area known for its vibrant art scene, diverse food options, unique boutiques, and thriving coffee culture. Popular among young creatives.

The best area to stay in LA for first-time visitors: Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a great spot for first-time visitors to Los Angeles. With its iconic pier, expansive beaches, and laid-back California vibe, it’s a great place to base yourself.  Here you’ll find plenty of beach relaxation, outdoor activities, shopping, and dining, all within a walkable area that feels worlds away from the sprawl of greater LA.

The most iconic part of Santa Monica is undoubtedly its pier, featuring its iconic Ferris wheel and a ton of fun activities. At Pacific Park, you can enjoy classic carnival games and rides, or head to the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium to learn about local marine life. The wide, sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, playing volleyball, or catching a sunset over the Pacific.

On Wednesdays and Saturdays, be sure to check out the Santa Monica Farmers Market, one of the largest and most diverse in the country, where you can sample fresh local produce and artisanal foods.

If you enjoy outdoor activities, the 26-mile bike path along the beach is ideal, which goes all the way to Venice Beach. For a more peaceful retreat, visit Tongva Park, with lovely walking paths, water features, and stunning ocean views.

Best hotels in Santa Monica

• Best for a boutique stay: Palihouse Santa Monica. Boutique hotel in a historic building, offering apartment-style suites with kitchenettes. Walking distance to Santa Monica Beach and Third Street Promenade.
• Best for a bed back from the beach: Ambrose Hotel. The best choice for inland Santa Monica, with Arts and Crafts-styled decor and boutique rooms.
• Best for a romantic getaway: Channel Road Inn. The B&B rooms here are nestled in lower Santa Monica Canyon (northwest of the city of Santa Monica), with ocean views, a hot tub, and free bike rentals.

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Where to stay in LA for classic sightseeing: Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard, right in the heart of Tinseltown, is the place to be if you’re looking for that classic Los Angeles experience. This area is about as touristy as it gets — but honestly, that’s part of the charm. You’ve got the Hollywood Walk of Fame right here, where you can find the stars of your favorite celebrities set into the sidewalk. And don't forget to snap a photo with the Hollywood Sign in the background – you can spot it from several spots along the boulevard.

Make sure to check out the TCL Chinese Theatre, with its eye-catching architecture and famous forecourt filled with celebrity handprints and footprints. If you're into movies, you'll love the Hollywood Museum, just around the corner in the historic Max Factor Building, packed with tons of cool movie memorabilia.

For a bit of old-school Hollywood glamour, grab a bite at Musso & Frank Grill, the oldest restaurant in Hollywood, known for its classic martinis and steaks.

Best hotels in Hollywood

• Best for a boutique stay: W Hollywood. Trendy hotel with rooftop pool, offering stylish rooms and suites. Close to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Pantages Theatre.
• Best for a quirky stay: Hollywood Bed & Breakfast. This B&B is set in a 1912 home that looks a little like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. It's close to all the action with four cosy rooms and a small pool.
• Best for historic décor: Hollywood Historic Hotel. Just a 5-minute walk from Paramount Pictures, this hotel is 3.2 km from the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It offers brightly decorated rooms with a flat-screen TV and free Wi-Fi.

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Best for art and public transport: Downtown

Downtown Los Angeles, once overlooked by tourists, has transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, arts, and entertainment. This district is perfect for those seeking a mix of historical landmarks and contemporary attractions. The area's renaissance has brought an influx of trendy hotels, innovative restaurants, and nightlife options.

Start your exploration at the iconic Grand Central Market, a century-old food hall featuring diverse culinary offerings. 

This is a great place to stay for art because of its concentration of world-class museums. You’ll find The Broad here, which is a striking contemporary art museum with a distinctive honeycomb exterior and free general admission. Just a stone's throw away, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) has a great collection of modern art and rotating exhibitions. And don’t forget to swing by the Walt Disney Concert Hall, an iconic building designed by Frank Gehry that’s home to the LA Philharmonic.

Unlike much of Los Angeles, Downtown is one of the few places where you can ditch the car. The area is surprisingly walkable, and you’ll actually find sidewalks — truly a rarity in LA!

You won't regret choosing a California destination for your trip, and our guide to the best routes in California will make planning easier.

Best hotels in Downtown

• Best for a boutique stay: E Central Hotel Downtown Los Angeles. Modern boutique hotel with minimalist design, featuring a rooftop terrace and bar. Conveniently located near LA Live and Staples Center.
• Best for cool LA style: Ace Hotel. This hip hotel offers neat, stylish rooms and a rooftop pool all in the heart of Downtown.
• Best for sporty types: Los Angeles Athletic Club. The top three floors of this exclusive club make up a hotel with 72 nicely furnished rooms; a real bonus is free use of the club’s gym, plus a whirlpool and sauna.

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Where to stay in LA for families: Los Feliz

If you’re looking for a family-friendly place to stay in LA, Los Feliz is a great choice. Found at the eastern edge of the Santa Monica Mountains, it’s got a laid-back vibe, outdoor spaces, and plenty of things to do.

Start with Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America. You could easily spend days exploring here. Head to the Griffith Observatory for some cool astronomy exhibits and planetarium shows, all with panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss the Los Angeles Zoo, home to over 1,400 animals and offering educational programs for the little ones.

For a bit of old-school fun, take the kids for a ride on the miniature train at the Griffith Park & Southern Railroad, or let them run wild at one of the park’s many playgrounds. If your family is into hiking, there are trails for every skill level, with some paths leading to amazing views of the Hollywood Sign.

Back in the heart of Los Feliz, Hillhurst Avenue is packed with family-friendly spots. Check out Skylight Books, an independent bookstore with a fantastic children’s section, or enjoy a family movie at the historic Vista Theatre. 

Best hotels in Los Feliz

• Best for a boutique stay: Hollywood Historic Hotel. Charming Art Deco hotel with vintage decor and modern amenities. Conveniently located near The Grove and Melrose Avenue.
• Best for a simple style: Beverly Laurel Hotel. This Los Angeles motel boasts an outdoor pool and is within 5 minutes' walk from CBS Television City, the Original Farmers Market and the Grove shopping centre. It offers contemporary rooms with a microwave and refrigerator.
• Best for Midwestern kitsch: Short Stories Hotel. Conveniently located across from (naturally) the Farmers’ Market, this is a handsome boutique property with elements of “country styled” Midwestern kitsch.

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Where to stay in LA for luxury: Beverly Hills & Westwood

In Beverly Hills, start with a stroll down Rodeo Drive, where you'll find a mix of luxury boutiques and designer stores. For a taste of Hollywood's history, grab a reservation at the Polo Lounge in the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel — a favourite spot for celebrities, both past and present. If you're into art, make sure to check out the Frederick R. Weisman Art Foundation, where you can tour a stunning private collection of 20th-century art.

Don't miss Greystone Mansion and Gardens, a grand Tudor Revival estate spread over 18.3 acres that offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of LA’s early 20th-century elite. The beautifully maintained gardens are perfect for a relaxed afternoon walk.

In Westwood, the Hammer Museum is a must-see for its cutting-edge art exhibitions. You can also catch a film at the historic Fox Theater. When it comes to dining, you have options like Fundamental LA for farm-to-table dishes or Napa Valley Grille for a taste of California’s wine country.

Best hotels in Beverly Hills

• Best for boutique stays: AKA Beverly Hills. This boutique Beverly Hills hotel boasts suites with panoramic views of the Hollywood Hills. All suites have fully equipped kitchens where guests can cook a gourmet meal. 
• Best for a chic stay: W Los Angeles.  Chic hotel with luxurious rooms, a rooftop pool, and a spa. Located in Westwood, near UCLA and Rodeo Drive.
• Best for celebrity living: The Beverly Hills. Known as “The Pink Palace,” this luxury hotel on Sunset Boulevard features the full-service La Prairie Spa and a beautiful outdoor pool.

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Best area in LA to stay for people watching: Venice Beach

If you're into people watching, or just want a uniquely California experience, Venice Beach is the spot for you. Known for its eclectic and bohemian vibe, this place is the perfect mix of California sun, sand, and surf with a dash of Los Angeles' diverse culture. 

The main area is the Venice Beach Boardwalk, a mile-long stretch of shops and restaurants directly on the beach. Here, you'll find an array of street performers, from musicians and dancers to jugglers and fortune tellers. The iconic Muscle Beach outdoor gym is a spectacle in itself, where bodybuilders pump iron in the California sun. Nearby, skateboarders show off their skills at the Venice Skatepark. Plus, the souvenirs here are definitely worth a look, even if you're just browsing.

And if shopping or a more relaxed stroll is your thing, head over to Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Often called the "coolest block in America," this trendy street is packed with boutique shops, art galleries, and some of the best restaurants around.

Best hotels in Venice Beach

• Best for a boutique stay: Inn at Venice Beach. Colourful, beachy hotel with comfortable rooms and complimentary breakfast. Just steps away from Venice Beach and Muscle Beach.
• Best for by the beach: The Kinney. Located 0.9 miles away from Venice Beach, this California hotel has great style and offers bicycle rentals, an outdoor area with a fire pit, ping pong tables, and an outdoor heated pool.
• Best for a secluded beach holiday: Venice Beach House. Located in Los Angeles, near Venice Beach, Marina Del Rey Beach and Venice Beach Boardwalk, Venice Beach House features a terrace. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property and private parking is available on site.

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Where to stay in LA for food: Korea Town

Right in the middle of Los Angeles, Koreatown, or K-town as it’s fondly called, is great for those who like to eat. This lively neighbourhood, covering about 3 square miles, gives you a real taste of Korean culture and cuisine.

Start your day with a comforting bowl of seolleongtang (ox bone soup) at Han Bat Sul Lung Tang, or try a fusion breakfast at Sqirl, located on K-town's edge. For lunch, you can slurp up some handmade knife-cut noodles at Mountain Cafe or dig into crispy Korean-style fried chicken at KyoChon.

No visit to K-town is complete without experiencing Korean barbecue. Parks BBQ is a top choice, known for its high-quality meats grilled right at your table. For a more budget-friendly option with a lively vibe, head over to Quarters Korean BBQ, famous for its all-you-can-eat menu.

Sweet tooths are well catered for: Milk Tavern dishes up Instagram-worthy treats like cotton candy ice cream burritos, while Sul & Beans specialises in bingsoo, traditional Korean shaved ice desserts.

This area is also known for its bars and karaoke spots. Break Room 86, is a fantastic and hidden 80s-themed karaoke bar. 

Best hotels in Korea Town

• Best for a boutique stay: The LINE Hotel LA. Housed in a mid-century building, this hotel showcases industrial-chic decor and panoramic views. It features multiple dining options, including Roy Choi's restaurants, a stylish outdoor pool, and curated local experiences. The hotel embodies Koreatown's dynamic fusion of Korean and American cultures.
• Best for budget-friendly comfort: Shelter Hotel offers modern, minimalist rooms at affordable rates. Guests appreciate its central location, complimentary continental breakfast, and cosy outdoor lounge.
• Best for extended stays: Oxford Palace Hotel caters to both short and long-term guests with its spacious rooms and suites, many featuring kitchenettes. The hotel boasts an on-site restaurant, fitness centre, and business facilities. 

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Best trendy area to stay in LA: Silver Lake

If you’re looking for a laid-back, trendy part of town, Silver Lake is your spot. This eclectic neighbourhood, located just east of Hollywood, is known for its vibrant art scene, diverse food options, and unique boutiques.

Silver Lake has a thriving coffee culture, with several standout third-wave coffee shops. Intelligentsia Coffee is a local favourite, while Dinosaur Coffee and Lamill Coffee offer great brews in stylish settings.

When it comes to shopping, Silver Lake is all about unique, independent stores. You can browse vintage clothing at Painted Bird, hunt for rare vinyl records at Vacation Vinyl, or pick up a cool succulent at Potted. For book lovers, Stories Books and Cafe is a must-visit, featuring a curated selection of new and used books and a cosy cafe.

Just know that parking can be a bit tricky, so if you’re driving, be patient and make sure to read street signs carefully to avoid tickets.

Best hotels in Silver Lake

• Best for a boutique stay: Noon on Sunset Hill. Located on a hill above Sunset Blvd, Noon on Sunset Hill is set in Los Angeles and features free WiFi. The property is 1.2 km from Dodger Stadium.
• Best for budget: Comfort Inn Los Angeles. budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast and parking. Conveniently located near Dodger Stadium and downtown Los Angeles.
• Best for a cosy stay: The Big Bungalow Rooms. Located 5.4 km from the Capitol Records Building, The Big Bungalow Rooms provides accommodation with barbecue facilities, a terrace and a shared kitchen for your convenience. Free WiFi is provided throughout the property.

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The best area to stay in LA for nightlife: WeHo

If you're looking for a place to experience LA's legendary nightlife, West Hollywood—better known as WeHo—is where you want to be. This neighbourhood is famous for its welcoming vibe, trendy bars, top-notch restaurants, and iconic music venues.

The Sunset Strip, a 1.5-mile stretch along Sunset Boulevard, is packed with some of the city's most legendary music spots. Check out the Whisky a Go Go, where bands like The Doors and Mötley Crüe got their start and where you can still catch live performances every night. You could also swing by The Viper Room or The Roxy Theatre, both famous in their own right. And if comedy is more your thing, make sure to hit up The Comedy Store, where you might catch a famous comedian testing out new material.

WeHo is also at the heart of LA's LGBTQ+ nightlife. The Abbey Food & Bar is a must-visit for its lively atmosphere and strong drinks. Just around the corner, Flaming Saddles brings a fun twist with its Western-themed gay bar and dancing bartenders. And if you're a fan of "Vanderpump Rules," you won't want to miss SUR.

Best hotels in West Hollywood

• Best for a boutique hotel: Hotel 850 SVB. This charming 23-room hideaway feels more like a stylish private residence than a hotel. Featuring a cozy living room with honor bar, rooftop terrace, and personalized service.
• Best for all-suite luxury: Le Parc at Melrose. Le Parc offers spacious suites with kitchenettes and private balconies. Guests enjoy a rooftop pool with stunning city views, tennis court, and fitness center. Its central location provides easy access to trendy shops and restaurants.
• Best for rock 'n' roll history: Andaz West Hollywood. Once known as the "Riot House," Andaz West Hollywood has hosted countless rock legends. Today, it offers sleek rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, and a prime location on the Sunset Strip

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