Where To Stay For First
When people think of Los Angeles, they mostly think of West Hollywood. Sunset and Hollywood Boulevards, film studios, tourists, the Walk of Fame, palm-tree-line streets. This area, while not the cheapest in the city, is probably the most central to everything youll want to visit during your first time in Los Angeles. Id recommend staying here for first-time visitors.
Best Places to Stay in West Hollywood
- BUDGET: Banana Bungalow West Hollywood This social hostel hosts regular weekend BBQs, offers shuttles around the city to the main attractions , has free Wi-Fi, and has a kitchen for cooking your own food. They have free parking too!
- MID-RANGE: Ramada With a pool, fitness center, AC, and a restaurant on-site, this three-star hotel makes a comfy, budget-friendly place to base yourself during your visit.
- LUXURY: Andaz West Hollywood This upscale offering by Hyatt boasts a rooftop pool as well as on-site dining with a seasonal menu. The hotel has a chic bar and the rooms are spacious, airy, and modern.
Plan Your Next Trip To California With These Resources
Travel Planning Resources
Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.
Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner
Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor
Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO.
Travel Insurance: Don’t leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:
- World Nomads – Digital Nomads or Frequent Travelers.
- Allianz – Occasional Travelers.
- Medjet – Global air medical transport and travel security.
Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.
Bonus: Malibu And Long Beach
Not technically in Los Angeles proper, Malibu and Long Beach are worth adding to the discussion. Malibu is under 20 miles from Santa Monica along Highway 1. This section of road is incredibly scenic, making every trip towards LA one for the books. The town is a mix of Santa Monica and Beverly Hills, combining beachfront vibes and exceptional luxury. Malibu is also romantic. Its seaside cliffs are home to some of the best sunsets. During the day, you can wander along the quieter beaches to Malibu Pier or explore the Malibu Creek State Park.
- VRBO:Beachfront Penthouse
25 miles south of LA, Long Beach is laden with great restaurants and a bunch of family-friendly activities. The beach itself is decent, but its the mix of price and activities that make Long Beach an attractive option. Among the fun things to see in town is the Queen Mary which has been in Long Beach since 1967. Travelers will also find the Aquarium of the Pacific, multiple art museums in the East Village Art District along with the beautiful Catalina Island. Importantly, Long Beach is a top spot for whale watching from November to March.
- VRBO: Oceanview Villa
Read Also: Places To Stay In Mt Pleasant Sc
Best Airbnb In Los Angeles: Private Studio Near The Hollywood Sign
If location is your top priority, then this vacation rental in LA is a winner. Adjacent to Griffith Park where you can hike to see the Hollywood Sign and Thai Town, where you can taste various authentic Thai cuisine. This studio apartment is conveniently located near the 101 highway, just a 10-minute drive to Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, Walk of Fame and a few blocks from Franklin Village.
Where To Stay In Los Angeles For Families:
Santa Monica tops the list of where to stay in Los Angeles. The beachfront town has plenty of great accommodation to suit most budgets while taking advantage of the natural splendor that exists along the coast.
There are parks for the young ones to run around, not to mention the Ocean Front Walk and only a short drive stands between the family and several larger state parks north of town. Most importantly, this neighborhood features the famed Santa Monica Pier and the wide-open beach that can keep the whole family entertained for days on end.
Recommended Reading: Where To Stay In Tahoe For Skiing
Things To Do In Mar Vista
Pick up fresh fruits and veggies while the kids attend a cooking class at . Learn about Southern Californias aviation history, watch a film in the screening room, and see a variety of aircraft at the Museum of Flying. Take the kids to the for a game of roller hockey or a music class. Connect your mind, body, and soul with a yoga class at Light on Lotus. Learn the basics of throwing on the potters wheel at Peach Tree Pottery, where your family can make their own keepsakes. Chow down on German entrees like Jager Schnitzel or Traditional Bratwurst at Rasselbock Kitchen & Beer Garden. Savor the flavors of Hawaiian dishes like the Loco Moco Plate or Kaula Pork with Cabbage Plate at Rutts Cafe. Settle in for live music and an expansive global menu with entrees like Spanakopita, Free-Range Chicken, or Grilled USDA Prime Tri-Tip at The Mar Vista.
Where To Stay In Los Angeles: From The Beach To The Hills And Everywhere In Between
The Los Angeles area has much to offer vacationers, from beaches to mountains, hip urban locales to natural open spaces, and museums to theme parks, making it a challenge to answer the question, “Where should I stay in Los Angeles?”
Are you seeking sunshine and beaches, Los Angeles nightlife, trendy restaurants, theme parks, romantic spots, museums, or sports events? With so many options and so much ground to cover, it can be a bit overwhelming, especially if it’s a visitor’s first time in Los Angeles.
L.A.’s reputation for traffic is well known, so many people want to know where to stay without a car. Others are planning a family vacation in Los Angeles, a couples’ getaway, or a solo trip. We’ve created a guide that will not only inspire a visit to the City of Angels, but will also help you figure out where to rest your head at night.
Here’s where to stay in Los Angeles, California.
Also Check: Neighborhoods To Stay In Austin
Hotels Near Downtown La
You cant miss the evolving excitement of downtown Los Angeles.
When researching places to stay in Los Angeles California, staying in a hotel right in the heart of the city has its perks. Youll be able to walk almost everywhere.
3 Star Hotels
There are only two hotels near Downtown LA with 3 stars that you should consider.
Residence Inn by Marriott L.A. LIVE
The Residence Inn L.A. LIVE is right in the heart of downtown LA.
You are an easy walk from The Staples Center, Museum of Contemporary Art, and the 7th Street/Metro Center Station.
This is an extended-stay hotel, so the suites all have fully-equipped kitchens and dining areas. Book your stay at the Residence Inn on Booking.com.
Miyako Hotel Los Angeles
This hotel is located within a 14-minute walk from Little Tokyo. When you stay at the Miyako Hotel, you are experiencing Asian culture up close. Book your stay at the Miyako Hotel on Booking.com.
4 Star Hotels
InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown
Guests love the breathtaking views from the top of the InterContinental Hotel the tallest building on the West Coast.
And if you love stunning views, you will enjoy the floor-to-ceiling windows in each of the guest rooms. Book your stay at InterContinental on Booking.com.
JW Marriott L.A. LIVE
If you like being in the middle of all the action, then this is the hotel for you.
Its just a short walk from L.A. LIVE, the Convention Center, Microsoft Theatre, and the STAPLES Center.
Hotel Indigo
The Best Hotels In Las Westside Area
The Beverly Wilshire
The Beverly Wilshire offers glamour and history along with stunning restaurants, including CUT, Wolfgang Pucks Michelin-starred steakhouse, and The Blvd, overlooking Wilshire and Rodeo Drive. A visit to the hotels Spa would be a lovely vacation indulgence.
9500 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212, 275-5200, fourseasons.com
To book: expedia.com
Also Check: Best Place To Stay In Napa For Wine Tasting
Have A Plan For The Iconic Hollywood Sign
Few sights in Los Angeles rival this icon. Originally it was a billboard for a fancy housing development, putting it in a residential area that is tricky to navigate.
If you want a picture of the Hollywood sign, the best way to go is by doing this official Hollywood Sign hike. Alternatively, there are good photo ops for this feature on Beachwood Drive, north of Franklin Ave and south of Rosalia Drive.
Surestay Hotel By Best Western Beverley Hills West La
Another good hotel for families that prefer to stay central to all the tourist attractions in LA is the SureStay Hotel by Best Western Beverley Hills. The SureStay Hotel is only a 5-minute walk from the Grove and the famous farmers markets and only three blocks from Melrose Avenue and 5kms from all the Hollywood tourist attractions.
The hotel rooms at SureStay can accommodate families of up to four people. Each hotel room comes with two large double beds and includes a microwave, TV, fridge, tea and coffee making facilities and WIFI. The hotel also provides a complimentary breakfast and onsite parking.
Why We Love it?
Being able to walk to the Grove definitely makes this one of the best hotels for families in Los Angeles coming to town for shopping!
Whatâs Not to Love?
This is not one of the best LA hotels for families to walk to all the top LA tourist attractions, but it is central enough to easily reach them all by car or Uber.
Summary
For family holidays to Los Angeles, the SureStay Hotel is an excellent option if youâd rather not stay in the centre of Hollywood but would still like to be reasonably central to all the LA tourist attractions. From here you are also within walking distance of shops and places to eat.
Recommended Reading: Where To Stay In Bilbao Spain
Venice Beach Where To Stay In Los Angeles On A Budget
Venice Beach is the ideal spot if you want to experience some amazing California beaches and a very cool and fun atmosphere sounds like a great vacation place, right?
Venice Beach is one of the coolest and most interesting places for all kinds of tourists out there, especially if you love a good bohemian vibe and are interested in vintage things, but its also THE place to be for tourists traveling to the city on a budget. Youll find plenty of great hostels and dorm rooms here for as little as US$40-50, which will help you save some pennies for sure.
While youre in the neighborhood, make sure to take a walk on Abbot Kinney Boulevard and Main Street , soak in some California sun on Venice Beach , see the Mosaic Tile House, explore the Venice Canals by boat or simply relax and soak in the unique atmosphere.
One of the best things about Venice Beach is that its super walkable thats why I recommend exploring it as much as you can! But make sure to book in advance if you want to grab a bargain, these places fill up quickly!
What Is The Best Neighborhood To Stay In Los Angeles For Tourists
Everything obviously depends on the things you want to see in the city, but generally speaking, considering a visit that focuses on the main attractions of Los Angeles and also includes a stop outside the city to enjoy Disneyland, in my opinion, Downtown Los Angelesremains the best solution that allows you to get around easily by car. Its central location makes it more or less equidistant from the main areas of the coast and the areas further inland and is also located at a convenient distance from Disneyland. In conclusion, it is an excellent compromise, which makes it one of the best areas to look for accommodations.
Not too far from Disneyland, there is also Long Beach , but at the same time, it is slightly farther from all the other attractions. Its still true that all of the Los Angeles neighborhoods listed here are good options for an overnight stay in the city, so even if you dont find accommodations in the downtown area, dont worry!
Recommended Reading: Where To Stay In Vienna For Christmas Markets
Hyatt Place Los Angeles/lax/el Segundo
Located just 3 miles away from Los Angeles International Airport, this new hotel offers free airport transportation. One of the best Los Angeles family resorts, it also offers a free daily hot breakfast and features an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi and a 42-inch flat-screen TV with extended film channels.
Each room includes a sofa bed, a king bed or 2 queens, a coffee machine and a refrigerator and each bathroom includes a hairdryer and free toiletries. The Guest Kitchen at El Segundo/LAX/Hyatt Place Los Angeles offers freshly prepared snacks and meals or if guests prefer, they can choose from sandwiches, salads, and bakery items from the Grab N Go case. Both are available 24 hours a day.
Guests of this family hotel in Los Angeles can access a 24-hour fitness centre. A business centre with fax and photocopying services are available if they are required, and free guest parking is available. The Promenade at Howard Hughes centre is just 6 miles away from this pet friendly hotel, making it an excellent choice for a best family hotel in Los Angeles.
Best Parts Top quality, well-fitted rooms with free breakfast and airport transportationBe Aware Quality comes at a price and this hotel, a premium Los Angeles family hotel, is no exceptionBest For: Smaller families with children of any age
Book A Trip To Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills, Los Angeles California
OK, so Beverly Hills is pretty residential, but you wont get many safer neighbourhoods in the city. It wont come cheap either, but you pay a premium to follow in the footsteps of the melodramatic families from the neighbourhoods eponymous TV series. And if your kids are fans of any of its myriad incarnations, then youre onto a winner. Los Angeles is pretty much a dream, so enjoy driving up and down roads flanked with palm trees and mansions, feeling like youve finally made it. Maybe if you honk enough and cause a riot, you can single-handedly bring down the house prices before you swoop. Just hope for an experience a little less histrionic than a typical episode of the TV show.
Plush Crush, Plum Guide home in Los Angeles
Read Also: Places To Stay In Squaw Valley Ca
Things To See And Do In Downtown
- Watch top athletes battle it out at the Staples Centre, home to the LA Kings and LA Lakers hockey and basketball teams.
- Sample great craft beer at Angel City Brewery.
- Dine on amazing food at one of the food vendors at the Grand Central Market.
- Sip on delicious whiskey cocktails at Seven Bar Lounge.
- See panoramic views of LA and enjoy DJs spinning the latest tunes at The Rooftop at the Standard Downtown LA.
- Catch a performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
- Enjoy great beer and a wonderful atmosphere at Boomtown Brewery.
- Grab a spot at the Edison, a hip bar built in the basement of an old Downtown nuclear power plant.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! Youre connected. Its just that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
Cheap Accommodation In Los Angeles
Now, if you care more about price than quality, here are the most affordable hotels in Los Angeles, the best options where to stay in Los Angeles without spending much. This way, you can travel on a budget and avoid staying in dangerous neighborhoods.
Remember that even if LA is one of the most exclusive cities in the USA, its not difficult to end up staying in a dangerous neighborhood if youre only trying to get cheap accommodation in Los Angeles. To avoid this, below, youll find cheap hotels in Los Angeles located in good neighborhoods:
Besides, you may be interested in our tips to find the best hotel deals.
Don’t Miss: Best Places To Stay In Monterey Bay
Best Luxury House In Hollywood Hills: Massive Home For You And Your Friends
Alright, hear us out first! This mansion in Hollywood Hills definitely isnt one of the affordable accommodations but theres a trick to it. The house sleeps up to 8 people and offers an impressive 6000 sq. ft. , so just split the bill at the end and, boom, youve got luxury for a super cheap price! The deck, sauna, jacuzzi, incredible location, full bar, and pool table add to the value of this home as well, but the one thing that really stands out is the quality and cleanliness. Check out the pictures and convince yourself!
West Hollywood One Of The Coolest Areas To Stay In Los Angeles
Jeff Gunn
West Hollywood is one of the coolest and best places to stay in LA. It is one of the most fashionable parts of town known for its high-end boutiques and independent vintage shops. Here, youll also find a great variety of home décor stores and fabulous fitness studios.
A bit about West Hollywood: its built on a grid of wide and lush boulevards and is easy to walk around. West Hollywood is also a hub for the LGBTQ communities and Hollywood up-and-comers, since its close to Beverly Hills.
Its colourful farmers market and world-class restaurants are great for sampling delicious dishes, sipping exotic drinks, and spotting a celebrity or two. West Hollywood is the best part of LA to stay in tune with the decadent, gauche Hollywood spirit.
Read Also: Where To Stay In Evia Greece