The Best Areas to Stay in Los Angeles, CA
The Best Areas to Stay in Los Angeles, CA

Best Areas to Stay in Los Angeles, California

Where to stay in Los Angeles- A guide to the great city of California

The city of Los Angeles, located in the south of the state of California, is a city without comparison and, for many, a must-see destination when staying in California.

Shopping, outstanding architecture, film studios and culture make Los Angeles one of the most diverse cities on the planet.

In this city, you can find well-known areas such as Hollywood, Venice Beach, and Rodeo Drive, an exclusive district of boutiques and designer stores.

Los Angeles has a warm climate, with temperatures that, in summer, can exceed 90ºF (32°C) and, in winter, can drop to 46ºF (8ºC).

The big city has several options when it comes to transport, such as buses and the metro lines that run through areas such as Downtown, Hollywood and Universal City, among others.

L.A has excellent connections to other cities and international destinations through many of its airports. but the main airport is LAX.

Whether you visit L.A. with family, for a business trip, romantic getaway or adventure, there are multiple options of accommodation in Los Angeles near major attractions and at affordable prices.

We recommend the West Hollywood district as the best area to stay in Los Angeles for being the center of entertainment in the city, hosting world-renowned attractions, having good connections with transport and a wide variety of hotels (See accommodation in West Hollywood).

Here’s a guide with the best area to stay in Los Angeles.

The best areas to stay in Los Angeles

1. Our Favorite Area: West Hollywood

West Hollywood (also called “WeHo”) is one of the most popular neighborhoods in the city of Los Angeles, thanks to the entertainment options it offers to travelers and locals.

Within the area are attractions such as the Walk of Fame, the Grauman Chinese Theater and Robertson Boulevard, one of the epicenters of fashion and home to a vibrant gay community.

Moving from West Hollywood to other areas of Los Angeles is possible via the metro, taxis or the numerous bus stops along Santa Monica Boulevard.

Another site of interest within this district is the Highland shopping complex, on Highland Avenue, with its more than 65 shops, restaurants, cinemas and nightclubs that make it a must-see when visiting West Hollywood.

Some of the best hotels in Los Angeles are located in West Hollywood, so it is safe to say that this is one of the best areas to stay in Los Angeles, California.

Best areas to stay in Los Ángeles - West Hollywood
Best areas to stay in Los Ángeles – West Hollywood
Accommodation in West Hollywood – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation in West Hollywood – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay in LA:

  • Walk of Fame
  • Great nightlife
  • Grauman Chinese Theater
  • Hollywood & Highland
  • Robertson Boulevard
  • LGBT Friendly

2. Santa Monica

Officially, Santa Monica is a city located in southern California, but it is also part of the metropolitan area of Los Angeles.

After experiencing a growth in its tourist offer in the 80’s, Santa Mónica has become the main destination for travelers who want to enjoy their stay surrounded by beaches and shops, take long walks along the pier or get on the attractions of Pacific Park.

Santa Monica is one of the best areas to stay in Los Angeles during the summer, as it allows you to enjoy beautiful beaches.

Traveling from this area to other districts of Los Angeles is possible through the available bus network or by taking the Expo line of the metro.

Santa Monica is divided into small districts with different leisure offers for your stay such as Ocean Park, Mid-City and Wilshire Montana.

A must-see in Santa Monica is the shopping and dining complex Third Street Promenade, which is very close to the beach.

Santa Mónica- Best areas to stay in Los Angeles
Santa Mónica- Best areas to stay in Los Angeles
Accommodation in Santa Mónica – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation in Santa Mónica – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay in Los Angeles:

  • Beach area
  • Different accommodation options
  • Shopping area
  • Third Street Promenade
  • Great area for visitors
  • Pacific Park

3. Silver Lake & Echo Park

In East Los Angeles you will find the small communities of Silver Lake & Echo Park, with an environment between residential and hipster that makes them ideal tourist destinations for young travelers.

These hipsters neighborhoods, with their streets and buildings covered in urban art, are known to house writers and artists, the first movie studios and several cafés to share a snack in the afternoon.

To move from Silver Lake & Echo Park to other areas in Los Ángeles, you can use get to of the bus stops on Sunset Boulevard.

Other activities to do during your stay at Silver Lake & Echo Park vary from going to the Autry Museum, shopping on the Sunset Junction or enjoy nature on a walk through the Elysian Park.

In Silver Lake & amp; Echo Park, the leisure options vary between tasting the gastronomy in bars and terraces or attending the nightclubs, very frequented by the LGBT community.

Silver Lake & Echo Park are a good option when choosing where to stay in Los Angeles.

Best areas to stay in Los Ángeles - Silver lake & Echo Park
Best areas to stay in Los Ángeles – Silver lake & Echo Park
Accommodation in Silver Lake & Echo Park – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation in Silver Lake & Echo Park – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay in Los Angeles:

  • Hipster area
  • LGBT Friendly
  • Urban art
  • Autry Museum Promenade
  • Bars and restaurants
  • Sunset Junction

4. Historic District & Downtown L.A.

The Historic District and Downtown Los Angeles concentrate a large part of the tourist attractions and monuments that every visitor should see.

This busy business area is located in the heart of Los Angeles, housing industrial buildings and warehouses converted into modern apartments and elegant cafes.

As an alternative to the beach, it is recommended to stay at the Downtown L.A. and the Historic District because of the proximity to various attractions and nightlife options such as live music venues and bars.

Staying in these areas gives you the opportunity to visit the Museum of Modern Art “The Broad”, the Cathedral of Our Lady of Los Angeles, the MOCA and the famous auditorium of the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Moving to other neighborhoods from the Historic District & amp; Downtown L.A is easy because of its location and easy access to public transport.

These areas offer numerous accommodation options at reasonable prices, as well as business hotels, which is why it is one of the best areas to stay in Los Angeles for business.

Where to stay in Los Angeles - Historic District & Downtown
Where to stay in Los Angeles – Historic District & Downtown

Accommodation in Historic District & Downtown – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay in L.A.:

  • Central location
  • Great transport options
  • Business area
  • MOCA
  • Bars and restaurants
  • Walt Disney Concert Hall

5. Venice Beach

Venice Beach is one of the best areas to stay in Los Angeles for its relaxed and bohemian style.

In this area, which served as a refuge for famous artists such as Jim Morrison, travelers, painters and free-spirited people can enjoy activities such as going to the beach, watching shows by street artists or surfing.

Venice Beach also stands out for its restaurants, bars, and cafes that make it one of the best areas to stay in Los Angeles to enjoy the cuisine.

Venice Beach has an eclectic mix of bohemian and historical and is known for its urban art, souvenir shops, beautiful beaches, and its promenade.

Going from Venice Beach to other areas of Los Angeles is possible thanks to the wide bus line that runs through it. In the same way, many tourists choose to travel this area by bicycle.

Staying in Venice Beach allows you to enjoy the views of the Pacific, while being away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. In addition, it also offers hotels with different costs.

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Best areas to stay in Los Angeles - Venice Beach
Best areas to stay in Los Angeles – Venice Beach
Accommodation in Venice Beach – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation in Venice Beach – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay in Los Angeles:

  • Beach area
  • Street art
  • Souvenir shops

6. Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills located at the foot of the Santa Monica Mountains, surrounded on the east side by the West Hollywood district, is a mix of mansions, bakeries, luxury cafes and, of course, hundreds of fashion stores and boutiques.

In this area, you will find the elegant shopping center Rodeo Drive and its famous designer stores for all styles. It also has several gardens with sculptures that add even more class to this corner of L.A.

In addition to influencing fashion, Beverly Hills hosts important attractions such as the MGM movie studio and Warner Brothers Studio. There is also the Mulholland Drive Avenue, where you can admire the mansions and views of San Fernando and Hollywood.

Beverly Hills has a wide range of hotels for all tastes and with the elegant touch worthy of the area, restaurants run by the best chefs and excellent services.

Best areas to stay in Los Angeles - Beverly Hills
Best areas to stay in Los Angeles – Beverly Hills
Accommodation in Beverly Hills – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation in Beverly Hills – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay in LA:

  • Best area for shopping
  • Luxury hotels
  • Rodeo Drive
  • Great food
  • Mulholland Drive
  • Warner Brothers Studio

7. Westwood L.A

Westwood is located west of L.A. and it is a commercial and residential neighborhood full of young students.

Westwood is known to house the University of California (UCLA), Westwood Village with its movie theaters, restaurants, and shops.

It is an area where movie stars and students and street artists coexist to enjoy their elegant cafes.

Its streets with its warm atmosphere allow you to enjoy the cheerful nightlife in bars and restaurants. In addition, you can easily reach the districts of Santa Monica and Beverly Hills.

Moving to other neighborhoods in Los Angeles is no problem thanks to the bus network on Westwood Blvd. and Westholme Ave.

Westwood is also the best area to stay in Los Angeles during a layover since it is 20 minutes away from the LAX airport.

Best areas to stay in Los Angeles - Westwood
Best areas to stay in Los Angeles – Westwood
Accommodation in Westwood L.A - Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation in Westwood L.A – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay:

  • lose to LAX
  • UCLA
  • Restaurants and cafes

8. LAX Area

The surroundings of Los Angeles Airport or LAX are one of the best areas to stay in Los Angeles for travelers in transit.

If you want to know other places in Los Angeles and have enough time, this area has several bus stops along the World Way and Vicksburg Avenue.

However, if you do not want to take the bus, the airport has multiple taxi lines to travel to other areas of the city.

In the LAX area is the iconic Theme Building. with its Googie and futuristic architectural style. It is an observatory in which you can see the full view of the Los Angeles airport.

The restaurants and markets in the LAX area are recommended for those visiting Los Angeles for a short stay, although they are not at all representative of the taste of the city.

Best areas to stay in Los Angeles- Close to LAX
Best areas to stay in Los Angeles- Close to LAX
Accommodation near LAX – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area
Accommodation near LAX – Click on the map to see all available accommodation in this area

Why is this a recommended area to stay:

  • Best area for layovers
  • Theme Building
  • Connected by public transport

Best Location in Los Angeles – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best area to stay in Los Angeles for sightseeing?

West Hollywood is the best place to stay in L.A. for sightseeing, especially if it’s your first time in the “City of Angels.” In “WeHo,” you’ll find the most important attractions in the city, including the Walk of Fame. The Grauman Chinese Theater and Robertson Boulevard are also in this area.

Yet, the Downtown area is also a good option because it houses Los Angeles’ biggest museums.

What is the best area to stay in Los Angeles with kids?

Santa Monica is one of the best areas to stay in L.A. for family trips because of its beautiful beaches and Pacific Park.

But, if you’re deciding where to stay in Los Angeles to visit Disneyland, you should book a hotel in Anaheim. This will allow you to remain close to the park and enjoy its attractions with no rush.

What’s the best area to stay in Los Angeles near the beach?

There are two great beach areas near Los Angeles: Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Despite being next to each other, these two places have very different atmospheres. Thus, choosing one will depend on your personal taste.

Santa Monica has an upscale, trendy vibe, while Venice is bohemian and hipster-friendly. Yet, they both have stores, restaurants and, of course, beautiful beaches.

What is the best location to stay in Los Angeles for shopping?

L.A. has many shopping areas, but the best one is, without a doubt, the world-renowned Beverly Hills. In this district, you’ll find exclusive designer boutiques that are a shopaholic’s dream!

If you’re looking for more budget-friendly shopping options, Downtown L.A. is a good area to stay.

What is the safest area to stay in Los Angeles?

The safest areas in Los Angeles are, for the most part, up-scale neighborhoods. Thus, you are less likely to be in danger in places like Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey, and Beverly Hills.

What’s the best area to stay in Los Angeles to visit Disneyland?

Since Disneyland isn’t in actual L.A., the best option is to stay in Anaheim, where you’ll find the park. This way, you won’t be spending that much money (or time!) in public trransport.

What is the best location in Los Angeles for nightlife?

L.A.’s bustling nightlife extends to several of its areas, so choosing one will depend on your partying style.

For example, for gay bars and legendary LGBT clubs, stay in West Hollywood. Meanwhile, Downtown has rooftop bars and clubs for all tastes. Likewise, there’s Hollywood for exclusive venues and Venice for a relaxed atmosphere.

Where to stay in Los Angeles without a car?

The best area to stay without a car in L.A. is Downtown because of its great public transport connections.

Where to stay in Los Angeles during a layover?

The best area to stay in Los Angeles during a layover is near LAX airport. But you could also book a hotel in nearby Venice Beach or Santa Monica if you don’t have to catch an early flight. You only need to make sure the layover isn’t that short.

What is the best area in Los Angeles for LGBT travelers?

The recommended area to stay in Los Angeles for LGBT travelers is, as expected, West Hollywood. That said, Venice Beach and Santa Monica are also very gay-friendly areas. For hipster-friendly gay bars, stay in Silver Lake.

What is the best area in Los Angeles for hipsters?

The hipster heart of L.A. is between Echo Park and Silver Lake. But, if you think they’re already “too mainstream,” you can always try the boho-chic Venice Beach.

What is the best area to stay around Los Angeles?

The best areas outside of L.A. are Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach. These three beach towns that create the “South Bay” are less touristy, beautiful, and quiet.

Another good area to stay around Los Angeles is Orange County, also referred to as the “O.C.”

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