Bold, glamorous and glittering like star dust, LA has an almost mythical quality that draws travellers. Even if we hadn’t seen highlights on the silver screen, the beaches, shops, attractions and thumping nightlife would ensure its spot as a bucket list destination. Can’t wait to get in on the action? Let’s look at where to stay in Los Angeles.
Best Place to Stay in LA
Hollywood
Take your happy snap in front of Hollywood’s Chinese Theatre
If you’re a movie buff, go for gold and stay in the heart of Tinseltown. Here, you can conquer the legendary Walk of Fame, stare at your favourite stars at the Hollywood Wax Museum and take a happy snap in front of Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. You might also find a red carpet event at shopping mecca, Hollywood and Highland Center.
The experience wouldn’t be complete without a stay the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, which once played host to the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Charlie Chaplin. Or, live it up at boutique hotel, The Redbury, right on the renowned intersection of Hollywood and Vine and is one of the best places to stay in LA.
Downtown Los Angeles
Downtown LA is edgy, arty and a whole lot of fun
Downtown LA is not often on the tourist radar, however there’s plenty of reasons to visit. This is the spot for culture vultures, with the Natural History Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the California Science Center. Mix a hit of learning with world-class restaurants, shopping, concerts, theatre and clubs for night owls – and you might not find time to sleep.
In terms of accommodation, a true city break wouldn’t be the same without a hotel rooftop bar and pool for skyline views. The Standard delivers both, in style. Or, indulge in the carved marble fountains, crystal chandeliers and Roman-style pool at the historic Millennium Biltmore Los Angeles.
Best place to stay in Los Angeles without a car
Santa Monica
Santa Monica’s colourful attractions are the family pick of the bunch
Where’s the best place to stay in Los Angeles without a car? It might just be family-friendly Santa Monica. The iconic pier is the star attraction, sitting colourfully over the beach with an amusement park, aquarium and restaurants. Here, bike rides, long strolls along the white sand, shopping and ice-creams after a swim are what holidays are made of.
Take in Pacific Ocean views within just steps of Third Street Promenade and the pier, from the Ocean View Hotel. With programs like ‘Loews Loves Kids’, children’s menus and babysitting, Loews Santa Monica helps you relax, while the littles have their own fun.
Venice
Explore the canals and quirky vibe of Venice
Though it’s really only a stone’s throw from Santa Monica, the vibe in Venice is unique, to say the least. There are canals with gondolas, just like its namesake, with artists, musicians and poets galore. The Venice Ocean Front Walk teems with quirky characters, street performers and market stalls.
Venice Breakwater is where the surfing’s at and the concrete bowl at the skate park will keep adrenaline-hunters happy. The Cadillac Hotel resides on the famous boardwalk, so you never have to miss out on the action. Plus, it’s been part of Venice beach for over 100 years and is one of the best places to stay in LA.
West Hollywood
West Hollywood is the spot for serious night-owls
Did someone say, “big night out?” West Hollywood and, more to the point, Sunset Strip, is the place to have one. LGBT activists, fashion, dining and celebrities make ‘WeHo’ one of the trendiest spots in town. Here, you’ll find the world famous clubs, Whiskey a Go Go, The Viper Room and Comedy Store. You can always hike Runyon Canyon to recover from the revelry.
To join the jet-set, a stay at the fairy tale Chateau Marmont is a must. The Ramada Plaza West Hollywood Hotel and Suites offers an outdoor pool, fitness centre, bar and all-important 24-hour kitchen for late night snacks.
Beverly Hills
Shopping and luxury on Rodeo Drive
Beverly Hills is the land of luxury, with designer shopping on Rodeo Drive, mansions lining leafy streets, the historic City Hall, spas and art galleries. This is the spot to see and be seen, stroll through Beverly Gardens Park, take a photo in front of the Beverly Wilshire – aka ‘Pretty Woman’ – and visit the Art Deco Saban Theatre.
If you have the cash to splash, naturally, a stay at the plush Beverly Hills Hotel is a must. For a more budget-friendly option in the midst of opulence, try Maison 140 to indulge in a stylish boutique experience within walking distance of Rodeo Drive as where to stay in Los Angeles.
South Bay
Experience the Southern Californian beach lifestyle in Redondo
When you want to escape the city, South Bay is an ocean-side haven with plenty to keep the whole family occupied. Experience the sought-after Southern Californian beach lifestyle, at Redondo, Manhattan and Hermosa, with piers, restaurants, shops and chic bars.
Take the kids to the Roundhouse Aquarium at Manhattan Beach, the Charles H. Wilson Park or the Western Museum of Flight in Torrance. The Crown Plaza Redondo Beach and Marina has pools, restaurants and dedicated quiet zones so you can recoup, ready to launch into another day in vibrant ‘La La Land’. Depending on your mood and interests, pick your favourite neighbourhood of where to stay in Los Angeles.
Looking for more city adventures? Check out places to visit in Dubai or Fiji family holidays
