Where to Stay in Los Angeles 🇺🇸: Best Neighborhoods & Hotels

Updated on October 5, 2024
by Alex Miller

Los Angeles, often known as LA, is the largest city in California and the second-largest in the United States, with a diverse population exceeding 4 million people. Renowned for its Mediterranean climate, LA is a global center for entertainment, culture, and technology, home to Hollywood, numerous beaches, and iconic landmarks such as the Griffith Observatory and Getty Center. The city is also a major hub for international trade, with the Port of Los Angeles being one of the busiest in the world.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels in Los Angeles:

Guide to the Best Places to Stay in Los Angeles:

  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Santa Monica
  • 💎 For Luxury Life: Beverly Hills
  • 🍷 For Nightlife: West Hollywood
  • 🏖️ For Beach Activities: Venice Beach
  • 🏰 For History Charm: Downtown LA
  • 🧑🏾‍🎤 For Hipsters: Silver Lake

1. Santa Monica: One of The Best Places to Stay in LA for Families

🏖️ Must-visit: Located on the western edge of Los Angeles, Santa Monica is a picturesque beachside city known for its iconic pier, vibrant boardwalk, and year-round mild climate.

🌊 Memorable views: Strolling along the Santa Monica Pier, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, amusement park rides, and unbeatable views of the coastline. The pier stretches out into the ocean, perfect for a romantic walk at sunset or a jog any time of day. The adjacent Santa Monica State Beach offers a wide stretch of sand, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or beach volleyball.

🏞️ Outdoor activities: Santa Monica offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including surfing, paddleboarding, and beachside yoga. The Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also known as “The Strand,” stretches 22 miles along the coast, perfect for a leisurely bike ride or jog. The nearby Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area offers hiking trails with breathtaking views of the city and the ocean.

🏙️ Historic center: Wandering through the downtown area, you’ll discover the famous Third Street Promenade, lined with eclectic shops, street performers, and restaurants. The historic Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, located beneath the pier, is home to a variety of marine life. When hunger strikes, the promenade offers a diverse range of dining options, from seafood to international cuisine.

🎭 Cultural hub: Immerse yourself in Santa Monica’s vibrant cultural scene by checking out the local galleries, theaters, and live music venues that dot the city. Catch a performance at the Broad Stage, a leading performing arts center known for its diverse productions. Explore the nearby Bergamot Station Arts Center to discover contemporary art galleries and studios.

🚍 Well-connected: Public transportation like buses and the Expo Line make it easy to reach surrounding areas or other neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Major cultural attractions like the Getty Center, Venice Beach, and Marina del Rey are only about 10-20 miles away.

Recommended Hotels:

💎 Luxury Hotels:

  • Shutters On The Beach – A luxurious beachfront hotel offering elegant rooms with ocean views, multiple dining options, a spa, and a pool, all just steps from Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade.
  • Casa Del Mar – A historic Mediterranean-style luxury hotel directly on the beach, featuring lavish rooms, a spa, pool, and restaurants with panoramic ocean views, originally opened as a beach club in 1926.
  • Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts – An all-suite boutique hotel overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offering spacious accommodations, two restaurants, a pool, spa services, and complimentary beach cruisers in a prime Santa Monica location.

🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Sonder The Beacon – A historic 1928 beachfront hotel offering art deco-inspired rooms, a rooftop with ocean views, fitness center, and easy access to Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade.
  • The Pierside Santa Monica – A chic oceanfront hotel with 132 spacious rooms featuring natural textures and ocean-inspired colors, direct access to Santa Monica Pier and beach, a heated saltwater pool, and an alfresco restaurant.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica – A modern hotel located three blocks from Santa Monica Pier, offering comfortable rooms, free breakfast, a fitness center, and easy access to downtown Santa Monica’s shops and restaurants.

💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:

  • Ocean Park Hotel – An affordable hotel located 1.5 miles from Santa Monica Beach, offering functional amenities like free Wi-Fi and parking, on-site laundry facilities, and easy access to Venice Beach and local attractions.
  • HI Los Angeles - Santa Monica Hostel –  A modern hostel just two blocks from Santa Monica Beach, featuring dorms and private rooms, free breakfast, a fully-equipped guest kitchen, outdoor courtyard, and organized activities.
  • Rest Haven Motel – An economy motel, providing basic accommodations with easy access to popular tourist attractions and nearby parks like Palisades Park and Crescent Bay Park.

2. Beverly Hills: The Top Location for Shopping Lovers

📍 Famous location: Beverly Hills, located in the western part of Los Angeles, is a glamorous neighborhood famous for its upscale shopping, luxurious hotels, and celebrity homes. The iconic Rodeo Drive is a must-see, offering a world-class shopping experience with high-end brands and designer boutiques.

🏡 Elegant estates: Beverly Hills is known for its stunning mansions and historic estates. Visit Greystone Mansion and Park, a grand estate with beautiful gardens, and the historic Beverly Hills Hotel, famously known as the “Pink Palace,” which has hosted many celebrities over the years.

👛 Unique shopping: Rodeo Drive is a shopping paradise, but don’t miss the charming boutiques and specialty stores on Beverly Drive and Canon Drive. From high-end fashion to unique jewelry, Beverly Hills offers a diverse shopping experience for every taste.

🍽️ Culinary delights: Indulge in a variety of gourmet dining options, from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming cafes. Try Spago for a taste of celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck’s culinary creations or enjoy a classic afternoon tea at The Peninsula Beverly Hills.

Greystone Mansion and Park
Greystone Mansion and Park
Greystone Mansion and Park
Greystone Mansion and Park
Greystone Mansion and Park
Greystone Mansion and Park
Greystone Mansion and Park

🎭 Cultural activities: Immerse yourself in Beverly Hills’ cultural scene by visiting the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, showcasing a diverse range of theatrical and musical performances. Beverly Hills is also home to several art galleries and museums, offering insights into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Recommended Hotels:

💎 Luxury Hotels:

  • The Beverly Hills Hotel - Dorchester Collection – An iconic luxury hotel known as the “Pink Palace,” featuring 210 rooms and suites, 23 bungalows, the famous Polo Lounge, and a rich Hollywood history dating back to 1912.
  • The Peninsula Beverly Hills – A five-star hotel offering 195 rooms including 38 suites and 17 private villas, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, and personalized services like complimentary car use within Beverly Hills and Century City.
  • Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel – A historic luxury hotel located at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Rodeo Drive, featuring 395 guest rooms and suites, a Mediterranean-style pool, and famous for its appearance in the movie “Pretty Woman.”

🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Hotel Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills – A luxurious 4-star hotel blending Hollywood glamour and French elegance, featuring 295 rooms, a rooftop pool with city views, a spa, and located at the intersection of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood.
  • The Beverly Hilton – An iconic 4-star hotel known for hosting the Golden Globe Awards since 1961, offering 566 rooms, an outdoor pool, and situated on a sprawling 8.9-acre property at the intersection of Wilshire and Santa Monica boulevards.
  • Palihouse West Hollywood – A boutique hotel on West 3rd Street featuring 95 stylish rooms, an indoor/outdoor pool lounge, a charming Lobby Lounge Café and Bar, and a unique blend of California quirkiness and European opulence.

💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:

  • Maison 140 Beverly Hills – A boutique hotel near Rodeo Drive featuring 44 Parisian-inspired rooms, a stylish Bar Noir lounge, and easy access to Beverly Hills’ shopping and UCLA, all housed in a historic building from the 1930s.
  • Carlyle Inn – A charming 3-star hotel with 32 Art Deco-style rooms surrounding an open-air courtyard, offering complimentary breakfast, located just 10 minutes from Beverly Hills and within walking distance of the Kabbalah Center.
  • Elan Hotel – A contemporary two-story boutique hotel situated between Beverly Hills and Hollywood, offering 49 rooms with modern amenities, complimentary continental breakfast, and easy access to popular Los Angeles attractions.

3. West Hollywood: The Best Neighborhood to Stay in LA for Nightlife

🌆 Iconic streetscape: Strolling along the famous Sunset Strip, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering billboards, legendary music venues, and unbeatable views of the Los Angeles cityscape. The strip stretches for 1.5 miles, perfect for celebrity spotting or enjoying the pulsating nightlife. Colorful street art and the rainbow crosswalks on Santa Monica Boulevard add to the area’s unique character.

🏙️ Entertainment epicenter: Wandering through the neighborhood, you’ll discover world-renowned comedy clubs like The Comedy Store, historic music venues such as Whisky a Go Go and The Roxy Theatre, and the lively Santa Monica Boulevard, hub of the LGBTQ+ nightlife scene. Shopping enthusiasts will love the designer boutiques and cutting-edge fashion stores in the Design District. When hunger strikes, trendy restaurants and rooftop bars serve up delicious cuisine with stunning city views.

🎭 Cultural places: Immerse yourself in West Hollywood’s vibrant cultural scene by checking out the local art galleries, theaters, and live music venues that dot the neighborhood. Catch a stand-up comedy show at the Laugh Factory, a legendary venue known for hosting both established and up-and-coming comedians. Explore the MAK Center for Art and Architecture at the Schindler House to discover innovative exhibitions in a historic modernist setting.

🚍 Well-connected: Public transportation like buses and bike-sharing services make it easy to explore West Hollywood and reach surrounding areas. Major cultural attractions like the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), The Grove, and Universal Studios Hollywood are only a short drive away.

LACMA
LACMA
LACMA
LACMA
LACMA
LACMA
LACMA

👛 Shopping paradise: Explore the eclectic mix of high-end boutiques, vintage stores, and designer showrooms that line Melrose Avenue and the Design District. From luxury fashion brands to one-of-a-kind furniture pieces, there’s no shortage of retail therapy options. Don’t forget to visit the Original Farmers Market for fresh produce and local specialties.

Recommended Hotels:

💎 Luxury Hotels:

  • The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills – An all-suite luxury hotel offering spacious accommodations, a rooftop pool with city views, complimentary breakfast, and located at the crossroads of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills.
  • The West Hollywood EDITION – A sophisticated boutique hotel featuring 190 rooms and suites, basement club, signature restaurant, and a Forbes Five Star-rated spa, situated on the corner of Sunset Boulevard and Doheny Drive.
  • 1 Hotel West Hollywood – A sustainable luxury hotel with 285 rooms, featuring reclaimed wood and locally-sourced materials throughout, a rooftop pool, farm-to-table dining options, and panoramic views of Los Angeles from its Sunset Strip location.

🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Andaz West Hollywood-a concept by Hyatt – A modern 4-star hotel on the Sunset Strip featuring 239 rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, and a rich rock ‘n’ roll history as the former “Riot House” frequented by famous musicians.
  • Hotel Ziggy Los Angeles – A music-themed boutique hotel with 108 rooms, West Hollywood’s only saltwater pool, live music venues, and a pizza restaurant, located on the iconic Sunset Strip.
  • Chamberlain West Hollywood – An intimate all-suite hotel with 115 newly redesigned rooms, a glamorous rooftop terrace and pool, and a prime location just steps from Sunset Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard.

💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:

  • Ramada Plaza by Wyndham West Hollywood Hotel & Suites – A non-smoking hotel located just off Route 101 and I-405 at Santa Monica Boulevard, offering comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant with room service, and easy access to Hollywood attractions like the TCL Chinese Theatre and Universal Studios.
  • Cute and cozy apartment in WeHo – A modern 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom apartment in the heart of West Hollywood, featuring air conditioning, a private pool, and located near popular bars and restaurants on Santa Monica Boulevard.
  • Chic 1BD Oasis in West Hollywood – A cozy and modern one-bedroom apartment in the vibrant center of West Hollywood, offering air conditioning, a balcony with quiet street views, and free parking in a convenient location for exploring Los Angeles.

4. Venice Beach: Great Area to Stay for Relax

🌟 Iconic hotspot: Nestled along the Pacific coast of Los Angeles, Venice Beach is a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic boardwalk, beautiful shoreline, and unique blend of bohemian and beachside culture.

🏖️ Beachfront spectacle: Strolling along the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk, you’ll find yourself surrounded by street performers, colorful murals, and unbeatable views of the sparkling Pacific Ocean. The boardwalk stretches for over a mile, perfect for people-watching, rollerblading, or enjoying street food any time of day. The wide sandy beach offers plenty of space for sunbathing, volleyball, and surfing.

🏋️ Fitness mecca: Wandering through the outdoor areas, you’ll discover the world-renowned Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders pump iron in full view of passersby. Nearby, the Venice Skatepark showcases talented skateboarders performing tricks against the backdrop of the ocean. When hunger strikes, beachside cafes and food trucks serve up everything from healthy smoothies to indulgent boardwalk treats.

Muscle Beach
Muscle Beach
Muscle Beach

🎨 Artistic enclave: Immerse yourself in Venice’s vibrant cultural scene by checking out the numerous street art murals, visiting local galleries, or catching a show at one of the area’s intimate theaters. Take a stroll through the historic Venice Canals for a peaceful contrast to the lively boardwalk, and admire the charming beach cottages that line these picturesque waterways.

🛍️ Trendy shopping: Explore the eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, and indie shops that line Abbot Kinney Boulevard, often called the “coolest block in America.” From vintage clothing stores to high-end designer boutiques, there’s no shortage of unique finds. Don’t forget to check out the First Friday events for food trucks, live music, and late-night shopping.

🚲 Well-connected: The 22-mile Marvin Braude Bike Trail makes it easy to explore Venice and reach surrounding areas like Santa Monica and Marina del Rey. Major attractions like the Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade are just a short bike ride or drive away.

Recommended Hotels:

💎 Luxury Hotels:

  • Exclusive Suites in MDR-Venice with Pool, GYM & HotTub – A modern apartment complex in Marina del Rey offering spacious one-bedroom suites with full kitchens, access to a pool, gym, and hot tub, located steps from the ocean and marina.
  • Hotel Erwin Venice Beach – An eclectic boutique hotel directly on Venice Beach Boardwalk, featuring a rooftop bar with panoramic ocean views, colorful rooms, and a rich history dating back to 1975.
  • Inn at Venice Beach – An eclectic boutique hotel directly on Venice Beach Boardwalk, featuring a rooftop bar with panoramic ocean views, colorful rooms, and a rich history dating back to 1975.

🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:

  • AIR Venice on the Beach – A sophisticated boutique hotel located directly on Ocean Front Walk, offering contemporary apartment-inspired rooms with ocean views, and easy access to Venice Beach’s vibrant boardwalk, shopping, and nightlife.
  • Venice Beach Gem – A well-located vacation rental property on Warren Avenue, featuring a damage deposit policy, quiet hours, and pet-friendly accommodations, ideal for couples seeking a local experience in Venice Beach.
  • Su Casa at Venice Beach – A beachfront hotel offering a variety of accommodations from queen studios to 2-bedroom bungalows, with ocean views, on-site dining at Figtree’s Cafe, and convenient guest parking in the heart of Venice Beach.

💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:

  • Venice Beach Hostel – A budget-friendly hostel located steps from Venice Beach, offering private and shared rooms with private bathrooms, free breakfast, and a special $30/night rate for Eurozone guests, housed in a vintage German-style building converted 35 years ago.
  • Venice Beach Garden Boutique Guesthouse – A cozy hostel situated 1.8 km from Venice Beach, featuring a garden, free private parking, shared lounge areas, and a variety of room types including dormitories and private rooms with shared or private bathrooms.
  • PodShare Venice – A unique co-living space blocks from Venice Beach and Abbot Kinney, offering custom-built pods with individual TVs and shared amenities, including a 4,000 square foot grassy area with sports facilities and a conference room available for rent.

5. Downtown LA: Explore Best Spot in LA for Historic Charm

🌟 Urban epicenter: Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, Downtown LA is a vibrant neighborhood known for its iconic skyline, diverse cultural attractions, and proximity to top entertainment venues.

🏙️ Iconic skyline: Strolling along the bustling streets of Downtown LA, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering skyscrapers, historic buildings, and unbeatable views of the city’s urban landscape. The area stretches for several blocks, perfect for exploring on foot or taking a guided tour. Highlights include the Walt Disney Concert Hall, with its striking stainless steel exterior, and the US Bank Tower, one of the tallest buildings on the West Coast.

🏛️ Historic core: Wandering through the streets of Downtown LA, you’ll discover a mix of old and new architecture, from the stunning Bradbury Building with its ornate iron railings and skylit atrium, to the modern contemporary art museum, The Broad. Shopping enthusiasts will love the Fashion District and the historic Grand Central Market, a food hall featuring diverse culinary offerings. When hunger strikes, trendy restaurants and rooftop bars offer panoramic views of the city alongside delicious cuisine.

🛍️ Eclectic shopping: Explore the diverse shopping experiences in Downtown LA, from the bustling Fashion District to unique boutiques and vintage stores. The Last Bookstore, California’s largest used and new book and record store, offers a labyrinth of literary treasures. Don’t forget to visit Olvera Street, a historic Mexican marketplace, for traditional crafts and souvenirs.

🚊 Central Hub: Public transportation options like the Metro rail and bus system make it easy to navigate Downtown LA and reach surrounding areas. Major cultural attractions like the Grammy Museum, Los Angeles Music Center, and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) are all within walking distance or a short ride away.

🎨 Cultural melting pot: Immerse yourself in Downtown LA’s vibrant cultural scene by checking out the numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues that dot the neighborhood. Catch a performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, home to the LA Philharmonic, or explore The Broad museum for its impressive collection of contemporary art. The nearby Little Tokyo district offers a glimpse into Japanese-American culture with its authentic restaurants, shops, and the Japanese American National Museum.

Recommended Hotels:

💎 Luxury Hotels:

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles L.A. Live – A luxurious 123-room hotel located in the L.A. LIVE entertainment complex, featuring a rooftop pool with panoramic views, a full-service spa, and four dining options, including a Club Lounge on the 23rd floor.
  • Conrad Los Angeles – A luxurious 123-room hotel located in the L.A. LIVE entertainment complex, featuring a rooftop pool with panoramic views, a full-service spa, and four dining options, including a Club Lounge on the 23rd floor.
  • Downtown Los Angeles Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels – A stylish 148-room hotel housed in a 1930s Renaissance Revival building, featuring Kelly Wearstler-designed interiors, two restaurants by James Beard Award-winning chefs, and a rooftop pool with panoramic city views.

🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:

  • Hotel Figueroa, Unbound Collection by Hyatt – A historic boutique hotel with Spanish Colonial design, featuring award-winning dining options, two atmospheric bars, and a prime location near Crypto.com Arena and the Los Angeles Convention Center.
  • The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites – An iconic 35-story hotel with a six-story atrium, offering 1,358 rooms and suites, a rooftop steakhouse, revolving lounge, outdoor pool, and 166,553 sq. ft. of event space in the heart of downtown Los Angeles.
  • Sheraton Grand Los Angeles – A stylish downtown hotel in the Financial District, featuring farm-to-table cuisine at District Kitchen & Bar, over 35,000 square feet of event space, and easy access to major attractions like Crypto.com Arena and Dodger Stadium.

💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:

  • Tuscan Garden Inn – A budget-friendly hotel located 1 mile from Staples Center, offering air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, free private parking, and easy access to attractions like the GRAMMY Museum and The Broad.
  • Casa Bella Inn Downtown LA – A centrally located hotel in Downtown Los Angeles, within walking distance of popular attractions like the STAPLES Center and offering convenient access to public transportation.
  • Holiday Lodge – A 2-star hotel in Downtown LA featuring 34 rooms with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and flat-screen TVs, located near MacArthur Park and within a 10-minute drive of the GRAMMY Museum L.A. LIVE.

6. Silver Lake: The Best Area to Stay for Culture Lovers

🔥 Trendsetting hotspot: Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, Silver Lake is a vibrant neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of hipster culture, scenic reservoir, and thriving arts scene.

🏞️ Scenic strolls: Walking around the Silver Lake Reservoir, you’ll find yourself surrounded by joggers, dog walkers, and picnickers enjoying the 2.25-mile loop trail. The path offers stunning views of the water and the San Gabriel Mountains in the distance. The adjacent Silver Lake Meadow provides a perfect spot for relaxation and community gatherings.

🏙️ Artistic enclave: Wandering through the hilly streets, you’ll discover colorful street art, iconic modernist architecture, and the lively Sunset Junction area. Art enthusiasts will love the numerous galleries, while music fans can catch live performances at venues like Zebulon or The Satellite. When hunger strikes, trendy cafes and diverse restaurants serve up everything from vegan fare to gourmet tacos.

🛍️ Eclectic shopping: Explore the unique mix of vintage boutiques, independent bookstores, and stylish concept shops that line Sunset Boulevard and Silver Lake Boulevard. From retro furniture stores to curated clothing boutiques, there’s no shortage of one-of-a-kind finds. Don’t miss the Silver Lake Farmers Market on Saturdays for fresh produce and artisanal goods.

🎨 Creative community: Immerse yourself in Silver Lake’s dynamic cultural scene by checking out the local art galleries, attending indie music shows, or participating in community events. The neighborhood is home to many artists, musicians, and filmmakers, giving it a distinctly creative vibe. Explore the famous Sunset Junction area, known for its hip cafes, bars, and shops that showcase the neighborhood’s unique character.

🚲 Bike-friendly: Silver Lake is well-connected by bike lanes and paths, making it easy to explore on two wheels. The neighborhood is also served by several bus lines, providing convenient access to other parts of Los Angeles. Major attractions like Griffith Park and Downtown LA are just a short ride away.

Recommended Hotels:

💎 Luxury Hotels:

🏨 Mid-Range Hotels:

💸 Budget-Friendly Hotels:

FAQs about Trip to Los Angeles

What area in Los Angeles is best to stay?

The best area to stay in Los Angeles is often considered to be West Hollywood due to its central location, vibrant nightlife, and proximity to major attractions like the Sunset Strip and Hollywood Walk of Fame. For a more luxurious experience, Beverly Hills offers upscale accommodations, world-class shopping, and fine dining.

What is the safest area in Los Angeles for tourists?

The safest area in Los Angeles for tourists is generally considered to be Beverly Hills, known for its low crime rates, upscale environment, and robust police presence, making it a secure and welcoming destination for visitors.

Is it better to stay in Beverly Hills or Downtown LA?

It is generally better to stay in Beverly Hills for a more luxurious and relaxed experience with upscale shopping and dining, while Downtown LA offers a vibrant urban atmosphere with diverse cultural attractions and nightlife. The choice depends on whether you prefer a serene, high-end environment or an energetic, bustling city vibe.

Where is best to stay in LA without a car?

Santa Monica is the best place to stay in LA without a car, offering walkable access to beaches, shopping, dining, and public transportation options like buses and the Metro Expo Line, which connects to other major areas in the city.

Where is it walkable in Los Angeles?

West Hollywood is one of the most walkable areas in Los Angeles, featuring a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within easy walking distance, along with accessible public transportation.