Where to Stay in Los Angeles – Neighborhoods & Area Guide

Home of Hollywood, the self-proclaimed entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles, also known as the “City of Angels,” is the most populated city in California and the second-most populated city in the US. L.A. is also one of the most important centers for culture, business, and commerce in the United States of America.

Surrounded by majestic mountains, lush forests, and of course, stunning beaches that flow along the Pacific Ocean, L.A. is one of the most ethnically and religiously diverse cities in the world. In fact, the Roman Catholic Archbishop of Los Angeles is the largest of its kind in the nation. With a thriving entertainment scene and so much more to offer, it is unquestionably one of the most-visited cities universally.

From world-renowned restaurants to state-of-the-art hotels, L.A. is a city for visitors who like the finer things in life. But accommodation here ranges from backpacker-friendly hostels to extravagant beach resorts so there’s something for everyone. Let us explore some of the popular neighborhoods in the city so you can plan where to stay in Los Angeles.

Downtown LA

Known for its combination of historic and hip vibes, Downtown LA, also known as DTLA, is one of the most happening areas in the city. Dotted with renowned restaurant chains, major leagues sports, countless cultural attractions, and some of the most exclusive examples of American architecture, the neighborhood is swarming with people, both locals and tourists alike, at any time of the day. It is also a major transportation hub which makes navigating through the rest of the city quite easy. The Central Business District of the city, DTLA’s crown jewel is Music Center’s Walt Disney Concert Hall. Other notable structures in the vicinity include Grand Central Market, the Broad, and Museum of Contemporary Art.

Good for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Chinatown, Japanese American National Museum, Little Tokyo, The Los Angeles Central Public Library, Grammy Museum, The Bradbury Building, and The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.

Hotel Recommendations:

The Los Angeles Athletic Club – Known for its exceptional amenities such as the avant-garde fitness center, 5-lane swimming pool, a classy bar and restaurant with nightly wine-list and a seasonal menu, spacious and wonderfully-decorated guestrooms and various activities to indulge in, the Los Angeles Athletic Club is a sophisticated property set in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. Perfect for all kinds of luxury travelers.
Best Western Plus Dragon Gate Inn – Located in the Chinatown neighborhood of Downtown LA, this stylish hotel features luxurious guestrooms with facilities such as cable TV, free Wi-Fi, comfy beds, and ensuite bathroom with free toiletries. On-site amenities include a café, a full-service beauty salon, and a well-equipped fitness center. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Great for all kinds of travelers.
Metro Plaza Hotel – Located next to the Chinatown neighborhood and Union Station, Metro Plaza welcomes guests to stay at their comfortable rooms fitted with air-conditioning, flat-screen TV with cable channels, free Wi-Fi, safety deposit box, and ensuite bathroom with free toiletries. Guests can enjoy their morning workout at the hotel’s fully-functional fitness center. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Suitable for all kinds of travelers.

West LA

West Los Angeles, or simply West LA, is regarded as one of the most upscale neighborhoods in the city of Los Angeles. Neighbored by the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains and the city’s beaches, this part of the city is a fine example of just how stylish and extravagant LA can be. Home to a great many award-winning restaurants and luxury boutiques, the neighborhood is home to Westside, an urban region in West LA filled with many attractions and activities, including Getty Center and Villa, Skirball Cultural Center (free entrance on Thursdays on a first-come-first-serve basis, and Artists & Flea Market (perfect for buying unique souvenirs).

Good for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, Third-Street Promenade, Muscle Beach, and Topanga State Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

Best Western Royal Palace Inn & Suites – This luxury West LA hotel offers well-appointed guestrooms with latest amenities and plenty of facilities at the property. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast followed by a workout session at the on-site fitness center after which they can choose to explore the city or enjoy a game of billiards. Perfect for all kinds of travelers, including big groups of up to 5 members.
Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel – Less than 10 minutes’ drive from Jackie Robinson Stadium, this stylish hotel features well-designed guestrooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, tea/coffee maker, and ensuite bathroom with free toiletries. Additional facilities at the property include an on-site restaurant with a Sunday jazz brunch, an outdoor pool, and fitness facilities. Great for all kinds of travelers.
Hotel Angeleno – Featuring a communal lounge area with a fireplace, a fully-equipped fitness center, a refreshing outdoor pool, on-site dining with a seasonal menu, and a one-hour daily complimentary wine hour, Hotel Angeleno is among the most frequented properties in the area. Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. Suitable for all kinds of travelers.

Hollywood

No visit to Los Angeles is complete without a tour of the famous Hollywood district. At its core are three captivating sub-neighborhoods – Hollywood Boulevard, Sunset Boulevard, and Melrose Avenue. Stay near all three and you will have a perfect blend of entertainment, nightlife, and some great shopping and dining experience. Once an independent city, Hollywood has long been associated with the American film industry, though most of the prominent studios have relocated since then. Nonetheless, Hollywood is still home to Paramount, one of the major studios in the country. Take a tour of the Universal Studios to see where some of the famous movies have been shot. If you are keen to spot a celebrity then this is the place to stay.

Good for: All kinds of travelers, especially the young.
Other Highlights: Griffith Park Observatory, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, Runyon Canyon Park, Hollywood Wax Museum (the longest running museum of its kind in the country), and Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens (operational since 1966).

Hotel Recommendations:

Elaine’s Hollywood Bed & Breakfast – A short walk from Dolby Theatre, this fancy property features air-conditioned guestrooms with comfortable double beds, free W-Fi, and private bathroom with free toiletries and a bath. A complimentary continental breakfast buffet is served daily. Guests with pets are welcome at the hotel. Suitable for all kinds of travelers.
Loews Hollywood Hotel – One of the most luxurious properties set in the extremely popular Hollywood neighborhood, Loews Hollywood Hotel boasts stylish guestrooms equipped state-of-the-art amenities, a rooftop pool and a sun terrace to relax after a swim, an on-site restaurant and bar known for its signature cocktails, a 24-hour reception to take care of all your needs, and a well-equipped business center for travelers visiting for work. Perfect for all kinds of luxury travelers.
BLVD Hotel & Suites – Just a minutes’ walk from the beach, this elegant hotel features well-appointed guestrooms fitted with modern furnishings. Guests can take a dip in the on-site pool for a refreshing afternoon followed by a specialty cocktail from the hotel’s bar menu. A 24-hour business center is available for travelers on business. Great for all kinds of travelers.

West Hollywood

Nestled on the westside of Los Angeles County, West Hollywood is a neighborhood famous for its nightlife and rock-music history. It is also home to the largest gay nightlife area in the city. Often referred to as “WeHo,” the neighborhood’s main attraction is Sunset Strip, a mile and half stretch of Sunset Boulevard lined with restaurants, boutique stores, nightclubs, and rock clubs, including the legendary Whiskey a Go Go. Past the gay bars and rock clubs, a part of the neighborhood is dedicated to art and architecture. West Hollywood Public Library and the Pacific Design Center are some of the notable attractions in the area. If you plan to visit the area, don’t forget to check out the dates for the annual Los Angeles Gay Pride and West Hollywood Halloween Costume Carnival.

Good for: All kinds of travelers, especially the young.
Other Highlights: Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, Farmers Market, Schindler House, Chateau Marmont, and Beverly Center.

Hotel Recommendations:

Sunset Marquis Hotel – A short walk from famous Sunset Strip, Sunset Marquis Hotel features well-furnished rooms with facilities such as comfy double beds, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV with pay-per-view channels, and ensuite bathroom, Additional amenities include two well-kept outdoor pools, an on-site restaurant, bar, a fully-functional fitness center, and a full-service spa. Perfect for all kinds of luxury travelers.
Grafton on Sunset – Featuring the largest saltwater pool in West Hollywood neighborhood, Grafton on Sunset is nestled right at the heart of Sunset Strip. The property features fully-furnished guestrooms with latest amenities. Furthermore, guests can workout at the on-site fitness center and enjoy delightful wining and dining options at the hotel’s multiple eateries. Suitable for all kinds of travelers.
Ramada Plaza West Hollywood Hotel and Suites – A short drive from prominent attractions such as Dolby Theatre and Hollywood Bowl, this charming hotel features wonderfully-decorated rooms with state-of-the-art facilities, a 24-hour reception and travel desk, a well-equipped business center, and on-site parking. Perfect for all kinds of travelers.

Venice Beach

Characterized by a colorful boardwalk and a re-creation of the canals of Venice, Italy, the neighborhood surrounding Venice Beach area is a great place for visitors aiming for fun beach time. Muscle Beach, one of the most prominent in the area, is home to the city’s outdoor weightlifting gymnasium where local hulks come to flex their muscles. People-watching at the beach is one of the most sought-after activities here, however, the beach is also home to several events that are held around the year, including Venice Canal Holiday Boat Parade (in December), Venice Garden & Home Tour (in May), Venice Beach Carnevale (in June), Venice Music Festival (mid-September) and the Abbot Kinney Blvd. Festival (end of September).

Good for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Mosaic Tile House, Venice Skate Park, Venice Oceanarium, and Venice Self-Guided Walking Tour of Murals and Public Art.

Hotel Recommendations:

Ramada Inn Marina del Rey – A gentle stroll away from the coast, this amiable property offers well-appointed guestrooms with facilities such as cable TV, tea/coffee maker, wardrobe/closet, ironing facilities, and private bathroom. Free Wi-Fi can be accessed throughout the property. Guests can also enjoy the outdoor hot tub and a complimentary breakfast which is served daily. Perfect for all kinds of travelers.
The Kinney – Venice Beach – Less than 10 minutes’ walking distance from the beach, the Kinney – Venice Beach features luxurious guestrooms with avant-garde facilities. The property also offers bicycle rentals to explore the neighborhood, an outdoor space with a fire pit and ping-pong table to unwind yourselves, and an outdoor heated pool to relax those sore muscles from all the biking. Great for all kinds of travelers.
Hotel Erwin – A couple of minutes’ walk from the beach, Hotel Erwin features stylish guestrooms that feature modern amenities including flat-screen TV with cable channel, free Wi-Fi, and private bathroom. The rooftop lounge offers the perfect opportunity to admire a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean. Bike-rental, on-site dining, and a day pass to Gold’s Gym are offered to every guest. Suitable for all kinds of travelers.

Beverly Hills

Geographically, Beverly Hills is an enclaved metropolitan surrounded by the city of Los Angeles, both being parts of the Los Angeles County. Nonetheless, these boundaries are blurred as the neighborhood regards itself as one of the most upmarket shopping and dining districts for the who’s who of LA. The background to a great many TV shows (90210, Beverly Hills and Beverly Hillbillies), the neighborhood’s Rodeo Drive area is a dream destination for shoppers. Alternatively, you can also try to spot your favorite celebrities and hunt down their lavish homes. Beverly Garden Park, another popular attraction in the district, is known for its well-manicured rose gardens, splendid fountains, and of course, the “Beverly Hills” sign.

Good for: All kinds of travelers, including families with kids.
Other Highlights: Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Petersen Automotive Museum, Greystone Mansion, Craft and Folk-Art Museum, Zimmer Children’s Museum, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Hotel Recommendations:

Hotel Beverly Terrace – Featuring a beautifully-decorated rooftop seating area and an on-site Italian restaurant, Hotel Beverly Terrace offers well-appointed guestrooms with facilities such as air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV with cable channels, private bathroom, and custom furniture. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Great for all kinds of travelers.
Hotel Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills – Equipped with a full-service luxury spa, a rejuvenating heated outdoor pool, a gourmet French restaurant, a poolside bar, this luxury hotel is located in the heart of Beverly Hills neighborhood. The lavish guestrooms feature an iPod docking station, an HDTV, floor-to-ceiling windows with a remarkable view of the city, and glass-enclosed rainfall showers. Perfect for all kinds of luxury travelers.
SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills – A short drive from Downtown, this premium hotel houses a state-of-the-art fitness center, luxurious guestrooms, a world-class restaurant and bar, and a marvelous rooftop pool deck. Guests can also enjoy various spa and massage treatments at the on-site spa center. A delightful optional breakfast is available daily. Perfect for all kinds of luxury travelers.

Santa Monica

The coastal township of downtown LA, Santa Monica overlooks the Pacific Coast and is one of the best locations to be used as a base for a trip to the city. Formed as a seaside retreat in the 20^th century, the neighborhood houses some of the most expensive real-estate in the world. Home of many affluent families, students, young professionals, and pro surfers, Santa Monica’s most notable landmark is its pier and its surrounding beaches, restaurants, and seaside shopping centers. The Main Street is home to the weekend farmer’s market that features fresh produce as well as live music. For shopping, you must head to Downtown and the Third Street Promenade – it is a treasure-trove of great retailers. If you prefer something artsy, Mid-City is home to over 40 art galleries, the most remarkable of which is 18^th Street Art Center.

Good for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Bergamot Station Arts Center, Angels Attic Museum, Palisades Park, Pacific Park, Santa Monica State Beach, Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, Museum of Flying, California Heritage Museum, and St Monica Catholic Church.

Hotel Recommendations:

Huntley Santa Monica Beach – Within a 5 minutes’ walk from the beach, this luxury property features lavish guestrooms fitted with amenities such as flat-screen TV, private bathroom with spa toiletries and plush bathrobes, coffee machine, and stunning views of the city. Guests can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant and bar and indulge in a workout routine at the fitness center. A tasty breakfast is available daily at a nominal cost. Suitable for all kinds of travelers.
Shore Hotel – A couple of minutes from the beach and under 10 minutes from the Santa Monica Pier, Shore Hotel features well-appointed guestrooms with latest amenities, a fully-equipped 24-hour fitness center, a swimming pool, and a business center. This eco-friendly LEED-certified hotel also offers charging stations for electric cars. Perfect for all kinds of travelers.
The Georgian Hotel – Overlooking the gorgeous Pacific Ocean, the Georgian Hotel is only a couple of minutes’ walk from the beach. Guests here stay at well-appointed, luxurious rooms and enjoy their time working out at the in-house gym. Delicious meals can be relished at the on-site restaurant. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in all guestrooms. Great for all kinds of travelers.

Redondo Beach

One of the three beach cities of Los Angeles Country (the other two being Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach), Redondo is located in what is essentially known by locals as the South Bay Area. The neighborhood is home to Redondo Breakwell, a well-known surf spot in the area. Surfing is a popular sport throughout the year and so is beach volleyball. With less traffic and crowd (as compared to other beaches in the city), this is a perfect spot for a quiet romantic getaway or for a fun-filled, family holiday. King Harbor has the major concentration of restaurants, shops, and bars in the neighborhood. The biggest draw, however, is the beach and its pier. Unsurprisingly, these locations have been featured in several Hollywood movies and TV shows, including CSI: Miami, Dexter, and Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End.

Good for: All kinds of travelers.
Other Highlights: Dockweiler State Beach, South Coast Botanic Garden, Hermosa Beach Pier, Seaside Lagoon, Veterans Park, and Hopkins Wilderness Park.

Hotel Recommendations:

Best Western Plus Redondo Beach Inn – Located within a short walking distance from one of the most famous beaches in the city, this affluent hotel features well-decorated guestrooms with superb amenities. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Guests can enjoy a delightful complimentary breakfast daily. Additional facilities include a 24-hour reception, a business center, a fitness center, and a swimming pool. Suitable for all kinds of travelers.
Crowne Plaza Redondo Beach and Marina – Equipped with a recreational deck with amazing views of the Pacific Ocean, the Crown Plaza Redondo Beach and Marina spoils its guests with luxurious rooms, a heated pool, a hot tub, a 24-hour fitness center, and a European Day Spa. An optional breakfast is available daily at an additional cost. Perfect for all kinds of travelers.
The Redondo Beach Hotel – A short drive from the LAX airport as well as Redondo Beach, this luxurious property features fully-furnished guestrooms with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV with cable channels, microwave, closet, and an ensuite bathroom with free toiletries. Guests can workout at the fully-functional on-site gym followed by a soothing dip in the heated pool. A complimentary breakfast is served daily. Great for all kinds of travelers.

Downtown LA

West LA

Hollywood

West Hollywood

Venice Beach

Beverly Hills

Santa Monica

Redondo Beach

Where to Stay in Los Angeles – Neighborhoods & Area Guide: