Where to Stay in Los Angeles? The Best Hotels by Neighborhood

06/24/2023

FOR EVERY TYPE  of traveler 

Los Angeles is a sprawling city with a variety of neighborhoods and accommodations to suit any traveler's needs. Whether you're traveling with family, on a romantic getaway, or exploring solo, there are plenty of options to choose from. If you're driving, consider staying in a neighborhood outside of the city center to avoid traffic. Alternatively, if you prefer to be in the heart of the action, there are plenty of centrally located hotels and vacation rentals to choose from.

However, with so many options, choosing accommodation in Los Angeles might not come easy: which neighborhood or lodging is best suited to one's expectations? To help narrow down your search, we've compiled a list of the best hotels in Los Angeles, organized by neighborhood

EDITOR'S NOTE: if you have the opportunity to travel any time of year, we recommend visiting LA between March to May and September to November – definitely the best times for both the weather and the much less overwhelming crowds.

 

LOS FELIZ: THE IDEAL NEIGHBORHOOD FOR A FAMILY STAY

Los Feliz, a charming neighborhood located near the world-renowned Hollywood sign, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and convenience. Families can enjoy the thrill of being in close proximity to major film studios without having to deal with the hustle and bustle of crowds. In addition, the area boasts a plethora of shops, services, and restaurants to cater to all your needs.

Beyond the Hollywood sign, there are many other tourist attractions in Los Feliz. The most recommended are the Los Angeles Zoo, Paramount Studios, and the Walk of Fame. Don't miss the Sunday farmers' market and the captivating Barnsdall Art Park, which also offers play areas for children..

Where to stay in Los Feliz:

• Cara Hotel

SOUTH BAY: A PERFECT AREA FOR THE BEACH LIFE

This area south of the airport is the best place to stay in Los Angeles for those who love the sun and the sea. The neighborhood's streets (from Manhattan Beach to Hermosa Beach to Redondo Beach) boast long sandy beaches, excellent restaurants, shops, and pedestrian-friendly urban centers.

Participating in sports such as surfing, swimming, and paddle-boarding in South Bay is an unforgettable experience. Cyclists have access to a series of scenic routes, like the Marvin Braude Trail, which traverses the entire coast of South Bay.

Where to stay in South Bay:

• Westdrift Manhattan Beach, Autograph Collection
• Beach House
• Portofino Hotel and Marina

THE WESTSIDE: RECOMMENDED FOR SOLO TRAVEL

Looking for a trendy and culturally rich neighborhood to stay in during your visit to Los Angeles? Look no further than the Westside! This area boasts a variety of boutiques, museums, design shops, and Michelin-star restaurants, making it the perfect choice for solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in the local scene and make new friends.

Shopping enthusiasts have several points of interest available, such as Santa Monica Place, the Beverly Center, and the famous Rodeo Drive. Amongst the recommended museums are the Eames Foundation, the Bergamot Station Arts Center, and the Skirball Cultural Center. Not to be missed is the Getty Center, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the entire valley.

Where to stay in the Westside:

• Beverly Wilshire (Four Seasons)
• Hotel Bel-Air
• L’Ermitage Beverly Hills

DOWNTOWN: FOR THOSE TRAVELING WITHOUT A CAR

Thanks to its growing population, Downtown LA has recently become a vibrant neighborhood characterized by luxury condos, lofts, a top-notch culinary scene, and several main cultural attractions including the Grammy Museum, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, and the Museum of Contemporary Art just to name a few.

If you're a film buff or art enthusiast, Downtown Los Angeles is the place to be. With a plethora of cinemas, galleries, and clubs, you'll never run out of things to do. Plus, staying in this area means you can easily explore the city on foot or by public transportation, making it a great option for those who don't want to rent a car.

Where to stay in Downtown:

• Conrad Los Angeles
• Hotel Figueroa

WEST HOLLYWOOD: FOR NIGHTLIFE LOVERS

This vibrant neighborhood is known for its live music clubs (especially The Roxy Theatre and Whisky a Go Go) and its cabarets (like the Laugh Factory and the Comedy Store), as well as for its openness towards the LGBTQ community. With an abundance of bars, lounges, and music venues, opportunities for fun are plentiful.

In addition to exclusive venues, there are also restaurants, shops, and boutique hotels: places of interest that make this area particularly suitable for those wanting to stay in Los Angeles to enjoy the nightlife to the fullest with drinks, shows, and concerts.

Where to stay in West Hollywood:

• Pendry West Hollywood
• The West Hollywood Edition

 

WHERE TO STAY IN LOS ANGELES: THE MAP

 

CULVER CITY: A TRENDY NEIGHBORHOOD

Those looking for a hotel in Los Angeles in a trendy area can opt for Culver City, a touchstone of the film industry and a new trendy destination in the city. Located near Santa Monica and Downtown, the neighborhood is a perfect base for exploring the city or spending a day at the surrounding beaches.

Culver City buzzes with creative energy: its two square miles offer a wide selection of trendy restaurants, shops, cafes, and boutiques. Among the main tourist attractions, a visit to the famous Sony Pictures Studio is highly recommended.