Why Los Angeles Is a Premier Choice for Beach Getaways

Los Angeles is a massive basin in Southern California that defines the modern Beach Getaways experience. While many think of the city in terms of film studios and fame, its Mediterranean climate and miles of coastline are the real draw. The city is built around a strong surf culture, making it a top pick for anyone who wants a trip where the ocean is the primary focus but the amenities of a global metropolis are still within reach.

A Coastal Identity

The reason Los Angeles fits so well into a beach focused itinerary is the sheer scale of its coast. You can spend your mornings in Santa Monica, strolling the pier and eating fish tacos from a stall for $3 to $5, and your afternoons watching the waves in Venice. The city does not just offer sand, it offers a lifestyle centered on the Pacific Ocean. To get a different perspective of the water, you can book an OnBoat charter. Renting a yacht allows you to view the Pacific from the open sea, which is a far more relaxed way to experience the coast than fighting the crowds on the shore. This balance of accessible public beaches and high end private excursions makes the city a strong representative of the coastal getaway theme.

Balancing the Surf and the City

While the beach is the main reason to visit, you will find that the city provides a variety of high energy activities to fill the gaps between your ocean dips. For those who want a change of pace from the sand, you can head to the Griffith Observatory for panoramic city views and a visit to the planetarium. If you prefer art, The Getty Center offers a stunning museum with gardens and city vistas.

If you are looking for shopping, you have a few distinct directions you can take. You can visit The Grove, an upscale mall located next to the historic Original Farmers Market, or head to the Beverly Center for an eight story shopping experience with a food court that overlooks the city. For a more cultural approach, Gallery Row in Downtown provides a concentration of art galleries along Main Street where you can wander for free.

Where to Base Your Stay

Depending on your budget, you can choose a neighborhood that aligns with how much time you want to spend on the sand versus in the city center.

For those on a budget, The Pod Hotel or The Hollywood Roosevelt in Hollywood are excellent choices. These options keep you close to the major sights and walking tours. If you prefer a budget option in the city center, The PodShare in Downtown Los Angeles is a practical pick.

If you are looking for a mid range experience, The LINE Hotel in Koreatown or Hotel Angeleno in Downtown offer boutique styles and modern designs. Freehand Los Angeles is another solid mid range option for those who want a central location.

For a luxury experience, the Beverly Hills Hotel is the gold standard, offering private cabanas and fine dining. Alternatively, The Ritz-Carlton in Downtown puts you steps away from the Arts District, combining upscale service with urban accessibility.

The Local Food Scene

Eating in Los Angeles is an adventure that spans from casual beach snacks to high end dining. In West Hollywood, you can stop at Mel's Drive-In for a classic American diner experience. If you find yourself in the San Fernando Valley, specifically the Burbank area, Grill Em All is the place for gourmet hamburgers.

For something more specific to the local culture, Nom Nom in Downtown serves Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches. If you want to experience the luxury of the city, Spago in Beverly Hills is the top choice for Californian French cuisine. For those who prefer a pub atmosphere, Casey's Irish is a reliable spot for dinner.

To help you plan your timing, consider this breakdown of the seasons:

More in this guide

If you are looking for other coastal escapes, you should explore these destinations:

• Zanzibar
• Rio de Janeiro
• Newport

Read our full Beach Getaways guide