I promise for real that I’ll be wrapping up the Los Angeles and California content this month. I planned to share my last few posts in December, but the holidays got the better of me!
Zack & I lived in Los Angeles for just over 7 years, and in that time we did a lot. Some touristy, some not. We also had a lot of first time visitors that we got to show around, so I figured it only seems fitting to share my Los Angeles recommendations + a few things you can definitely skip!
MY TOP 8
1. SEE THE HOLLYWOOD SIGN
Touristy? Yes. But also iconic. There’s so many places to view it, but one of my favorites is from the Hollywood Reservoir.
2. GO ON A HIKE
There are about a million hikes to choose from, but the Wisdom Tree is perfect if you’re a first time visitor. Great views of the entire city + another way to see the Hollywood sign.
3. CHECK OUT GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY
Even if you’re not a science nerd – the building itself is stunning, and the views are beautiful day or night.
4. HIT THE BEACH
Manhattan Beach was one of my faves, but there’s PLENTY to choose from.
5. ESCAPE TO MALIBU
Technically this would also be “hitting the beach,” but Malibu is just so beautiful that it deserves its own place on the list. My top picks:
• El Matador State Beach
• Point Dume
• Escondido Falls Trail
• Nobu
• Neptune’s Net
Honestly, so much! Recently shared a dreamy little video of Malibu on my youtube channel if you need more convincing.
6. EXPLORE THE VENICE CANALS
Kind of a hidden “secret” spot that’s generally very quiet and a fun place to get lost. While your there, you could check out the Venice Boardwalk (which is just ok in my opinion), or Abbot Kinney for some cool restaurants and shopping.
7. EAT EAT EAT
Los Angeles has some GREAT restaurants. Below are just a few of my faves:
• COFFEE/TEA: Alfred
• BRUNCH: Met Her At A Bar // The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker
• ROOFTOP: Perch // Margot // Catch
• MEXICAN: Salazar
• SUSHI: Nobu // Sugarfish
• RAMEN: Killer Noodle
• MOST UNIQUE DESSERT: Oakabing
• BAKERY: Portos
I could go on and on and ON.
(pictured: Alfred // The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker // Nobu // Perch)
8. SEE THE SUNSET
Grab a towel, a blanket, a chair – whatever – and head to the beach to watch the sunset. West coast sunsets truly are the best.
BONUS: If you can score an invite to Magic Castle, it’s an unforgettable experience.
So those are my TOP Los Angeles Recommendations – now for 3 things you should definitely skip:
SKIP:
1. Hollywood Boulevard.
Dirty, crowded, overpriced, and underwhelming.
2. Rodeo Drive
It’s pretty small, and your chances of seeing a celebrity are even smaller.
3. Downtown LA
UNLESS you have a specific restaurant or event, it’s probably not worth the trouble.
Remember these are just my opinions! If you’ve ever been to LA, I’d love to hear what your favorite and not-so-favorite things were!
– Courtney
CHECK OUT: BEST DAY TRIPS FROM LOS ANGELES – COMING SOON
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