Visiting Los Angeles for the first time can feel overwhelming: the tangled web of freeways, the vast expanse of the city, and the infamous traffic—yes, it’s worth mentioning twice. But if you can look past L.A.’s more perplexing aspects, you'll find a vibrant, diverse, culturally rich, and stunning city blessed with mountains, beaches, and (usually) pleasant weather.
In this blog, we'll delve into essential tips for Los Angeles first-time visitors. From the best attractions to must-try restaurants, and from navigating the city's unique layout to uncovering hidden gems, we've got you covered.
Tips for Visiting Los Angeles for the First Time
1. It’s always sunny and sometimes hot
Aside from some occasional morning fog (most common during a late-spring period dubbed May Gray and June Gloom), Los Angeles first-time visitors can expect sunny weather nearly 300 days a year. While winter may bring some rainy days, you likely won’t see a drop of rain in the summer. Temperatures by the ocean comfortably hover in the 70s nearly all year. However, if you venture into the Valley, expect occasional (but increasingly frequent) triple-digit days, mostly in the late summer and early fall.
2. But it’s pretty “cold” every night
You might regret wearing shorts when you realize that 70 degrees in a dry climate doesn't feel warm at all. Even on the hottest summer days, you'll find pants more comfortable once the sun sets. So, in summary: Apply sunscreen, bring a hat, skip the umbrella, and carry a sweatshirt.
3. The ocean is downright cold
When visiting Los Angeles for the first time, it's important to note that the beautiful blue ocean waters of Southern California may seem inviting but are surprisingly cold. This region of the Pacific Ocean is cooled by currents from Alaska, keeping water temperatures below 70 degrees even in summer. Wetsuits worn by surfers aren't just for style; they're essential for comfort in these chilly waters.
4. Los Angeles has no center
In many world-class cities, you can disembark from a plane and hop on a train that takes you directly into the city center. This isn't the case in L.A. Despite the airport people mover and nearby rail line being close to completion, the fundamental issue remains: L.A. is too sprawling to explore just one compact area. You can't simply stroll through most of the city and expect to find something amazing by chance. However, there are walkable exceptions like Santa Monica, Pasadena, and Downtown L.A., though we'll discuss Downtown in more detail shortly.
5. There’s more than just one beach
When visiting Los Angeles for the first time, take note that it boasts 70 miles of coastline. However, numerous tourists tend to limit their beach experiences to areas near the Santa Monica Pier or the Venice Boardwalk. Yet, heading northward into Malibu unveils a serene shoreline below the cliffs at Point Dume State Beach, along with rocky formations ideal for sunset viewing at El Matador State Beach. On the southern end, a succession of beach cities offers distinct personalities, such as the delightful and sophisticated Manhattan Beach.
6. In fact, L.A. is actually multiple cities
For a first-time visitor to Los Angeles, the city is broadly divided into two main areas: the Valley (a warmer, suburban sprawl to the north) and the Basin (flat lands south of the Santa Monica Mountains, close to the ocean). The Basin features upscale suburbs and beachfront towns on the Westside, while Central L.A. is known for its multicultural neighborhoods and trendy areas. Notably, famous neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and West Hollywood (home of the Sunset Strip) are separate cities within Los Angeles. Additionally, regions like the South Bay and the San Gabriel Valley are outside city limits but are typically considered part of L.A., along with other distant spots like Malibu and Pasadena.
7. You’re probably going to want a car
Angelenos measure distances in minutes rather than miles because the traffic can be that intense. Despite this, a car is often the quickest way to navigate the city. For Visiting la for the first timer, some of the most iconic scenic spots, such as a drive along Angeles Crest Highway, Mulholland Drive, or the Pacific Coast Highway, can only be fully appreciated by car. If you rent a car, be prepared to pay for parking almost everywhere you go and carefully read the parking enforcement signs. When parking in a garage, remember where you parked and validate your ticket. Don’t forget to use Waze or Google Maps to avoid, or at least anticipate, gridlock and getting lost.
8. But you might not need one
Uber and Lyft have revolutionized short-distance travel for Angelenos, especially when they need a safe ride home after a night out. However, Los Angeles also boasts a commendable public transit system. It features six Metro lines, two dedicated busways, numerous reasonably efficient bus routes, and options for bike and scooter rentals. For trips to destinations like Downtown, Chinatown, Little Tokyo, Santa Monica, Culver City, Pasadena, Universal Studios, or the museums in Exposition Park, the Metro can be a more practical choice.
9. You can take a train to the beach
Sometimes, we’d prefer a day trip out of town rather than facing the traffic on the 10 or PCH to Santa Monica. Luckily, Metro’s E (Expo) Line makes it easier. From its stops in Downtown L.A., it's just under an hour ride to the western terminus in Santa Monica, dropping you off about three blocks from the beach.
10. Or you can just rent a bike
Metro operates a bike share program in Downtown L.A., Hollywood, North Hollywood, and parts of the Westside, allowing riders to pick up and return bikes at kiosks in these areas. A day pass costs $5, and all rides under 30 minutes are free. Additionally, numerous other bike and scooter rental apps are covered in our detailed cheap transit guide. While L.A.'s drivers and street design may not always be cyclist-friendly, there are several notable bike trails worth exploring.
11. L.A. is full of free museums
The Broad, Getty Center, Getty Villa, Hammer Museum, and MOCA are always free to visit (though parking fees apply). You can also avoid admission fees at other L.A. institutions by timing your visit: LACMA is free on the second Tuesday of each month, the Skirball Cultural Center offers free admission every Thursday, and the Huntington Library is free on the first Thursday of the month (with an advance ticket).
Also Read: 21 Unique Things To Do In Los Angeles
12. Hollywood, West Hollywood, and North Hollywood are not at all related
When booking a hotel, pay attention to the cardinal direction in front of "Hollywood."
West Hollywood, a separate city from LA, epitomizes Hollywood glamour with hilltop mansions, celebrity sightings, and the Sunset Strip's nightlife.
East of that, Hollywood features iconic attractions but also some grime. The 101 freeway splits the area, with East Hollywood home to Barnsdall Art Park, Hollyhock House, Thai Town, and Little Armenia.
North of the hills and Universal Studios, North Hollywood (NoHo) offers an arts district with small performance spaces, despite being a former gritty suburb.
13. You can largely skip the hard-shell tacos
Don't get us wrong: a crunchy taco shell loaded with cheese and sour cream is undeniably tasty. However, if you want to experience the authentic flavors of L.A.'s remarkable Mexican cuisine, avoid relying on Taco Bell. Instead, opt for open-faced corn and flour tortillas. (There are, of course, a few crunchy exceptions in our taco guide, linked above.)
14. Don’t be afraid of street food
Some of the best food in L.A. can be found outside concert venues or clubs after they close. Pupusas, tamales, tacos, and "danger dogs" (bacon-wrapped hot dogs) are often sizzling on shopping carts or served from food trucks like the Taco Zone Truck, well into the early hours of the morning.
15. Get to the Griffith Observatory before sunset
If you're visiting LA for the first time, few places are as universally appealing as the Griffith Observatory. While it provides a stunning view of the sunset, be ready for sizable crowds. Aim to get there with plenty of time to spare or think about taking the DASH bus from Los Feliz. Stay until nighttime for a captivating view of the city lights below. Because the drive up can be tough, it's smart to arrive early to dodge traffic jams.
16. Fly into Burbank or Long Beach if you can
By 2024, an automated people mover at LAX will transport travelers between terminals and outside of its circular traffic congestion. However, until then, and even afterward, consider looking into flights through Long Beach or Burbank. While prices might occasionally be higher and connections fewer, these two quieter airports are significantly less crowded, experience less traffic congestion, and offer greater convenience for specific destinations. Additionally, boarding a flight directly from the tarmac can add an enjoyable touch to your journey.
17. Don’t fear the left turn
When visiting LA for the first time, you might notice that many drivers engage in a common practice at intersections. Due to limited protected left turn signals, it's common for a couple of cars to enter the intersection on a green light and complete their left turn after the light turns red. While this may seem unusual, it's a regular occurrence in the city's traffic flow.
Visiting Los Angeles for the first time can be both exciting and overwhelming, but with these tips, you're well on your way to experiencing the best of what this sprawling city has to offer. From sunny beaches and iconic landmarks to hidden gems and culinary delights, Los Angeles is a city of endless possibilities. Remember to plan your itinerary carefully, embrace the diverse neighborhoods, and take advantage of the city's excellent public transportation options. Whether you're enjoying the free museums, exploring the different Hollywoods, or indulging in authentic street food, there's something for everyone in the City of Angels.
For those looking to elevate their stay, consider opting to rent luxury homes in Los Angeles. DRE Villas offers unparalleled comfort and style, providing a perfect base to explore the city's myriad attractions. With a luxury home, you can enjoy the best of L.A.'s lifestyle, from stunning views to prime locations, making your first visit to Los Angeles truly unforgettable. Safe travels and enjoy your adventure in this dynamic and vibrant city!
You can also watch the above video for more.
FAQ’s
1. What to know before visiting Los Angeles?
Here are some important things to keep in mind when visiting Los Angeles for the first time:
- Plan your itinerary wisely to avoid getting stuck in traffic.
- Despite the sunny reputation, pack a jacket as temperatures can vary.
- Make reservations ahead for dining experiences.
- Dress casually as LA values comfort over formality.
- Familiarise yourself with smoking regulations.
- Be aware of the visible homeless population in certain areas.
2. How many days do you need in Los Angeles?
You should consider spending around four to five days in Los Angeles to explore different neighbourhoods and attractions, especially if you're comfortable with varying weather conditions.
3. What is the best month to visit Los Angeles?
The optimal time for a trip to Los Angeles falls between March to May and then from September to November. These periods boast agreeable weather, improved air conditions, and fewer tourists, creating ideal conditions for exploring outdoor sites and enjoying sightseeing activities under clear skies.
4. Where is the best place to stay in Los Angeles for the first time?
Santa Monica serves as an excellent hub for Los Angeles visitors due to its proximity to Malibu, Venice Beach, and Beverly Hills. Its appeal extends to creative individuals, drawn by a vibrant array of smaller museums, galleries, and bookshops.
