Where to Stay in Los Angeles: 8 Best Areas

Are you planning a city break in Los Angeles and looking for where to stay? Here is a complete guide to the 8 best neighbourhoods in the City of Angels, with the top sustainable hotels in each area.

Los Angeles, a stunning Southern California city and the centre of the film and television industry, is a destination known for its eclectic neighbourhoods, iconic attractions and vibrant cultural scene.  

Whether you are visiting for the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, the sunny beaches of Santa Monica and Venice, or the trendy vibes of Silver Lake and West Hollywood, choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference in your LA experience. And do not worry, there is something for everyone! I was amazed by its diversity.

I visited LA for a week-long city break and stayed in Palms, not far from Venice Beach. To be honest, at the time, the most important thing for me was finding an affordable place! I stayed in a lovely Airbnb, which is no longer available, unfortunately. But the area was still lovely, quiet and not far from the main attractions. The main thing to keep in mind is that LA is also a large city, so you will need to travel quite a bit in all cases.

So are you ready? Let’s dive into the 8 best areas and eco-friendly hotels to stay in Los Angeles, whether you are staying for one night, a weekend or a week.

My Los Angeles experience: 
Duration 1 week 
Dates visited Oct 23 - Oct 30 
Season Autumn
Where I stayed near Venice Beach

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Overview: best neighbourhoods in Los Angeles

1. Hollywood: the best area for first-timers
2. Santa Monica: the best area for families
3. Downtown LA: the best area for art enthusiasts
4. Silver Lake: the best area for local vibes
5. Beverly Hills: the best area for a high-end stay
6. West Hollywood: the best area for nightlife
7. Venice Beach: the best area for beach lovers
8. Marina del Rey: the best area for couples

Looking for the perfect LA itinerary? Check out this article:
5 Days in Los Angeles: Complete Itinerary

Top areas to stay in Los Angeles – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of locations.

Where to stay in Los Angeles: 8 best areas

In this article, you will also find the best things to do, what to see and the top green hotels in each location. I selected these accommodations by researching on ETIC Hotels, Ecobnb and bookdifferent by carefully reading their website and looking for green certification.

However, I understand these hotels are not the cheapest and the most budget-friendly places to stay in Los Angeles, but they are the most eco-friendly. Unfortunately, mixing the two is not always easy, and I have tried to select accommodations that focus on making a difference whilst being affordable. If you have any other suggestions, please let me know in the comments below.

Fancy a shorter city break? Check out this article:
Los Angeles City Guide: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

1- Hollywood: the best area for first-timers

For your first time in Los Angeles, Hollywood is undoubtedly the best area to stay in, famous for its rich cinematic history and iconic landmarks. From film studios to red carpets and glittering premieres, you will not be bored.

And of course, do not miss out on its emblematic monument, the all-white HOLLYWOOD sign, erected atop Lee Hill in 1923, today a globally recognised symbol and highly sought-after tourist attraction.

Things to do & see in Hollywood

First and foremost, endless sightseeing. Start exploring the neighbourhood that never sleeps and get lost in its many streets. Stroll down the highly touristic Hollywood Boulevard to grab your souvenirs from one of its dozens of shops.

Take photos of yourself with celebrity handprints and footprints at the TCL Chinese Theatre and visit its imposing interior, the biggest IMAX auditorium in the world. 

Close to the Chinese Theater, you will find the Dolby Theater, home to the Academy Awards, which offers guided tours and events like concerts and ballets. And do not miss out on the nearby Hollywood Museum in the historic Max Factor Building, which features memories from film history.

Of course, you cannot leave Hollywood without exploring its famous Walk of Fame, lined with more than 2,600 stars honouring celebrities. Ready to go on a quest and find those dedicated to your favourite icons?

If you have visited Madame Tussauds in London and liked it, then the Hollywood version will leave you amazed. You can take photos embracing your most loved yet wax-made stars. And for more wax-made icons, check out the Hollywood Wax Museum. 

Hollywood does not just offer plenty of sightseeing. The neighbourhood is also home to a vibrant nightlife with clubs, bars and live music venues, making it a lively and glamorous destination for all travellers.

Finally, for panoramic views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign, head to the Hollywood Hills or Griffith Observatory. It is even more special at sunset.

Best eco-friendly hotel in Hollywood: Kimpton Everly Hotel

The Kimpton Everly Hotel, located in the heart of Hollywood, offers a chic and contemporary retreat with stunning views of the Hollywood Hills and the iconic Hollywood Sign.

This eco-friendly hotel is renowned for its modern design, spacious rooms and vibrant social spaces. You can enjoy amenities such as a rooftop pool, an elegant lounge and the Jane Q restaurant, which emphasises farm-to-table dining.

With its blend of luxury, sustainability and a prime location near the top attractions in Los Angeles, the Kimpton Everly Hotel is an ideal choice for your first time in the city.   

📍 1800 Argyle Ave, Los Angeles
⭐️ 4.3/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £200 per night

2- Santa Monica: the best area for families

If you are a family looking for the best place to stay in Los Angeles, look no further than Santa Monica. You will not regret it. 

Santa Monica is a vibrant coastal city filled with plenty of attractions and activities that will keep your children occupied for hours, including an amusement park, aquarium and family-friendly restaurants.

Things to do & see in Santa Monica

The picturesque beach offers opportunities for sunbathing, swimming and beach volleyball, whilst the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is perfect for biking and rollerblading along the picturesque coastline.

Do not hesitate to stop at the iconic Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Amusement Park. Hop on the Loof Hippodrome Carousel (aka the merry-go-round) or explore ocean life at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. 

Similar to Hollywood Boulevard, you can indulge in leisure walks via The Third Street Promenade, a bustling pedestrian mall lined with shops, cafés, street performers and a lively farmers market.

Here you also will find multiple world-class restaurants to savour Californian cuisine, along with vibrant bars to indulge in your favourite cocktail and eclectic boutiques to do your shopping.

Finally, culture enthusiasts will love the Bergamot Station Arts Center, an internationally renowned arts complex that houses more than 20  art galleries. It is also the perfect thing to do on a rainy day.

Best eco-friendly hotel in Santa Monica: Shore Hotel

The Shore Hotel in Santa Monica is a leading eco-friendly hotel holding a LEED Gold certification for its sustainable design and practices, providing an exceptional travel experience by the sea.

This modern beachfront hotel offers stunning ocean views and elegant rooms with eco-conscious amenities, such as energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures and eco-friendly toiletries.

Enjoy an outdoor heated pool, a fitness centre and the convenience of being just steps away from the Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade and a variety of restaurants and shops.

📍 1515 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica
⭐️ 4.3/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £200 per night

3- Downtown LA: the best area for art enthusiasts

Downtown LA is a bustling urban centre known for its diverse cultural attractions and vibrant nightlife. Due to its central location, it provides easy accessibility to all other LA neighbourhoods and is a popular area among travellers.

It is especially loved by alternative personalities and people seeking artistic experiences, thanks to its wide range of captivating art and high-performance shows. 

Things to do & see in Downtown LA

First on your to-do list is the Walt Disney Concert Hall, an architectural marvel housing the LA Philharmonic, and The Broad Museum, which showcases contemporary art from renowned artists.

Next, you will come across historic sites like the Bradbury Building and Union Station, and enjoy shopping and dining at the open-air Grand Central Market.

Do not miss its other captivating museums, including the Grammy Museum dedicated to the history of music, and the ASU FIDM museum, home to a collection of over 15,000 fashion-related pieces

For all music lovers out there, you can opt for a concert at the Music Center, a performance at the Ahmanson Theatre, or a philharmonic show at the Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Finally, a visit to the Arts District is unmissable, with its street art, galleries and trendy cafés, whilst Little Tokyo provides a taste of Japanese culture with its boutiques and restaurants.

Note that Downtown LA is also great for business travellers and those on a budget.

Best eco-friendly hotel in Downtown LA: InterContinental

The InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown is a luxury hotel renowned for its eco-friendly initiatives and LEED Gold certification, located in the tallest building on the West Coast.

This upscale hotel offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline from its elegant rooms and suites, as well as from its rooftop bar, Spire 73, the highest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere. You will also find a range of amenities including a heated outdoor pool and a state-of-the-art fitness centre.

With its blend of sustainability, luxury and prime location in the heart of downtown LA, the InterContinental provides an exceptional urban retreat.

📍 900 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles
⭐️ 4.5/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £190 per night

4- Silver Lake: the best area for local vibes

Silver Lake is a trendy and eclectic neighbourhood in Los Angeles, known for its artistic vibe, indie shops and diverse dining scene. It is the perfect area to stay for an authentic experience of California living.

Although the district is not home to the rich and famous like Hollywood or Beverly Hills, it has a genuine local vibe that will bring you closer to everyday life.

Things to do & see in Silver Lake

You can experience these authentic vibes by visiting the Silver Lake Farmers Market for some artisan food and the Barnsdall Art Park.

For a peaceful stroll, you will find Silver Lake Reservoir in the heart of the neighbourhood, offering scenic walking and jogging paths with stunning views of the hills.

The district also features a vibrant music scene, with live performances at venues like The Satellite and local bars, whilst food enthusiasts can enjoy a wide range of eateries, from gourmet coffee shops to innovative restaurants on Sunset Boulevard.

If hiking is more your thing, head to the Griffin Observatory for breathtaking views over LA, or make it to the Hollywood Sign.

Finally, do not miss out on the many secret painted staircases in Silver Lake, such as the Micheltorena Stairs, which provide perfect photo opportunities – especially for Insta lovers.

The unique blend of creative energy, outdoor activities and hip urban culture make Silver Lake an ideal destination for those seeking a local LA experience.

Best eco-friendly hotel in Silver Lake: Silver Lake Pool & Inn

The Silver Lake Pool & Inn is a boutique hotel located in the heart of Silver Lake, celebrated for its stylish and eco-conscious design and commitment to sustainable practices.

This charming inn features beautifully designed rooms with locally sourced materials and eco-friendly amenities, as well as a tranquil outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery.

Enjoy the laid-back and artsy vibe of Silver Lake, with its trendy shops, cafés and Silver Lake Reservoir all within walking distance. Silver Lake Pool & Inn is the perfect choice for travellers seeking comfort and style in this vibrant neighbourhood.

📍 4141 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles
⭐️ 4.2/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £270 per night

5- Beverly Hills: the best area for a high-end stay

Beverly Hills is a world-renowned enclave of luxury in Los Angeles, famous for its upscale shopping, dining and celebrity sightings. The perfect place to stay for travellers looking for a high-end stay.

Home to many celebrity residences, this area cannot help but exude glory and grandeur. Due to its location, it also offers more privacy than other neighbourhoods in Los Angeles.

Things to do & see in Beverly Hills

First on your list should be the iconic Rodeo Drive, a must-visit street featuring high-end boutiques and designer stores where you can indulge in a glamorous shopping spree.

Remember Julia Roberts in the Pretty Woman movie back in the 90s? It was in Beverly Hills, and in particular on Rodeo Drive, where she was taken shopping by the handsome millionaire Richard Gere.

Next, you can explore the beautiful Beverly Gardens Park, with its stunning Beverly Hills Sign, cactus garden and rose garden.

You can also visit Greystone Mansion & Gardens (The Doheny Mansion), which has hosted the production of many films and TV shows. Take a guided tour of its opulent grounds and architecture, and drive down Mulholland Drive to see more celebrity houses.

If you want to experience more Hollywood glamour, visit the legendary Beverly Hills Hotel, also known as the Pink Palace, for a luxurious afternoon tea or a glimpse of its rich history.

Finally, to deepen your artistic knowledge, have a tour of the LACMA, the largest modern art museum in the Western United States.

Best eco-friendly hotel in Beverly Hills: Waldorf Astoria

The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills is a luxurious and eco-friendly hotel renowned for its exceptional service, stunning architecture and commitment to sustainability.

This elegant hotel features spacious and beautifully designed rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of Los Angeles.

Indulge in world-class dining at Jean-Georges Beverly Hills, relax in the rooftop pool and rejuvenate at the state-of-the-art spa, all whilst knowing the hotel implements green building practices and sustainable operations.

📍 9850 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills
⭐️ 4.6/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £800 per night

6- West Hollywood: the best area for nightlife

West Hollywood, often referred to as WeHo, is a vibrant and dynamic neighbourhood in Los Angeles known for its energetic nightlife, trendy shopping and inclusive community.

For those of you who are more into nightlife when travelling, West Hollywood will have you completely satisfied. 

Things to do & see in West Hollywood

To name a few, you can stroll down the Sunset Strip, lined with famous music venues like The Roxy and Whisky a Go Go, where live performances are a regular draw.

Enjoy a stop on Melrose Avenue, offering a mix of high-end boutiques, vintage shops and edgy street art, and Santa Monica Boulevard, home to a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, with plenty of bars, clubs and events.

Take the time to explore some of the imposing buildings in the neighbourhood, like the Hotel Chateau Marmont (a favourite meeting place for celebrities), the Viper Room, a club once owned by Jonny Depp, the Comedy Store, and the Paramount Pictures Studios for a guided tour. 

At the Comedy Store, you can catch a stand-up comedy show, whilst at the Paramount Studios, you will discover where all your favourite films were shot.

Dining and drinking at WeHo will not only meet your needs, it will go beyond that. From chic rooftop restaurants to casual cafés, the area offers diverse culinary experiences.

Finally, do not miss the West Hollywood Design District, a hub for art and design enthusiasts, home to galleries and designer showrooms.

You guessed it, with its blend of culture, entertainment and fun atmosphere, West Hollywood is the perfect area to stay for a fun LA experience.

Best eco-friendly hotel in West Hollywood: 1 Hotel West Hollywood

Located in a unique contemporary building on legendary Sunset Boulevard, 1 Hotel West Hollywood is a boutique hotel that seamlessly combines luxury with sustainability, offering you a stylish retreat in the heart of West Hollywood.

This fashionable hotel features carefully designed rooms with natural elements, reclaimed materials and eco-friendly amenities, providing a quiet and conscious environment whilst being close to the main attractions and nightclubs.

Enjoy a farm-to-table meal at the on-site restaurant, relax by the rooftop pool with panoramic views of Los Angeles and take advantage of wellness offerings such as a fitness centre and yoga classes.

📍 8490 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood
⭐️ 4.3/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £310 per night

7- Venice Beach: the best area for beach lovers

Venice Beach is a vibrant and eclectic neighbourhood in Los Angeles, known for its bohemian spirit, artistic flair and bustling boardwalk. It is the perfect area to stay for those seeking an authentic experience mixed with a beach vacation.

Now you might be wondering: how come there is a place called Venice Beach in LA? And you are right. This area represents an attempt to recreate the core elements of the famous Italian city.

Things to do & see in Venice Beach

One of the best things to do in this area is to wander along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, a lively promenade featuring street performers, vendors and colourful murals, offering a sensory feast of sights and sounds. It is also where you will come across Muscle Beach, an outdoor gym that attracts fitness enthusiasts and spectators alike.

For a more tranquil experience, explore the picturesque Venice Canals, with their charming walkways and picturesque bridges. Do not forget your camera, as the water reflections are very pretty.

Another must-visit is Abbot Kinney Boulevard, a mile-long road lined with boutiques, restaurants and galleries, the ideal place for shopping, relaxing in a trendy café or enjoying a gourmet dinner.

Of course, the beach itself is unmissable, perfect for sunbathing, swimming and surfing, whilst the adjacent skate park showcases local skateboarding talent.

With its unique mix of laid-back beach culture, artistic energy and diverse attractions, Venice Beach is one of the best places to stay in LA.

Best eco-friendly hotel in Venice Beach: Venice V Hotel

Located in the heart of Venice Beach overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Venice V Hotel is a chic and eco-friendly boutique hotel that perfectly combines modern design with sustainable practices.

Housed in a historic building, this lovely hotel offers stylish and industrial-chic rooms and all the amenities you need with an eco-friendly touch, including energy-efficient lighting and recycled materials.

Enjoy stunning ocean views, direct access to the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk and a short walk to local shops, cafés and the main attractions. Venice V Hotel is the ideal choice for a city break by the beach.

📍 5 Westminster Ave, Venice
⭐️ 4.5/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £290 per night

8- Marina del Rey: the best area for couples

Last but not least, if you are visiting LA with your significant other or planning a romantic getaway, Marina del Ray is for you. Located in the south of Venice Beach, this area offers a serene waterfront experience. 

Best known for its picturesque marina, home to approximately 5,000 boats, water activities like paddleboarding and sailing, and scenic bike trails, this coastal community represents a romantic retreat by the sea, quieter than Venice Beach.

Things to do & see in Marina del Rey

Built to foster the boating and yachting industry of LA, Marina del Rey offers plenty of sightseeing opportunities and recreational activities for those of you who will choose to stay there. 

At the heart of the area, you will find the expansive Marina, where you can rent boats, kayaks and paddleboards, or take a leisurely harbour cruise to enjoy the scenic views, especially romantic at sunset.

If you are looking for some quiet time, Burton Chace Park offers green spaces, picnic areas and stunning waterfront views, making it a great spot for outdoor relaxation and walks.

And for entertainment, do not miss the Fisherman’s Village, a multi-purpose resort designed to resemble a New England village, providing plenty of dining and shopping options. If you visit LA close to the 4th of July, it is also one of the best spots to watch the festive fireworks.

Finally, those looking for an active experience will love cycling along the coast down the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. This 22-mile paved path will take you to the most famous landmarks of Marina del Rey in a healthy and environmentally friendly way.

Best eco-friendly hotel in Marina del Rey: Ritz-Carlton

The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey is a luxurious waterfront hotel that combines elegance with eco-friendly practices, offering you an exceptional stay in a beautiful marina setting.

The hotel features beautifully designed rooms with plenty of amenities, many of which offer breathtaking views of the marina. Enjoy upscale dining at the on-site restaurant, indulge in treatments at the full-service spa and relax by the waterfront pool.

Its prime location also provides easy access to water activities and nearby attractions of Marina del Rey, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking both a luxurious and eco-conscious stay.

📍 4375 Admiralty Way, Marina Del Rey
⭐️ 4.5/5 (Google reviews)
💵 From £370 per night

Looking for some green inspiration? Check out this article:
10 Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Los Angeles

Los Angeles travel planning guide

🚑 Should I buy travel insurance to travel to Los Angeles?
Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your city break in Los Angeles stress-free with one of my favourite providers, Nomad Insurance.

💧 Can you drink the water in Los Angeles?
Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Los Angeles. However, I also recommend travelling with the UltraPress Purifier Bottle, a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

🚗 Is it easy to rent a car in Los Angeles?
Yes, renting a car in Los Angeles is easy. However, note that the traffic can be terrible! But it is also a great way to explore the surroundings. I recommend booking yours with Rentalcars.com – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

🏨 How to book accommodation in Los Angeles?
The best way to book your accommodation in Los Angeles is with Booking.com – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable guesthouses to luxury hotels.

✈️ What is the best site to buy a flight to Los Angeles?
I recommend booking your plane with Skyscanner. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

Where to stay in Los Angeles – FAQ

And you, where is your favourite place to stay in Los Angeles?
Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡
Lucie