L.A. Guidebook
Sightseeing
Venice Beach is famous the world over for being the playground by the sea for Southern Californians. It is especially well known for its eclectic oceanfront boardwalk. The beach itself offers prime surfing and sunbathing opportunities as well as a plethora of recreational activities, restaurants, and unique wedding venues.
1202 localnici recomandă
Venice Beach Park
1503 SpeedwayVenice Beach is famous the world over for being the playground by the sea for Southern Californians. It is especially well known for its eclectic oceanfront boardwalk. The beach itself offers prime surfing and sunbathing opportunities as well as a plethora of recreational activities, restaurants, and unique wedding venues.
The Grove is a popular fashion, shopping, dining and lifestyle destination with the best mix of retail, restaurants and entertainment in Los Angeles.
2581 localnici recomandă
The Grove
189 The Grove DrThe Grove is a popular fashion, shopping, dining and lifestyle destination with the best mix of retail, restaurants and entertainment in Los Angeles.
Rodeo Drive is one of the world's most exclusive luxury destinations, and an unparalleled hub at the intersection of luxury, fashion and entertainment.
1361 localnici recomandă
Rodeo Drive
Rodeo DriveRodeo Drive is one of the world's most exclusive luxury destinations, and an unparalleled hub at the intersection of luxury, fashion and entertainment.
The 3rd Street Promenade consists of three open-air, car-free blocks with everything from fresh farmers-market produce to designer fashions.
The Santa Monica Pier is a large double-jointed pier at the foot of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica, California, United States. It contains a small amusement park, concession stands, and areas for views and fishing.
168 localnici recomandă
Downtown Santa Monica Station
402 Colorado AveThe 3rd Street Promenade consists of three open-air, car-free blocks with everything from fresh farmers-market produce to designer fashions.
The Santa Monica Pier is a large double-jointed pier at the foot of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica, California, United States. It contains a small amusement park, concession stands, and areas for views and fishing.
Hollywood Boulevard is a Los Angeles cultural icon, with museums, landmarks and other Hollywood attractions that celebrate L.A.’s rich film and entertainment heritage. There are so many things to do in Hollywood, California! You can see the footprints of the stars at the TCL Chinese Theatre, gaze down at the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, do some serious shopping at Hollywood & Highland, or visit the famous Hollywood Wax Museum. Along its stretch from Highland Avenue to Orange Drive, you can find a day’s worth of activities that will give you a true Hollywood experience. You never know who you'll run into! Arnold Schwarzenegger recently shocked fans by making an appearance at Madame Tussauds Hollywood.
740 localnici recomandă
Hollywood
Hollywood Boulevard is a Los Angeles cultural icon, with museums, landmarks and other Hollywood attractions that celebrate L.A.’s rich film and entertainment heritage. There are so many things to do in Hollywood, California! You can see the footprints of the stars at the TCL Chinese Theatre, gaze down at the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, do some serious shopping at Hollywood & Highland, or visit the famous Hollywood Wax Museum. Along its stretch from Highland Avenue to Orange Drive, you can find a day’s worth of activities that will give you a true Hollywood experience. You never know who you'll run into! Arnold Schwarzenegger recently shocked fans by making an appearance at Madame Tussauds Hollywood.
Neighborhoods
The top attractions to visit in Manhattan Beach are:
Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach Pier
Downtown Manhattan Beach
Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium
Sand Dune Park
364 localnici recomandă
Manhattan Beach
The top attractions to visit in Manhattan Beach are:
Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach Pier
Downtown Manhattan Beach
Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium
Sand Dune Park
Beverly Hills
https://lovebeverlyhills.com/
Melrose Avenue is a shopping, dining and entertainment destination in Los Angeles that starts at Santa Monica Boulevard, at the border between Beverly Hills and West Hollywood. It ends at Lucile Avenue in Silver Lake. Melrose runs north of Beverly Boulevard and south of Santa Monica Boulevard.
427 localnici recomandă
Melrose Avenue
7763 Melrose AveMelrose Avenue is a shopping, dining and entertainment destination in Los Angeles that starts at Santa Monica Boulevard, at the border between Beverly Hills and West Hollywood. It ends at Lucile Avenue in Silver Lake. Melrose runs north of Beverly Boulevard and south of Santa Monica Boulevard.
City/town information
Less than 30 miles from Los Angeles, Long Beach is an oceanfront metropolis filled with fun things to do. The Downtown Waterfront district is where tourists and locals gather for good times and great attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific and Rainbow Harbor. Nearby, The Queen Mary ocean liner enjoys her retirement in Queensway Bay, where those looking for something unique to do can hop aboard and enjoy the history.
Extending from the Waterfront District, the public beaches of Long Beach stretch for over three miles along the ocean. The most popular of these beaches, Junipero Cherry Beach, is great for swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the sunny weather. For cyclists, rollerbladers, and runners, a paved pedestrian path follows the shoreline. The best perspective on the postcard beauty of Junipero Beach is found in Bluff Park, with manicured grounds and green space overlooking the ocean.
On the south end of Junipero Beach, beyond the sand of Rosie's Dog Beach and the shopping spots of Belmont Shore, a special neighborhood of Long Beach invites a unique adventure. Reminiscent of Italian canals and architecture, the Naples neighborhood is well known in part because of the Gondola Getaway, who operate the largest fleet of gondolas in the country. For romantic interests, gondola rides at sunset provide an intimate experience. Plan your visit with our list of the top things to do in Long Beach.
122 localnici recomandă
Long Beach
Less than 30 miles from Los Angeles, Long Beach is an oceanfront metropolis filled with fun things to do. The Downtown Waterfront district is where tourists and locals gather for good times and great attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific and Rainbow Harbor. Nearby, The Queen Mary ocean liner enjoys her retirement in Queensway Bay, where those looking for something unique to do can hop aboard and enjoy the history.
Extending from the Waterfront District, the public beaches of Long Beach stretch for over three miles along the ocean. The most popular of these beaches, Junipero Cherry Beach, is great for swimming, sunbathing, and simply enjoying the sunny weather. For cyclists, rollerbladers, and runners, a paved pedestrian path follows the shoreline. The best perspective on the postcard beauty of Junipero Beach is found in Bluff Park, with manicured grounds and green space overlooking the ocean.
On the south end of Junipero Beach, beyond the sand of Rosie's Dog Beach and the shopping spots of Belmont Shore, a special neighborhood of Long Beach invites a unique adventure. Reminiscent of Italian canals and architecture, the Naples neighborhood is well known in part because of the Gondola Getaway, who operate the largest fleet of gondolas in the country. For romantic interests, gondola rides at sunset provide an intimate experience. Plan your visit with our list of the top things to do in Long Beach.
16 Fun Things To Do in Malibu if You’re in the Area
Malibu is like the super-duper ridiculously good looking laid back cousin of the busy version of Los Angeles.
All the beaches and hiking and food… but far fewer people.
Depending on where you’re coming from in L.A. you may have a bit of a drive to get there, but cruising down PCH while admiring the views of the glistening ocean and rolling waves will make it all worthwhile.
From nature excursions to horseback riding and surfing to going on a wine safari, there’s plenty to see and do in Malibu, and hopefully this brief rundown will help get you started.
Enjoy the list!
1. The Grotto Trail - The Grotto Trail is a relatively easy three-mile (round trip) hike that leads to a grotto and waterfall. If you want a hike without the work and a nice payoff at the end this is for you.
2. Escondido Falls - The Escondido Falls trail is famous for the 150-foot fall, the tallest in the Santa Monica Mountains. However, because of the drought it’s not likely you’ll find much water there during the hotter seasons but it’s a fun hike and you can still get some great shots among the boulders.
3. Solstice Canyon - Solstice Canyon is a picturesque trail featuring a year-round waterfall and Instagram-worthy views of the ocean. The trail also leads to what remains of a stone cottage destroyed by a wildfire; it’s believed to be the oldest existing stone building in Malibu.
Solstice Canyon - Hiking Solstice Canyon.
4. Malibu Creek State Park - Malibu Creek State Park is a family friendly park with 15 miles of trails and a few swimming holes. It’s also the site of TV shows including Planet of the Apes and M*A*S*H and you can still view some of the old cars from the set if you stay on Crags Road. Like Escondido Falls, the water level is low but the swimming holes are deep enough to dip into.
5. Mishe Mokwa Trail - The Mishe Mokwa Trail leads to Sandstone Peak, the highest peak in the Santa Monica Mountains and a favorite among hikers. Go on a clear day for the best views and head out early as it’s a 6-mile trail but trust me, it’s worth it. Along the trail there are a few attractions including the Split Rock, Balancing Rock, and Inspiration Point (stop and take it all in). There’s a summit register where you can sign your name or write an inspirational quote (it’s very Reese Witherspoon in Wild).
6. Go Horseback Riding with The Malibu Riders - Explore Malibu in a whole new way riding horseback through Zuma Canyon. The ride is an hour long and provides amazing views of the ocean. Go on a clear and sunny day to take full advantage of the scenery.
7. Visit the Amazing Beaches - If Malibu has one thing in spades it’s natural beauty and nowhere is that more evident than the ocean. If you visit early in the morning when whales migrate (Dec.-Jan, April-May) you’re likely to see a gray whale or two plus dolphin pods and seals. I suggest coming before 10:00am for whales but you’ll likely see dolphins and seals throughout the day.
The beauty of this coastal city is that you can visit different beaches and enjoy a different experience.
Below are some of our top picks.
Leo Carrillo is a 1.5 mile beach with tide pools and caves plus a dog friendly zone (on-leash). It goes without saying that Surfrider beach is famous for being an ideal place to ride the waves but if that’s not your thing you can always walk along the pier and enjoy a meal at Malibu Farm or visit Adamson beach house or the Malibu Lagoon Museum (more info below). El Matador State beach is favored among those who like to explore the caves and rock formations that have become trademark features but be prepared because you’ll have to walk down a 150-bluff (there are stairs). For a truly laidback experience where you can just lay in the sand and take a dip in the ocean, Zuma beach is a local favorite. Paradise Cove is one of the most famous beaches in Malibu because it’s private and you’re allowed to bring alcohol (just no hard liquor) though it’s also notorious for its $40 parking fee (unless you pay a minimum of $30 at the cafe then it’s $6). If you’re up for the novelty of it and budget accordingly you get to enjoy a private beach experience so there’s that.
Oh and don’t forget about Point Dume / Westward Beach…
Sunset at Point Dume
8. Malibu Coastal Adventures - If you want to go all out and really embrace the Malibu way then you gotta do more than just swim or sun bathe. Malibu Coastal Adventures offers paddle boarding, surfing lessons and whale/dolphin watching boat excursions.
9. Go Shopping at the Malibu Country Mart - If you’re going to spend the day out anywhere you’re bound to want to stop and shop. Malibu Country Mart has a laidback vibe but it’s definitely a spot to hit up if you’re willing to splurge on upscale brands (7 for All Mankind, L’Occitane, John Varvatos etc). If you’re looking for treats though, Grom Malibu is celebrated for their gelatos, Malibu Kitchen stocks plenty of sweet treats though I’m partial to their paninis while Taverna Tony‘s Greek restaurant features live music and belly dancers. Parking is plentiful (a rarity in L.A.) and as an outdoor shopping center you still get to enjoy that Malibu sunshine.
10. Go Scuba Diving - Malibu Divers offers beginner’s courses for scuba diving. (Note: Depending on the experience you select the lessons maybe span multiple days).
11. Malibu Family Wines - Malibu Family Wines hosts multiple activities including Yoga & Mimosas, Sips & Giggles comedy night and Movie Night (July-October) but you can always keep it simple and come with your own cheese platter and blankets for a nice picnic.
12. Go on a Wine Safari - Malibu Wine Safari is as exotic as it sounds with a little vino and a slew of exotic animals. The trip takes you around the 1,000 acre vineyard that’s home to alpacas, zebras, giraffes, and even bison which you can feed!!! Carrots, pellets, and bananas are provided along with two tastings of locally-sourced vino.
13. Visit the Adamson House - Adamson House is a national historic site near Surfrider Beach built in 1929. The home is small but full of unique touches like hand- carved doors, hand painted frescoes and beautifully crafted details in every room. The docent (only available for tours) happily shares the history of the home and the family that built it. While photography is not allowed inside you can photograph and roam the garden area.
14. Spend a Day at the Getty Villa - The Getty Villa (technically in the Pacific Palisades but let’s not be technical) is a work of art onto itself modeled after a Roman country house from the first century in Italy. The Villa houses ancient Greek and Roman art and has four gardens with Roman models and, for an additional sense of authenticity, plants from the ancient Mediterranean. (Note: Admission is free but timed-entry tickets are required and parking is $15)
15. Upscale Dining Options
Nobu - If you want to splurge and indulge than this is the place. The restaurant serves up fusion cuisine (Japan x Peru) and is known for their signature dishes of black cod with miso and yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño. There are Malibu-specific items including ribeye with truffle butter and crispy Maui onions so come for the food and linger for the ocean view. (Generally booked out a month in advance)
Geoffrey’s - This is the ultimate upscale Malibu dining experience. It’s oceanside, intimate and they’re famous for their lively and delicious brunch but whenever you decide to go make sure you order the baked brie in puff pastry.
Mastro's Ocean Club - Mastro's collection of sophisticated, classic Steakhouses and Ocean Club seafood locations are
recognized for their combination of world-class service, highly acclaimed cuisine, and live entertainment in an elegant yet energetic atmosphere. A truly unparalleled dining experience.
16. Casual Dining Options
Malibu Seafood - It’s an unassuming eatery along PCH so it’s fresh food that’s literally from across the street. My personal favorite is the fish and chips but you really can’t go wrong with any of the seafood dishes and the ocean view.
Neptune’s Net - In case the name didn’t give it away, this eatery -established in 1956- prides itself on serving up fresh seafood. Get the basket to share (or for yourself, not judging) and the clam chowder because it really is as good as they want you to think it is.
Malibu Farm (Cafe & Restaurant) - It’s organic and fresh and they serve grilled chocolate cake, what else is there to say? This eatery is right on the pier so staying to watch the sunset is a must.
580 localnici recomandă
Malibu
16 Fun Things To Do in Malibu if You’re in the Area
Malibu is like the super-duper ridiculously good looking laid back cousin of the busy version of Los Angeles.
All the beaches and hiking and food… but far fewer people.
Depending on where you’re coming from in L.A. you may have a bit of a drive to get there, but cruising down PCH while admiring the views of the glistening ocean and rolling waves will make it all worthwhile.
From nature excursions to horseback riding and surfing to going on a wine safari, there’s plenty to see and do in Malibu, and hopefully this brief rundown will help get you started.
Enjoy the list!
1. The Grotto Trail - The Grotto Trail is a relatively easy three-mile (round trip) hike that leads to a grotto and waterfall. If you want a hike without the work and a nice payoff at the end this is for you.
2. Escondido Falls - The Escondido Falls trail is famous for the 150-foot fall, the tallest in the Santa Monica Mountains. However, because of the drought it’s not likely you’ll find much water there during the hotter seasons but it’s a fun hike and you can still get some great shots among the boulders.
3. Solstice Canyon - Solstice Canyon is a picturesque trail featuring a year-round waterfall and Instagram-worthy views of the ocean. The trail also leads to what remains of a stone cottage destroyed by a wildfire; it’s believed to be the oldest existing stone building in Malibu.
Solstice Canyon - Hiking Solstice Canyon.
4. Malibu Creek State Park - Malibu Creek State Park is a family friendly park with 15 miles of trails and a few swimming holes. It’s also the site of TV shows including Planet of the Apes and M*A*S*H and you can still view some of the old cars from the set if you stay on Crags Road. Like Escondido Falls, the water level is low but the swimming holes are deep enough to dip into.
5. Mishe Mokwa Trail - The Mishe Mokwa Trail leads to Sandstone Peak, the highest peak in the Santa Monica Mountains and a favorite among hikers. Go on a clear day for the best views and head out early as it’s a 6-mile trail but trust me, it’s worth it. Along the trail there are a few attractions including the Split Rock, Balancing Rock, and Inspiration Point (stop and take it all in). There’s a summit register where you can sign your name or write an inspirational quote (it’s very Reese Witherspoon in Wild).
6. Go Horseback Riding with The Malibu Riders - Explore Malibu in a whole new way riding horseback through Zuma Canyon. The ride is an hour long and provides amazing views of the ocean. Go on a clear and sunny day to take full advantage of the scenery.
7. Visit the Amazing Beaches - If Malibu has one thing in spades it’s natural beauty and nowhere is that more evident than the ocean. If you visit early in the morning when whales migrate (Dec.-Jan, April-May) you’re likely to see a gray whale or two plus dolphin pods and seals. I suggest coming before 10:00am for whales but you’ll likely see dolphins and seals throughout the day.
The beauty of this coastal city is that you can visit different beaches and enjoy a different experience.
Below are some of our top picks.
Leo Carrillo is a 1.5 mile beach with tide pools and caves plus a dog friendly zone (on-leash). It goes without saying that Surfrider beach is famous for being an ideal place to ride the waves but if that’s not your thing you can always walk along the pier and enjoy a meal at Malibu Farm or visit Adamson beach house or the Malibu Lagoon Museum (more info below). El Matador State beach is favored among those who like to explore the caves and rock formations that have become trademark features but be prepared because you’ll have to walk down a 150-bluff (there are stairs). For a truly laidback experience where you can just lay in the sand and take a dip in the ocean, Zuma beach is a local favorite. Paradise Cove is one of the most famous beaches in Malibu because it’s private and you’re allowed to bring alcohol (just no hard liquor) though it’s also notorious for its $40 parking fee (unless you pay a minimum of $30 at the cafe then it’s $6). If you’re up for the novelty of it and budget accordingly you get to enjoy a private beach experience so there’s that.
Oh and don’t forget about Point Dume / Westward Beach…
Sunset at Point Dume
8. Malibu Coastal Adventures - If you want to go all out and really embrace the Malibu way then you gotta do more than just swim or sun bathe. Malibu Coastal Adventures offers paddle boarding, surfing lessons and whale/dolphin watching boat excursions.
9. Go Shopping at the Malibu Country Mart - If you’re going to spend the day out anywhere you’re bound to want to stop and shop. Malibu Country Mart has a laidback vibe but it’s definitely a spot to hit up if you’re willing to splurge on upscale brands (7 for All Mankind, L’Occitane, John Varvatos etc). If you’re looking for treats though, Grom Malibu is celebrated for their gelatos, Malibu Kitchen stocks plenty of sweet treats though I’m partial to their paninis while Taverna Tony‘s Greek restaurant features live music and belly dancers. Parking is plentiful (a rarity in L.A.) and as an outdoor shopping center you still get to enjoy that Malibu sunshine.
10. Go Scuba Diving - Malibu Divers offers beginner’s courses for scuba diving. (Note: Depending on the experience you select the lessons maybe span multiple days).
11. Malibu Family Wines - Malibu Family Wines hosts multiple activities including Yoga & Mimosas, Sips & Giggles comedy night and Movie Night (July-October) but you can always keep it simple and come with your own cheese platter and blankets for a nice picnic.
12. Go on a Wine Safari - Malibu Wine Safari is as exotic as it sounds with a little vino and a slew of exotic animals. The trip takes you around the 1,000 acre vineyard that’s home to alpacas, zebras, giraffes, and even bison which you can feed!!! Carrots, pellets, and bananas are provided along with two tastings of locally-sourced vino.
13. Visit the Adamson House - Adamson House is a national historic site near Surfrider Beach built in 1929. The home is small but full of unique touches like hand- carved doors, hand painted frescoes and beautifully crafted details in every room. The docent (only available for tours) happily shares the history of the home and the family that built it. While photography is not allowed inside you can photograph and roam the garden area.
14. Spend a Day at the Getty Villa - The Getty Villa (technically in the Pacific Palisades but let’s not be technical) is a work of art onto itself modeled after a Roman country house from the first century in Italy. The Villa houses ancient Greek and Roman art and has four gardens with Roman models and, for an additional sense of authenticity, plants from the ancient Mediterranean. (Note: Admission is free but timed-entry tickets are required and parking is $15)
15. Upscale Dining Options
Nobu - If you want to splurge and indulge than this is the place. The restaurant serves up fusion cuisine (Japan x Peru) and is known for their signature dishes of black cod with miso and yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño. There are Malibu-specific items including ribeye with truffle butter and crispy Maui onions so come for the food and linger for the ocean view. (Generally booked out a month in advance)
Geoffrey’s - This is the ultimate upscale Malibu dining experience. It’s oceanside, intimate and they’re famous for their lively and delicious brunch but whenever you decide to go make sure you order the baked brie in puff pastry.
Mastro's Ocean Club - Mastro's collection of sophisticated, classic Steakhouses and Ocean Club seafood locations are
recognized for their combination of world-class service, highly acclaimed cuisine, and live entertainment in an elegant yet energetic atmosphere. A truly unparalleled dining experience.
16. Casual Dining Options
Malibu Seafood - It’s an unassuming eatery along PCH so it’s fresh food that’s literally from across the street. My personal favorite is the fish and chips but you really can’t go wrong with any of the seafood dishes and the ocean view.
Neptune’s Net - In case the name didn’t give it away, this eatery -established in 1956- prides itself on serving up fresh seafood. Get the basket to share (or for yourself, not judging) and the clam chowder because it really is as good as they want you to think it is.
Malibu Farm (Cafe & Restaurant) - It’s organic and fresh and they serve grilled chocolate cake, what else is there to say? This eatery is right on the pier so staying to watch the sunset is a must.
Food scene
The Best of Baja at The Runway in Playa Vista. SOL Cocina offers an upscale, yet inviting dining experience. Executive Chef Deborah Schneider, a 2009 James Beard Foundation Book Award Nominee, has created a menu of contemporary and gourmet interpretations of Baja street cuisine. A fresh raw bar, antojitos, street tacos, cocktels de mariscos and main dishes made with fresh seafood, wood grilled meats, local produce and over 20 salsas that are all made fresh daily.
40 localnici recomandă
SOL Mexican Cocina | Playa Vista
12775 Millennium DrThe Best of Baja at The Runway in Playa Vista. SOL Cocina offers an upscale, yet inviting dining experience. Executive Chef Deborah Schneider, a 2009 James Beard Foundation Book Award Nominee, has created a menu of contemporary and gourmet interpretations of Baja street cuisine. A fresh raw bar, antojitos, street tacos, cocktels de mariscos and main dishes made with fresh seafood, wood grilled meats, local produce and over 20 salsas that are all made fresh daily.
Sugar Factory - Century City
10250 Santa Monica Blvd