Los Angeles Holidays

Los Angeles is packed with lots of things to see and do – almost too many to cover in one trip. If you’ve got stars in your eyes, Hollywood’s Walk of Fame is where you’ll find Tinseltown’s biggest names, and the famous Chinese Theatre is worth a visit, too. Look to the hills and you’ll spot the iconic Hollywood sign, which overlooks Universal, Walt Disney and Warner Bros. Studios in the Studio City area.

You’ll find some of the best views across Los Angeles at the Griffith Observatory, as well as a planetarium and public telescopes. If ocean views are what you’re looking for, lively Venice Beach, Marina Del Rey and Pacific Palisades are the best places to look out across the blue sea. Craving some culture? The Getty Center to the west is home to works by Rubens, Monet, Van Gogh and more, and you’ll be treated to picture-perfect hilltop views.

Los Angeles is a shopaholic’s paradise, particularly if you’re looking for the coolest fashion. Melrose Avenue is a must-visit for younger travellers, as it’s home to some of LA’s chicest boutiques, independent stores and high street brands. You can also stroll through Melrose Trading Post on Sundays, where you’ll find antiques, vintage goods and unique souvenirs. There are loads of places to stop for food and drinks too, ranging from trendy coffee shops and family-friendly cafés to celebrity-approved bars and restaurants.

If you’ve got a bigger budget to splash, venture to the iconic Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Designer stores including Chanel, Bvlgari, Burberry, Cartier and Dior can be found here. Sunset Strip also has upmarket shops, lively bars, and great places to grab a bite to eat. It’s home to some of the coolest nightlife spots in the West Hollywood area – even if you can only admire these exclusive hangouts from the outside.

While nature might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you imagine a holiday to Los Angeles, there are loads of outdoorsy spots across the city. Some of LA’s best hiking trails can be found in Griffith Park, just a stone’s throw from Hollywood’s main attractions. Head to the west of the city, past upmarket Bel Air and just above the city of Santa Monica, and you’ll find Westridge-Canyonback Wilderness Park. More than 1,500 acres of land are waiting to be explored here. There are trails for every fitness level and spectacular views across the city, if you manage one of the more challenging routes.

Or, if you’re in the mood for a full-day adventure, pack supplies and head out on a hike across the vast Topanga State Park – mountain, canyon and ocean views across Pacific Palisades await. Stop at Trippett Lodge’s museum on your way home to learn more about the area’s history.

Los Angeles holidays are most popular between June and August. Expect temperatures in the mid-twenties by the ocean and the mid-to-high thirties up in the hills. Venice Beach and attractions like Disneyland are always busy. Outdoor film screenings and free summer concerts also pop up across the city.

If you want to avoid the crowds, visit in spring between March and May. The sun shines year-round in Los Angeles and its poppy fields burst into life around this time. Check when nearby Coachella is being held, though, as the city loses its atmosphere somewhat while the music festival is on.

Autumn is also a good time to explore LA, as temperatures remain in the low twenties and Halloween celebrations are in full swing. If you’re looking for peace, visit in winter. You’ll have the hiking trails and sands to yourself, Hollywood’s biggest awards ceremonies to watch first-hand, and moderate temperatures in the low teens – but you’ll likely experience a few rainy days.