Above It All - Our Picks for The Best Views in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is known for its glamorous Hollywood celebrity stars, but it is also a beautiful city. The Pacific Ocean, a wide variety of mountain ranges, the cityscape, and the small beach-like town each play an essential role in making Los Angeles the most unique place in the world.
This blog will help you have unforgettable experiences in the City of Angels. Let’s find them!
Hollywood Hills
The Hollywood Hills are like a dream! This neighborhood is about beautiful homes, minor celebrity magic, and incredible city views in Los Angeles. It’s the perfect place to relax, hike, or soak up the sunshine and enjoy the Los Angeles views from the hills.
How to Reach
The best way to explore the Hollywood Hills is by car. However, if you prefer public transportation, you can take the subway to Universal City/Studio City and then take a bus or shared ride.
Best Restaurants
Hollywood Bowl Overlook
The Hollywood Bowl Overlook offers a spectacular view of Los Angeles, including the iconic Hollywood sign and city skyline. Located on Mulholland Drive, it is a popular spot among tourists and locals alike for taking memorable photos, especially during sunset when the city lights are lit up. If you are wondering whether you can see mountains from LA, then this is the place for you!
How to Reach
The Hollywood Bowl Overlook is pretty easy to get to. Your best bet is by car. It's located on Mulholland Drive and has a small parking lot. If you're not driving, you can take a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft.
Best Restaurants
Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is definitely a stunning neighborhood where you can enjoy good views all over Los Angeles. The commercial area is spotless and lined with luxurious shops and popular restaurants. The famous shopping destination Rodeo Drive, featured in many hit movies, is located at the center of the Golden Triangle, Beverly Hills.
How to Reach
If you prefer public transportation, bus lines serve the area, though it might be less convenient and time-consuming. Other than that, taxis are easily available to reach these view points in Los Angeles.
Best Restaurants
Santa Monica
Santa Monica is a beautiful coastal city in California, just west of Los Angeles. It's famous for its picturesque beaches, vibrant pier, and relaxed, sunny atmosphere. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the ocean breeze. Santa Monica is a great place to visit or live if you love the beach and a laid-back lifestyle. It's a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience.
How to Reach
Getting to Santa Monica is pretty straightforward. The most popular option is by car. However, public transportation is available if you prefer a more relaxed journey. The Metro E Line connects Santa Monica to downtown Los Angeles, making it a convenient choice for those staying there.
Best Restaurants
- Caffé Delfini
- Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
- Tar & Roses
Los Feliz - Griffith Park
How to Reach
The Metro Red Line has a stop at the Hollywood/Highland station, from where you can take a bus or rideshare to Los Feliz. For Griffith Park, a DASH Observatory/Los Feliz shuttle directly connects to the park.
Best Restaurants
- Din Tai Fung
- Foxy's Restaurant
- Alcove Cafe & Bakery
Pacific Palisades
Pacific Palisades is a beautiful neighborhood in Los Angeles, located between Santa Monica and Malibu, right along the coast. The area features many parks, hiking trails, and beaches, making it an excellent place for outdoor activities. One of the popular spots is Will Rogers State Historic Park, where you can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and picnicking with a scenic backdrop.
How to Reach
The Metro E Line stops at the Santa Monica station, and from there, you can take a bus or rideshare to Pacific Palisades. While public transportation is viable, driving is generally more convenient for exploring this coastal enclave.
Best Restaurants
Downtown LA
Downtown LA is the bustling heart of Los Angeles, filled with skyscrapers, historic buildings, and a mix of cultures. It's the city's central business, but it's also known for its vibrant arts scene, trendy restaurants, and lively nightlife. Some popular spots in Downtown LA include the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a stunning piece of modern architecture, and the historic Union Station, a beautiful train station with classic design.
How to Reach
If you prefer driving, it's easily accessible via major freeways like the I-10, I-5, and I-110. The subway system offers multiple lines that run in Downtown LA, making it convenient to explore the area.
Best Restaurants
Malibu
Malibu is a famous beach town on the Pacific Coast Highway in Los Angeles County. Known for its stunning beaches, luxurious homes, and celebrity residents, it is a popular destination for those looking to enjoy the sun and surf. This place also has excellent hiking trails, like those in the Santa Monica Mountains, where you can enjoy scenic coastline views.
How to Reach
Driving along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is an iconic journey, allowing you to stop at various points to enjoy the stunning views. However, the Metro Bus Line 534 connects Santa Monica to Malibu, offering a more budget-friendly option.
Best Restaurants
- Moonshadows
- Malibu Farm Restaurant
- Nobu Malibu
San Fernando Valley
The Top of Topanga Overlook provides magnificent views over the San Fernando Valley and a picnicking area. It’s also a great spot to watch some of the local wildlife. ET Park is where the famous movie was filmed, and you can enjoy amazing views of the valley at night. For hiking enthusiasts, take a trip to O’Melveny Park, which has a breathtaking expanse and gorgeous views.
How to Reach
The best way to get around depends on where you want to go in the valley. A car offers the most flexibility when exploring different parts of the valley. However, the Metro Orange Line runs through the valley's heart, providing a convenient way to travel between major areas.
Best Restaurants
- Denny's
- Brent's Deli Northridge
- Sol y Luna
The Getty Center
The Getty Center is a famous museum and cultural center in Los Angeles. It is located on a hilltop in the Brentwood neighborhood and offers stunning views of the city and the ocean. The museum features a wide range of art, including European paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and photography.
How to Reach
The Metro Expo Line stops at Sepulveda Station, where you can take a free shuttle to the Getty Center. Parking fees apply, but visitors often prefer the convenience of driving.
Best Restaurant
- Getty Center Restaurant
- Garden Terrace Cafe
- Dining At The Getty
So, here is the end! Los Angeles's best views await you, from the Hollywood Hills to the Pacific Palisades. Explore our top picks!