Choosing the best areas and places to stay in Los Angeles can feel overwhelming. The city is vast, and each neighborhood offers something different. Whether you’re after beachside breezes, Hollywood glamour, artsy neighborhoods, or convenient city-center access, this guide will help you find the perfect home base. Discover top-rated hotels in Santa Monica, Downtown LA, West Hollywood, Hollywood, Venice, and Silver Lake/Echo Park — with honest recommendations tailored to solo travelers, couples, families, and those on a budget.
Santa Monica
Iconic beach vibes, family‑friendly fun, and walkable dining make Santa Monica a great first‑timer’s pick.
- Regent Santa Monica Beach – ★★★★★
Steps from the sand and the pier, it’s perfect for romantic getaways or family stays. Beachfront pool, ocean views, and casual chic dining.
Budget: $$$$ • 1700 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401 - Hilton Santa Monica – ★★★★
Connected to the promenade and pier, this spot is ideal for families or those wanting walkability. Rooftop pool and casual restaurants onsite.
Budget: $$$ • 1707 4th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401 - Ocean Lodge – ★★
Steps from the beach without the beachfront prices—simple rooms with retro surf décor. Great for solo travelers or budget couples.
Budget: $$ • 1667 Ocean Ave #1000, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
A vibrant arts and dining scene, walkable museums, and cool bars make DTLA an increasingly popular base.
- The Hoxton, Downtown LA – ★★★★
Stylish rooms in a classic high-rise, near The Broad and Grand Central Market. Great for couples and culture seekers.
Budget: $$$ • 1060 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015 - The Westin Bonaventure – ★★★★
Iconic rotating restaurant with sweeping city views. A solid choice for business travelers or mid-range budgets.
Budget: $$$ • 404 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90071 - Freehand Los Angeles – ★★
Trendy hostel‑style option with private and shared rooms. Perfect for solo travelers or younger guests looking to socialize.
Budget: $–$$ • 416 W 8th St, Los Angeles, CA 90014
West Hollywood (WeHo)
Chic, walkable, LGBTQ+ friendly, and known for nightlife, brunch spots, and boutique shopping.
- The London West Hollywood – ★★★★★
Luxe suites with full kitchens, rooftop pool, and upscale dining. Ideal for romantic escapes or long stays.
Budget: $$$$ • 1020 N San Vicente Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 - Andaz WeHo – ★★★★
Boutique with vintage flair and calm courtyard. Appeals to creatives and couples wanting unique charm.
Budget: $$-$$$ • 8401 W Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069 - Hotel Ziggy, Hollywood – ★★★★
This revamped boutique hotel brings a quirky, laid‑back energy to the Sunset Strip. With comfortable rooms, a large saltwater pool, and a hip bar scene, it’s a sunny hideaway just steps from the action.
Budget: $$ • 8462 W Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
Hollywood
Touristy but central — great for walking, nightlife, and classic attractions like the Walk of Fame.
- The Hollywood Roosevelt – ★★★★
Historic glam meets modern poolside nightlife — think film-star vibes and chic bars. Perfect for couples and those chasing Hollywood nostalgia.
Budget: $$$ • 7000 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 - Dream Hollywood – ★★★★
Rooftop pools, DJs, and stylish rooms near the Walk of Fame. Great for party-seeking couples or solo travelers under 35.
Budget: $$$ • 6417 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028 - Motel 6 Hollywood – ★
Budget choice in the heart of Hollywood. Clean basics, easy access — best for budget-conscious young travelers.
Budget: $ • 1738 Whitley Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Venice
Beachy, bohemian, and perfect for artsy travelers — short walk to the boardwalk and canals.
- Hotel Erwin – ★★★☆
Walkable to Venice Beach and Abbot Kinney, rooftop bar with stunning views. Appeals to creative couples and solo travelers.
Budget: $$$ • 1697 Pacific Ave, Venice, CA 90291 - Venice on the Beach Hotel – ★★
Classic beach motel across from the sand — retro charm, perfect for budget stays.
Budget: $$ • 2819 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291 - Airbnb/Guesthouse options – variable
Intimate beach bungalows and stylish apartments are common. Great for groups or families wanting local flavor.
Budget: $$–$$$ • Various locations
Silver Lake / Echo Park
Laid-back, artsy, and full of independent coffee shops, vintage stores, and scenic hills.
- The Line Hotel – ★★★★
Sleek, mid-century modern with rooftop bar and pool deck. Ideal for creatives and couples seeking a hip stay.
Budget: $$$ • 3515 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010 - Silver Lake Pool & Inn – ★★
Cozy inn with vintage charm and a communal pool. Perfect for small families or travelers looking for friendly vibes.
Budget: $$$ • 4141 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90029 - Airbnb cottage/elegant rentals – ★★–★★★
Quiet bungalows and guesthouses tucked into the hills. Great for couples and longer stays — check for self‑check–in.
Budget: $$–$$$ • Various