Epic 3-Day Itinerary For Los Angeles, California

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Having just 3 days in Los Angeles to explore may seem like a daunting task, especially for first-timers. The city’s vastness, diverse neighborhoods, and endless attractions can leave you feeling overwhelmed yet exhilarated. Having visited twice myself, I can attest to the magnetic energy of Los Angeles (despite its infamous traffic). There’s always something new to discover, and each neighborhood offers a unique experience waiting to be explored!

This West Coast gem has such a special place in my heart, and I’m so excited to share my curated 3-day Los Angeles itinerary with you!

When is the Best Time to Visit LA?

As always, the best time to visit Los Angeles largely depends on your preferences. I’ve enjoyed exploring LA during the winter months. While mornings and evenings might be crisp, the daytime sun creates perfect temps for exploring comfortably.

The off-season means fewer crowds, turning traffic into a more manageable aspect of the LA experience. Plus, parking, often a concern in bustling cities, surprisingly didn’t pose as much of a challenge as we anticipated.

But of course, LA summers are buzzing with an energy that is hard to resist. From June to August, the city comes alive with outdoor activities, events, and festivals.

A happy medium where you can expect great temps and fewer crowds are March through May and September and November.

How Many Days Do You Need in LA?

Five days in LA is like hitting all the high notes – you get to dive deep into iconic spots and find those LA hidden gems.

With just three days in Los Angeles, you’ll be able to do a lot, but it will definitely leave you wanting more! So don’t worry if you can’t swing the full five-day gig, this 3-day LA itinerary will still give you an epic mix of some of the best things to do.

If you do end up having more time in LA, I suggest doing a day trip to Joshua Tree! Or better yet do an epic 1-week road trip from LA to Joshua Tree with a Palm Springs pit stop (this is what we did for our trip!).

3-Day Los Angeles Itinerary

Day 1: Venice Beach + Santa Monica

Afternoon

Arrive

If your flight touches down with plenty of daylight to spare, seize the opportunity to kick off your 3 days in LA with the sun, surf, and unmistakable vibes of Venice Beach, just a quick 20-minute drive from LAX.

To make the most of your time in the city, consider renting a car for easy navigation between neighborhoods.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is its own little world, and the vibes are unmatched! We lucked out and snagged free parking near the Venice Canals, so naturally, we took a stroll through this serene oasis before hitting the beach scene. It’s like a calm little escape tucked away from all the action!

Once you hit the beach, you have to walk the iconic Venice Boardwalk. It’s a sensory overload in the best way—street performers doing their thing, quirky vendors selling everything under the sun, and even the legendary Muscle Beach, where people are out there lifting like pros.

Lunch

If you’re hungry, Great White is a popular spot everyone raves about. But we ventured over to Whiskey Reds in Marina Del Rey, and their happy hour was great! We feasted on oysters, calamari, Brussels sprouts, and a salad that hit the spot without breaking the bank. Plus, the waterfront vibes took this spot to the next level.

Evening

Santa Monica + Sunset

Santa Monica is just a quick 15-minute drive from Venice and no 3-day Los Angeles itinerary would be complete without a stop! Start at the Santa Monica Pier, where you’ll find a mix of old-school amusement park charm, an aquarium, and the most magical sunset views over the Pacific Ocean.

Dinner at Elephante

And if your stomach’s still growling (or you’re in the mood to treat yourself), head to Elephante for dinner. Make reservations ahead of time because this place is popular!

The vibes are immaculate, the setting is gorgeous, and their spicy vodka pasta? Oh. My. Gosh. Flavor explosion! It’s the perfect way to wrap up your first day in LA!

Day 2: Beverly Hills, Hollywood, + Griffith Observatory

Morning

Optional: Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Tar Pits

Kick off your day at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), where you’ll find the iconic Urban Light installation—you know, the one from a thousand Instagram photos? While you’re in the area, swing by the nearby La Brea Tar Pits to step back into prehistoric times. It’s a quick, fascinating stop that won’t take you far off course for your next destination: Beverly Hills.

Beverly Hills

Ah, Beverly Hills—the land of glitz, glam, and palm tree-lined streets straight out of a Hollywood movie. It’s a love-it-or-leave-it kind of spot, but honestly, it’s worth experiencing at least once!

Take a walk down Rodeo Drive, and admire the dazzling luxury boutiques. Snap some pics at the iconic Beverly Hills sign, and don’t forget to marvel at the jaw-dropping mansions. It’s like stepping into a real-life episode of Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.

Feeling hungry? Check out The Hideaway, a gorgeous and enchanting restaurant with incredible food and cocktails. Bonus: their happy hour (daily from 3–6 PM) is a total win! Or, if caffeine is calling your name, stop by Parakeet Cafe—the cutest coffee spot in Beverly Hills with delicious brews that are worth every sip.

Afternoon

Hollywood’s Iconic Sights

Leaving Beverly Hills behind, it’s time to head to Hollywood! But wait—if you skipped the coffee at Parakeet Cafe, this is your moment to refuel. Make a pitstop at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker in West Hollywood. Not only does this spot serve up next-level coffee, but the chic ambiance makes it the perfect recharge station.

There are plenty of things to do in Hollywood, a lot being pretty touristy. But if you’re like me and one of those people who feels like they need to do even the touristy things just once, here is a list of some things to do in the area. Pick and choose your adventure!

• Hollywood Boulevard— Hollywood’s lively main street where the magic of entertainment meets interesting shops and attractions.
• Walk of Fame— A sidewalk lined with stars featuring the names of legendary celebs. (Yes, I definitely hunted down Steve Carell’s star!)
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour— Step behind the scenes of one of Hollywood’s most iconic studios, complete with movie props, sets, and a peek into movie history.
• Good Times at Davey Wayne’s— A quirky speakeasy that feels straight out of the ’70s. Bonus: You enter through a fridge door! (How cool is that?)
• Chinese Theatre— A historic Hollywood landmark, known for its beautiful architecture, movie premieres, and celebrity handprints and footprints.
• Museum of Death— A super unique (and a bit eerie) museum that explores Hollywood’s fascination with fame, death, and all the dark, twisted stuff in between!

Griffith Observatory

One of my favorite things to do in this 3-day itinerary for Los Angeles is a visit to Griffith Observatory. While it’s closed on Mondays, the rest of the week is packed with daily programs that offer fascinating insights into the universe.

Not to mention, it’s one of the best free activities in the city! From the Observatory’s vantage point, you can soak in breathtaking views of Los Angeles, with a skyline that stretches for miles.

Hollywood Sign Hike

If you’re feeling adventurous, Griffith Park has a 53-mile network of trails perfect for exploring nature while marveling at the city from different angles. I did the Hollywood Sign via Canyon Drive trail, which took around 3 hours.

It’s a time investment, but totally worth it! Not only do you get close-up views of the Hollywood Sign for unforgettable photo ops, but you also get a unique perspective of the sign from behind.

Evening

Night on the Town

After your outdoor adventures, if you still have the energy for more, West Hollywood’s nightlife is an absolute must! For my fellow Vanderpump Rules fans, visiting SUR and TomTom is like stepping into the show. We mostly enjoyed some delicious cocktails and, of course, the famous goat cheese balls—yum!

If you’re looking to turn up the volume on your night, head over to The Abbey, Beaches, and Heart WeHo. These places have an electric vibe that’s perfect for dancing the night away!

Day 3 Options: More Beaches or Downtown LA Adventure

Option 1: Malibu and/or Manhattan Beach

For a coastal adventure, you can’t go wrong with Malibu or Manhattan Beach. In Malibu, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views along the Pacific Coast Highway. Take some time to explore the iconic Malibu Pier, then unwind on the sandy shores.

If you’re looking for a laid-back vibe, Manhattan Beach has just what you need. The charming pier, waterfront dining options, and amazing Strand Bike Path offer the ultimate beach day.

We opted for Downtown LA (which was a blast), but I’m already planning to prioritize these beautiful beaches for my next trip!

Option 2: Downtown LA

Downtown LA is packed with exciting activities! Here’s a list of my top picks to help you create your own adventure:

• The Broad— Make sure to secure your free tickets in advance to experience the mesmerizing Infinity Mirrored Room— it’s such a captivating art installation.
• Little Tokyo— This vibrant neighborhood is a cultural haven, home to some of the best Japanese restaurants, cultural attractions, and a rich historical legacy. It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours immersing yourself in the local culture.
• Chinatown— A bustling area where you can explore delicious Asian cuisine, unique shops, and colorful festivals!

• The Last Bookstore— The largest new and used bookstore in California. It’s full of “unexpected nooks of funkiness”.
• Grand Central Market— An emporium with tons of food vendors and florists. They also host game nights, movies, and other fun events.

• Central Library— Not a must-see, but if you’re nearby, this architectural beauty is worth checking out. It’s an ode to knowledge, creativity, and design.
• Library Bar— A literary-inspired bar where you can sip on exquisitely crafted cocktails and munch on gastropub eats. It’s the perfect place for book lovers like me!
• Angel City Brewery— Located just outside Little Tokyo, this vibrant brewery has an awesome selection of craft beers and a dynamic, artsy atmosphere—definitely a place you’ll want to check out!

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Picking the perfect home base for your 3-day LA itinerary is a big deal, especially since traffic is, well, a part of life in LA! Trust me, you’ll want to think about where you stay carefully so you’re not wasting too much time on the road.

We decided to stay in Koreatown (because, hello, food!) and it definitely gave us a unique cultural experience with some seriously amazing spots. Plus, I got to frequent my favorite coffee shop in LA—Spl Coffee (seriously, I’m still dreaming about it).

But if I could do it over, I’d totally opt for Santa Monica or West Hollywood! Both are super fun, close to everything, and you won’t spend half your time stuck in traffic.

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is perfect for a laid-back coastal vibe. With its gorgeous beaches, charming streets filled with unique shops and eateries, and that ever-so-relaxing beachfront culture, you’re bound to unwind in no time.

• Huntley Santa Monica— If you’re looking for a luxurious beachside retreat, this is your spot. Think elegant rooms, stunning ocean views, and a rooftop lounge with panoramic vistas of Santa Monica—the perfect place to kick back and watch the sunset! 🌅
• Palihouse Santa Monica— For something with a bit more charm, this boutique hotel is a total California-cool dream. Blending historic architecture with modern amenities, it’s got everything from stylish suites to a cozy courtyard—perfect for relaxing in that signature laid-back style.
• Santa Monica Proper Hotel— Looking for something a little more chic and contemporary? This hotel has it all—sophisticated design, vibrant dining experiences, and a rooftop pool with sweeping city views. It’s in the perfect location, too, right near the beach and shopping districts.

West Hollywood

West Hollywood is the ultimate spot if you’re drawn to the glamour of Hollywood and the lively energy of a neighborhood that’s always buzzing. Whether you’re planning to explore iconic attractions, enjoy a night out on the Sunset Strip, or stop by popular spots like The Abbey, West Hollywood has it all—luxury, entertainment, and that unforgettable vibe.

• Montrose at Beverly Hills— Experience luxury and sophistication at Montrose, where elegant accommodations, personalized service, and a convenient location make it a fabulous choice.
• Andaz West Hollywood— This place is known for its stylish rooms, creative dining options, and a rooftop pool with stunning views of the city.
• Pendry West Hollywood— With its contemporary design and exceptional amenities like a rooftop bar and pool, Pendry is an amazing choice if you want to be close to Sunset Strip’s nightlife while enjoying a luxurious stay. Party by night, relax by day—it’s the best of both worlds!

Are you ready to experience this epic 3-day itinerary for Los Angeles for yourself?!

And just like that, you’ve got your 3-day itinerary in Los Angeles all planned out! From the vibrant streets of Hollywood to the chill vibes of Santa Monica and the glamorous energy of West Hollywood, this city has plenty of excitement for you to experience! Whether you’re soaking in some art at The Broad, hitting up iconic beaches, or enjoying a sunset on a rooftop bar, LA is sure to leave you with memories that will last long after you’ve left.

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other blog posts:

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