Knowing the best areas and hotels to stay in Los Angeles is essential if you’re visiting LA. However, it’s a challenge to choose where to stay in Los Angeles since it’s one of the largest and most dynamic cities in the US. Also, remember that this is probably one of the most expensive cities in the country, so it can be challenging to find cheap accommodation in Los Angeles if you don’t plan well in advance.
Luckily, there are many hotels in Los Angeles, but you must be careful, as there are certain places that we recommend you avoid. To help you make your stay a safe and unforgettable experience, in this article, you’ll find the best neighborhoods to stay in Los Angeles and a selection of the best accommodation in Los Angeles that we recommend according to your budget.
Best areas and hotels to stay in Los Angeles
Whether you want the perfect area to sleep in Los Angeles or you’re looking for the best hotels to stay in Hollywood, you’re in the right place. Let’s start with the best areas to stay in Los Angeles.
Best areas to stay in Los Angeles
In this section, we’ll tell you about the best areas and hotels to stay in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that accommodation prices in Los Angeles vary from $30 to $200 per person and night, so to help you choose, we’ll tell you the best hotels according to your budget in the most popular places to sleep in Los Angeles. There are many things to do in Los Angeles, you better choose properly where to stay.
1. Hollywood, the best area to stay in Los Angeles
Hollywood is the best area to stay in Los Angeles due to its location and security. It’s the best option if you don’t have a car because it is equidistant from all the main attractions and connected by a great public transport system.
The headquarters of the most famous film studio in the world, Universal Studios, and the Walk of Fame are there, so it’s not difficult to understand why it’s the most touristy area of Los Angeles. Best of all, the iconic Hollywood sign is a walkable distance from here.
1. Hollywood, the best area to stay in Los Angeles
Since it’s such a touristy place, you might find it challenging to choose among the many hotels to stay in Hollywood.
Additionally, Hollywood is the safest area to stay in Los Angeles and has hotels of all types and prices. During my stay in Los Angeles, seeing the famous Chinese Theater was one of the best tours I took.
If you’re starting your 10-day West Coast Road Trip, there is no better place to depart from.
These are the best accommodations in Hollywood according to your budget:
- Premium option: Villa Delle Stelle (our hotel in LA)
- Standard option: Motel 6 Hollywood
- Low-cost option: USA Hostels Hollywood
2. Beverly Hills, one of the most expensive neighborhoods in LA
Beverly Hills is the most affluent area in Los Angeles, located west of the city. It’s full of places to visit, like the famous Rodeo Drive, where you can find some of the most expensive shops. Also, its green areas are lovely and give it a unique touch.
Since it’s one of the most comfortable areas to stay in Los Angeles, security is tight. Thefts and fights are very rare, and the police presence is excellent. Of course, you’ll have to pay a higher price than if you stay in other places in LA.
2. Beverly Hills, one of the most expensive neighborhoods in LA
The best hotels to stay in Los Angeles are here. However, you’ll have to factor in the higher costs of restaurants, coffee shops, and everything you buy in this area to the price of hotels in LA if you choose Beverly Hills. The advantage is that it won’t be difficult to find free parking for your car.
These are the best hotels in Beverly Hills:
- Premium option: Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
- Standard option: Crescent Hotel
- Low-cost option: Hotel del Flores
3. Santa Monica, one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles
Warm and welcoming, Santa Monica is a coastal district of the city and the place that we like the most. It is undoubtedly one of the best areas to stay in Los Angeles where you can walk without worry, since it’s quite safe. The Santa Monica Pier is a very popular place among tourists.
3. Santa Monica, one of the best neighborhoods in Los Angeles
If you stay in this part of the city, stroll through Palisades Park in complete tranquility and sunbathe on the beautiful Santa Monica State Beach. At night, I recommend you visit the Third Street Promenade, an outdoor shopping center where you’ll find numerous restaurants.
It is undoubtedly an excellent place to sleep in Los Angeles, and if you book in advance, you can find hotel deals. Also, if you travel by car, you can get a hotel with free parking in Los Angeles here.
These are the best accommodations in Santa Monica LA:
- Premium option: Viceroy Santa Monica
- Standard option: Hotel Carmel By The Sea
- Low-cost option: HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel
4. Venice Beach, an excellent option to stay in Los Angeles
Another increasingly popular area to stay in Los Angeles is Venice Beach. Many visitors who want to stay in the tourist areas of Los Angeles stay here, as prices tend to be lower than those in Santa Monica, located north of this coastal district.
4. Venice Beach, an excellent option to stay in Los Angeles
Its famous promenade, the Venice Boardwalk, is ideal for walking, cycling, and, of course, skating. Venice Beach also has the hotels with the best views in Los Angeles. These are our favorites:
- Premium option: Venice on the Beach Hotel
- Standard option: Samesun Venice Beach
- Low-cost option: PodShare Venice
5. Los Feliz, one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Los Angeles
Los Feliz, considered one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Los Angeles, is ideal for walking and taking a rest from the city. Here, you’ll find the famous Griffith Park where, in addition to enjoying its museum, you can get the best views of Hollywood.
5. Los Feliz, one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Los Angeles
For many, it is the best residential area in Los Angeles for its excellent security. It has a wide range of tourist places to know, such as La Luz de Jesus Gallery, the Wacko complex, and Barnsdall Art Park, among others. There are not many hotels in this area of Los Angeles, so the best option is usually to stay in an apartment or Airbnb. Some of the best in the area are:
- Standard option: Travelodge by Wyndham Hollywood-Vermont/Sunset
- Low-cost option: PodShare Los Feliz
6. West Hollywood, a good place to sleep in Los Angeles
West Hollywood is a district of Los Angeles with a wide variety of attractions. A lot of celebrities live here, so you can see large mansions with lovely gardens.
West Hollywood Park is one of the busiest and safest places in the district. If you want a good option to sleep in Los Angeles, this place is the one.
6. West Hollywood, a good place to sleep in Los Angeles
Staying in this area of Los Angeles isn’t expensive because you can get cheap and beautiful options, especially if you book in advance. In addition, it’s one of the most comfortable areas of Los Angeles. These are my favorite accommodation options:
- Premium option: Andaz West Hollywood-a concept by Hyatt
- Standard option: Ramada Plaza by Wyndham West Hollywood Hotel & Suites
- Low-cost option: Alta Cienega Motel
7. Downtown LA, sleep in downtown Los Angeles
For those looking for a central place to stay in Los Angeles, this option is the best. Downtown LA is considered a business area, so it doesn’t have as many attractions as other areas. However, it’s very well connected with other places in the city.
As for attractions for visitors, you’ll find the Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad, and the Bradbury Building, among others. It’s the most practical area to sleep in Los Angeles, and you’ll have everything at hand. It also boasts the best hotels in Los Angeles.
7. Downtown LA, sleep in downtown Los Angeles
If you want to get cheap accommodation in Los Angeles, start looking here. You’ll find real bargains, as this is undoubtedly the most affordable area to stay in Los Angeles.
- Premium option: The Standard, Downtown LA
- Standard option: High Skyline Suite with Parking
- Low-cost option: Little Tokyo Hotel
8. LAX, accommodations near Los Angeles airport
Another option to stay in Los Angeles, if you’re flying late or early in the morning, is the area near the airport. In addition to having accommodation at a reasonable price, this area offers many places you can visit while waiting for a flight. For example, you can visit the Flight Path Museum & Learning Center, where you’ll see models of historic airplanes and The Space Exploration Gallery.
8. LAX, accommodations near Los Angeles airport
If you book your accommodation in Los Angeles near the airport, you’ll be connected to the rest of the city by the Green Line.
- Premium option: Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport
- Standard option: Crowne Plaza Los Angeles International Airport
- Low-cost option: Super 8 by Wyndham Los Angeles Airport
Neighborhoods where not to stay in Los Angeles
Although Los Angeles is one of the most prestigious cities in the US, it’s not 100% safe. Violent robberies, drug use, and fighting are common in some areas of the city.
Below, we’ll mention some areas to avoid in Los Angeles, although, first, I’d like to remind you of the importance of buying proper travel insurance for the USA. In addition to preventing any problems if you experience a theft, you’ll be covered against any medical expenses that may arise during the trip. The healthcare in the United States is so costly that visiting this country without buying insurance is too risky.
- South Central: It’s the most dangerous area of Los Angeles;it has one of the highest crime rates in the world (there are more than 60 criminal gangs in this area). Thefts, gang fights, and homicides are common.
- Compton: Located to the south of the city, this is another area where not to stay in Los Angeles. According to police figures, robberies have increased in recent months, both during the day and at night.
- East Los Angeles: This neighborhood is one of the poorest and most dangerous in Los Angeles and has no tourist attractions, so it’s not an option if you’re looking for the best hotels and areas to stay in Los Angeles.
Best hotels in Los Angeles
If you’re one of those people who wants the best luxurious hotels to sleep in Los Angeles, regardless of the areas where they’re located, we’ve made a selection of the most impressive. In this section, we’ll share the best hotels we recommend in Los Angeles. Of course, be warned; they aren’t suitable for all budgets:
- Four Seasons Hotel at Beverly Hills, one of the best hotels to sleep in Los Angeles
- Casa Del Mar, romantic hotel where to stay in Los Angeles
- Hotel Bel-Air – Dorchester Collection, fantastic hotel in Los Angeles
- Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, an excellent alternative to sleep in Los Angeles
- Viceroy L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, one of the most luxurious hotels in Los Angeles
- The Peninsula Beverly Hills, the best place to rest in Downtown LA
- Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection, excellent accommodation where to stay in Los Angeles
Cheap accommodation in Los Angeles
Now, if you care more about price than quality, here are the most affordable hotels in Los Angeles, the best options where to stay in Los Angeles without spending much. This way, you can travel on a budget and avoid staying in dangerous neighborhoods.
Remember that even if LA is one of the most exclusive cities in the USA, it’s not difficult to end up staying in a dangerous neighborhood if you’re only trying to get cheap accommodation in Los Angeles. To avoid this, below, you’ll find cheap hotels in Los Angeles located in good neighborhoods:
- HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel
- USA Hostels Hollywood
- Orange Drive Hostel
- The Hotel Hollywood
- Republic Inn / Hollywood
Besides, you may be interested in our tips to find the best hotel deals.
Map of the neighborhoods of Los Angeles
Los Angeles is one of the most touristy cities in the world, in addition to being the city with the second-most inhabitants in the US. Knowing the best hotels and areas to stay in Los Angeles is essential before even booking your flight.
I recommend taking a look at this map to quickly locate the best places to stay in Los Angeles before booking your accommodation in LA.
If you have any other questions during your search for the best accommodation in Los Angeles, leave us a comment, and we’ll help you right away. See you there!
Is the Queen Mary ship a safe place to stay in April?
Hi Keri,
I haven’t stayed there myself, but it looks like The Queen Mary has great rooms and facilities, as well as a nice location. If you’re okay with staying in a hotel outside of Los Angeles, I don’t see why you shouldn’t book it.
Hello,
I’ll be traveling to LA the week of thanksgiving but I would like to visit main attractions as well as a vineyard. Always wanted to stump grapes. I’ll be a solo traveler so need to be somewhere safe and affordable. I’m thinking of doing unite a bit of tours and maybe one day of shopping. Any suggestions?
Hi Nesha,
There are lots of wineries and vineyards in Orange County, just south of Los Angeles. Consider staying by LAX; it’s a decent area to stay in Los Angeles and you’ll be easily connected to the city. It’s less than an hour’s drive from Orange County, too.
Hi there, We are coming from NZ in Sept and in LA for 6 nights doing the attractions Universal, Warner, Dodgers Game, Six Flags, Walk of Fame. We are wanting somewhere nice to stay and ina. Safe area as bringing our kids. Close to Targets/Food is ideal. Would you recommend booking a bookabach any recommendations? Hotels? Please help also Is Santa Monica/Venice beach safe to visit? I have been told it’s not ? Feel free ti email me back.
Hi Rachel,
I would consider staying in Hollywood. It’s safe and close to lots of attractions and conveniences. As for Santa Monica, it’s safe to visit.
Hello, I am looking for accommodation with a terrace and a wonderful view. This will be my last time in LA with my mum but I’m struggling to find anything that’s too pricey.
Hi Amanda,
That sounds like a wonderful trip! If it’s going to be your last time going to LA with your mum, it’s worth spending a bit more on a comfortable accommodation. Check out the West Hollywood area; they have affordable Los Angeles hotels and you’ll be in a beautiful neighborhood. 🙂
Can you tell me if a comfort inn near old Pasadena is a safe hotel? And if not where should I stay with a car to save but be safe! Thank you
Hi,
Yes, this area is a safe place to stay in Los Angeles and a good option for first-time visitors.
Hi there!
Very informative read! We, husband and I, will be visiting July 6 to 9. I am so confused or where to start planning. I am a big fan of the movie industry and would like to know whats the best things to see in the short time we are there. Also, we want to attend the phillharmonic performance one evening. So, what’s the best intinerary and location to be? Do we need a car? our first trip without our 4 boys in 20 years..please help.
Thank You!
Jassica
Hi Jassica,
That sounds like so much fun! I recommend looking at our guide to the best things to do in Los Angeles. It seems like you’d enjoy the Hollywood area, which has all kinds of movie and film venues, as well as theaters.
Hi Ascen,
Would you recommend staying at hotel June next to lax for a 1 week stay?
Is it a safe area albeit not too central?
Thank you for the comprehensive info on hotels in LA
N.
Hi Noura,
Yes, staying by LAX is very convenient, and a good option in terms of safety.
Good day. I will be visiting LA in middle of Jun, for about 7 days.
I am a solo traveler. I am from South Africa and a female, 55 years of age.
I am looking for a budget hotel, because our currency exchange rate is the worst ever.
I don’t want to stay in a hostel because of my age.
Most important is that I will only be walking and making use of affordable public transport. (Metro, busses etc)
Can you please recommend places to stay.
Hi Amillia,
I recommend staying at a hotel in Hollywood; something like the Motel 6 Hollywood.
Where would be the best hotel near the convention center, no car, safe for walking up to 20 min and maybe near some sightseeing on the bookend days of conference, Also with a pool for a conference at end July
Hi there,
I would recommend The Delphi in downtown LA. It’s a convenient place to stay in Los Angeles and isn’t far from the Convention Center.
We are a family of 5 planning on spending 7-10 days in LA in June 2023. We will visit Disneyland and stay at Anaheim for a couple of days, but was wondering where do you think we should stay for the other days? We have a 21, 16 and 14 year old with us. Not wanting to drive. Thanks in advance.
If you don’t want to drive, I recommend staying in Hollywood or downtown LA since that’s where most of the tourist attractions are.
We are booked in a hotel in alhambra and have a car. Is this an ok area? Will have a car and most if what we want to visit are about 20 min drive from this area it looks like.
Hi Aaro,
Alhambra is a residential area, so it’s safe. However, there isn’t much to do there and you’ll be further away from the tourist attractions.
Hi I’ll be going to a concert at KIA Forum where is the best and safest place to stay? Since I am alone and I am worried on going back safely at the hotel after the concert.
Hi Sasa,
The KIA Forum is surrounded by shady neighborhoods, so if you want a nearby place to stay in Los Angeles, consider a hotel by Los Angeles Airport, like Sonesta LAX.
Hello ,
We booked to stay at the Godfrey Hotel Hollywood , if like to know how safe is it around that area?
Irina, central LA is getting less safe lately, but you should be fine as long as you avoid walking alone in the street at night.
Let me know if you have any questions,
Ascen
I just booked one night at the Hilton Garden Inn Los Angeles Hollywood but not sure what would be the best way to get there from LAX airport and if it is a good hotel.
Hi Silvia,
Yes, it’s an ok hotel, and it’s centric. You can take the flyaway bus and metro or just an Uber to get to the hotel from the airport.
Ascen
I’m going to a concert at the Kia Forum in July where would be the best place to stay and is it easy to get a taxi or Uber after the show back to the hotel
If you’re staying just one day for the sole purpose of going to the concert, I would stay at the Sonesta Los Angeles Airport.
It’s only 15 min from the forum, and you will skip all the traffic from Santa Monica or the Downtown.
Ascen
Hello! I’m looking to visit LA beginning of May (2022) this year. We will be staying Thrusday- through Sunday. Really not sure what our itinerary will be but we are looking to stay in a safe place. Not expensive but not cheap so somewhere in between but a nice and safe neighborhood. Can you please give me some suggestions? Thanks!
I went back to LA a couple of weeks ago and stayed at the Loews Hollywood Hotel. The location is great (around the corner from the walk of fame and a nice Target that has groceries) and the hotel feels very safe. The city view from the room was spectacular. I would stay here again and the price is not that high at all.
Ascen
We are coming in from a cruise and will be in LA area from Saturday-Monday in Feb ’22. Where would be a great place/safe to stay that would be in a central area for things to do? We want to just sight see and maybe do the Santa Monica Pier at night, Hollywood sign and the stars. But, not sure what else to do. We will not have a car.
We stayed at Villa Delle Stelle and it was great. I would recommend you to stay there as well. You can move around the city without a car, so don’t worry about that.