From the Hollywood hills to the palm-lined boulevards and the quintessential Californian beaches, Los Angeles is a sprawling city of contrasts. Encompassing A-list glamour, relaxed beach vibes, urban hideaways and cultural fusions, there is so much to see and do, no matter what you and your partner enjoy.
I have selected five of my favourite ways to experience the city of angels. So, set aside a few days on your US honeymoon and start planning – California here we come!
Explore Hollywood and the Hills
Sometimes you have to surrender to being a tourist – otherwise you miss part of the experience! This is definitely true of Hollywood – yes it’s crowded with sightseers, but it’s also a must-see for first-timers to LA.
Wander along Hollywood Boulevard browsing the Walk of Fame, say hello to the celebrity (and superhero) impersonators and check out the world-renowned theatres, including the celebrity handprints at the TCL Chinese Theatre. Music buffs will enjoy taking a detour a few blocks over to the Guitar Centre to see some epic instruments, memorabilia and the Rockwalk – handprints of guitar heroes from today and years gone by.
Million Dollar Listing fans simply must take a Starline Movies Stars Homes tour. It’s a great way to get your bearings and travel around some renowned LA neighbourhoods while also admiring some super luxe real estate.
Beverly Hills is another essential stop on your LA layover. People watch on Rodeo Drive, wander along the cobblestoned European-style mall Two Rodeo Drive, and see the famous Beverly Hills sign at Beverly Gardens Park.
Hike the canyon
For a holiday workout with a possible celebrity sighting, take a trek up the canyon. Runyon Canyon is a 130 acre city park situated at the east end of the Santa Monica Mountains and is easily accessible from Hollywood. It has a range of winding trails, loop tracks and steeper ascents to tackle depending on your fitness level, and its lofty position provides great views of Hollywood on a clear day. This is an ideal way to experience nature in the heart of Los Angeles and mingle with the locals!
Visit the markets
LA locals love their fresh produce, making a visit to a farmer’s market an authentic experience. The Original Farmers Market is a delicious culinary stop, brimming with epicurean delights.
This market mainstay has everything; from meat and seafood stalls, to cosy restaurants and bars, fresh produce, decadent desserts and specialty stores. Foodie couples will easily spend a couple of hours here exploring, sampling and tucking into a good meal!
Take a beach day
There are plenty of iconic stretches of sand near Los Angeles that are well worth a visit. Begin your coastal sojourn at the legendary Santa Monica Pier, and enjoy a throwback-style date with an OC vibe. Take a spin in the Ferris wheel and spot sea lions frolicking at the end of the pier before playing some old-school arcade games and grabbing burgers at Pier Burger – a must do!
Continue along the coast to Venice and cruise the boardwalk, watch the skaters and snap a photo of the chilled neighbourhood’s famous hanging sign. A little further along, you will find Venice’s remaining canals. This historic locale provides a fantastic photo opportunity and is bursting with charming and quirky homes.
Stay at an icon
For an elegant accommodation option that oozes old Hollywood glamour, check in to The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel situated in the heart of the action. This stately 1920s Spanish-style hotel has hosted countless soirees and was once a go-to for superstars like Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable.
Its sparkling palm-fringed resort-style pool is a frequent VIP venue and as guests you might just snaffle an invite to an event during your stay. Be sure to also drop into The Spare Room for a drink. This dimly lit bar features leather couches and boardgames – plus a vintage bowling alley! Perfect for people watching and classic cocktails.
All images by Anika Reynolds
Ms Chinoiserie Says: With so many things to see and do, LA is such a fabulous spot for a stopover; the food markets and Hollywood Boulevard look like so much fun!
About Anika: I’m a freelance writer with a love of weddings and creatively styled events. I have a penchant for pretty stationery and perfectly put together cheese plates, and a never-ending sense of wanderlust!
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