driving tour la

Los Angeles Driving Tour

For a nice drive that offers views of the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Monica Mountains, the San Fernando Valley, downtown LA and Hollywood, follow these directions. It will take at least 2 or 3 hours to complete this entire route. This is a complete loop, so you can start anywhere along the route.

1. At I-10 and I-405 - go west on I-10 to Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)

• The Malibu Pier on the ocean side of PCH between Las Flores Cyn Rd and Malibu Cyn Rd. Watch the waves, sea gulls and surfers.
• The Adamson House is on the ocean side of PCH about 1/4 mile north of the pier. There are tours of the historical site Wednesday through Saturday 11AM to 3PM.
• Another quarter mile north at PCH and Cross Creek Road, on the inland side, you will find some restaurants and shops.
• Immediately after the second tunnel, there is a parking lot on the left with restrooms and hiking trails. There is a self-pay fee station.

4. Proceed inland to Mulholland Highway, then make a right turn (east) at the stop light at Mulholland.

• At Cornell Road you could detour to Paramount Ranch , if you have extra time. It's not very interesting, but it won't take very long.

7. Turn left (north) on Topanga Cyn Blvd (not "Old Topanga")

8. Go to Ventura Blvd. then turn right (east) - you are now cruising down Ventura Blvd in "The Valley"

9. Follow Ventura Blvd east - just past Balboa Blvd, look for Havenhurst (there is a Gelson's market there)

10. Turn right on Havenhurst (south), and go back up into the mountains, past a lot of nice houses.

11. After several stop signs, you must turn right or left - turn right onto Havenhurst Avenue

12. Take Havenhurst Avenue up to the next right/left decision. Left is the shorter path, but both directions lead to the same place.

13. When you get to the top of Havenhurst Avenue, you will be on Mulholland Drive. Go left (east) to see spectacular views of LA and the Valley for several miles. Go past the 405 and Beverly Glen. Be watchful in the area of Coldwater Cyn Rd, where you will need to get in a left turn lane to stay on Mulholland. For details, see the directions for Mulholland Drive Scenic Route

14. At Laurel Cyn Road, turn right. Take it to the bottom. Near the bottom, turn left to get onto Hollywood Blvd.

• You could stop awhile near Ovation Hollywood, and wander around in the tourist area of Hollywood . The Chinese Theater with the footprints in the cement is just west of Hollywood and Highland.

16. Take the 101 freeway south to the 110 south (it says it goes to San Pedro)

• If you want to explore downtown LA, get off the 110 on a numbered street (like 3rd Street) and go east (toward the buildings). The big buildings are just east of the freeway. Staples Center is on Figueroa near 11th Street. The Music Center is on Grand near 1st street (both side of first street). The flavor of old Downtown LA can be found along Broadway between 1st Street and 9th Street.

18. Take I-10 west to the 405 and you have made a full loop to the beginning of these directions.

Los Angeles Driving Tour

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Description

Take a look inside Los Angeles’ vibrant districts. Cover all downtown and immerse yourself into past, present and future that collide to create a unique Los Angeles local vibe.

*The tour can be modified to meet your preferences.

Highlights:

• See over 30 Los Angeles attractions on a 3-hour driving tour;
• Learn a lot of fun facts about fascinating historic landmarks;
• Experience must-see and off the beaten path of LA;
• Take a journey of Los Angeles’ first settlers in El Pueblo district;
• Visit the city’s most colorful districts, enclaves and the epicenter of all cool things in LA;
• Discover the city’s oldest, newest, and tallest buildings and architectural gems;
• Stroll Grand Park for scenic views;
• Admire the dazzling display of ornate ironwork, cage elevators, marble staircases in an iconic Bradbury Building;
• Take pictures of the world’s shortest railway;
• See the last of the great rail stations built in the US;
• Take advantage of your visit to trendy bargain districts;
• Sample historic charm in Grand Central Market which is a hub for artisan food;
• Get your caffeine fix in one of the most instagram-able coffee shops in LA. 

Tour Itinerary:

• Chinatown: Central Plaza, West Plaza, Chung King Road, Thien Hau Temple, Hop Louie, Far East Plaza.
• El Pueblo: Union Station, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, Avila Adobe, Sepulveda House, Plaza Catholic Church, Olvera street.
• Little Tokyo: Japanese Garden, Koyasan Buddhist Temple, Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple, Go For Broke Monument, Union Center for the Arts, Home is Little Tokyo Mural, Japanese markets and bakeries.
• Civic Center: City Hall.
• Bunker Hill: Walt Disney Concert Hall, Grand Park, Grand Central Market, Angel’s Walk, The Brad
• Financial District: Central Library, the Millennium Biltmore Hotel, US Bank Tower, The BLOC Fig at 7 th shopping mall.
• Historic Core: Broadway Theater District, Bradbury Building, Eastern Columbia Building, The Theater at Ace Hotel.
• Jewelry District: Pershing Square, Spring Arcade Building.
• Arts District: street graffiti art.
• Fashion District: Santee Alley and Flower Market.
• * The itinerary is subject to change

What you get:

• + A friend in Los Angeles.
• + Private & customized tour.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility during the tour: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. 
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Los Angeles scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + An expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time.

*This Driving tour Los Angeles can be modified to meet your preferences .

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9 BEST Scenic Drives in LA: Los Angeles Excursions & Pics

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

TL:DR: There’s no shortage of scenic drives in LA, so I’ve narrowed down the best of the best with this list. My top favorite is the Mulholland Drive Scenic Route.

Exploring the many scenic drives in Los Angeles is one of the best ways to experience Southern California. 

From iconic cityscapes to breathtaking mountain ranges, celebrity mansions, and everything else that LA is made of, my article covers it all.

There are endless photo ops at the lookout points along LA’s famous city streets and scenic drives.

There’s also lots of magic in the nearby mountain ranges and national parks. 

If you’re flying into LA to visit, there are many car rental options near the airports. 

I highly recommend renting a car for a couple of days while you’re in the area.

There’s nothing quite like driving down the Pacific Coast Highway with the windows down, breathing the salty air. 

So buckle up and get ready to take in the sights. These scenic drives in Los Angeles will fill your camera roll!

Get your FREE Los Angeles Mini Guide + a printable checklist with 100+ things to do in the city!

Table of Contents

Pacific Coast Highway

Goes From: San Diego, California to Olympia, Washington (from LA, hop on at Long Beach or Santa Monica) Distance: 1,675 miles Time: 10 – 12 hours (but you don’t have to do the whole thing!) Why It’s Worth Visiting: The Pacific Coast Highway is one of the most famous highways in the world, and key landmarks along it are in LA’s backyard. 

The most famous parts of the Pacific Coast Highway are along the California Coast. 

The portion between Malibu and Newport Beach is most accessible from LA, depending on how far you want to drive. 

If you just drive between these two key locations, you’ll see landmarks and rugged canyons, like the Malibu Canyon, Zuma Beach, Santa Monica Pier, and Venice Beach. 

Scenes from famous movies, like Grease , were filmed on Malibu beaches along the Pacific Coast Highway, so get your camera ready! 

The Pacific Coast Highway is great for families seeking beach time or couples looking for a romantic day trip. 

And you can take a slight detour to hike in Leo Carrillo State Park, drive along Vista del Mar, or walk along the water in San Pedro.

No matter where you end up on the Pacific Coast Higway , you’ll have breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Mulholland Drive Scenic Route

Goes From: Hollywood at the Cahuenga Pass Distance: 21 miles Time: Minimum 2 hours Why It’s Worth Visiting: As claimed by visitors, film directors, and travelers alike, Mulholland Drive is the most beautiful road in Los Angeles, and one of the best scenic drives in Los Angeles.

The Mulholland Drive Scenic Route is riddled with rich history and stunning views. It’s the most famous drive in Los Angeles by far. 

Mulholland Drive offers views of famous landmarks, like the Hollywood Bowl and the Hollywood Sign.

Aside from the Hollywood Hills you’ll see the San Fernando Valley, the San Gabriel Mountains, and the Santa Monica Mountains. 

Plus, glimpse the rolling hills of famous neighborhoods such as Bel Air and Beverly Hills, Coldwater Canyon, and Laurel Canyon. 

Turn onto one of the “Canyon” roads to cruise through these posh places.

On clear days, you can even see Point Vicente Lighthouse and Catalina Island in the distance. 

Though many people stop at The Hollywood Bowl Overlook, I think it’s worthwhile to drive west for the Barbara A. Fine Overlook or the Stone Canyon Overlook. 

If you continue toward Calabasas on Mulholland Drive, you also get stunning views of the Topanga Canyon. 

The views are worth the extra bit of driving in my books. Mulholland Drive is one of Los Angeles’s most scenic drives. 

Angeles Crest Scenic Byway

Goes From: La Cañada Flintridge Distance: 66 miles Time: 1 hour Why It’s Worth Visiting: The Angeles Crest Scenic Byway is great if you’re looking for the most scenic drives in Los Angeles to get you just outside the city on your LA trip. 

The Angeles Crest Highway winds through the San Gabriel Mountains and offers several viewpoints of California’s scenic beauty all the way to the Mojave Desert. 

The best viewpoint, in my opinion, is located at Inspiration Point, at the Blue Ridge Summit. 

You can also visit the Mount Wilson Observatory on Mount Wilson Road for stunning views during the day and plenty of star gazing at night. 

When you return to town, you can make a loop and avoid interstates by following Huntington Drive/Colorado Boulevard.

Angeles Crest Highway also sets you up for hikes in the Angeles National Forest. I recommend Switzer Falls via Gabrielino Trail if you have time.

Griffith Park

Goes From: Between Los Feliz Boulevard and the Ventura Freeway (HWY 134) Distance: 4,210 acres of scenic park roads Time: 2 hours Why It’s Worth Visiting: Getting lost in the scenic roads through Griffith Park is a wonderful way to spend a day in Los Angeles with the whole family or your S/O, any time of year. 

Head north from Hollywood just a couple of minutes, and you’ll see how the city merges with the wilderness in Griffith Park. 

Southern California’s natural beauty is all around you on this classic Los Angeles drive. 

Plus, you’ll get some stunning views of the Hollywood Hills and downtown Los Angeles from the park’s altitude above the city. 

You’ll take Vermont Avenue past the mansions in the hills before making the climb to the park along Western Canyon Road.

If you go on a clear day, you can see all of the Los Angeles Basin.

Or, go at night and see millions of lights at the Griffith Observatory.

Rodeo Drive

Goes From: Begins at Beverwil Drive and ends at Sunset Boulevard, Beverly Hills Distance: 2 miles Time: Minimum 20 minutes – usually there’s traffic, and you’ll probably want to window shop Why It’s Worth Visiting: Rodeo Drive is one of the most famous streets and most expensive streets in the world. 

It’s a two-mile stretch in Beverly Hills between Beverwil Drive and Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles, and it is home to over 100 of the world’s top designers in haute couture. 

This one will be best for fashionistas who want a real taste of LA’s high fashion scene. 

And if you want to stretch your legs, there are a few parking garages along Santa Monica Boulevard (they’ll be on your left if you’re coming from Crescent Heights Boulevard or N. La Brea Avenue.

Sunset Strip

Goes From: Between Marmont Lane and Phyllis Street, Beverly Hills Distance: 2 miles Time: 2 hours (it really depends on how much you stop) Why It’s Worth Visiting: Sunset Strip is one of the most visibly recognizable streets in Los Angeles, located in West Hollywood. 

It is a portion of Sunset Boulevard in Beverly Hills, stacked with historic restaurants, boutiques, and famous venues, such as the Whisky A Go Go and the Viper Room . 

Sunset Boulevard, as a whole, stretches for 22 miles, from Downtown LA to the Santa Monica shore. It passes through neighborhoods such as Echo Park and Silver Lake, the UCLA campus. 

This one is great for date night any time of year. You can drive down the strip, then catch a live band and grab a bite to eat. 

Hollywood Boulevard is famous for the Hollywood Walk Of Fame and The Chinese Theater. 

But Sunset Boulevard is arguably a more driveable sightseeing option and even more rich with LA cultural heritage.

Palos Verdes Drive

Goes From: Paseo del Mar and Palos Verdes Drive in the Palos Verdes Estates Distance: 15 miles Time: 45 minutes Why It’s Worth Visiting: I’ll be honest, this one is often overlooked for some of the other more famous LA drives, but I think it’s the best coastal drive in Los Angeles. 

It starts with a glorious clifftop viewpoint on the NW side of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, looking out at the ocean in the direction of Redondo Beach and the Santa Monica Mountains.

Take Palos Verdes Boulevard until it turns into Palos Verdes Drive. You can make a full loop around the peninsula. 

I recommend turning onto Paseo Del Mar to see hilltop mansions against the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and rugged coastline.

This is definitely one of the best neighborhoods to drive through in LA. 

And if you want to extend the loop, explore the San Pedro area.

Wilshire Blvd

Goes From: Downtown LA to Ocean Avenue Distance: 16 miles  Time: 35 minutes Why It’s Worth Visiting: Many people spend most of their time on Santa Monica Boulevard when they visit the area, but I find Wilshire Boulevard gives a more local, quirky experience of the city.

The portion of Wilshire Boulevard in downtown Los Angeles is known as the Miracle Mile, and is home to many of California’s largest museums, such as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Kylin Gallery.

The part of the road that’s in Santa Monica, however, is adorned with local art and culture, and dotted with palm trees. 

Local mom-and-pop shops, bakeries, Mexican eateries, trendy vintage and thrift shops, and lots of local artists’ studios make this stretch the epitome of Californian culture. 

Rim of the World

Goes From: Begins at Cajon Pass between the San Bernardino and San Gabriel Mountains, ends at San Gorgonio Pass Distance: 110 mile Time: 2 hours (one way) Why It’s Worth Visiting: Inland from the coast, The Rim Of The World Byway is a scenic drive along the cliffs of the San Bernardino Mountains. 

From LA, you’ll drive through San Bernardino County to access the scenic byway in the mountains. 

Along the scenic drive are Lake Arrowhead, Big Bear Lake, Silverwood Lake, and the Castle Rock Trail. 

The vista points are breathtaking!

You can take this route all year round, though you’ll want chains for your tires during the snowy months. But the winter scapes are worth the trek.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Taylor Neal

Taylor is a multi-disciplinary artist, writer, yoga instructor and frontline worker who spends most of her time in her van (Vannigan) winding through the coastal and mountain roads of California where she feels most at home. From navigating the realities of van-life to the fluctuations in diverse climates and landscapes, Taylor is excited to bring everything she’s learned about California to fellow wanderers seeking beauty and adventure.

Looking for more things to do in Los Angeles county? Read our related articles below!

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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Start Your Engines! Discover These Enchanted Scenic Drives Around Los Angeles

Whether it's cruising along the coastline or navigating alpine roads, these scenic routes make up for a perfect match of adrenaline and scenery. Get your Itinerary here!

L.A.’s wide open roads beckon, offering a chance to leave the world behind and uncover something new. Whether you’re cruising down iconic boulevards lined with towering palms, marveling at neon-soaked streets, or letting the salty air breeze through your hair along the coast, your in-car adventure awaits. Discover the Best Drives in L.A. with picturesque beaches, dramatic cliffs, and rolling hills covered with wildflowers, for a truly unforgettable experience.

1. Mulholland Drive

Winding its way through the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, Mulholland Drive stands out as one of Los Angeles’ most iconic and cinematic roads, providing the best views in L.A by car  Its fame isn’t just due to its appearances on the silver screen but also its breathtaking vistas of the San Fernando Valley.

With its blend of Hollywood glamour, Mulholland Drive is an outdoors movie location serving for both thrilling car chases (albeit staged) and romantic outings, making it no surprise that David Lynch chose it as the centerpiece for his neo-noir masterpiece. Driving through Mulholland will allow you to soak in panoramic views from various overlooks like the Hollywood Hills, the Getty Center, Runyon Canyon Park, and Griffith Park.

• Starting point: Intersection of Mulholland Drive and Laurel Canyon Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90046
• End point: Intersection of Mulholland Drive and Sepulveda Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90049

🚗 Distance: 9-10 miles

2. Windsor Boulevard

At times, you simply crave that quintessential L.A. scenery, and nothing screams it louder than this palm-lined boulevard offering a glimpse of the Hollywood Sign . This drive, it’s the epitome of Los Angeles and is only a few blocks long.

If you’re after that coveted snapshot with the sign, be sure to make a stop between 4th and 5th streets on Windsor Blvd. near Hancock Park. Undoubtedly, this route stands out as one of the most iconic experiences in the city, making it a must-see on any list of scenic drives in Los Angeles.

• Starting point: Windsor Blvd & Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
• End point: S Windsor Blvd & W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90004

🚗 Distance: 2 miles

3. Griffith Park

Journey through the scenic drives in Los Angeles where city meets wilderness around Griffith Park. Begin on Vermont Avenue, passing private estates and the Greek Theatre, then climb through a tunnel towards the Observatory.

Descend and enjoy twinkly city vistas before winding through Western Canyon Road and onto Fern Dell, a rustic evergreen-lined street. Plan for weekday drives to avoid weekend and event traffic.

• Starting point: 2200 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027
• End point: Fern Dell Nature Trail, Fern Dell Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027

🚗 Distance: 3.5 miles

4. Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) from Malibu to Neptune’s Net

This iconic coastal drive from Manhattan Beach to Neptune’s Net ventures into Los Angeles County, making it an essential addition to any list of scenic drives in Los Angeles. Along this route, you’ll experience a quintessential journey, tracing the shoreline with breathtaking sunset ocean vistas  on one side and impressive cliffs adorned with mansions on the other.

Sun-soaked bluffs provide ample opportunities for stops, including renowned spots like Leo Carrillo State Park and Zuma Beach.  Conclude your journey by parking off in Manhattan Beach, where you can savor a classic California sunset amidst palm trees and vintage cars.

• Starting point: Manhattan Beach, California 90266
• End point: Neptune’s Net, 42505 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265

🚗 Distance: 35 miles

5. Palos Verdes Estates to San Pedro

Experience this scenic route from Palos Verdes Estates to San Pedro along Palos Verdes Dr S, a quintessential journey showcasing the stunning landscapes of Los Angeles . Amidst the breathtaking natural beauty, including rugged cliffsides and potential whale sightings near Point Vicente Lighthouse, keeping your eyes on the road becomes a delightful challenge.

Upon arrival in San Pedro, explore the area’s iconic landmarks on foot, such as Angel’s Gate Park. Here, you’ll discover treasures like the ornate Korean Friendship Bell and a basketball court seemingly stretching into the ocean. This drive offers an unforgettable experience along one of the most captivating scenic routes in Los Angeles.

📍Driving itinerary

• Starting point: Palos Verdes Dr S, CA 90275
• End point: Point Fermin Park, San Pedro, CA 90731

🚗 Distance: 5.9 miles

6. White Point to Royal Palms Park

One of Los Angeles’ most scenic drives along W Paseo Del Mar and Kay Fiorentino Drive to White Point Park at sunset. Witness a breathtaking sight: parked cars lining up to admire the cotton candy skies over the Pacific Ocean.

Turn right into the Royal Palms parking area for a bustling scene of surfers or turn left towards White Point for scuba divers and tide pool explorers. Relax at picnic tables atop the bluff, marveling at remnants of a 1920s hot spring resort.

• Starting point: W Paseo Del Mar, Los Angeles, CA
• End point: Royal Palms Beach Park, Los Angeles, CA 90732

🚗 Distance: 2.6 miles

7. Los Angeles Crest Highway to Mount Wilson Observatory

Undoubtedly, the coastal views in the area are stunning, but if you’re craving a truly unique experience, this scenic drive in Los Angeles from Crest Highway to the Mount Wilson Observatory awaits.

As you navigate the winding road, you’ll be treated to breathtaking aerial vistas of the Angeles National Forest. Once you’ve completed the ascent through the mountainous terrain, immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the observatory’s vaulted dome, where you can enjoy captivating concerts. 

• Starting point: Angeles Crest Scenic Bywy, California
• End point: Mt Wilson, California

🚗 Distance: 43 miles

8. Playa Del Rey To Manhattan Beach

Experience the stunning coastal scenery of Los Angeles with a scenic drive from Playa del Rey to Manhattan Beach. Start your journey at Culver Blvd in Playa del Rey and follow Vista del Mar southward, hugging the coastline.

Along this route, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, passing by Dockweiler State Beach and El Segundo Beach. Take your time to soak in the beauty of the coastal landscapes and enjoy the serene ambiance of this picturesque drive in Los Angeles.

• Starting point: Culver Blvd & Pershing Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90293
• End point: Manhattan Beach, California 90266

🚗 Distance: 6.4 miles

9. Wilshire Boulevard

Travel along one of the city’s scenic drives on Wilshire Boulevard, offering a swift tour of essential attractions and picturesque vistas.

Begin near Koreatown and head west as you go through the LACMA’s iconic “Urban Light” installation, as you get closure to the cinematic area of Beverly Hills. Admire historic landmarks and modern architecture while traversing this iconic route, experiencing the city’s diverse cultural tapestry firsthand in this scenic drive in Los Angeles.

• Starting point: S Vermont Ave & Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 9005
• End point: Via Rodeo Dr & Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90212

10. Santa Monica to Malibu on the PCH

Discover one of the most captivating scenic drives in Los Angeles, starting from the southern end of Interstate 10. Begin your journey by heading northward along the legendary Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) toward Malibu.

Along this iconic route, immerse yourself in the breathtaking coastal scenery, where surfers carve through waves and skaters revel along the beachside promenade.

Transitioning into the rugged canyons of Malibu, the drive offers a remarkable blend of coastal vistas and canyon landscapes. Navigate winding roads that unveil panoramic views and hidden enclaves, inviting you to indulge in the natural beauty of this coastal drive. 

📍Itinerary.

• Starting point: Intersection of Interstate 10 and Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), Santa Monica, CA 90401
• End point: Intersection of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) and Malibu Canyon Road, Malibu, CA 90265

🚗 Distance: 12 miles

11. Linda Vista through Arroyo Seco

Experience the elegance of Pasadena’s Linda Vista Avenue, a scenic gem near the Rose Bowl. Start your journey from Chevy Chase Drive to ascend through hillside enclaves, passing Art Center’s campus and sweeping views of the Arroyo.

Descend onto Linda Vista, where stately homes nestled under old trees await. Complete your route by crossing the freeway and turning left onto the historic Colorado Street Bridge.

• Starting point: E Chevy Chase Dr & Linda Vista Rd, Glendale, CA 91206
• End point: Colorado Street Bridge, 504 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91105

🚗 Distance: 4.6 miles

12. Glendora Mountain Road

Glendora Mountain Road presents a thrilling driving experience winding through the San Gabriel Mountains. Spanning 10 miles, this route treats drivers to awe-inspiring vistas of the nearby mountains and valleys.

Notably, it was spotlighted in a video review by Motor Trend magazine, featuring the Lexus LFA’s agility on its twisty, narrow stretches. Notable viewpoints along the way include Glendora Ridge Road and the Mount Baldy Summit.

• Starting point: 1440 Sierra Madre Ave, Glendora, CA 91741
• End point: 1 Oak Dr, Mt Baldy, CA 91759

🚗 Distance: 19.4 miles

13. Topanga Canyon Road

Nestled amidst the Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga Canyon Road offers one of the best drives in L.A. Its winding course reveals breathtaking panoramas of the majestic mountains and tranquil valleys.

Notable lookout points along the way, such as the Top of Topanga Overlook and Saddle Peak, provide additional opportunities to marvel at the stunning scenery, in this route that has the Pacific at Topanga Beach as its final destination.

• Starting point: Topanga Canyon Road Near the intersection of Topanga Canyon Blvd and Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills, CA 91364
• End point: Topanga Beach, Topanga, CA 90265

🚗 Distance: 16.2 miles

14. Cabrillo Hihgway 

Experience one of the best scenic drives in L.A. as the Cabrillo Highway unfolds along the coast, revealing breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and dramatic cliffs.

On clear days, catch a glimpse of Catalina Island’s rocky terrain and charming towns, enhancing the journey’s allure.

Traverse the Palos Verdes Peninsula to behold rolling hills and lush greenery against the vibrant blue waters, punctuated by the historic Point Fermin Lighthouse. And for tranquil retreats, stop by Malaga Cove, where secluded beaches and tranquil tide pools invite exploration along this iconic route.

• Starting point: San Pedro near the Port of Los Angeles (24 miles northeast of DTLA)
• End point: Malibu

🚗 Distance: 30  miles

15. Angeles Crest Highway

The Angeles Crest Scenic Byway spans 66 miles through the Angeles National Forest, boasting stunning mountain views and reaching heights over 7,900 feet, the highest in Los Angeles County.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to this route for hiking, camping, and picnicking, with highlights including Mount Wilson Observatory, Chantry Flats Recreation Area, and Dawson Saddle. The road presents challenges with steep climbs and sharp turns, and closures due to snow or ice are possible, so checking weather conditions is essential.

• Starting Point: Foothill Boulevard in La Cañada Flintridge (24 miles northeast of DTLA)
• Ending Point: Los Angeles/San Bernardino County line, west of Wrightwood (66 miles from DTLA).

🚗 Distance: 66  miles

16. Marina del Rey – Admiralty Way

Experience one of the best drives in LA by touring Marina del Rey’s Admiralty Way. Enjoy panoramic views of the marina, dotted with boats and yachts, and immerse yourself in the relaxed coastal atmosphere.

Take your time to cruise along the palm-lined road, perfect for a leisurely drive, with opportunities to stop and admire the scenery or take a stroll by the water’s edge. Explore charming shops and waterfront dining spots along the way, making it an ideal route for a scenic car tour that captures the essence of Southern California’s coastal beauty right in Marina del Rey.

• Starting Point: Admiralty Way in Marina del Rey from its northern end near Washington Boulevard.
• Ending points: Southern end near Fiji Way or Bali Way.

🚗 Distance: 2.4 miles

Article originally written by Ashlyn Davis.

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33 Best Scenic Drives in LA: The Ultimate Los Angeles Scenic Drives Guide

We embarked on the task of writing the ULTIMATE in-depth, informative and authoritative guide on the best scenic drives in LA that can be useful for anyone, whether you’re a tourist spending a little bit of time in Los Angeles, or an LA local who has lived here your whole life. And guess what…WE DID IT. Here are the best drives in LA, whether you’re looking for city drives, coastal drives, mountain drives, or desert drives.

Compiled by an LA Local

If you’re looking for a scenic drive in Los Angeles, this is for you. Here you’ll find the most comprehensive list for scenic driving in Los Angeles compiled by an LA local and driving enthusiast (me, Ben AKA Benny of @televisionofnomads and Jeopardy fame).

I guarantee you, no matter who you are, if there’s a scenic drive in LA that’s perfect for you, it’s on this list. From tourist obsessions to local favorites, there are scenic routes for everyone here.

I’ve organized all of the best drives in Los Angeles into 4 main sections:

• City Drives
• Coast Drives
• Mountain Drives
• and Desert Drives .

Vroom, vroom, let’s get on with it!

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Scenic Drives in LA

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I’ve lived most of my life in LA, and one of my favorite hobbies is driving, so I have ample experience navigating the best scenic drives in LA.

Driving in LA is pretty much essential–it’s a big, spread out city, and public transportation here leaves much to be desired. So if you’re going to be driving a lot in LA, you might as well be doing it on the best scenic drives in Los Angeles.

Be sure to drive safe! In case of the unfortunate event of a car accident, prepare yourself by checking out our guide for what to do if you get in a car accident while traveling . ( And on a related note: we do happen to know one amazing California car accident attorney who is also a wonderful human being).

Don’t have a car? Rent one in LA

Los Angeles driving is a different beast. LA might as well be called “Carangeles” — it’s definitely a driving city, full of scenic routes (and not-so-scenic routes).

These scenic drives in LA will take you through the city so many have come to know through the big screen.

When you’re driving around LA, you’ll get a feel for the dozens of different neighborhoods that make up this huge city. If you’re touring Los Angeles by car, you really can’t miss these best drives in LA.

Photo Credit: Maju Rezende

1. Sunset Blvd from DTLA to Pacific Coast Highway

Is there any street more emblematic of a Los Angeles drive than Sunset Boulevard? Sunset Drive is one of the most famous streets in Los Angeles.

This scenic drive in Los Angeles will give you a feel for some of the most famous LA ‘hoods.

This 22-mile-long drive in Los Angeles, CA hugs the hills as it makes its way through some of LA’s most notable neighborhoods, including Silver Lake, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and West Hollywood.

The Sunset Strip in West Hollywood has long epitomized the glitz and glam of Hollywood, with hallowed celebrity haunts like Chateau Marmont and the Viper Room , making it one of the best drives in Los Angeles for visitors to appreciate.

Sunset Boulevard also takes you through some of LA’s fanciest neighborhoods like Brentwood, Beverly Hills, and Pacific Palisades. Winding through the leafy hills of Pacific Palisades, Sunset Boulevard finally comes to an end at Pacific Coast Highway.

Travel through a wide variety of LA’s most famous neighborhoods

Sunset Boulevard starts just north of the intersection of the 101 and 110 freeways in Downtown Los Angeles. To drive the full extent of Sunset, drive west for 22 miles until you reach Pacific Coast Highway in Pacific Palisades.

2. Griffith Park

LA’s sprawling 4,310-acre park in the midst of the Santa Monica Mountains, Griffith Park is one of the best places to drive in Los Angeles for views of the city and other magnificent Los Angeles scenery. If you’re driving in LA in the Hollywood or Los Feliz area, you should definitely consider driving over here.

You’ll find the famed Griffith Observatory here, itself one of the best spots in the city to catch views of the whole cityscape and the Hollywood Sign .

The park is a popular hiking and walking destination for LA locals and tourists alike. We’ve even included it on our list of  Best Dog Friendly Hikes in LA . However, you’re also able to drive through the park in a loop to take in the long views.

Offers magnificent city views and home to the Griffith Observatory

To drive through Griffith Park, head to the intersection of Los Feliz Boulevard and Fern Dell Drive in Los Feliz. Follow Fern Dell Drive north, and continue along the road as it changes into Western Canyon Road. If you want to visit the Griffith Observatory, follow Observatory Road to the observatory parking lot (there’s also parking available alongside the road). Continue down Vermont Canyon Road to complete the loop back at Los Feliz Boulevard.

Griffith Observatory, 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Photo Credit: Marc Dalmulder

3. Hollywood Boulevard from Vermont Ave to Crescent Heights

If you’re driving in Los Angeles as a tourist, you can’t miss driving through Hollywood. Hollywood, of course, is one of the most famous streets in Los Angeles.

Hollywood Boulevard, home to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and scores of other iconic Los Angeles scenery like Grauman’s (now TCL) Chinese Theater , shouldn’t be left off of any LA visitor’s itinerary. Emblematic of Tinseltown itself, we’re certain this is one of the best drives in LA for visitors!

The Walk of Fame runs for 1.3 miles from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue. If there’s a particular star you’re interested in visiting, you can look it up here .

Driving in LA through the whole length of Hollywood Boulevard from Vermont Avenue to Crescent Heights Boulevard takes you through the heart of Hollywood. This Los Angeles drive will also show you a peek into diverse local East Hollywood neighborhoods.

Cruise past iconic TCL Chinese Theater and Walk of Fame

Hollywood Boulevard runs for 4.5 miles between Vermont Avenue and Crescent Heights Boulevard. You can drive either east or west down Hollywood, depending on where you start.

READ MORE| Universal Studios Hollywood Tips & Tricks

View from Mulholland Drive

Photo Credit: Douglas Tofoli

4. Mulholland Drive

No, it’s not just a David Lynch film.

Of all the places to drive in Los Angeles, Mulholland Drive offers some of the most outstanding city views.

Winding 21 miles through the hills of LA, Mulholland Drive is home to some of the most exclusive real estate in the city.

Loved by the elite for the wide-ranging views of the city, the neighborhoods of Bel Air and the Hollywood Hills are home to a plethora of celebrities. However, many of these homes are hidden away off of Mulholland Drive. So if you’re driving in LA, don’t come through Mulholland Drive if you intend on being particularly stalkerly– you might be dissapointed!

Don’t miss the scenic viewpoints of the city from Mulholland Drive. If you have time, come back at night for some of the best night views of Los Angeles: Mulholland Drive will certainly not disappoint! With stunning city views, Mulholland Drive is definitely one of the best places to drive at night in Los Angeles.

Offers stellar city views and exclusive neighborhoods

While Mulholland Drive runs for 21 miles between Hollywood and Woodland Hills, the most interesting parts of the road are between the 405 freeway and the 101 freeway. You can start driving east from the Skirball Museum, or driving west from Mulholland Drive’s eastern end at Cahuenga Pass.

Skirball Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90049

Runyon Canyon North Entrance (near eastern end of Mulholland Drive)   7317 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90046

5. Wilshire Boulevard from Downtown to Ocean Avenue

Driving in LA down the full extent of Wilshire Boulevard from Downtown LA to the Pacific coast in Santa Monica gives a good taste of the diverse cityscapes of LA.

When you’re driving around LA, you can’t help but notice the diversity in neighborhoods and you pass through. Wilshire is one of the best drives in LA for a perfect example of this LA diversity.

You start among the downtown skyscrapers, passing through buzzing Koreatown to reach Miracle Mile, where you’ll find some of LA’s top museums.

Next is Beverly Hills, then Century City and Glitter Gulch, home to some of LA’s glitziest highrises. Wilshire finishes at Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica, where you can relax at the beach or check out the pier.

Experience the diversity of LA’s neighborhoods

Wilshire runs almost 16 miles from Downtown LA to Santa Monica. Start from the intersection of Grand Avenue and Wilshire Boulevard in downtown, and head east until you reach Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica. Or feel free to try the reverse!

6. Windsor Boulevard (Palm-Lined Street with Hollywood Sign)

Nothing screams LA more than the Hollywood Sign and palm trees, and this Los Angeles drive offers a truly iconic view of both.

This quiet residential street in Central LA offers the perfect view of the sign framed with beautiful palm trees.

This LA drive is very short and sweet with a single goal, but possibly one of the best drives in LA to get a pretty cool Hollywood Sign shot. If you’re in the area, don’t miss out on the easy photo op here!

Iconic view of Hollywood Sign framed with palm trees

Head to the intersection of Windsor Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard, and head north on South Windsor Boulevard. The best view is on Windsor between 4th and 5th streets. Keep in mind that it is a residential neighborhood, so make sure to respect that.

7. Rodeo Drive

This quintessential Los Angeles drive takes through the heart of Beverly Hills, and all the glitz and glamour associated with it. Rodeo Drive is so emblematic of LA for visitors that you’ll find it on nearly every LA itinerary .

The two-mile street is lined with luxury goods shops from every brand you could ever imagine. A jaunt down Rodeo Drive is certainly one of the best drives in Los Angeles to get a taste of the iconic and luxe Beverly Hills.

Don’t miss the three-block stretch from South Santa Monica Boulevard to Wilshire Boulevard, where you’ll find Rodeo Drive’s famous pedestrian-only street near Wilshire.

If you’re driving in LA down Rodeo Drive, you should definitely visit the next drive on this list as well, Santa Monica Blvd from West Hollywood through Beverly Hills!

The heart of luxury fashion of LA

The most famous portion of Rodeo Drive runs from South Santa Monica Boulevard to Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills. Don’t miss the pedestrian-only side street at Wilshire and Rodeo!

8. Santa Monica Boulevard from West Hollywood through Beverly Hills

If you’re driving down Rodeo Drive from #7, this should definitely also be on your list!

As you drive down Santa Monica Boulevard, you can’t miss the iconic Beverly Hills sign at the Beverly Gardens park.

The whole stretch of North Santa Monica Boulevard in Beverly Hills is lined with beautiful landscaping and parks, and is worth at least a drive-by, or a walk if you have the time.

As one of the best drives in LA in Beverly Hills, this will also take you past the historic 1932 Beverly Hills City Hall, also an icon of Beverly Hills.

Famous Beverly Hills sign and park

Start at the intersection of Robertson Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood, and head west down Santa Monica. Driving through Beverly Hills, you’ll drive by the famous Beverly Hills sign and the park surrounding it. Beverly Hills ends around Beverly Glen Boulevard to the west, but you can continue driving down Santa Monica if you wish!

Beverly Hills Sign, 9390 N Santa Monica Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

9. Downtown LA

LA may be known for its sprawling, spread-out nature, but that doesn’t mean that Downtown LA isn’t worth a visit.

Downtown is home to LA’s highest buildings, including the Wilshire Grand Center — as of 2017, the tallest building west of the Mississippi at 1,100 feet.

Driving Downtown LA (DTLA) is one of the best drives in LA for architectural as well as cultural reasons — DTLA is home to the stunning Frank Gehry-designed Disney Concert Hall, as well as countless other architectural landmarks.

Drive down Broadway to glimpse what’s left of LA’s historic theater district, with its twelve movie palaces from the 1920s onwards. This is the last remaining group of movie palaces left in the United States, and shouldn’t be missed in your visit to DTLA. For a different feel of LA, be sure to include this one on your Driving in LA itinerary!

If you’re doing this Downtown LA drive, you should definitely also take the time and include the next entry on this list, #10 2nd Street Tunnel DTLA!

Outstanding LA architecture, historic buildings, and a busy downtown vibe

Downtown LA is roughly bordered by the 101, 110, 5, and 10 freeways. To experience the best of LA skyscrapers, drive down Grand Avenue from the Walt Disney Hall all the way down to 9th Street. Head down 9th Street to Broadway, and turn north on Broadway. Follow Broadway all the way past LA City Hall and Grand Park to Temple Street. Turn left on Temple Street to return to Grand Avenue.

Disney Hall, 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

READ MORE| Check out the best places to eat in LA , including our favorite eating spots in DTLA

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10. 2nd Street Tunnel DTLA

This historic tunnel fits nicely into the Downtown Los Angeles driving tour from #9.

You might recognize this shimmering white tunnel from some of the dozens of movies and commercials that have been filmed here, including Blade Runner  and  The Terminator . If you’re driving in LA in the downtown area, why not take a few minutes and drive through the tunnel between Figueroa and Hill?

Iconic tunnel that has long been a filming location for movies including Blade Runner  and  The Terminator

The tunnel runs between Figueroa and Hill Streets in Downtown LA.

2nd Street Tunnel, 620 W 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Photo Credit: A. Breaux

11. Melrose from Western to Santa Monica Boulevard

Melrose, a quirky LA neighborhood known for its shopping and dining, finds its home along its namesake Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood. Driving down Melrose Avenue towards West Hollywood, you’ll pass the Paramount Pictures movie studio.

READ MORE|  Read about the epic West Hollywood Carnaval

Melrose Avenue then passes through the busy Fairfax neighborhood, a longtime center of the Jewish community in Los Angeles. Fairfax is home to LA landmarks like Canter’s Deli and Pink’s Hotdogs, as well as the Grove shopping center.

All of these destinations are a short few blocks off of Melrose Avenue on this drive in Los Angeles, CA.

Melrose is home to our favorite comedy club in LA, Hollywood Improv. You’ll also find tons of Instagrammable spots like the pink Paul Smith wall and plenty of cool street murals.

While you’re in the area, consider stopping by this  celebrity chef caking-decorating studio started by Duff from Ace of Cakes , and decorate your own cake! They have locations throughout LA, with one right on Melrose!

Jaunt through busy, eclectic shopping and dining district

You can get off the 101 freeway at Melrose/Normandie and follow Melrose Avenue all the way down to its end at Santa Monica Boulevard.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Los Angeles (@timeoutla)

12. Arroyo Seco and the Colorado Street Bridge

The graceful and historic 1912 Colorado Street Bridge soars 150 feet above the Arroyo Seco in Pasadena. Driving along Arroyo Boulevard, you’ll pass right under the bridge and gain unique vantage points as you go.

The Arroyo Seco stream bed is a welcome spot of greenery in this corner of Pasadena. A walking trail extends for a few miles along its length, but you can also enjoy the greenery from the road.

Don’t forget to drive over the Colorado Street Bridge as well. You’ll find that the bridge earns its place on this list of best drives in LA as you can appreciate the view of both city and mountains.

Historic bridge, city greenery

From the 210 in Pasadena, take the exit for San Rafael Avenue. Head south on San Rafael, then turn left on La Loma Road. Turn left onto South Arroyo Boulevard, and continue until you pass under the Colorado Street Bridge.

If you’d like to drive the bridge from here, turn right on Arroyo Drive. Turn right on Holly Street, and shortly after make a right on Orange Grove Boulevard. Turn left on Colorado Boulevard, and continue over the bridge.

13. City Canyon Roads (Laurel, Coldwater, Benedict Canyon, Beverly Glen, Roscomare Road)

The canyon roads that connect the San Fernando Valley with the rest of the city snake through some of the city’s classiest neighborhoods — including Bel Air, Beverly Hills, and the Hollywood Hills.

What’s interesting about these canyons is that they are small natural oases in the midst of the huge city. These canyon roads are also favored by LA commuters attempting to beat the traffic — hopefully that won’t need to be you!

Many of these canyon roads offer natural areas where locals like to hike, ride bikes, or walk their dogs. If you find yourself driving in LA out to the Valley (or back), why not try one of the canyon roads?

Classy hillside neighborhoods, a bit of nature in the city

For our purposes, the LA canyon roads include Laurel Canyon, Coldwater Canyon, Roscomare Road, Beverly Glen Boulevard, and Benedict Canyon Road. All of these roads connect with Mulholland Drive at the crest of the hills, and further to Ventura Boulevard on the Valley side. On the south side, they connect with Sunset Boulevard.

14. 134 West through Eagle Rock

When you’re driving in LA, it’s a fact that you’ll wind up on one of the dozens of LA freeways. A freeway drive is not ideal, but if you gotta do it (and you will), you might as well prioritize one with a view.

The 134 freeway west through Eagle Rock offers long views of the city, spanning from Downtown LA all the way past Century City and the coastline to the west. Also, this portion of the 134 usually has less traffic than other LA freeways, so you can enjoy the view while you cruise.

Long city views from the Eagle Rock hillside

Eagle Rock is located in between Glendale and Pasadena, northeast of Downtown LA. The best views are from the westbound 134 freeway, right near the namesake Eagle Rock formation.

If a city drive isn’t your thing, head to the coast instead for one of these top scenic drives in LA. After all, a coastal scenic drive in Los Angeles is essential–windows down, sea breeze flipping through your hair, deep ocean blue curling in at your periphery…what could be better?!

The Pacific coast is definitely one of the top places to drive to from Los Angeles, with many places like Santa Monica and Malibu within easy reach. You won’t be disappointed by these nice drives in Los Angeles by the coast.

Pacific Coast Highway

15. Pacific Coast Highway: Santa Monica to Ventura County Line

Hands down one of the best scenic drives in the Los Angeles Area, Pacific Coast Highway between Santa Monica and the Ventura County line takes you through Malibu’s 27 miles of scenic beauty.

This is easily one of the best drives in LA, for tourists and locals alike.

Some of the best beaches in Southern California are here, as well as never-ending views of the blue Pacific.

Just past the Ventura County line, you’ll find Neptune’s Net, a popular hangout spot for the weekend warrior biker crew. Why not grab a bite to eat while you relax and enjoy the view?

Long ocean views, beaches, Malibu

From Santa Monica, drive west down Pacific Coast highway and continue for 30 miles until just past the Ventura County line at Neptune’s Net.

Neptune’s Net, 42505 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265

The Pacific Coast Highway also goes on into Orange County, putting it on our list of the top things to do in Orange County !

Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica

Photo Credit: Chris Yunker

16. Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica

If you’re driving in LA and looking for some coast vibes, don’t miss the short drive down Ocean Avenue in Santa Monica.

Palm-lined Ocean Avenue runs on top of the Palisades cliffs right next to the Santa Monica Pier. You’ll feel the Southern California beach vibes as you cruise down Ocean Avenue!

Southern California beach vibes

Ocean Avenue is right next to the Santa Monica Pier.

200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401

17. Topanga Canyon

Topanga Canyon is a classic Los Angeles drive through the Santa Monica Mountains.

The winding canyon road passes through the bohemian small town of Topanga, nestled between the canyon walls. Topanga State park is popular with weekend hikers looking to escape the city and enjoy the ocean views. The second half of Topanga Canyon is quite windy and narrow, so drive with caution.

We’ve done many, many drives through Topanga Canyon over the years, and love the bohemian feel of the area. You’ll find a cool little thrift shop called Hidden Treasures , as well as a (slightly pricey) elegantly rustic restaurant (and wedding venue) known as Inn of the Seventh Ray .

On one of our drives down Topanga Canyon we even say Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler getting out of his car!

Scenic canyon, quaint small town

Topanga Canyon Boulevard (California Highway 27) runs between Woodland Hills in the San Fernando Valley and the Pacific coast.

Malibu Feed Bin (at the southern end of Topanga Canyon)   3931 S Topanga Canyon Blvd, Malibu, CA 90265

READ MORE| Read about why LA is the BEST, from the eyes of an LA local

Photo Credit: Jonathan Wilson

18. Palos Verdes Peninsula

Palos Verdes, a peninsula that juts out into the Pacific to the southwest of the Los Angeles metro area, is well known for its scenic views and its upscale neighborhoods.

Drive around Palos Verdes to see why this is one of the best scenic drives near Los Angeles while you enjoy the sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island from the peninsula’s clifftops.

Don’t forget to stop at the Point Vicente Lighthouse , which dates back to 1926. After you drive around Palos Verdes, make a stop at the nearby Korean Friendship Bell in San Pedro, which honors the friendship between South Korea and the United States.

In my opinion, this drive is definitely one of the best drives in LA!

Long ocean views, as well as a lighthouse

Palos Verdes is southwest of Los Angeles, just south of Redondo Beach and west of Long Beach. Palos Verdes Drive snakes along the rim of the peninsula, usually hugging the coast. As such, follow Palos Verdes Drive between Palos Verdes Boulevard in the northwest and South Western Avenue in the southeast (or reverse).

19. Pacific Palisades to Palos Verdes

If coastal drives are your thing, you’ll probably find this one to be one of the best drives in Los Angeles.

Driving from Pacific Palisades to Palos Verdes lets you take in the whole 30-mile-plus stretch of LA coastline. Passing through Santa Monica, Venice, and the South Bay cities on the way, you can easily make a whole day out of this drive.

30 miles of sand and sea

With a bit of navigating, you can stay as close to the coast as possible on this scenic drive in Los Angeles. Starting at Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades, head south down Pacific Coast Highway through Santa Monica until you reach Ocean Avenue. Continue down Ocean Avenue as it turns into Barnard Way, then turn right on Pacific Avenue.

Turn left on Washington Boulevard. When you reach Pacific Coast Highway (Lincoln Boulevard), turn right. Turn right on Jefferson Boulevard, and continue onto Culver Boulevard. Turn right on Vista Del Mar. Continue down Vista Del Mar as it turns into Highland Avenue. Turn right on Longfellow Avenue. Then, turn right on Hermosa Avenue.

Continue down Harbor Drive and turn left on Beryl Street to Catalina Avenue. Turn right. Then, turn right onto Esplanade. Continue onto Paseo de la Playa. Follow this on to Palos Verdes Boulevard. Then turn right, and continue to follow Palos Verdes Drive around the peninsula. Complete your drive at the Korean Friendship Bell in San Pedro.

Will Rogers State Beach, 17000 CA-1, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272

Korean Friendship Bell, 3601 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731

20. Tuna Canyon

This is one of the best drives in LA to experience the rugged canyons of the Santa Monica Mountains. Tuna Canyon runs for a few miles between Topanga and Pacific Coast Highway.

The last few miles of Tuna Canyon Road become one-way down the steep and narrow canyon. If you drive here, it’s hard to believe that the LA metropolis is only a few miles away. There’s also a popular park with beautiful ocean views at the top of Tuna Canyon.

Steep and rugged canyon, ocean views

Tuna Canyon runs between Topanga and the coast. From Topanga town, follow Fernwood Pacific Drive up the mountain. Continue on this road as it turns into Tuna Canyon Road. Continue past Tuna Canyon Park, and follow the road until it ends at Pacific Coast Highway.

Photo Credit: IvyMike

21. Kanan Road

Kanan Road is a popular scenic drive in the Los Angeles area (though it’s technically in Agoura) for those headed to one of Malibu’s most popular beaches, Zuma Beach. Kanan Road runs between Agoura and Malibu through the Santa Monica Mountains.

Kanan gets pretty high up in the hills, so on clear days you’ll be rewarded with ocean views down to Palos Verdes and even Catalina Island. But my favorite part of Kanan Road is the middle section near the Rocky Oaks park, where the rolling hills expose their craggy hearts.

Rolling ridgelines and views down to the ocean

From the 101 west in Agoura Hills, take the exit for Kanan Road. Head south down Kanan all the way to Pacific Coast Highway.

22. Encinal Canyon

One of the best parts about driving in (and around) LA is the multitude of canyon roads through the coastal mountains. Encinal Canyon Road quickly ascends the Santa Monica Mountains, revealing views of the blue Pacific and nearby Point Dume.

Winding its way through the Malibu high country, Encinal Canyon Road ends on Mulholland Highway. One of my favorite parks in the Santa Monica Mountains, Charmlee Wilderness Park , is on Encinal Canyon Road, making this one of the best drives in LA in my opinion.

Warning: The area around Encinal Canyon and many other canyon roads was badly burned in the 2018 Woolsey Fire, and is still recovering. 

Charmlee Wilderness Park, ocean views

From Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, drive 4.5 miles north of Zuma Beach to Encinal Canyon Road.

23. Latigo Canyon

Those who enjoy canyon driving will find Latigo Canyon Road to be one of the best drives in Los Angeles.

Of a similar nature to its neighbor Encinal Canyon, Latigo Canyon offers coastal views and glimpses of the Santa Monica Mountains backcountry. If you visit in spring, the hillsides will be covered with beautiful yellow mustard flowers.

Rugged Santa Monica Mountains canyons

Latigo Canyon is between Kanan Dume Road and Malibu Canyon Road in Malibu.

Warning: The area around Latigo Canyon and many other canyons was badly burned in the 2018 Woolsey Fire, and is still recovering. 

Photo Credit: Kelly Verdeck

24. Malibu Canyon

Whether you’re a tourist or an LA local, Malibu Canyon should be on anyone’s list of nice drives in Los Angeles.

Malibu Canyon’s craggy canyon walls accompany Malibu Creek — LA’s own mini Grand Canyon. Malibu Canyon is home to Malibu Creek State Park , as well as the Malibu Hindu temple .

Malibu Creek Canyon and state park

From the 101 west in Calabasas, take the exit for Malibu Canyon/Las Virgenes Road. Follow Malibu Canyon south all the way to the coast.

Photo Credit: Bryan Fernandez

25. Decker Canyon

Decker Canyon Road is one of the best drives in Los Angeles to test your skills on windy roads.

Signed as State Highway 23, Decker Canyon winds its way up the Santa Monica Mountains between Malibu and Thousand Oaks/Westlake.

On clear days, you’ll be rewarded with views of some of the Channel Islands to the southwest. Try not to be distracted by the views as you take the dozens of curves!

Skill-testing canyon road

Decker Canyon runs between Pacific Coast Highway, almost at the end of Mulholland Highway, and Westlake to the north. Drive down PCH toward Leo Carillo State Beach and look for Decker Canyon Road (Highway 23).

26. Stunt Road-Piuma Road Loop

This Los Angeles drive is a favorite of local motorists and motorcyclists, who come for both the curvy mountain road and the views at the top.

Stunt Road and Piuma Road can be conveniently combined in a loop between Las Virgenes Road and Mulholland Highway.

One of my favorite parts of this drive is the Malibu Canyon overlook on Piuma Road — if you happen to be here at sunset, you’re in for a treat!

The view from the top of Stunt Road encompasses the San Fernando Valley, the LA basin, and the whole sweep of the Santa Monica Bay coastline. This is one of the best drives in LA, particularly for locals who want to drive down the curvy mountain road.

Canyon, ocean, and city views

From the 101 freeway in Calabasas, take the exit for Las Virgenes Road/Malibu Canyon. Head south down Las Virgenes Road and turn right on Piuma Road. Follow Piuma Road until you reach the fork with Schueren Road.

Keep left at the fork to follow Schueren Road until it reaches Stunt Road, where you make a left on to Stunt Road. Follow Stunt Road to Mulholland Highway, where you can either turn left to head back to Las Virgenes road or a right to head to the San Fernando Valley.

27. Rambla Pacifico & Las Flores Canyon

In my opinion, this is without a doubt one of the best drives in LA for ocean views.

Most of Rambla Pacifico street hugs the edges of the cliffs so closely it seems like you’re about to fall off into the ocean far below.

You’ll be hard pressed to keep your eyes on the road instead of the views here! Combine Rambla Pacifico and Las Flores Canyon into a loop drive: one road down to the coast, the other back up.

Cliff-hugging ocean views

Rambla Pacifico Street starts from the fork of Piuma Road and Schueren Road in the hills of Malibu. Both Rambla Pacifico and Las Flores Canyon end on Pacific Coast Highway near Duke’s Malibu, which makes for a convenient landmark.

Duke’s Malibu, 21150 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265

28. Deer Creek Road, Cotharin Road, and Yerba Buena Road to Mulholland Highway

These roads at the far edge of Malibu are some of the best unknown scenic drives near Los Angeles.

The roads in this corner of the Santa Monica Mountains are the least traveled and the best way to see the most rugged part of the range. If you want to get off-the-beaten-path while driving in LA while still enjoying some beauty, these roads are some of the best drives in LA for the task.

Yerba Buena Road winds past the highest peaks of the Santa Monica Mountains for views that can’t be beat in coastal Southern California.

Views of the highest part of the Santa Monica Mountains

Yerba Buena Road starts just past Neptune’s Net on Pacific Coast Highway. Deer Creek Road is a bit past Yerba Buena Road, and Cotharin Road connects Deer Creek Road to Yerba Buena Road.

You can follow Deer Creek Road until it turns into Pacific View Road, then Cotharin Road, and then turn left onto Yerba Buena Road and follow it to Mulholland Highway.

Photo Credit: Steve Voght

29. Mulholland Highway from Topanga Canyon to PCH

One of the best scenic drives in Los Angeles, Mulholland Highway runs for over 30 miles along the crest of the Santa Monica Mountains from Calabasas to the Ventura County line on Pacific Coast Highway.

If you have the time, it’s worth the effort to drive the full extent of Mulholland Highway to fully appreciate its beauty. Driving Mulholland Highway is one of the best ways to take in the rugged coastal landscape of the Santa Monica Mountains in their natural state, making it one of the best drives in LA for the task.

Long scenic road through the coastal mountains, with lots of hiking trails nearby

Mulholland Highway starts from Mulholland Drive near Topanga Canyon Boulevard on the border of Woodland Hills and Calabasas. If you have the time, drive all the way west down Mulholland Highway to its end at Pacific Coast Highway (over 1 hour, 30+ miles).

*** As of May 2020, the last few miles of Mulholland Highway are closed due to the Woolsey Fire, but there are alternate ways to get to PCH ***

If you’re looking for mountains, these are the scenic drives in LA for you.

LA is fortunate to be close to both the coast and mountains, and no D riving in LA guide would be complete without some mountain roads. Read on to find some of the best drives in LA!

30. Angeles Crest Highway to Mt. Wilson or beyond

I love mountains, so for me, Angeles Crest Highway is definitely one of the best places to drive to from Los Angeles. Considering how accessible these Los Angeles mountains are from the city, I’d rank this drive as one of the best scenic drives in LA. We’ve even included the Angeles Crest Highway drive on our Los Angeles Bucket List !

Be sure to check out our Angeles Crest Highway video above, including some killer drone shots of the San Gabriel Mountains. Watch carefully–Lauren accidentally bumps her drone into a tree in the video!

The rugged San Gabriel Mountains rising to the northeast of LA are a welcome escape from the city, and they’re fairly within easy reach on Angeles Crest Highway (State Highway 2).

The 66 mile road between La Cañada Flintridge and Wrightwood takes you on a journey through winding canyons and conifer-covered mountain slopes, one of the best drives in the LA area to enjoy the mountains and woods.

Reaching almost 8,000 feet, this is one of the highest roads in Southern California — as such, make sure you check the weather conditions (snow, heavy rain, landslides) before you head out to these Los Angeles mountains.

A definite highlight of this drive is the road to Mount Wilson, which is easily recognizable throughout LA due to the many TV towers on its summit. There’s also an observatory to visit. Brave the narrow 5-mile road to Mount Wilson and be rewarded with some of the best views over much of Southern California, from Downtown LA all the way to the coast and beyond. The view from Mount Wilson at night is stunning, if you’re not too scared to drive here in the dark!

If you love driving around mountains in Los Angeles, drive past Mount Wilson as far as you can on the highway. The road often takes months after winter to fully open after the snow melts, due to landslide risk.

No matter how far you can drive, enjoy the long views and the clean mountain air. Camping, hiking, and even skiing are all available along Angeles Crest Highway.

If you’re considering driving the Angeles Crest Highway, you might want to also consider working in the Big Tujunga Canyon Road that’s next on this list, as they’re right near each other.

Mountain views, forests, hiking, skiing, camping

From the 210 freeway in La Cañada Flintridge, take the exit for Angeles Crest Highway (State Highway 2). If you want to go to Mount Wilson, drive 14 miles up Angeles Crest Highway to Mount Wilson Road. Follow Mount Wilson Road 5 miles to the peak.

Otherwise, continue at your leisure towards Wrightwood (unless there are road closures). Make sure you check the Caltrans website for current road conditions before you leave, as there is little to no cell service on Angeles Crest Highway. Booking.com

31. Big Tujunga Canyon Road to Angeles Crest Highway

This Los Angeles drive features one of the most rugged canyons of Southern California.

Ascending Big Tujunga Canyon to Angeles Crest Highway, you’ll be impressed with the size and depth of the canyon, only 20 miles north of Downtown LA. The canyon actually reminded me of a smaller version of the more well-known Kings Canyon in the Sierra Nevada.

Big Tujunga Creek features year-round running water, a rarity in Southern California, with the popular Trail Canyon Falls nearby.

While impressive, Big Tujunga Canyon might be a bit out-of-the-way for most unless you’re out for a drive on Angeles Crest Highway already. But if you live in the Valley, it’s convenient to return home via this road instead of Angeles Crest Highway from #30.

A rugged Southern California canyon 

From the 210 freeway in Sunland, take the exit for Sunland Boulevard. Go east down Sunland and turn left on Oro Vista Avenue. Follow Oro Vista until it turns into Big Tujunga Canyon Road, and follow the road until its intersection with Angeles Forest Highway. Turn right on Angeles Forest Highway and continue to Angeles Crest Highway.

32. San Gabriel Canyon Road

San Gabriel Canyon Road (State Highway 39) follows the canyon of the San Gabriel River north of Azusa into the San Gabriel Mountains. The road was completed to Angeles Crest Highway, but has been closed since 1978 due to the danger and damage of constant rockfalls.

Nevertheless, this is still one of the top scenic drives near Los Angeles. The San Gabriel River, as one of the biggest rivers in Southern California, is a popular spot for recreation.

Nestled among the pines near the end of Highway 39 is Crystal Lake, the only natural lake in the San Gabriel Mountains. After a wet winter, the lake will actually be a lake, otherwise it’s more of a marsh.

San Gabriel River and mountain driving

From the 210 freeway in Azusa, take the exit for San Gabriel Canyon Road / Azusa Avenue (State Highway 39). Follow Azusa Avenue north until it turns into San Gabriel Canyon Road, and continue to the locked gate at the end of the road (25 miles).

We’ve covered the best drives in LA in the city, mountains, and by the sea. But since this is California after all, we can’t miss the best scenic drives in LA in the desert!

If you’re itching for some scenic desert driving in LA area, you’ll love this.

We’re always going to be updating this blog post, so if you have any more ideas for the best drives in LA, send us a message .

33. Highway 138 to Lancaster

Highway 138, also known as Pearblossom Highway, runs across the northern LA county desert. This might not be the desert you typically think of, but make no mistake, it is in fact the high desert.

In springtime, this is one of the best places in Southern California to see the poppies bloom, making it a prime choice for our list of the best scenic drives in LA.

The most famous and popular area to see the poppies is the Antelope Valley California Poppy State Natural Reserve, but you don’t need to go there to see poppies, as you’ll find them all around this area. This is one of the best drives in LA area in the springtime with vibrant poppy fields by the side of the road and snow-capped mountains in the distance—it’s no wonder it’s on the list of the most enchanting flower fields in California !

For about four weeks from early April onwards, the barren desert landscape around Highway 138 in Lancaster becomes vibrant orange as millions of poppies bloom.

Even if you don’t visit in spring, driving Highway 138 to Lancaster from Interstate 5 is still an interesting alternative way to reach the Antelope Valley.

Pearblossom Highway also continues across the desert until Interstate 15 in San Bernardino county.

Antelope Valley poppies

From Interstate 5 in Gorman, take the exit for State Highway 138 and follow it east to Lancaster. In spring, poppies grow all over the Antelope Valley, but if you want to visit the (not busy) fields near the poppy reserve, turn south on 170th Street W in Lancaster from Highway 138. Then turn left on Lancaster Road, and drive until you see a poppy field to your liking!

Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, 15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, CA 93536

Whether you’re driving in Los Angeles as a tourist or local , there are plenty of scenic drives in LA and around the City of Angels to satisfy the driver in you. We’ve covered the best places to see Los Angeles by car, so next time you’re driving in LA don’t forget to pick one out! If you managed to find a new scenic drive in Los Angeles, from this list, please let us know!

This post was a MONSTER to write, so I really hope it can provide some value for you. And if you have any more suggestions for the best drives in Los Angeles, send ’em over ! We’d love to hear from you!

Plan the rest of your LA trip! Check out the our LA Bucket List ,  best places to eat in LA , tips and tricks for Universal Studios Hollywood , and consider decorating your own cake at the Ace of Cakes chef’s studio .

Also, learn about the best dog-friendly hikes in LA , the epic West Hollywood Carnaval , and why we think LA is freaking awesome .

Why don’t you drive on over to Anaheim next? You can check out the top things to do in Orange County , the new Rise of the Resistance ride at Disneyland , stay at the best hotel walking distance to Disneyland , and try luxury bowling at Downtown Disney .

Share it on  Pinterest by hovering over one of the pictures below and clicking the red “Pin It” button!

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• The ULTIMATE Los Angeles Bucket List
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• 31 Dope Places to Eat in LA (with Vegetarian, Vegan + Pescatarian Options!)
• Why I Miss Los Angeles (Because It’s F***ing Awesome)
• LA’s Best Halloween Festival: Finding Our Inner West Hollywood Halloween Queen
• Visiting Duff’s Cakemix, a Decorate Your Own Cake Shop in LA

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• 31 Dope Places to Eat in La (With Vegetarian, Vegan + Pescatarian Options!)
• Taking a Sushi Making Class in Japan: A Tokyo Travel Guide
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• Peter the Grill at the Peninsula Tokyo Hotel: A Tokyo Restaurant Review
• Craft Beer on Jeju Island, South Korea: Inside the Brewery Tour at Magpie Brewing Co.
• Best Budget Travel Cameras to Improve Your Travel Photography
• What I’ve Learned from Traveling to 25 Countries
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• Essential Winter Travel Packing List (For Subfreezing Temperatures!)
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• Traveling with a Drone: 8 Essential Tips to Avoid Insanity

Which is your favorite scenic drive near Los Angeles?

Let us know in a comment below!

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Benjamin Juster

2014 Jeopardy College Championship contestant fond of Mexican food, hiking, learning new languages and obscure history, Ben has temporarily settled on Jeju Island in Korea to teach English and travel.

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One Day in Los Angeles – The Perfect Itinerary

Updated March 14, 2020

// By Margherita

Welcome to our new USA series! Let’s start with how to spend one day in Los Angeles, a perfect easy itinerary for first-time visitors!

First things first, we LOVED Los Angeles. We spent an entire week there, at the start of our road trip across California, Texas and the American Southwest.

We heard conflicting opinions about the city – people seem to either love it or hate it , and we were definitely in the first category. 

Los Angeles is huge, and we recommend spending longer than one day if possible – at least two days, or three. Having said that, if you have a limited amount of time and only have one day to spend in Los Angeles before moving on to Joshua Tree or other national parks, this post is for you!

Would you like to spend more time in the city? Here is our itinerary for 2 days in Los Angeles!

Don’t have time to read through? Here are some of the best LA tours for your day in the city!

• Los Angeles: Griffith Park Experience & Hollywood Hills Hike
• Los Angeles 1 Hour Airplane Flight (likely to sell out!)
• Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket  
• Warner Bros. Studios Hollywood Tour
• Los Angeles: Celebrity Homes and Lifestyle Tour
• Panoramic Hollywood Tour
• Los Angeles Food Tour

LA in One Day – Planning Your Trip

Before moving on to discussing the best way to see LA in one day , let’s have a look at some practical tips. LA is HUGE, so try not to plan too much – or else you’ll be spending your day stressing out, or stuck in the notorious traffic.

With just one day in Los Angeles, we recommend focusing on two or three places . The itinerary we put together is based on what we like best – there’s nature, great food, and some beach time. 

Naturally, choices are endless in a place like LA. At the end of the post, I’ve included a couple of alternatives for art lovers, families, cinema aficionados, and true beach lovers. 

The best way to see LA in a day is using ride sharing apps like Uber or Lyft to get around. Public transport is inexpensive but confusing, and driving yourself might end up being more expensive once you factor in fuel, parking fees and car rental. 

All places included in this itinerary are all about 30 minutes drive from one another outside of peak hours (7 to 10 am, 4 to 7 pm), when it may take considerably longer.

The only exception is the Downtown LA/Santa Monica or Venice Beach segment, which may take 40/60 minutes.

Wondering where to stay in Los Angeles? Here are some of the best hotels!

• The Standard Hollywood – stunning design hotel in the hip West Hollywood district
• Shutters on the Beach – elegant rooms and suites just steps away from the beach in Santa Monica
• The Peninsula Beverly Hills – one of the best hotels in town, five-star luxury and a rooftop pool with killer views
• Casa del Mar – 1920s Santa Monica beach club turned luxury hotel with direct beach access
• The Hollywood Roosevelt – classic luxury in the heart of Hollywood
• Intercontinental Los Angeles Downtown – top views in this luxury hotel in the tallest building in town

The Perfect Los Angeles in One Day Itinerary

Breakfast – 101 coffee shop.

Get there by 8 am – Spend 1 hour

This LA in one day itinerary is really packed , so we recommend starting with a nice breakfast. Our Airbnb host recommended heading to 101 Coffee Shop , a diner in Hollywood where celebrities are often spotted – we didn’t see any, but it would be a cool addition to your first time in Los Angeles experience!

101 Coffee Shop is located inside a hotel on Franklin Boulevard, and it’s been a popular Hollywood eatery for decades.

The interior decor is reminiscent of a classic 1960s diner , and the menu includes a variety of diner classics, including eggs, granola and other breakfast favourites. 

We recommend ordering the amazing brownie waffles – basically, waffles made with brownie batter. Yes, I know. Not a healthy breakfast, but you’ll thank me later. 

Morning – Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign

Get there by 9 am – Spend 2/3 hours

Driving Time and Price Estimate from 101 Coffee Shop –  15 minutes, about $10

Since you’re only in Los Angeles for one day , let’s start with a nice hike with some killer city views. Hop on an Uber to the Griffith Observatory , an astronomic observatory located in the park of the same name, which is also free to visit. 

If you are into astronomy , you can visit the observatory, look through the telescopes, attend talks and see demonstrations. But you only have one day in LA, so I would recommend heading to the roof of the observatory for the view over Downtown, and heading off on a hike. 

There are many hikes available around Griffith Park , but the one I recommend takes you all the way to a true iconic LA sight, that cannot be missed on your first trip to the city – the Hollywood Sign!

If you’re a fast hiker, you can hike all the way to the top of Mount Lee , from where you’ll find yourself at the back of the Hollywood Sign. On this link you’ll find a detailed description of the hike – the trail is all signposted and easy to follow.

The hike is 4.4 miles each way. We reached the top of Mount Lee in about 2 hours , and then took a further half an hour to walk to the Last House on Mulholland , from where you’ll be able to see the sign from a different angle.

If you don’t feel like hiking 2+ hours, just start walking following directions for Mount Hollywood. The sign will be visible very soon, and there’s a really good viewpoint about 20 minutes down the trail. Just keep going as long as you wish, and then turn back towards the Observatory. 

Lunch – Grand Central Market

Get there by 1 pm – Spend 1 hour

Driving Time and Price Estimate from Griffith Observatory – 20 minutes, $15-17

Driving Time and Price Estimate from The Last House on Mulholland – 30 minutes, $18-20

I don’t know you, but after a hike, I always get hungry! With only one day in Los Angeles, my suggestion is having lunch at the Grand Central Market , offering all the best LA street food under one roof!

Now, I am by no means an LA local , and I know what some might think – but it’s so touristy! There are better ‘authentic’ places to eat in LA!

However, since this itinerary is meant for LA first-timers , the Grand Central Market is a great introduction to the multicultural food scene in the city, and some stands are pretty darn good if you ask me!

On top of that, the best thing about eating in a place like LA’s Grand Central Market is that everyone can have their own favourite food. Some of the best places to eat at in Grand Central Market include Sarita’s Pupuseria for tasty Salvadorean food, Tacos Tumbras a Tomas for tacos, La Michoacana for carnitas, and the amazing Kismet for falafel.

Afternoon – Venice Beach or Santa Monica

Get there by 2.30/3 pm – Spend 3 hours

Driving Time and Price Estimate from Grand Central Market to Santa Monica – 40/50 minutes, $20-30

Driving Time and Price Estimate from Grand Central Market to Venice Beach – 40/60 minutes, $25-35

There’s no way you can spend one day in Los Angeles and NOT go to the beach. Doesn’t matter if you’re visiting in Winter – Venice Beach and Santa Monica are amazing year round. 

Since by now it’s afternoon, and we’re getting towards the end of your one day in LA, you’ll probably have to choose between visiting Santa Monica or Venice Beach.

Or you can Uber to Santa Monica and walk to Venice Beach (or vice versa) – the distance between Santa Monica Pier and the Venice Beach Boardwalk is only 2 miles. 

If you do have to choose, I would recommend opting for Santa Monica if you are travelling with children – they’ll love the rides and lights of Santa Monica Pier , one of the most famous (and busiest) attractions in LA, and also the official end point for Route 66. 

Venice Beach has a more alternative and hipster vibe. It’s the kind of place where you see skaters, street performers, psychics and palm readers, and people selling arts and crafts on the street.

The heart of Venice Beach is the Boardwalk , the stretch of Ocean Front Walk included between Venice Boulevard and Rose Avenue. Other famous places to see in Venice are Muscle Beach , the Venice Fishing Pier (a great viewpoint for photographers) and the Venice sign at the intersection of Pacific and Windward. 

If you want to escape the crowds, head to the Venice Canals – in case you were wondering where the name ‘Venice’ came from, now you know! The Canals are about half an hour walk away from the Boardwalk – they’re full of cute viewpoints and photo spots, but don’t forget that people live there, so be respectful!

Santa Monica and Venice Beach are both wonderful sunset locations – and after that, I’m sure you’ll be hungry.

Dinner – Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Get there by 7 pm – Spend as long as you like!

Abbot Kinney Boulevard is the main street in Venice away from the beach, a one-mile stretch of cooler-than-thou shops and restaurants, popular with both locals and tourists. 

There are plenty of dining options along Abbot Kinney. One of the most popular restaurants is Italian-inspired Gjelina , where snagging a reservation is near impossible. You can grab a pizza at the attached GTA (Gjelina Take Away) to eat on the beach, or opt for the brilliantly named The Butcher’s Daughter (a vegetarian restaurant!) or Felix , known for its great pasta. 

Whatever you choose, don’t forget to end your one day in Los Angeles with a delicious ice cream from Salt and Straw . Don’t worry, the line moves fast!

Other Options For A Day in Los Angeles

For families.

LA is also home to many excellent theme parks , perfect for families with children of all ages.

You’ll find Disneyland in nearby Anaheim, about an hour from Los Angeles, or you can opt for the ever popular Universal Studios , home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, or Six Flags Magic Mountain for those into white-knuckle rides!

For Art Lovers

Los Angeles is also well stocked in the art museum department , especially when it comes to contemporary art.

The Getty Center is located in J. Paul Getty’s hilltop villa in Brentwood – it’s a bit of a drive from the locations listed in this itinerary, but it’s a worthwhile addition to your one day in Los Angeles for the stunning views and great photography and art collection. 

Two other options closer to downtown Los Angeles are The Broad and LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Arts). The Broad was opened only a few years ago to showcase the art collection of philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad – you’ll find artworks by Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons and two infinity rooms by Yayoi Kusama. 

The LACMA is known for its outdoor installation made with period streetlights, and for its eclectic collection ranging from pre-history to contemporary art. 

For Cinema Geeks

For cinema lovers, LA is truly paradise!

There are plenty of film-related sights – you can visit a working movie studio , like the Warner Bros. or Paramount Studios , take a tour to the villas and mansions of movie celebrities or catch a movie at one of the iconic cinemas on Hollywood Boulevard, like the Egyptian or Chinese Theatre.

Here are some options!LA

• LA City, Celebrity Homes and Beaches
• Los Angeles Movie Star Homes & Warner Bros

For Beach Bums

Love the beach? You’re in the right place. It’s quite easy to spend the whole day around Santa Monica and Venice Beach , walking or cycling between one and the other, checking out the two Muscle Beaches (did you know Santa Monica has one too?), or taking a surf lesson. 

Los Angeles in One Day FAQ

What’s the best way to get around Los Angeles?

Ride share apps are your friends. The most popular are Uber and Lyft – we mainly used Uber, and never had to wait more than 10 minutes for a ride. 

To save some money, try selecting the ‘Pool’ option to share your trip with others!

Can I follow this itinerary if I have a layover in Los Angeles?

Absolutely. LAX is between 30 and 60 minutes from all attractions mentioned in this itinerary, but please also make sure to take traffic into account if you’re planning to move about during peak times. 

If you only have 4/6 hours, the best place to choose is probably Venice Beach, only 30 minutes from the airport by Uber. 

What’s the best time of year to visit Los Angeles?

Any time is great! Southern California is blessed with wonderful weather year round – it’s almost always sunny, and even in summer the weather doesn’t get too hot (between 26/30°C maximum, 20°C minimum). 

Summer is the busiest season, while spring and fall are just wonderful. In winter, it can be rainy – but then again, we visited in January and had glorious weather and blue skies every single day! 

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Hollywood Homes Self Drive Tour

Take this Hollywood celeb homes tour see where the industry’s top celebrities live. The tour will take you through Sunset Strip, Bel Air, Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, and, last but not least, Hollywood Hills. This self-guided driving tour features classic stars of yesteryears and the biggest crowd-pullers of the modern era. The tour not only talks about where your favorite celebrities live but also about their movies and a bit about their lifestyle. The tour ends with a visit to the world-famous Hollywood Sign.

The below stops are included in the tour:

• Johnny Depp
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• Leonardo DiCaprio
• Ariana Grande
• Alex da Kid
• Halle Berry
• Dean Martin
• Lucille Ball
• Michael Jackson
• Kylie Jenner
• Jay Z & Beyonce
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• Sharon Stone
• Taylor Swift
• Paul McCartney
• Cameron Diaz
• Charlton Heston
• Jack Nicholson
• Will Ferrell
• Robert Pattinson
• Quentin Tarantino
• Hollywood Sign

About the LA Filming Locations Tour

Did you know Los Angeles has many locations where some of the most famous movie scenes have been shot? While the entire city has starred in some of the other TV shows or movies, this LA filming locations tour takes you up close with the best of the best spots!

The below stops are included in the tour :

• Union Station
• Bradbury Building
• The Last Bookstore
• 650 S Spring St
• Palace Theatre
• Cicada Club
• Millennium Biltmore
• Pacific Dining Car
• Echo Park Lake
• Music Box Steps
• John Marshall High School
• Messhall Kitchen
• Ennis House
• Griffith Observatory
• Bronson Canyon

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Ferrari Tour

• Up to 3 persons

Starting at $199 $89

Experience the ultimate luxury as you cruise down the iconic Walk of Fame in a Ferrari California T with us!

The Ferrari California T is equipped with a turbocharged engine . This engine provides an exceptional blend of power and efficiency, delivering exhilarating performance and a thrilling driving experience.

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Capture timeless memories with stunning photographs and savor the breathtaking panoramic views of Los Angeles. Our signature tour takes you through the vibrant streets of Hollywood and offers stunning views of the world-famous Hollywood Sign from one of the best vantage points.

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Lamborghini Tour

Starting at $219 $129.

Indulge in the ultimate luxury as you drive down the iconic Walk of Fame in a Lamborghini Huracan Spyder with us!

The Lamborghini Huracan Spyder offers a combination of thrilling performance and striking design .

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Our tailored tours are designed to provide you with the most remarkable experience as you explore Hollywood and Beverly Hills at the wheel of a Lamborghini Huracan Spyder.

Frequently Asked Questions

You will meet your tour guide at 6808 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA. We are conveniently located across from the Hollywood and Highland Mall, right next to the Harley Davidson Store. To ensure a smooth experience, we kindly request that you arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled start time. This will allow you ample time to check-in and complete any necessary paperwork.

To be eligible to drive the exotic cars , you must hold a valid driver’s license and be at least 18 years old to drive a Ferrari or 21 years old to drive a Lamborghini. If you are under age, don’t worry! You can still join the tour as a passenger and enjoy the ride with one of our friendly tour guides. For children under 12, please ensure they are accompanied by an authorized adult

For the exotic car tours: The Ferrari California T offers comfortable seating for up to four people, including the tour guide, allowing you to bring along two friends on your driving tour! Each passenger will be required to pay an additional $20 for insurance. The Lamborghini Huracan is a thrilling 2 – seater designed to acco mmodate one customer and a dedicated tour guide. For the other tours, please refer to the tour description.

For our exotic car tours: Prepare to hit the road in style with either our luxurious Ferrari California T or our exquisite Lamborghini Huracan Spyder . Both of these remarkable cars are perfectly suited for exploring everything the city has to offer. Whether cruising down the Walk of Fame or Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, these high – end vehicles are sure to turn heads. Plus, you’ll be accompanied by one of our knowledgeable tour guides throughout your adventure.

Please refer to the tour description before booking, as each tour has a different duration. For the exotic car tours, w e offer a range of options, including a 20 – minute tour, a 30 – minute tour, a 50 – minute tour, and a 1 – hour tour. Additionally, we provide c ustomizable longer tours tailored to your preferences. For a personalized quote, please feel free to reach us at +1 800 – 859 – 5986 . We also offer other types of tours, please check our Others tours page.

Depending on your tour, we may stop momentarily for photo opportunities or to answer any questions you may have. Additionally, if you request to stop for a bathroom break or to buy souvenirs, we are happy to accommodate -just know that your driving tour will be limited to the time slot you have booked.

All our tours depart exclusively from our office located at 6808 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, USA. For tailored tours, we can provide a quote for hotel pickup upon request.

We absolutely encourage you to bring your own camera so that you can capture all of the amazing sights on your exotic car driving tour! For your convenience, we also sell GoPro video recordings of the entire tour, for $30.

We accept all major credit cards  and Zelle payments . For your convenience, we also offer the option to pay online by booking a tour directly on our website.

For the exotic car driving tours, y our booking includes insurance coverage. There is no deposit required.

To receive a full refund, please ensure to cancel your booking at least 24 hours prior to the start of the experience.

Please note that we reserve the right to cancel or re-schedule your booking in case of unfavorable weather conditions or unforeseen events.

Please note that we reserve the right to cancel or re-schedule your booking in the event of unfavorable weather conditions.

Certainly! We are thrilled to offer a wide range of options to enhance your photo or video shoot. Our Ferrari and Lamborghini can be rented as props to create a captivating atmosphere for your event or production.

Capture the attention of your audience by featuring our prestigious Ferrari or Lamborghini vehicles in your film, music videos, YouTube videos, or photos. These iconic cars are guaranteed to make your visuals stand out and leave a lasting impression.

To inquire about our services and receive a personalized quote, please get in touch with us. We are more than happy to assist you in selecting the perfect car for your specific needs and provide any additional information you may require.

Exotic cars daily rentals are available upon request. Dep osit required

There are several parking options: • 2 blocks away, there is a public parking at $10 for full day 1667 N Sycamore Ave Los Angeles, CA 90028 United States • At the Hollywood and Highland mall: Johnny Grant Way & N Highland Ave Los Angeles, CA 90028 United States $3 for 2 h with validation. • Or behind our office: entrance at 6820 Hollywood blvd,los angeles ($25 all day).

How to get a free driving experience with us?

Drop us your email address and we’ll rush over information on how to get a free driving experience with us!

Los Angeles – One Day Driving Tour

March 30, 2016

There is a LOT to do in Los Angeles for a variety of tastes and ages.  Our goal for this day was to be able to drive and see the sights of Los Angeles without stopping a lot of places – but you could always make changes based upon your interests.  However, we must have done something right in our planning as we found ourselves behind paid tour buses the entire way.

And we would love to hear your thoughts, comments or suggestions at the bottom if you think we missed some unique stops; would make some changes; or if you simply found this helpful.

For our full day drive in Los Angeles, we wanted to find the best way to see the sights below in a single day (a Google map is included below):

• Capitol Records
• Walk of Fame
• TCL Chinese Theater
• Hollywood Sign
• Hollywood Bowl
• Mulholland Drive
• Laurel Canyon Road
• Chateau Marmont
• Sunset Boulevard (the Viper Room, the Whisky a Go Go, the Roxy)
• Beverly Hills sign
• Rodeo drive
• Beverly Wilshire
• Pink’s Hot Dogs

We started early in the morning on our drive coming from Newport Beach to Hollywood.  And if you have never experienced Los Angeles traffic, you can understand why they call their highways by proper name.  THE 405.  THE 110.  They deserve proper names and distinctions as they leave you surrounded by honking horns and gridlocked traffic.  So in true California speak, we took the 5 over to the 101 to start our drive.

As you drive on the 101, you will pass the Capitol Records building on your left which is a famous landmark.  And we did not choose to exit at this point and visit the Walk of Fame or the TCL Chinese Theater or the hand prints outside – but if you wanted to stop here is where you might want to add that or at the end.  If you do visit, parking is recommended at Hollywood and Highland in the center.  Instead, we chose to drive up to the Hollywood sign to 3000 Canyon Lake Road.  It is a winding and confusing path through the neighborhood, so be sure to use a good GPS map on your phone.  You’ll see a park once you get close – and you can park along the road and walk up to get a great view and photo of the Hollywood sign.

You can then drive back across the 101 to Mulholland Drive and stop at the Hollywood Bowl overlook.  It only takes a few minutes and you can’t miss it with all of the buses and tourists coming and going.  Next, head west on Mulholland over to the famous Laurel Canyon Road and back down to Sunset Boulevard where you’ll want to take a right.  This will take you by the Chateau Marmont (where we thought about having lunch – but decided it was more geared towards older kids than ours); the Viper Room; the Whisky a Go Go; the Roxy; and more.  I think after taking this drive, 90% of all movies and TV shows must be shot in this small area as you begin to see the sights over and over on TV once you get back home.

If you want a picture in front of the famous Beverly Hills sign, you can continue down to the corner of Sierra and Sunset to get a quick photo in the small park.  And then make your way back east to drive down Rodeo drive and see the Beverly Wilshire in front of you at the end of the street.  Of course you can stop to shop on Rodeo.  We simply drove the famous street and made our way back east again to Melrose and Pink’s Hot Dogs.  There was almost no line once we arrived but we hear it can get very busy right at noon, so we tried to be there just a little early.  If you have not heard of it, Pink’s is somewhat famous with Hollywood actors and film studios for catering sets with hot dogs and fries.

You can then spend some time shopping on Melrose which is much less expensive than Rodeo drive.  Travel Tip – the shops to the east of Fairfax are more eclectic and hip (think future rock stars).  To the west, it is a bit more geared towards higher end clothing.

Again, there is a lot more to do in Los Angeles, but if you are looking to simply spend a day there (you probably have to fly home from LAX anyway) and want to check off as many items as you can without spending the night, this tour will hit most of the high points in a short four or five hours.

And for more details on surrounding areas see our full itineraries for Southern California  and  Ojai, Catalina or destination notes for San Diego , Joshua Tree/Palm Springs , Newport Beach , Ojai , Catalina Island and Disneyland .

Links – Los Angeles Driving Tour

• Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Sunset Strip (the Viper Room, the Whisky a Go Go, the Roxy)

More about relaxednomad

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Day trips in Southern California

Nice share. You got a good point of views, lots of ideas and information regarding day trip in Los Angeles. It was a great read. Thanks for the share.

relaxednomad

Thank you so much!! We actually spent a LOT of time planning that day. We need to update it to include another option to head to the Santa Monica pier. But it took a lot of mapping to try to find a way to hit everything we wanted in a single day. And if you have any other suggestions, we’d love to hear.

Thanks for sharing we are going to try your LA day trip tour tomorrow , just trying to plan the route, I get lost easy! Mike

HA!! We completely understand. Luckily LA is actually easier than some places (i.e. Boston) and most of this is on standard streets. One other item we’ve been meaning to update. If you don’t want to head to Melrose and Pink’s after seeing Rodeo Drive, you can also head west and get to Santa Monica Pier. Just another option and we’d love to hear how it goes and/or if you have any other suggestions you find along the way. Happy Travels!!

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• Los Angeles

The best road trips from L.A.

From weekend jaunts to extended vacations, here’s a list of the best road trips from L.A.

Photograph: Shutterstock

One of our favorite things about L.A. is that you can leave its urban sprawl at a moment’s notice and suddenly find yourself surrounded by nature just a few miles out of town. Whether you’re interested in a whole  weekend getaway  (hello, Vegas or Big Sur) or need a nearby day trip to get some fresh air (maybe Joshua Tree?), this list has a destination for every kind of traveler.

We’ve included some suggestions of things to see and do at each locale, but for some of the bigger destinations—like nearby desert and Bay Area cities—we’ve focused more on the journey, with links out to full guides to each spot for once you’ve wrapped up the road part of your trip. So hop in the car, crank up the tunes and take your pick of scenery: Forest, beach , desert and mountain landscapes all make up these gorgeous road trips from L.A. Happy travels!  

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from Los Angeles

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top road trips from L.A.

1.  palm springs.

Miles from L.A.: ~105 Suggested round-trip time: 2 days min. A quick and easy trip from L.A., Palm Springs is definitely doable over a weekend. Head east past miles of wind farms, where turbines cast formidable shadows and make an otherwise monotone landscape come alive. Look out for prehistoric creatures on the side of the road; the 50-foot Cabazon Dinosaurs (a Brontosaurus and a T. Rex, to be exact) are a popular roadside attraction. You can check out the gift shop (in the bront’s belly), but to climb to the top of the T. Rex and sit in his mouth (a la Pee-wee during his big adventure), you’ll have to fork over $15 and weave your way through a fascinating, if factually inaccurate dino park. When you arrive in Palm Springs, pick up a map of modernist buildings at the Albert Frey-designed Palm Springs Visitors Center for a self-guided architecture tour of the town.

Discover the best  things to do in Palm Springs .

2.  Joshua Tree

Miles from L.A.: ~130 Suggested round-trip time: 2–3 days min. Joshua Tree is one of the most magical places in California (and the country, we think). The national park’s varied and alien landscapes—due mostly to gnarled, ancient Joshua Trees and giant boulders strewn willy nilly—make for impressive scenery during leisurely drives. The stargazing is choice here, and wild coyotes may howl you to sleep if you plan an overnight camping trip. Stop at Pappy & Harriet’s for lunch on the way, and stick around for live music and a ghost-town stroll. Pick up a new houseplant at the Cactus Mart , or visit the Integratron (reservations required)  for a new-age sound bath and a shady hammock nap. The town of Joshua Tree itself also offers some fun stops, such as the World Famous Crochet Museum , filled with the kind of quirky public art that only exists in tiny, warm-weather communities . 

Discover the best   things to do in Joshua Tree .

3.  Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Miles from L.A.: ~235 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. If you’re a tree lover, you must go see the giant redwoods of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks . Driving through and under such gentle giants is an experience that can only be had on the way to and within these parks. Sequoia is slightly more drive-and-look friendly, with cool attractions like the General Sherman Tree, the largest living thing in the world; Tunnel Log, a fallen, hollowed out Sequoia that you can drive your car through; and Moro Rock, a dome-shaped peak accessible via a couple hundred steps. Meanwhile, the winding roads and backcountry trails in Kings Canyon are on every hiker’s bucket list (the drive to the end of Highway 180 is worth it even if you don’t plan on pushing yourself on foot). Just make sure to check conditions before you go: Some roads close after the summer season, and there’s always a risk of wildfires in the area.

4.  Las Vegas

Miles from L.A.: ~270 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. Our advice? Never fly to Vegas; the drive is too much fun to miss (well, aside from the traffic on the way home ). First, check out Calico Ghost Town . It’s not the most authentic of ghost towns , but it’s a worthwhile detour for a bit of Wild West history. For something a little stranger, look out for exit 23 on the 15, which will lead you to the ruins of the former Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Spa. Created by criminal, quack radio evangelist Curtis Howe Springer back in 1944, the resort duped visitors into thinking they were soaking in healing natural hot springs, when in reality all the pools were boiler-heated. (Eventually the FBI shut this little operation down.) Get even weirder seven miles down the road in Baker with an alien sighting at Alien Jerky , a kitschy, alien-themed sundries shop selling flavored jerky, olives, nuts and candy. If you’re hungry for something more substatial, don’t miss the Mad Greek , a surprisingly delicious Greek fast food joint. In fact you can’t miss it, due to the lifesize plaster statues and Parthenon patio. Get a gyro plate to fuel the rest of your journey to Sin City. If you’re itching for the open road once your’re in Vegas, take a loop through Red Rock Canyon , including a 13-mile scenic loop that follows the canyon walls.

Discover the best  things to do in Las Vegas .

5.  Mammoth Lakes

Miles from L.A.: ~310 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min.

Take the scenic Route 395 and you’ll have a view of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range for most of this gorgeous drive. When you hit Big Pine, stop for a bite at Copper Top BBQ , a bright red smoke shack that serves piping-hot ribs and tri-tips. You may end up befriending some hungry alpine clibers headed to or from Mount Whitney (the highest point in the contiguous U.S. at 14,505 feet!). Take a small detour east to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest , home to the oldest trees in the world; some of these beauties have been around for more than 4,000 years. Farther north, stop in Bishop for some fresh-baked loaves or pastries at Erick Schat’s Bakery . Drive up the road to Mahogany Smoked Meats and choose some road snacks from a huge selection of gourmet beef, turkey, elk, buffalo, boar and fish jerkies. Though there’s no formal address, if you’re determined (or willing to ask a local), you can find a group of easily-accessible hot springs right off the 395, just south of Mammoth Yosemite Airport.

6.  San Francisco

Miles from L.A.: ~390 Suggested round trip time: 3–4 days min. There’s more than one way to get up to the Bay; you can choose the scenic route up the Pacific Coast Highway, or the down-and-dirty quick shot up the 5. (Yes, we mean dirty; miles of cattle farms give off a terrible stench, and miles of citrus farms—while more pleasing to the nose—will leave your car covered in bug guts.) For a leisurely road trip, we suggest Highway 1. Stop at the Madonna Inn for a giant slice of cake or a peek into one of the themed guest rooms. If you have more time, Hearst Castle  is a must-see; a sprawling estate with 56 bedrooms, multiple pools, 127 acres of gardens and even grazing zebras. As you continue north, look out for the signs (and smells) of Gilroy, the garlic capital of the world. Take a detour just outside of San Jose for more quirky home architecture at the Winchester Mystery House , supposedly haunted by ghosts of those killed by Winchester rifles, which led Sarah Winchester to build new additions onto the house continuously until her death to confuse the wandering spirits.

Discover the best things to do in San Francisco .

7.  Napa and Sonoma

Miles from L.A.: ~415 Suggested round trip time: 5 days min. There’s so much to explore in Wine Country. Enjoy a picturesque drive up the coast, then swing inland for miles and miles of bucolic, verdant, rolling hills dotted with wineries and farms. Once you get close, you’ll have to pick a direction: west for Sonoma , east for Napa . You can’t go wrong, but it isn’t easy to drive back and forth between the two, so if you don’t have time for both, choose between spread out, rustic Sonoma or more condensed and touristy Napa. Spring for a hot air balloon ride if you can, or spot them from the road in the early mornings. The main event here, of course, is wineries—just be sure to drive safely, or turn the wheel over to Lyft for the day.

Discover the best things to do in Napa .

8.  Lake Tahoe

Miles from L.A.: ~465 Suggested round trip time: 4–5 days min. The scenic Route 395 is one of the loveliest roads in California. Wind your way along the Eastern Sierras, stopping in the small towns of Lone Pine, Big Pine and Bishop for quaint strolls and delicious detours (we’ll repeat here our recommendations for  Copper Top BBQ in Big Pine and the famous Schat’s Bakery in Bishop). The area is perfect for exploration by car; take any westward road to head up into the mountains, where you’ll find pine forests, crystal clear snowmelt lakes and tiny towns. Ask the locals where to find one of many natural hot springs to soak tight muscles from a long day’s drive, or pull off at the Happys, Sads or Owens River Gorge, all world-class bouldering and climbing sites, for some rock scrambling. For otherworldly waterscapes, check out Mono Lake’s “tufas,” spindly towers of limestone buildup reflecting across the saline waters. If you have time, a stop in Yosemite National Park  is a must, as is a hike or stroll (or ski day) in Mammoth. Another worthwhile (if far) detour is Bodie, one of the most legitimate and well-preserved ghost towns in America.

Discover the best  things to do in Tahoe

9.  Flagstaff and Sedona

Miles from L.A.: ~470 Suggested round trip time: 5 days min. The change of scenery you’ll see on this drive is worth the trip alone: from vast stretches of desert into shrub-covered hills, followed by dense forest and—depending on the time of year—even snow. There are plenty of detours along the way: the Hoover Dam (an inspired Art Deco wonder), the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Las Vegas—it’s definitely a choose-your-own-adventure type of trip, depending on how much time you have. But whether your destination is Flagstaff or Sedona , take the 30-minute drive between the two. Each has distinct offerings; from a hip, small-town feel in Flagstaff with craft beer, live music and friendly folks to stunning views and an overwhelming number of health and wellness spas in sleepy Sedona (treat yo’ self) . 

Discover the best things to do in Flagstaff and the best  things to do in Sedona .

10.  Big Sur

Miles from L.A.: ~350 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. Arguably one of the most iconic stretches of coastline in the world, the Big Sur area is a road tripper’s paradise. It’s where redwood-covered mountainsides plunge into the surging ocean, with a narrow road carved into the cliffside, offering incredible views and a bit of vertigo. Before you get too far north, stop off at Morro Bay or Pismo Beach (both right near San Luis Obispo) for a dip or a sunbathe and later, look for the sign alerting you of the elephant seals, who crowd along the shoreline. Then steel yourself for a few hours of curves—every one is worth it for the next view around the corner. One of the best ways to see Big Sur is simply by driving along Highway 1, parking your car wherever it looks cool (read: basically everywhere), and following a probably unmarked trail—though be careful of poison oak—down in the direction of the ocean. For more mappable destinations, try the touristy-but-still-totally-worth-it McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach for even more stunning vistas (we also used to suggest you check out the Esalen Institute , as their hot spring baths used to be open to the public from 1–3am with a reservation, but that’s been temporarily, if not permanently, suspended). Dying to get off the beaten path? Head up Nacimiento Road to the remote valley setting of Mission San Antonio de Padua —one spot in Big Sur that you just might have to yourself.

Just a heads up: Increasingly common landslides have temporarily shut down sections of Highway 1 in recent years, so make sure to check up on the latest road closures before you depart. You may only be able to reach certain sections of Big Sur from the Bay Area-end of the highway in the event of a closure.

11.  Salton Sea

Miles from L.A.: ~165 Suggested round trip time: 2 days

Driving south down a desolate stretch of the 111, you’d never guess that the lake was a popular vacation spot in the 1950s, with resorts dotting its eastern shore. But increasing salinity and pollution due to agricutlural runoff have turned what was once a luxury retreat into a destination appealing only to those with an affinity for the forgotten and decaying. Explore abandoned structures along the shoreline as sun-bleached fish bones crunch underfoot. When you get hungry, the Ski Inn  is your best option—and one of the only remaining establishments in the area. Make sure to visit late local Leonard Knight’s gigantic folk art sculpture, Salvation Mountain , a rainbow-hued hill emblazoned with the words “God is Love.”

12.  Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

Miles from L.A.: ~500 Suggested round trip time: 6–7 days min. The route to southwest Utah will take you directly through Vegas, so you can hit up all the roadside attractions listed above before venturing into more scenic landscape on the second half of your journey. There’s no shortage of incredible parks and monuments to check out in this area, so if you’re looking to see some natural wonders, this is the trip for you. A few must-visits are Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park (the backdrop to most Westerns since the 1930s), Glen Canyon National Recreation Area for some swimming amidst the desert landscape (if the season is right) and Vermilion Cliffs National Monument , home of incredible “wave” rock formations and painted desert vistas. You’ll be greeted in Zion by soaring monoliths and sunset-colored cliffs; beyond in Bryce Canyon , the pinks turn to reds in a surreal, hoodoo-covered landscape (hoodoo means rock spire, and is way more fun to say).  

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Driving in Los Angeles

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The city of Los Angeles is widespread, stretching from East L.A. to the beaches with several neighborhoods within its perimeter. Depending on which way you're driving, you could travel almost 50 miles without ever leaving the city.

Because of its size, it can be tough to navigate, especially in a way that minimizes the path through L.A.'s infamous traffic. Plus, the city has a few unique rules and customs even if you are used to driving in other large U.S. cities. Use this guide to get around L.A. efficiently and safely.

Rules of the Road

While driving in L.A. is similar to other areas of the U.S., there are a few specific rules to note, particularly about types of lanes, cell phone, and motorcycles.

• Carpool/HOV lanes: On many L.A. freeways, one or more lanes at the far left are designated as High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) or car pool lanes. Carpool lanes are designated with a diamond painted on the pavement, and most of them have limited access and you can only enter or exit where there is a break in the double yellow line. Most carpool lanes require a minimum of two occupants in the car, some require three (the number is marked at the entrance). Vehicles towing trailers are NOT allowed in the carpool lane, regardless of how many people are in the car.
• Toll lanes: On certain freeways, the carpool lanes are double-purposed as toll lanes for people driving solo who have a FasTrak or other related transponder. Since this change, you also have to have a transponder to drive in that lane as a carpool, which is inconvenient if you're just visiting. FasTrak is in effect on parts of the 110 Freeway between the 405 and 10 freeways, and on parts of the 10 freeway east of Downtown L.A. There is a $4 fee applied to cars that drive in the express lane with a FasTrak transponder.
• Cell phones: It is illegal to talk on a cell phone while driving in California without using a hands-free device and drivers under 18 are not allowed to use cell phones at all while driving. Holding a cell phone to your ear while driving will land you a ticket.
• Smoking: It is against the law in California to smoke in a car if you have a minor with you.
• Littering: Littering on public or private property is illegal in Califronia, and it is illegal to litter from a vehicle. Fines for littering range from $250 to $1,000 for a first offense.
• Lane splitting: Motorcycles can legally split lanes (drive in between traffic lanes), so watch out for them.
• Alcohol: Driving under the influence (DUI) is taken seriously in L.A., and sobriety checkpoints spring up often in popular entertainment areas. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08 percent, but you can be charged with lower levels if they can show you are impaired. Driving (or sitting) with opened alcohol in the passenger area of the car, including the glove compartment, is against the law. Any opened container of alcohol has to be transported in the trunk. 

Routes and Traffic

Los Angeles is infamous for its gridlock traffic in some parts. For the most part, the city is a grid with streets running north to south and east to west, so there are a lot of options for crossing town. Use these tips to know the best routes to take to get from point A to point B without the long wait or a headache.

West to East Routes

To make your way west or east, take either Santa Monica Boulevard, a bigger street that doesn't clog up too much and moves pretty quickly through Beverly Hills before taking a northern turn up toward Hollywood . Sunset Boulevard is a good option that takes you through Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Hollywood, and downtown, but on weeknights, it can be extremely backed up. Stay away from Wilshire Boulevard, even if your destination is on it—the traffic can be so bad that it can take up to 30 minutes to go one mile. Washington Boulevard and Exposition Boulevard is good to get across town if you're further south.

North/South routes

La Cienega is a good shortcut to know if you need to travel between  Beverly Hills and West Hollywood  and southern destinations along the 405 without having to take the 405, which can get more congested. Sepulveda Boulevard runs closer along the 405 freeway from LAX into the San Fernando Valley, crossing the freeway several times. It's sometimes faster than the 405, but can also get pretty jammed itself. Crenshaw Boulevard reaches from  San Pedro  in the south up to Wilshire Boulevard in the Greater Wilshire/Hancock Park neighborhood just south of Hollywood. Crenshaw (usually off the 105 or alternate east/west street) can help to bypass downtown gridlock getting to Hollywood from Long Beach at rush hour.

Parking in Los Angeles

If you are going to an event at a large venue, there is most likely a paid lot or garage on-site or nearby. You can usually find flat-rate lots and garages near L.A. Live and the L.A. Convention Center so consider that if you're headed somewhere near those spots. Here are some other types of parking to look for.

Valet: Many hotels, restaurants, theaters, and malls offer this service, and depending on where you're headed, using the valet can save you the time and frustration of searching for a spot. And sometimes, they charge the same rate as a nearby lot or garage. However, it could take longer to retrieve your car after a busy event.

Free street parking: This option is common in the L.A. suburbs and in some less-commercial urban neighborhoods, but is very rare in highly commercial neighborhoods. Side streets and residential areas might be an option, but they sometimes require a residential permit (possibly only on one side of the street), so look for signs indicating these rules. Also look for signs that indicate street sweeping hours. And other free areas might have a one- or two-hour time limit, and parking officers sometimes mark tires or take note of license plates, so stick to the limit specified.

Meter parking: Most coin-operated meters in Los Angeles have been replaced by ones that take credit cards. The rates, days, and time limits on these vary by block. It's helpful that some meters notify you if you're trying to park during a restricted time, and they will not accept your payment. If you don't see a meter, look at the curb to check for a number—that means there's a Pay Station where you pay for the spot.

Curb Colors

Red Curb: No stopping, parking, or standing/waiting at any time.

Yellow Curb: Commercial loading only (30-minute limit with a commercial license plate, five minutes without) Monday through Saturday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. unless otherwise posted on signs. 

White Curb: Passenger loading and unloading only for a maximum of five minutes.

Green Curb: Short-term parking, 15 to 30 minutes as marked, Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. unless otherwise posted.

Blue Curb: Parking for disabled people or their drivers displaying a valid disabled parking placard or license plate.

Should You Rent a Car in Los Angeles?

Renting a car in L.A. can give you the advantage of flexibility. And if you're planning to visit places all over the city and are comfortable navigating yourself around, it's likely the best option. However, it's not impossible to visit and tour the city without a car , so if you prefer to avoid driving or want to save money on renting a car, plus all the extras of parking, gas, and more, that's an option. If the latter is your preference, then stay in a location that's close to the majority of things you want to see.

For example, you could stay in Hollywood, which offers plenty of things to see and do. And staying in Hollywood allows you to get to downtown L.A. rather easily via the Metro Red Line, the only fast transit in town. It can be time-consuming to get to Santa Monica or Disneyland from Hollywood by any public transit options, but it's not particularly complicated.

Or Downtown L.A. is less touristy, but there's plenty to do, and it's easy to get to Hollywood, Universal Studios Hollywood, and Disneyland. Staying in the vicinity of the Music Center will put you close to theaters, museums, Chinatown nightlife,  El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Site , and bars. If you're in town to go to an event at the Staples Center, Nokia Theatre, or the Convention Center, stay near  L.A. Live .

For a beach vacation (e.g. at Venice Beach) , it's easy to get around by bike, bus, or walking.

Road Etiquette in Los Angeles

Follow these tips to blend in and stay safe on the road.

• Don't drive in the exit lane —The far right lane on the freeway is considered the slow lane, but on a multi-lane expressway, it's also the exit lane for people trying to merge on and off. By avoiding driving in this lane for long distances, you allow a better flow of traffic.
• Leave time for lane changes —Some freeways in L.A. have six lanes, so give yourself plenty of time to cross multiple lanes for your exit, so you avoid trying to get off the freeway at the last minute and cutting people off, which can be dangerous.
• Don't honk —Angelenos don't honk unless there is an imminent danger or possibly a light tap to get the person illegally texting at a red light to notice the light is green. Honking simply because traffic isn't moving just identifies you as a tourist.

Things to Know

Street names: In L.A., street names can change and then sometimes, they change back. Also, there can be multiple streets with the same name across different neighborhoods, such as more than one Main Street or Civic Center Drive. And sometimes a street is interrupted by an airport, a park, a body of water, a large cemetery, or some other obstacle, and then continues with the same name on the other side.

Freeway exits with the same name: It's easy to be tempted to exit off a slow-moving freeway at a familiar street name, thinking it will take you where you want to go, but if you don't have a GPS or a local to confirm that it is, in fact, the same street, you could end up in a totally different place from where you intend to be.

Caltrans. " High-Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Systems ."

Metro ExpressLanes. " Pay as You Go ."

California Office of Traffic Safety. " Distracted Driving ."

California Legislative Information. " SB-7 Smoking in Vehicles With Minor Passengers. "

California Legislative Information. " Penal Code 374.4 ." Jan. 2007.

State of California Department of Motor Vehicles. " California Driver Handbook. "

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14 Unique Stops To Make On A Road Trip From LA To San Diego

• Experience the unique beauty and wildlife of Santa Catalina Island on a road trip from LA to San Diego. Take a ferry to the island and explore Two Harbors and Avalon, complete with palm trees, cabanas, and art deco Catalina Casino.
• Enjoy the surf and vibrant beach town vibes at Huntington Beach, also known as "Surf City." Take a surf lesson or explore lively Main Street with its bars, breweries, shops, and cafes.
• Explore the scenic beaches and artistic charm of Laguna Beach. From tide pools at Main Beach to hiking trails in the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, this stop offers breathtaking coastal vistas and a chance to see a natural lake.

Driving the California coast is a quintessential American road trip and is something that everyone should experience at some point in their lifetime! Whether driving the whole coastline or just a section, there are so many beautiful places to stop along the way. California has great scenic road trip options with fantastic stops along the way , and the drive from LA to San Diego is no less.

The drive on a road trip from LA to San Diego is only about 120 miles (roughly 2 hours of driving point to point without traffic). But the best parts of any road trip are the stops along the way, and with multiple beaches and dozens of things to do between LA and San Diego, the California coast will not disappoint.

Although the quickest way between these two cities is to take the I-5, the most scenic option is to take the Pacific Coast Highway or Highway 1. This drive is one of the most beautiful in the US, and it becomes even more so if you genuinely know where to stop between San Diego and Los Angeles to enjoy this route.

UPDATE: 2023/11/13 16:42 EST BY SUNIL PURUSHE

Some More Unique Stops Along PCH In Los Angeles And San Diego, California

The route between LA and San Diego and the legendary Pacific Coast Highway has unlimited destinations and attractions that demand attention. There's only one Golden State for a reason, regardless of the time of year. Have fun!

Related: How To Spend 3 Days In LA

Escape To Santa Catalina Island

Two harbors and the city of avalon, with casinos, hiking trails, and wildlife..

For those with plenty of time to enjoy the California coastline, leaving the car behind in Long Beach and catching a ferry over to Santa Catalina Island is an excellent place to start. Among the many things to do between San Diego and Los Angeles, visiting the Santa Catalina Islands is a unique but very fulfilling choice. Just one hour away via high-speed ferry, Santa Catalina is one of California's Channel Islands and lies southwest of LA. The resort town of Two Harbors is on the north of the island, and the city of Avalon is in the south, complete with palm trees, cabanas, and art deco Catalina Casino. There are hiking trails across the island, and it's known for its wildlife and amazing diving opportunities, making it the perfect first stop on any LA to San Diego road trip.

• Location: Santa Catalina Islands, California 90704
• Major Attractions: Catalina Island Casino , Two Harbors

Enjoy The Longest Pier At Huntington Beach

The best place to learn surfing.

On a drive from LA to San Diego, just 20 minutes further down the coast from Long Beach and about as far north as you can get in Orange Country, is beautiful Huntington Beach. With one of the longest piers on the California Coast, it is the perfect place to catch a West Coast sunset. Known locally as "Surf City," the beach is a perfect place to take a surf lesson, or lively Main Street has many bars, breweries, shops, and cafes to enjoy.

• Location: Huntington Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Huntington Beach Pier , Old World Village

The World Famous And Stunning Laguna Beach

Over 40 miles of trails, spectacular coastal vistas, canyons, and lake barbara..

With some of the most stunning beaches and coastlines along this coastline, Laguna Beach is a must-see beach on any San Diego to LA road trip or the opposite direction along the California Coast. Another significant aspect of Laguna Beach is that it falls in the middle of a route perfect for any California road trip . The town is an eclectic mix of a hippie beach town, boutique shopping, and art galleries. Main Beach has tide pools to explore and a beautiful boardwalk leading to the paths and gardens of nearby Heisler Park. The Laguna Coast Wilderness Park has over 40 miles of trails leading to rocky bluffs, coastal vistas, and canyons. Hiking to Barbara's Lake is a unique opportunity to see a natural lake along this coastal drive.

• Location: Laguna Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Heisler Park , Pacific Marine Mammal Center

Related: From Surf To Turf: A Culinary Adventure Through San Diego's Diverse Food Culture

Looking Out For Whales At Dana Point

A beautiful harbor and tours to watch the biggest mammal family on earth..

Dana Point is known as the "Whale Capital of the West," so watch for these majestic animals, whether watching from the harbor or heading further out to sea on a whale-watching tour. The 0.2-mile Bluff Top hiking trail gives visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the harbor, and the harbor itself has many boutique stores, restaurants, and cafés to enjoy a rest after whale-spotting!

• Location: Dana Point, California
• Major Attractions: Dana Point Harbor , Salt Creek Beach

Learning Some History In San Juan Capistrano

Spanish-style architecture and antique stores, along with seeing the oldest buildings in the state..

A visit to San Juan Capistrano involves a little inland detour, but it is one of the most historic destinations in the region, and it's a nice way to break up the beach stops along this coastal drive. Downtown is filled with Spanish-style architecture and antique stores, and one of the highlights is seeing the San Juan Capistrano Mission, one of the oldest buildings in the state. For those staying overnight here, there are plenty of taquerias and old-timey Western bars to enjoy.

• Location: San Juan Capistrano, California
• Major Attractions: Mission San Juan Capistrano , Zoomars at River Street Ranch

Visiting The Wine Country In Temecula

See beautiful hillside golf courses and vineyards..

Further inland still is the Southern California city of Temecula. It's famous for the nearby Temecula Valley Wine Country, with stunning hillside vineyards and abundant golf courses. Another beautiful historic town, Temecula, is filled with 1800s buildings and antique stores, making it a unique stop along the way between LA and San Diego.

• Location: Temecula, California
• Major Attractions: Old Town Temecula , Wilson Creek Winery

Related: Less Touristy (But Still Fun!) Things To Do In San Diego

Surfing At San Clemente State Beach

Windy, wavy, and perfect for water sports..

San Clemente is a quirky surf town and is the southernmost town in Orange County. It is often windy and wavy, making it the perfect place to try out some water sports, and there are surfing spots here suitable for beginners right up to professionals, making it one of the best surf spots along the California coast. Another unique thing about San Clemente Beach is that visitors can camp right on the mile-long beach !

• Location: San Clemente, CA 92672
• Major Attractions: San Clemente Pier , San Clemente Coastal Trail

Stop By The Beach At Oceanside and Visit LEGOLAND In Carlsbad

Home to the longest wooden pier and a chance to be a child again..

Oceanside has over 6 miles of breathtaking beaches, making it one of the best beach-side destinations along this coastline. It is also home to the longest wooden pier on the California coast - roughly 1/3 mile long! The views along the Oceanside coast are truly spectacular, and it is worth taking some time here to soak them up!

A short drive from Oceanside is the small town of Carlsbad, which is often top of tourist's to-see lists because of its many big attractions, including the LEGOLAND California Resort and the impressive Sea Life Aquarium.

• Location: Oceanside , Carlsbad
• Drive: Oceanside to Carlsbad (3.3 miles - 8 minutes)
• Major Attractions: Oceanside Pier , Mission San Luis Rey , LEGOLAND California , Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum (MECM)

Take In The Quaint Seaside Charm Of Encinitas

Enjoy a unique botanical garden and the small-town vibe..

Another stop with unbeatable coastal views is the beautiful Encinitas. This small city is just a little south of Carlsbad, and the streets are packed with quirky stores and relaxed restaurants. It is also home to the San Diego Botanical Garden, filled with various plant species from around the world. For visitors looking for a mellow town with seaside charm, this is the perfect place to stop.

• Location: Encinitas, California
• Major Attractions: Moonlight State Beach , Self Realization Fellowship Hermitage & Meditation Gardens

The Calmness Of A Sanctuary At Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve

Witness the unique torrey pine and several migratory birds..

Although technically within San Diego city limits, the Torrey Pines State Natural Preserve is one of the wildest lands found along the Southern California coastline . Here, visitors will find the rare Torrey pine along with a beautiful lagoon, which is still used by several migrating bird species. With deep sandstone canyons and miles of pristine beaches, this is the perfect last stop before hitting San Diego!

• Location: 12600 N Torrey Pines Rd, La Jolla, CA 92037
• Major Attractions: Razor Point and Beach Trail Loop , La Jolla Cove

Summer Entertainment At Newport Beach

A beachside destination boasts entertainment, food, and history..

Newport Beach town will be reached on a road trip from LA to San Diego after driving along Highway 1 to the south from Huntington. This iconic town is known as an amazing summer destination and boasts various types of activities for everyone to enjoy. People visiting Newport Beach are recommended to see the Fun Zone and Balboa Pier, where they will witness an amazing seaside amusement park with arcade games, a small Ferris wheel, and traditional carnival food. Multi-million dollar homes and iconic boutiques can be spotted on Balboa Island. The latter can be reached from Balboa Pier in five minutes in a small car ferry.

• Location: Newport Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Balboa Island Ferry , Newport Beach

Finding Solitude At Table Rock Beach

Not the easiest to reach, but it's well worth the effort..

People who want to enjoy stunning seaside scenery with fewer tourist crowds will stop at Table Rock Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Orange County. This spot can be located in South Laguna just off of the Pacific Coast Highway, north of Mission Hospital. Although people will have to walk down several stairs to reach the beach, it's still worth witnessing this unique area. The wonderful surf, beautiful rock formations, and solitude Table Rock Beach offers are all worth heading to this difficult-to-reach stop along the road trip from LA to San Diego.

• Location: 31561 Table Rock Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
• Major Attractions: Table Rock Beach , Laguna Beach Open Ocean Kayaking Tour with Sea Lion Sightings (Nearby)

Party At The Pacific Beach

Beachfront entertainment and the beautiful californian sunset..

The beachside neighborhood of Pacific Beach near San Diego is known as a party playground or P.B. (as the locals call it). P.B. comes alive at night with the glow of bonfires and the electricity of the region's many clubs. However, with endless stretches of coast, it's also the perfect downtime spot for families. P.B., or Pacific Beach, is also one of California's best beaches in and near San Diego . It has a 3.2-mile-long boardwalk lined with beachfront bars, restaurants, and shops, which is also a great vantage point to watch the beautiful Californian sunset every night. San Diego is known for its beaches and delicious cuisines , and it can all start here at Pacific Beach.

• Location: Pacific Beach, California
• Major Attractions: Mission Bay Park , San Diego Zoo

Lifeguard stands are staffed year-round from North Pacific Beach down to Mission Beach. The main lifeguard tower is located at the end of Grand Avenue.

Make A Stop At Santa Ana, The Face Of A New California.

Be surprised by the art, culture, and attractions found in historic santa ana..

The New York Times has characterized approximately four-fifths Latino, Santa Ana, as the "face of a new California , a state where Latinos have more influence in everyday life." Santa Ana is a cultural, entertainment, and culinary center of large and diverse Orange County, rich in authentic heritage and can't-miss gems. Art is everywhere in Santa Ana, from local galleries and studios to museums and alleyways. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the French Park neighborhood adjacent to downtown consists of 20 square blocks lined with stately homes from the 1880s.

• Location: Santa Ana, California
• Major Attractions: Lyon Air Museum , Blinking Owl Distillery

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Tour de france 2024 livestream: here’s how to watch the cycling race online.

Watch the 111th edition of the 21-day race throughout Italy and France.

By Rudie Obias

Rudie Obias

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Spanning more than 2,200 miles, the Tour de France begins on Saturday, June 29. The 21-day endurance cycling event features nearly 180 riders competing to hoist the Coupe Omnisports at the finish line.

At a Glance: How to Watch Tour de France 2024 Online

• When Saturday, June 29, to Sunday, July 21
• Network NBC, USA Network
• Stream online Peacock

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Since the Tour de France airs across NBC and USA Network, it’s also streamable on web-based streaming cable services, some of which even offer free trials — including DirecTV Stream , Fubo and Hulu + Live TV . You can also livestream the event on Peacock .

If you want to watch the entire Tour de France 2024, the endurance cycling race is available to stream at home on Peacock . Not a Peacock subscriber? Right now, the streamer is the ad-free Peacock Premium package for only $19.99 for the first year with promo code STREAMTHEDEAL — saving you 65 percent off its regular price through June 30. Otherwise, the ad-supported plan is only $5.99 monthly (or $59.99 per year) until July 18, when Peacock’s prices increase ahead of the Olympics. Aside from the Tour de France, you’ll also get access to originals like Apples Never Fall , In The Know , The Traitors , Ted and others; hit movies like Oppenheimer , Lisa Frankenstein , Drive-Away Dolls , Night Swim and others; live sports and entertainment from NBC Sports and WWE; and more than 50 “always-on” streaming channels. Related: The Best Peacock Streaming Deals

DirecTV Stream

Watch the Tour de France on DirecTV Stream , which offers NBC and USA Network. The service also includes more than 90 other channels — like ABC, Fox, CBS, AMC, Bravo, ESPN and much more. The streaming service has a free five-day trial available, but that’s more than enough time to watch the Tour de France. Afterward, you can cancel the service or keep watching, with prices starting at $69.99 for the entry-level Entertainment plan.

Watch the Tour de France on NBC and USA Network, as well as nearly 200 other news, entertainment and sports channels, with a subscription to  Fubo , starting at $79.99 monthly. In addition, other plans offer nearly 270 channels for the Elite plan for $89.99 monthly, along with 276 channels, Showtime and 4K Ultra HD quality for the Premiere plan for $99.99 monthly. The online TV streaming service also offers a seven-day trial for new subscribers , so you can watch NBC and USA Network online for free.

Hulu + Live TV

To livestream the Tour de France online on NBC and USA Network, a subscription to Hulu + Live TV is another fantastic option. The streaming service has access to more than 90 other live channels — like BET, CNN, ESPN, Food Network and more — starting at $76.99 monthly and comes with Hulu’s entire streaming library, as well as Disney+ and ESPN+. Hulu is currently offering a three-day free trial to try before you commit.

Sling might be a good fit to watch the Tour de France on NBC and USA Network — and the live TV streaming service is on sale for half off your first month of service. With Sling Blue , which includes NBC, you can begin watching for $22.50 for your first month (reg. $45 monthly). Additionally, Sling Blue also has ABC, Bravo, Discovery Channel, NFL Network, National Geographic and other channels.

How to Watch Tour de France 2024 With Cable

The Tour de France airs on NBC and USA Network. You can watch by tuning in through your cable TV provider, on NBCSports.com or the NBC Sports mobile app with your cable TV account login — including streaming and traditional services such as DirecTV Stream , Fubo , Hulu + Live TV , Sling , Verizon , Xfinity and others.

Tour de France 2024 Dates, Schedule

The Tour de France begins on Saturday, June 29, in Florence, Italy and the cycling race ends 21 days later on Sunday, July 21, in Nice, France. Scroll down for a complete schedule, including dates and cities featured throughout the event. Learn more about the Tour de France route here .

• Day 1, Sat., June 29 Florence to Rimini, Italy
• Day 2, Sun., June 30 Cesenatico to Bologna, Italy
• Day 3, Mon., July 1 Piacenza to Turin, Italy
• Day 4, Tues., July 2 Pinerolo, Italy to Valloire, France
• Day 5, Wed., July 3 Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne to Saint-Vulbas
• Day 6, Thurs., July 4 Mâcon to Dijon
• Day 7, Fri., July 5 Nuits-Saint-Georges to Gevrey-Chambertin
• Day 8, Sat., July 6 Semur-en-Auxois to Colombey-les-Deux-Églises
• Day 9, Sun., July 7 Troyes to Troyes
• Day 10, Tues., July 9 Orléans to Saint-Amand-Montrond
• Day 11, Wed., July 10 Évaux-les-Bains to Le Lioran
• Day 12, Thurs., July 11 Aurillac to Villeneuve-sur-Lot, Italy
• Day 13, Fri., July 12 Agen to Pau
• Day 14, Sat., July 13 Pau to Saint-Lary-Soulan
• Day 15, Sun., July 14 Loudenvielle to Plateau de Beille
• Day 16, Tues., July 16 Gruissan to Nîmes
• Day 17, Wed., July 17 Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux to SuperDévoluy
• Day 18, Thurs., July 18 Gap to Barcelonnette
• Day 19, Fri., July 19 Embrun to Isola 2000
• Day 20, Sat., July 20 Nice to Col de la Couillole
• Day 21, Sun., July 21 Monaco to Nice

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‘Hard to love’ Justin Timberlake talks DWI arrest at Chicago show: ‘It’s been a tough week’

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Justin Timberlake knows he’s “hard to love” sometimes but thanked his fans in the Windy City on Friday for doing so anyway, addressing his recent arrest in the Hamptons and subsequent charge of driving while intoxicated in public for the first time.

Apparently, his Tuesday arrest in New York did not “ruin” his world tour after all.

The Grammy and Emmy Award winner, 43, delivered a short but emotional speech Friday night at the United Center in Chicago, the latest stop on his Forget Tomorrow World Tour, as seen in concert footage posted on social media. As the boisterous crowd cheered him on, the former ‘N Sync frontman seemingly humbled himself in front of the sold-out arena .

“We’ve been together through ups and downs and lefts and rights. And, uh, it’s been a tough week. But you’re here and I’m here. Nothing can change this moment right now,” the singer said while holding an acoustic guitar and bowing to his adoring fans. “I know sometimes I’m hard to love, but you keep on loving me and I love you right back. Thank you so much.”

“Now if you’ll oblige me, I’d like to have a little sing-along with you guys,” he added, before launching into the show.

Justin Timberlake charged with driving while intoxicated in New York’s Hamptons

Justin Timberlake was arrested early Tuesday on New York’s Long Island on suspicion of driving while intoxicated. He was arraigned later in the day.

June 18, 2024

The “Can’t Stop the Feeling” singer was arrested on Long Island after Sag Harbor police saw his gray 2025 BMW UT run a stop sign and struggle to stay in its lane. Police who pulled him over just after 12:30 a.m. alleged the singer’s eyes “were bloodshot and glassy” and “a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage was emanating from his breath.”

“[H]e was unable to divide attention, he had slowed speech, he was unsteady afoot and he performed poorly on all standardized field sobriety tests,” according to court papers obtained by The Times. The “Rock Your Body” singer was booked and held overnight in jail, where his mug shot was taken. He was arraigned hours later in Sag Harbor Village Justice Court, on the eastern end of Long Island, the Suffolk County district attorney’s office confirmed to The Times. He pleaded not guilty, the New York Times reported.

Timberlake’s spokespeople and his attorney did not immediately respond to the Los Angeles Times’ requests for comment.

In surveillance footage obtained by CNN , a car that matched the police description of Timberlake’s vehicle could be seen running the stop sign near where Timberlake was arrested, but it did not appear to be swerving in the clip.

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“The Social Network” and “Trolls” actor had been having dinner and drinks with friends at the American Hotel and was pulled over about a mile away, where he told police officers that he had had only one martini before following his friends home. He refused to take a breath test three times and “performed poorly” on field sobriety tests, police said .

Page Six , citing anonymous sources, reported that the police officer who arrested the singer “was so young that he didn’t even know” who the 10-time Grammy winner was. Another source told the outlet that when he was pulled over, “Justin said under his breath, ‘This is going to ruin the tour.’ The cop replied, ‘What tour?’ Justin said, ‘ The world tour .’ ” The remark went viral Tuesday and, along with Timberlake’s mugshot, instantly became a meme.

At the police station, where he spent the night, he handed over his wedding ring, phone, baseball cap, watch and wallet, along with a vape pen and green and blue papers, the kind used for rolling marijuana, according to the New York Times.

“He was freaking out and stayed up all night when he was in custody,” a source told People on Friday. “He’s insisting he only had one drink and it wasn’t some wild night out.”

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Timberlake was charged with misdemeanor driving while intoxicated because he refused to take a breath test when he was pulled over, Timberlake’s attorney Eddie Burke Jr. told Us Weekly . The singer was also given two citations, one for running a stop sign and the other for not traveling in the correct traffic lane, Burke said.

He was released on his own recognizance; no bail was set. His next court date will be July 26 — the same day he is scheduled to be in Kraków, Poland, on his Forget Tomorrow tour. Timberlake‘s arrest took place during a brief break on the tour, which stopped in L.A. last month and will run through December.

He has kept a low profile since the incident. His attorney on Wednesday told TMZ that he and the singer look forward “to vigorously defending Mr. Timberlake against these allegations. He will have a lot to say at the appropriate time.” The outlet also reported that the musician, who does not have a previous arrest record, does not plan to check into a rehab facility — a proactive move often used by celebrities to look good in front of a judge and strike a better plea deal in alcohol- or drug-related legal incidents.

The remarks he delivered Friday in Chicago marked the first time Timberlake publicly acknowledged the arrest since it happened.

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After releasing his sixth studio album, “ Everything I Thought It Was,” in March, the hitmaker set off on his Forget Tomorrow world tour in April. The tour is scheduled to continue in Chicago on Saturday before he plays Madison Square Garden in New York on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The musician landed in hot water last year amid revelations in “The Woman in Me,” his ex-girlfriend Britney Spears’ bombshell memoir, that she had an abortion at Timberlake’s behest while they were dating around the turn of the century. Timberlake’s connection to Spears was also scrutinized in 2021 when a series of documentaries about her protracted conservatorship revisited the media’s treatment of the embattled pop princess , which included accepting his spin on their breakup.

Timberlake — now a father of two boys with actor Jessica Biel — took a lot of heat during that time, prompting a public apology to Spears and to his 2004 Super Bowl co-headliner Janet Jackson that acknowledged he “fell short” and benefited from “a system that condones misogyny and racism.”

In the wake of Timberlake’s arrest, Spears’ fans rallied to send her 2011 song “Criminal” — believed to be an allusion to her relationship with Timberlake — back up the charts . Her fans had some success with that endeavor back in January when they staged a digital-music coup to dethrone Timberlake’s new single “Selfish” by streaming her 13-year-old song with the same name.

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The swaggering showman is allegedly having a harder time lately landing roles in Hollywood, Page Six reported, and is facing lackluster sales for his tour and latest album, which dropped off the Billboard 200 chart after four weeks.

“The album didn’t do too well, and I don’t see Justin getting big acting roles right now,” a Hollywood insider told the outlet earlier this week.

“He’s got a bit of an ego,” another industry insider added. “His golden boy image is definitely depleted.”

Meanwhile, the owner of the American Hotel told TMZ that Timberlake would be welcomed back anytime, because he was a model customer, “great guest and a nice guy.”

LAPD drops DUI investigation into Anne Heche’s car crash after her death

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Likewise, “CBS Mornings” host Gayle King defended the musician Wednesday on air, saying that Timberlake is “a really, really great guy” and adding that the incident was “clearly a mistake” and that she bets “nobody knows it more than he.”

“He’s not an irresponsible person, he’s not reckless, he’s not careless,” King said. “Clearly this is not a good thing, he knows that.”

Other celebrities have either come out against the singer or come to his defense. Comedian Ricky Gervais used the viral news story as a way to plug his own vodka brand on X. But singer Billy Joel, who was spotted at the American Hotel after Timberlake’s arrest, told a New York news station, “Judge not lest ye be judged.”

On TikTok, footage from Timberlake’s May tour stop in Las Vegas began making the rounds, with users commenting on the crooner’s reddish eyes while performing in the clip and speculating about whether that was a precursor to his Sag Harbor arrest.

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Nardine Saad covers breaking entertainment news, trending culture topics, celebrities and their kin for the Fast Break Desk at the Los Angeles Times. She joined The Times in 2010 as a MetPro trainee and has reported from homicide scenes, flooded canyons, red carpet premieres and award shows.

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Justin Timberlake: What's next after his DWI arrest. Will he continue his tour?

One day after Justin Timberlake was arraigned on charges of driving while intoxicated, tickets remain on sale for his The Forget Tomorrow World Tour .

The " Selfish " singer was apprehended by police in the Hamptons at 12:37 a.m. Tuesday, according to a press release from the Sag Harbor Village Police Department. Sag Harbor is part of the Hamptons, about 100 miles east of New York City.

Timberlake was pulled over in his 2025 BMW after failing to stop at a stop sign and "maintain his lane of travel." "Upon investigation it was determined that Mr. Timberlake was operating his vehicle in an intoxicated position," according to the Sag Harbor Village Police Department.

What was Justin Timberlake intoxicated with?

Timberlake told police he had one martini, according to a report by The New York Times .

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The singer was held overnight following his arrest and was released without bail following his Tuesday morning arraignment. Timberlake didn't submit to an alcohol test.

USA TODAY has reached out to Timberlake's representatives for comment.

When is Justin Timberlake's next court date?

Timberlake's next court date is July 26.

Will Justin Timberlake cancel his tour?

The 43-year-old's arrest comes ahead of two concerts on The Forget Tomorrow World Tour in Chicago this weekend.

As of Wednesday, tickets were still available for the two Chicago shows, but Stubhub reported tickets for the Friday and Saturday shows were "selling fast."

The "Mirrors" singer, actor and former member of the boyband NSYNC announced the tour in January , his first in five years. The North American leg of the tour kicked off in April at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada, with stops including cities in the U.S., Canada, Europe and the U.K.

Timberlake's return to the stage follows the release of his sixth album,  "Everything I Thought It Was ." He has also performed several free shows , including a stop in his hometown of Memphis, New York City and Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles show in March included a surprise performance of his song "Paradise," which features his NSYNC bandmates.

Videos on social media  showed Timberlake standing as the curtain behind him slowly revealed  Lance Bass ,  Joey Fatone ,  Chris Kirkpatrick  and  JC Chasez . The crowd instantly went wild, screaming louder than the group as they began singing.

The group performed "Paradise" and "Bye Bye Bye" together, bridging their new music with their classic hit. The night marked their first performance with all five band members since their 2013 VMAs reunion.

Contributing: Jay Stahl and KiMi Robinson