Most people’s definition of LA stretches from southern seaside communities such as Redondo Beach up along Southern California’s coastline to Malibu, and from the Pacific east to Downtown and beyond.
Along the way, the 500-plus mile stretch encompasses some 30 beaches, fashionable districts such as Santa Monica, West Hollywood and Bel-Air, and the Santa Monica Mountains. In fact, LA is the only city in the US to be bisected by a mountain range.
Key hubs:
Downtown LA
Up until recently Downtown LA was strictly for business travellers, but these days you’ll find LA’s most talked-about new restaurants and contemporary art galleries in this bustling, skyscraper-filled neighbourhood.
It’s one of the only truly walkable areas in LA, but be warned that the vibe here is distinctly grittier than Beverly Hills.
West Hollywood
While it’s common knowledge that LA has no centre, if you had to pick one, you’d probably go for West Hollywood, which is well-placed for getting anywhere in the city.
It’s also one of LA’s most fashionable spots, filled with cool concept stores and buzzy rooftop bars.
Santa Monica
This beachside neighbourhood showcases the best of sunny So-Cal life, with its miles of sandy coastline and beach promenades.
Come to watch the surfers zip through the waves before taking a walk along the delightfully gaudy pier, where you can ride on the world’s only solar-powered ferris wheel.
Beverly Hills
LA’s swankiest neighbourhood is known all over the world, and with good reason – nowhere does high-octane glamour quite like it.
Cruise the designer shops on Rodeo Drive, keeping one eye on the souped-up supercars whizzing past, before going celeb-spotting at one of the area’s many upmarket restaurants.
