The 10 must-see photo spots in Los Angeles
Welcome to one of the most photogenic cities on your trip to the United States! A city where you often find yourself making an unplanned stop, simply because the view is too beautiful to continue on your way. Here are 10 spots in Los Angeles that clearly deserve a place in your itinerary (and your souvenir album).
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ICONIC LOS ANGELES VIEWS
1. Griffith Observatory
If you only had to stop at one viewpoint in Los Angeles, this is the one we recommend! From the Griffith Observatory, the city seems to stretch as far as the eye can see. You can spot Downtown, the Hollywood Hills, and, on a clear day, a good part of Los Angeles.
| The spot at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| 📸 Why is this spot a must-see? | It offers one of the most beautiful views of Los Angeles and also allows you to catch a glimpse of the famous Hollywood sign. |
| 🎯 Where to take the best photo? | From the terraces behind the observatory. |
| 🌅 When to go? | Late afternoon to enjoy the golden light, then the city lights at sunset. |
You could easily spend hours here. Between the mountains, skyscrapers, and the ocean sometimes visible in the distance, it's one of the rare places where you truly grasp the immensity of Los Angeles.
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2. Hollywood Sign
It's impossible to talk about Los Angeles without mentioning the city's true star. Perched on the hills for over a hundred years, the Hollywood sign attracts millions of visitors every year.
| The spot at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| 📸 Why is this spot a must-see? | It's probably the most iconic landmark in Los Angeles. |
| 🎯 Where to take the best photo? | From Lake Hollywood Park or the trails of Griffith Park. |
| 🌅 When to go? | In the morning for softer light and better visibility. |
We all think we know the Hollywood sign before arriving in Los Angeles. Yet, we promise you, seeing it appear in real life for the first time always has its effect.
3. Mulholland Drive
Some roads are for getting from point A to point B. Mulholland Drive, however, is part of the journey. Here, you stop as much to admire the view as to reach your destination.
| The spot at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| 📸 Why is this spot a must-see? | The road offers several spectacular panoramic views of the city, the Hollywood Hills, and the San Fernando Valley. |
| 🎯 Where to take the best photo? | From the Jerome C. Daniel Overlook or one of the many viewpoints along the road. |
| 🌅 When to go? | Late in the day when the city begins to light up. |
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ICONIC LOS ANGELES DISTRICTS
4. Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive
Even if luxury shopping isn't on your trip's agenda, Beverly Hills and its famous Rodeo Drive are largely worth the detour.
| The spot at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| 📸 Why is this spot a must-see? | It's one of California's most iconic neighborhoods with its chic ambiance and famous palm-lined avenues. |
| 🎯 Where to take the best photo? | On Rodeo Drive or at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Via Rodeo. |
| 🌅 When to go? | In the morning for calmer traffic. |
5. Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood Boulevard is often one of the must-sees for a first trip to Los Angeles. With over 2,700 stars, it's highly likely that your favorite actor, singer, or idol is there somewhere... You just have to find them!
| The spot at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| 📸 Why is this spot a must-see? | Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and Dolby Theatre are all in the same place. |
| 🎯 Where to take the best photo? | In front of the TCL Chinese Theatre or from the steps of the Dolby Theatre. |
| 🌅 When to go? | Early morning to avoid the crowds. |
6. The Last Bookstore
In the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, you'll find this bookstore that has become one of the city's most unique places. Its unique feature? Its seemingly endless shelves, unusual installations, and its famous book tunnel, which has become one of Los Angeles' most well-known photo spots.
| The spot at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| 📸 Why is this spot a must-see? | Its artistic installations made from thousands of books offer a unique setting. |
| 🎯 Where to take the best photo? | In the famous book tunnel located upstairs. |
| 🌅 When to go? | On weekdays to avoid the busiest times. |
7. Santa Monica Pier
If there's one place I recommend saving for the end of the day, it's Santa Monica Pier. Settle in facing the ocean, watch the pier lights gradually come on, and simply enjoy the moment. It's one of those places that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of California.
| The spot at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| 📸 Why is this spot a must-see? | Between its Ferris wheel, its retro atmosphere, and its oceanfront location, it offers one of Los Angeles' most iconic settings. |
| 🎯 Where to take the best photo? | From the beach or at the end of the pier. |
| 🌅 When to go? | At sunset. |
8. Venice Beach
In our eyes, Venice Beach represents one of Los Angeles' most endearing facets. The atmosphere there is relaxed, creative, and you could even say a bit quirky. That's precisely what makes the place so enjoyable to discover and so memorable!
| The spot at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| 📸 Why is this spot a must-see? | Its mix of street art, skaters, surfers, and street performers creates a unique atmosphere. |
| 🎯 Where to take the best photo? | On Ocean Front Walk or at the skatepark facing the ocean. |
| 🌅 When to go? | In the late afternoon. |
Unlike other areas of Los Angeles, you don't really come to Venice with a list of things to see and do. The neighborhood is mostly discovered by strolling and the encounters you make there.
9. Manhattan Beach Pier
Many travelers overlook Manhattan Beach during a first trip to Los Angeles. However, those who take the time to stop there often leave with a real crush. Give it a chance, it's really worth it!
| The spot at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| 📸 Why is this spot a must-see? | Its long pier offers a magnificent view of the Pacific Ocean and the Californian coast. |
| 🎯 Where to take the best photo? | From the beach with the pier in the background. |
| 🌅 When to go? | At sunset. |
10. El Matador Beach
If you had to remember only one lesser-known spot from this selection, it would probably be this one! It's hard to imagine such a wild place being so close to Los Angeles. Yet, El Matador Beach is very real and well worth the detour.
| The spot at a glance | Details |
|---|---|
| 📸 Why is this spot a must-see? | Its steep cliffs, sea caves, and rock formations create one of the most beautiful natural settings in the region. |
| 🎯 Where to take the best photo? | From the beach at the foot of the cliffs. |
| 🌅 When to go? | In the late afternoon to enjoy the golden light. |
Unlike several iconic locations in Los Angeles, El Matador Beach retains a wild side that often surprises travelers.
Map of locations
Let's be honest, there's a strong chance your phone will come back a little fuller than expected after a few days in Los Angeles.
But after all, that's also what a trip to California is about. Collecting landscapes, atmospheres, and sunsets that will be remembered long after you return.
And if one of these spots ends up on your itinerary, don't hesitate to share your best photos with us. We love discovering Los Angeles through the eyes of our travelers.
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