Flights from New Zealand to Los Angeles (LAX)

Discover Los Angeles

Discover Los Angeles

Why visit Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a city of sun, cinema, and sprawling neighbourhoods, where palm-lined boulevards meet Pacific beaches. You can explore film studios, iconic landmarks, and creative districts all in one trip.

What to expect

Expect a laid-back yet energetic city, where driving is common and each neighbourhood has its own feel, from the glamour of Hollywood to the relaxed vibe of Venice Beach. The skyline, coastline, and hills shape every view.

Plan your trip

Los Angeles works well as both a standalone city break and a gateway to the wider West Coast, including national parks and coastal towns. Plan extra time for traffic and distance between sights, and use it as a base for day trips.

Top sights in Los Angeles

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along Hollywood Boulevard to see the famous stars on the pavement, the TCL Chinese Theatre, and classic cinema landmarks.

Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

Head up to Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood Sign, then explore trails and green space in Griffith Park.

Santa Monica Pier and Beach

Visit Santa Monica for its wide sandy beach, the historic pier with rides and arcades, and lively oceanfront paths.

The Getty Center

Ride the hilltop tram to the Getty Center for art collections, striking architecture, and sweeping views over Los Angeles and the coast.

Venice Beach Boardwalk

Walk the Venice Beach promenade to watch street performers, skaters, and outdoor gym-goers along a colourful stretch of coastline.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Spend a day at Universal Studios Hollywood, combining theme park rides with a behind-the-scenes look at working film studios.

Downtown Los Angeles Arts District

Explore the Arts District for street murals, converted warehouses, galleries, and creative spaces close to the city centre.

Experience Los Angeles everyday rhythm

Getting around

Los Angeles is spread out, so many visitors combine ride-hailing or car hire with the Metro rail and bus network for longer journeys. For a scenic perspective, use bike or scooter rentals along the beach paths, and keep walking for the final few blocks in busy neighbourhoods.

Local life & culture

Life in Los Angeles often centres on creative work, outdoor meet-ups, and neighbourhood hangouts, from studio lots to gallery openings. You will find distinct cultures in areas like Koreatown, Little Tokyo, and West Hollywood, each with its own pace and personality.

Where to unwind

Relax on the city’s beaches at Santa Monica, Venice, or Malibu, especially in the late afternoon when the light softens. For quieter escapes, head to the canyons and hill trails around Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park for sunrise or sunset walks.

A taste of Los Angeles

Street food & local specialties

Seek out food trucks and taquerias across the city for tacos, burritos, and casual bites, especially in Downtown LA and the Eastside. Many neighbourhoods have long-running burger stands and roadside favourites that locals return to again and again.

Casual & modern dining hubs

Discover food halls and modern casual spots at places like Grand Central Market and The Grove area, where you can sample a mix of global flavours. Portions are often generous, so sharing dishes lets you try more in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining

For views with your meal, choose rooftop venues in Downtown LA or hillside restaurants overlooking the city lights. Coastal spots in Malibu and Santa Monica offer ocean vistas that pair well with special-occasion dining.

Retail therapy in Los Angeles

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Shop at large centres such as Westfield Century City and The Grove, where international brands sit alongside local labels, cinemas, and open-air promenades. These hubs double as social spaces with cafes and entertainment.

Markets & local crafts

Browse smaller shops and markets in neighbourhoods like Silver Lake, Echo Park, and Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice for independent designers, vintage finds, and handmade goods. These areas showcase the city’s creative side.

Evening retail scene

After dark, districts like West Hollywood and Santa Monica stay lively with illuminated storefronts, late-opening boutiques, and buzzing streets. Public transport, ride-hailing, and plentiful parking help you reach these areas easily in the evening.

Best time to visit Los Angeles

Peak season runs from June to August, with warm, dry days around 20°C to 29°C (68°F to 84°F) and busy beaches and attractions. Shoulder season in March to May and September to October brings mild temperatures of about 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F), fewer crowds, and clear days ideal for sightseeing. Low season from November to February is cooler and can be wetter, with temperatures around 9°C to 20°C (48°F to 68°F), giving a quieter feel and softer light along the coast.

Frequently Asked Questions