Best Nature Spots in Los Angeles

By Go City Expert

Are you heading to Los Angeles on vacation but don't want to spend all your time in the city? Fortunately, there are plenty of nature spots in and around LA. While on vacation in Los Angeles, make sure to soak up the beautiful weather and spend some time in the great outdoors.

There are so many fun attractions that involve being outside in the best nature spots in Los Angeles, including...

  • LA Zoo
  • Santa Monica Beach
  • Malibu Celebrity Homes Tour
  • Whale Watching and Dolphin Cruises
  • Hollywood Hills Hike by Hikes & Bikes LA
  • Sunset Cruise by Newport Landing
  • And many more!

LA Zoo

los-angeles-ca-zoo-flamingos

The LA Zoo has so much to see and do, with over 1,000 animals from across the world, including endangered species. When visiting the LA Zoo, you'll get up close and personal with king vultures, wallabies, desert bighorn sheep, Komodo dragons, Colombian rainbow boas, and a Madagascar hissing cockroach.

You also have the chance to learn about conservation. The zoo works in conjunction with organizations across the world to educate about the decreasing populations, habitat destruction, and hunting. Be sure to check out the animal shows and demonstrations!

Top tip: visit the zoo in the morning, as they begin putting animals away around 4PM.

Santa Monica Beach

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Santa Monica Beach is a must-visit for anyone vacationing in LA. Pacific Park is an amusement park built directly on Santa Monica pier in 1996. It has tons of rides, games, and so much more. Use your pass for unlimited access to the 12 rides at Pacific Park.

Ride the world’s only solar-powered Ferris Wheel, or ride a simulator that makes you feel like you’re actually surfing. Then, ride a roller coaster at 35 miles per hour with an ocean view before tackling a 9-story tower that takes you 150 feet over Santa Monica Bay and then drops you.

You should definitely consider adding Santa Monica Beach to your LA itinerary – be sure to check out our Pacific Park guide for top tips.

Malibu Celebrity Homes Tour

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The Malibu Celebrity Homes Tour is a two-hour guided tour around the beaches of Malibu and the vast beachfront properties, including celebrity homes. The tour takes place in an open-air tour bus that starts at the Santa Monica pier. Your onboard guide will point out top attractions and will give you the inside information on all the stars. This tour makes two stops along the way – Malibu Beach and Malibu Bluffs.

You'll stop at Malibu beach first, then explore the homes around Malibu pier. Malibu Bluffs looks over the Malibu Colony Estates and has an amazing view of the Pacific Ocean. You can see the homes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Bruce Willis, and Cher, just to name a few. Also on the tour, you'll be able to see locations for films such as Planet of the Apes, Iron Man, Baywatch, and more.

If you enjoy sightseeing tours with the chance of catching a celeb or two, check out our guide to LA tours for more suggestions!

Perry’s Beach Café and Rentals

Another great opportunity to spend some time outdoors is Perry's Beach Café and Rentals. It has been a part of the beach scene in Los Angeles for over 35 years. Rent a mountain bike or skates for the entire day from Perry's, then head to the beachside café for a bite to eat after biking or skating.

You can explore the Santa Monica beach, Venice Beach, and Venice Canals by bike. Start as early as you wish and bike all day. There is so much to see around here and you never know what you might come across. It's a great way to travel and explore the area – the canals are beautiful and close by.

Whale Watching and Dolphin Cruises

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The Whale Watching and Dolphin Cruises is a 2 hour 30-minute marine tour that includes information and commentary from the captain and crew. You'll have the chance to see humpback whales, orcas, and blue whales. The cruise takes you to a marine sanctuary that has 75 miles of protected water teeming with whales and marine life. You can also see dolphins, seals, and even rare whales.

The boat is a 65-foot double-decked ship with a sundeck, indoor and outdoor seating, and a snack bar. The whale and dolphin cruise comes with free use of binoculars and one complimentary drink. The cruise ship was designed specifically for watching marine life, and the captain and crew have been educated in marine biology so will provide you with top insights.

You also have the chance to see the California grey whale, which can weigh as much as 36 tons and be 52 feet long.

Hollywood Hills Hike by Hike & Bike LA

Hollywood-sign

This is a walking tour of the Hollywood Hills that takes up to three hours to complete with a local guide to point out all of the top sights. You'll see the famous Griffith Park Observatory along with some amazing views and photo opportunities. The tour starts in Griffith Park at the Greek Theater, and your guide will tell you all about the glamorous history of Los Angeles.

Along the way, you'll also see the Hollywood sign, downtown LA, Mount Hollywood, and the Forest Lawn Mausoleum. Plus, you'll also hear about the history of the Hollywood Sign and watch videos from movies and TV shows that were filmed in the exact spot you're standing.

The Huntington Library, Art Collection, and Botanical Garden

The Huntington Library, Art Collection and Botanical Garden has been in operation since 1919 and has a foundation in conservation, to protect the art, books, manuscripts, and other materials. It is an institution that has collection-based research and serves scholars, as well as the general public.

Plus, it's home to a massive 8 million manuscripts, over 400,000 reference books, over 400,000 rare books, and over 700,000 pictures. The Huntington Art Collection collection spans over 500 years. It displays sculptures, decorative art, and drawings, and hosts temporary exhibits focusing on masterworks.

Sunset Cruise by Newport Landing

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The Sunset Cruise by Newport Landing leaves Newport Bay and sales along the coastline of Newport Beach for 90 minutes. This cruise leaves at sunset while you snack on complimentary chips and salsa. The cruise ship is complete with a full bar so you can enjoy the drink of your choice while sailing along the coast. While the sun is setting, you can see the bonfires twinkling along the sand.

Save on admission to LA attractions

So there you go! There are plenty of outdoor attractions that allow you to make the most of the beautiful LA weather. We hope you consider adding a few of these LA attractions to your vacation itinerary. Also, why not make the most of the sunshine and take a day trip out of the city? Check out our best day trips from LA guide for some ideas.

Remember, using your pass for Los Angeles means you can save on admission vs gate price.

Be sure to share your snaps with us on Instagram and Facebook and follow @GoCity for top tips and itineraries.

Go City Expert
Go City Travel Expert

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Best Time to Visit Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of those American cities that is brimming with tourists all year round. Thanks to the Pacific Ocean and the city’s coastal seat, the location is blessed with perennial sunshine all year round. Still, L.A. has a lot more to offer than just that. From only-in-L.A. attractions and fabled natural wonders to its unrivalled drinking and dining scene, the city never falls short of great things to see and do. Whether you’re an artsy type, an outdoor enthusiast or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest any time of the year. So, when is the best time to visit La La Land? From exciting events to great prices on accommodation, here’s a month-by-month breakdown of when to visit Los Angeles. Pick your favorite time of the year and head over to this magical West Coast city, STAT! September-November Though you might not expect it, autumn is a fantastic time to visit Los Angeles. We especially like September - November, since it offers a lot of the perks of a summertime getaway, just with less of the fuss. During this time of the year, you’ll find that the air is more breathable and the crowds are less oppressive. This makes it perfect for exploring all of the city’s best outdoor attractions in comfort. Although it’s still warm around this time of the year, we still recommend bringing an umbrella or a light jacket, since rainfall intensifies towards the end of November. You’ll also find that the crowds are less oppressive and the lines are shorter during this time of the year since schools are back and families are less likely to visit. Since this is a less popular time for booking, you’ll be able to get a lot of great deals on flights and accommodation. December Whilst L.A. probably isn’t the first place you might think of for a wintertime getaway, we’re here to tell you that a seasonal stay in the City of Angels is just so right. Why, you might ask? Well, for starters, when you travel to the West Coast in the wintertime the weather is temperate and balmy still without ever soaring into the high-80s. This means that you’ll be able to explore all of the city’s incredible attractions and points of interest just as you normally would. Of course, the atmosphere in L.A. around this time of the year remains unmatched. As with any major metropolitan city, L.A. is bustling with life around the holiday season, and you can most certainly feel the excitement. During the month of December you’ll also be able to find tonnes of magical activities and pop-up festive events around town. Some of our favorites include the Marina Del Rey Boat Parade, L.A. Zoo Lights, and Holiday Time at Disneyland. Whilst travelling to L.A. during the most magical time of the year might not be the most wallet-friendly, we promise you that this option is definitely worth the memories. January - February Don’t rule out a wintertime vacation to Los Angeles! Marking another sweet spot for visitors to the City of Angels, the start of the year has a lot to offer all types of visitors. Much like December, you’ll find that the weather is cooler and more comfortable around January to February time, with average highs sitting around the upper 60s. Still, rain is more common around this time of the year, so we suggest packing accordingly: take a light jacket and a sweater, since temperatures can dip in the evening time, and you’ll be good to go! Around this time of the year, school is back in session and the holidays will have died down. With smaller dispersing crowds, the city is more manageable to explore. As if this all wasn’t enough, the winter months are the cheapest time to visit L.A., so don’t hesitate to book fast! Since it’s low season, you’ll also be able to find great deals on entertainment, dining, and more. March - May If you’re drawn to Los Angeles for its beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes, you might want to consider heading over in the springtime. Springtime in L.A. is when things really start to heat up, so it’s perfect for sunseekers and outdoorsy types alike. There are a lot of great things to check out here, but some of our favorites include hiking the Santa Monica Mountains, stargazing at the Griffith Observatory and exploring tide pools at White Point/Royal Palms Beach. Just as you might have guessed, the city’s warm Mediterranean climate calls for a strong summer dress code and lots of water and sunscreen! Show up prepared, and you should be just fine. The city is pretty calm and quiet around this time of the year, though you might bump into some big crowds if you choose to travel during spring break or Memorial Day. With all of the advantages of travelling in the summertime and less of the fuss, couldn’t think of any reason not to visit L.A. in the spring! Summertime! For those who like to be in the center of all the action, we suggest booking your L.A. getaway for the summertime. Of course, one of the best things about visiting Los Angeles in the summertime is the legendary West Coast weather. With temperatures hovering around the mid-80s, the beaches are a popular place to be. During this time of the year, it’s hot enough to sunbathe and the waters are warm enough to swim, surf, or scuba dive in - whatever takes your fancy! But still, there’s much more to look forward to around this time of the year than just the beach. Visit L.A. in the summertime, and you’ll find that there are countless exciting festivals, pop-ups and conventions to check out. Whilst this might be one of the more expensive times to visit La La Land, we promise that you’ll never be bored exploring Los Angeles in the summertime. Sun, surf, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city - what could be better than that? No doubt, Los Angeles is an exciting destination to visit any time of the year. Promising great weather, iconic attractions and unmatched natural beauty, there’s so much to see and do here no matter where your interests may lie. Maximize your travel experience with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a fantastic destination that everybody should experience at least once in a lifetime. Still, choosing a place to stay can be a laborious task. The city is so massive and spread out, with iconic sites around every corner. From world-famous landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and the Walk of Fame to Santa Monica Pier and the Getty Villa, the city will always leave you wanting more. For dynamism, cultural impact and sheer diversity, the city is really hard to beat. Still overwhelmed by the prospect of exploring a new city? Don’t worry! In this article, we’ll break down the best areas in Los Angeles to stay in and share some of our top travel tips. Santa Monica For those who want to be near the beach without missing out on the vibrant city atmosphere, we recommend staying in Santa Monica. This spot is perfect for both families and solo travellers alike, with a wide variety of exciting attractions and activities to choose from. The neighborhood is of course home to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, but that’s not all there is to see here. For nature lovers, we highly recommend heading over to the Santa Monica Mountains for a hike. But if nature isn’t quite your thing, don’t worry - the area is home to some of the best shopping in SoCal, with Montana Avenue and Main Street District right at your fingertips. Stay here, and you’ll also be surrounded by tons of great bars, restaurants, and entertainment. The neighborhood is super walkable and scenic, but if you want to go a little further out, we would recommend calling for a cab or taking advantage of some of the city’s great public transport options. Hollywood If you’re looking to be in the center of all the action, Hollywood would be the best bet. A once gritty, urban neighbourhood-turned major tourist hub, this spot now showcases iconic sights at every turn. Hollywood Boulevard, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, the Walk of Fame, and Universal Studios - you name it, Hollywood’s got it! In addition, the neighborhood is bordered by West Hollywood and Fairfax, the Hollywood Hills, and East Hollywood, granting access to some of the best shopping, dining and entertainment in town. If you’re a foodie, we recommend heading over to East Hollywood, where you’ll find a fantastic array of restaurants in Little Armenia and Thai Town. Or, if it’s high-energy nightlife that you’re after, West Hollywood is the place to be. From spirited cabaret shows to fun comedy clubs, you’ll never be bored here. Since the neighborhood is so popular, you’ll find that there is a wide range of accommodation both in style and budget to choose from. We recommend booking quite far in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the spring or summertime. Beverly Hills For a truly luxurious stay in La La Land, what could be a better choice than Beverly Hills? As you might have guessed, this area is pretty extraordinary, so we recommend exploring it on foot as much as you can. Wandering through the neighborhood, you’ll be able to view some schmancy mansions in a wide variety of architectural styles and carefully-manicured gardens. Still, this notably glamorous place has much more to offer outside of its evident beauty. Living up to its famous zip code, this spot is home to some great attractions - here, you can visit the Beverly Hills sign, the Greystone Mansion, and the Virginia Robinson Gardens. Still, one of our favorite spots has got to be the Spadena House, a quirky only-in-Los Angeles attraction. Standing as a distinctive example of storybook style-architecture, this spot has served as a filming location for many fantasy films over the years. Though it is now a private residence, visitors are welcome to visit and take guided tours to marvel over its wholly unique interiors. The neighborhood is also home to one of the best shopping destinations in L.A., Rodeo Drive. Even if you’re not a big spender, this pristine thoroughfare is perfect for a casual day of window shopping and grabbing a bite to eat. And of course, the area boasts some of the swankiest hotels in all of Los Angeles, including the Beverly Hilton and the wonderful Beverly Hills Hotel. Though the area is obviously pretty pricey, we promise that staying here is well worth it. Malibu Another one of our favorite places to stay in the city has got to be Malibu. A little more grown-up than Santa Monica, Malibu is perfect for romantic getaways or solo travellers, known for its beautiful beachfront and aura of relaxed chic. Aside from serving as a prime destination for soaking up the sun, the district is great for shopping addicts, with Malibu Country Mart, Point Dume Village and Promenade at Westlake drawing in the crowds at weekends. Come nightfall, we highly suggest checking out some of the area’s wonderful waterfront restaurants. Here you’ll be able to find locally-sourced fresh seafood in a wide variety of dishes. From oysters and classic lobster rolls to delicious sushi and coconut shrimp, this place is a total dream for food lovers. Come nightfall, sip a cocktail on the beach, enjoy jazz nights and rooftop theater. Combining SoCal’s laidback nature with a touch of sophistication, this spot has much to offer all visitors. Los Angeles is a fantastic destination to visit with so many great places to stay in. We recommend taking a little time to think about your itinerary so that you can be certain that your accommodation fits just right! Maximize your travel experience with an All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less
Sarah Harris
Los Angeles transport
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Getting around LA - How to get around Los Angeles for tourists

We've got your go-to guide with all the info on getting around the city and beyond, including how to get to and from the airport. When you're visiting this sunny Californian paradise, we're sure you'll want to see as much as humanly possible. So we've got all the best tips and tricks for completing your Los Angeles Bucket List.
Casey Makovich

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