Wake up, LA! It’s Sunday—the city’s best day to slow down, try something new, and discover why everyone falls in love with Los Angeles. Whether you’re an early riser or a brunch connoisseur, the city is buzzing with adventure. From the Pacific coastline’s salty air to the star-studded hills of Hollywood, LA rolls out the red carpet for weekend explorers. You’ll find colorful farmers’ markets, world-class museums, outdoor adventures, and the kind of food that’s worth writing home about. So, whether your style is mellow and beachy or you’re up for movie magic and city thrills, we’ve rounded up the ultimate Sunday itinerary. Ready to make your Sunday one for the memory books? Let’s dive in!
Los Angeles Sunday: Essential Experiences
Looking for the best ways to spend your Sunday in Los Angeles? Here are our top picks:
Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales
Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Discover Tour
Griffith Observatory Tour
Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking
Farmers Market at The Original Farmers Market
California Science Center IMAX Movie
Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard
The Getty Center Guided Tour
Brunch at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker
Late Afternoon at Venice Beach Boardwalk
Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales
Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales
Let’s start your Sunday with the thrill of ocean adventure. Head down to Newport Beach and board a boat for the Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales. This isn’t just about ticking off a bucket list—it’s about the excitement of being out on Pacific waters, scanning the horizon for that first spout or flash of a dolphin pod racing alongside the boat. The atmosphere is equal parts anticipation and joy; every turn of the bow could reveal gray whales, bright white risso’s dolphins, or massive blue whales depending on the season.
Naturalists on board bring the marine world to life, sharing stories and fun facts as you relax in the sunshine with sea spray on your face. It’s perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to add a dash of the extraordinary to their LA weekend. Don’t forget your camera—the panoramic views of the coastline are worth the trip alone. You’ll leave with unforgettable wildlife encounters and that invigorated feeling that only comes from being out on the open sea.
Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Discover Tour
If you want to see a mix of neighborhoods and sights, the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Discover Tour is your flexible ticket to LA’s highlights. Sundays are made for exploring, and this open-top double-decker bus lets you curate your own adventure at your pace. Cruise through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Downtown, hopping off when something grabs your attention—be it the flash of a mural, the allure of a boutique, or the smell of food drifting from the market.
The vibes on board are super friendly, with guides offering entertaining commentary packed with fun facts and local legends. Take in the sights: the glitter of the Walk of Fame, the architectural drama of Walt Disney Concert Hall, or the lush greenery of urban parks. Stop for spontaneous detours—a coffee here, a quick photo opp there. No need to stress about traffic or parking; you can just sit back and soak up the city. For first-timers, this tour brings Los Angeles’ many personalities together in a single (relaxing) Sunday experience.
Griffith Observatory Tour
There’s something magical about spending a Sunday surrounded by the serenity of Griffith Park, high above the city at Griffith Observatory. Mornings and early afternoons are perfect for the guided Griffith Observatory Tour. As you walk up that iconic hill, LA’s cityscape unfolds beside you, and on clear days the view stretches from the downtown skyline all the way to the Pacific.
Inside, you’ll find fascinating science and astronomy exhibits—the Tesla coil, the funky Foucault pendulum, and interactive displays that are as fun as they are educational. Climb up to the rooftop for a closer look at the Hollywood Sign and to peer through the Zeiss telescope; you might spot a planet or two, even in daylight!
The tour guides here are enthusiastic and love sharing behind-the-scenes stories—about the Observatory’s role in film history and its place in the city’s collective imagination. And the feeling of standing under the Art Deco rotunda, surrounded by curious minds, is pure LA magic. Whether you’re an astronomy buff or just love panoramic views, this spot brings out your inner explorer.
Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking
Sunshine, flat paths, and beautiful views—Santa Monica is a cyclist’s dream on a Sunday. With Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking, you can roll from the legendary Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach, soaking up everything the coastline has to offer. Stop for street performers on the pier, watch skateboarders carve up Venice Skatepark, or just cruise the beach path until you find a spot for a snack.
These bikes are built for comfort and style, so you can ride for miles without a care. The energy is laid-back and friendly—fellow cyclists, rollerbladers, and joggers all share the path, and there’s always something to watch. We love grabbing an iced coffee at Perry’s Café right on the sand, or stopping at the original Muscle Beach for people-watching.
A Sunday bike ride in Santa Monica isn’t just exercise, it’s a celebration of the great LA outdoors. Expect sun, sea breeze, and tons of photo ops—this is California at its most relaxed.
Farmers Market at The Original Farmers Market
Sometimes the perfect Sunday starts with food. The Original Farmers Market at 3rd and Fairfax has been feeding LA locals and visitors since 1934, and its Sunday vibe is unmatched. Think dozens of open-air stalls and permanent eateries heaped with California’s best produce—sweet strawberries, vibrant citrus, and avocados so fresh they’re practically begging to be mashed into toast.
Beyond the fruits and veggies, this is a true world food bazaar, with everything from Brazilian barbecue at Pampas Grill to Parisian crêpes at The French Crepe Company. There’s live music, friendly crowds, and the happy buzz of food discovery around every corner.
Find a communal table, order something you’ve never tried before (the corned beef at Magee’s is legendary), and soak up the laughter and chatter. This is LA’s melting pot at its friendly best—and a great way to fuel your Sunday for more exploring.
California Science Center IMAX Movie
California Science Center IMAX Movie
Sundays often call for a change of pace, and there’s nowhere better for this than the California Science Center. After you’ve taken in the interactive exhibits (hello, Space Shuttle Endeavour!), grab a ticket to an IMAX screening. The IMAX theater here is unlike any regular cinema—the graphics leap off the screen, and the immersive sound pulls you right into the story.
Expect a lineup of science and nature-focused documentaries—think deep dives into coral reefs, the miracle of flight, or even expeditions to space. The atmosphere is all-ages awe: families, couples, and solo travelers all switch from excited chatter to hushed wonder when those visuals kick in.
It’s the rare museum experience that’s equal parts entertaining and inspiring. Walk out with new knowledge, fresh conversation starters, and that wide-eyed feeling you had as a kid. Plus, Exposition Park’s rose garden just outside is perfect for a reflective stroll after the show.
Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard
If your idea of a fun Sunday is a blend of window shopping, people-watching, and discovering LA’s creative heart, Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice is calling your name. This mile-long stretch is the city’s unofficial trend capital—lined with indie boutiques, stylish cafes, galleries, and one-of-a-kind street art.
Here’s the deal: you could start with gourmet doughnuts from Blue Star, browse for handmade jewelry, or sample house-roasted coffee at Intelligentsia. The energy is relaxed, creative, and effortlessly cool—local artists chat with shoppers, friendly dogs wag outside storefronts, and food trucks pulse with the scent of global street food.
Every Sunday, it seems, Abbot Kinney reveals something new: a pop-up vintage clothing sale, a street fair, live music, or maybe a celebrity sighting if you keep an eye out. Even if you’re not in shopping mode, the creative buzz is contagious and makes for a perfect LA afternoon.
The Getty Center Guided Tour
Perched on a hilltop with skyline views, The Getty Center is a Sunday treat for art, architecture, and garden lovers alike. Take the tram up from the parking area—it sets the tone for an experience that’s both inspiring and utterly unique to LA.
The guided tours bring the Getty’s art and architecture to life, highlighting everything from Renaissance paintings to modern photography, all in light-filled galleries. Guides are engaging and happy to answer your questions. Don’t skip a stroll in the Central Garden—created by artist Robert Irwin, it’s a living sculpture of meandering paths, reflective pools, and creative plantings.
Even if you’re not a hardcore art buff, the atmosphere is serene yet stimulating, with terraces overlooking the mountains and the sea. People linger over coffee and pastries at the café, or find a shady spot to sketch or read. It’s the kind of place where you can be both energized by culture and calmed by nature—an unbeatable LA combo.
Brunch at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker
No LA Sunday is complete without brunch, and The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker (a/k/a BBCM) is the place to do it in style. Located in West Hollywood, this hotspot is famed for its pastel-hued espresso drinks and a brunch menu that has LA foodies queuing up all weekend.
If you’re feeling classic, the eggs benedict are pillowy and perfectly sauced. Those after something a bit more colorful should try the signature “Colorburst” lattes—swirled with rainbow hues and almost too pretty to drink (almost). The lemon ricotta pancakes are a must, too—fluffy, bright, and topped with berry compote.
BBCM’s décor is as photo-worthy as the plates: lush greenery, sun-drenched atriums, and buzzy with a crowd of brunch fans from morning till the late afternoon. Don’t be surprised if you spot a celebrity or two, but the real stars are the creative cocktails and the welcoming staff. Make a reservation if you can—it’s worth waking up a bit early.
Late Afternoon at Venice Beach Boardwalk
Round off your LA Sunday with a stroll along the Venice Beach Boardwalk. As golden hour approaches, the atmosphere hits peak LA: skaters zip past mural-painted walls, bodybuilders flex at Muscle Beach, and street performers entertain kids and grown-ups alike. The energy here is electric—quirky, irreverent, and joyful.
Stop into one of the old-school snack shacks for a lemonade or coconut water, rent a pair of roller skates from one of the local shops, or browse pier-side stalls for handmade art and jewelry. If you’re hungry for a sunset treat, Great White just across from the boardwalk serves up fresh, beachy plates—give their breakfast burrito or fish tacos a try. Their airy, minimalist vibe pairs perfectly with salty air and views of the ocean.
As the sun dips into the Pacific, the boardwalk lights up with an only-in-LA mix of beach lovers, cruisers, musicians, and artists. End your day here, soaking up the ever-changing scene, and you’ll understand why so many people call LA the city where summer never ends.
There’s no wrong way to do a Sunday in Los Angeles, but there are some extra-fun ways to make the most of it. Whether you’re gazing at whales, dining on artful brunches, biking beside the Pacific, or soaking in culture high above the city, there’s always a new adventure around the corner. LA’s neighborhoods glow with personality, and Sundays show them all at their vibrant, laid-back best. We hope this roundup helps you fill your day with stand-out experiences, delicious food, and plenty of sunny memories. Here’s to your perfect LA Sunday—where fun is as endless as the California sky!
Enjoyed this? Check out our favorite ways to spend an L.A. morning, and peruse our pick of the best downtown markets.
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