When you think of LA, it’s usually celebrities, Rodeo Drive, and fancy dinners. But I took a different approach to explore Los Angeles—and in just one week! So, if you’re short on time, this itinerary will help you make the most of it and discover some hidden gems that’ll change your view of the city. For all you boho souls and ocean lovers, let’s dive into a mix of off-the-beaten-track and must-see spots!
Contents:
Getting Around
Full disclosure: I’m very lucky to have an aunt who lives in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles, which is quite close to everything. Without her kindly driving us to all these gorgeous spots, it would have been pretty difficult to see what we did. I’d recommend mapping out where you’d like to visit beforehand and either staying centrally or hiring a car to make it easier.
Upon arrival, we hopped on a nonstop bus right outside LAX to the Van Nuys Flyaway Bus Terminal, where my aunt picked us up. The journey took about 40 minutes with traffic, giving us a chance to decompress after our 11-hour flight from London Heathrow. The Flyaway bus costs $9.75 one way or $19.75 round trip per person, and here’s a helpful link to help you plan your journey from LAX to Van Nuys.
Universal Studios
I remember being terrified by the Jaws ride at Universal Studios, but there’s something so magical about this place—you’re instantly immersed in the world of movies and movie-making!
As a film fanatic, I especially loved the Universal Studio Tour, where you hop on a bus to explore film sets, experience thrilling moments, and maybe even catch some filming in progress or spot a star. Highlights include iconic sets like the Bates Motel (from Psycho) and Amity Island (from Jaws).
We visited on a Thursday, which was less expensive than the weekend and booked our tickets in advance on the official website for the best prices, discounts and special offers.
For food and drink, my tip would be to eat a big breakfast to save on food costs (especially for families) and bring snacks. Try to arrive when the park opens at 10 a.m. to get ahead of the lines, which can range from 40 to 90 minutes.
I would consider a skip-the-line pass if you’re planning to experience everything in just one day if that's all the time you have.
Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory is a must-see when you’re in LA. I’m also a huge space enthusiast, and this place was truly awe-inspiring! From the views to the “Signs of Life” show, Griffith Observatory is a highlight. You can even see the Hollywood sign and panoramic views of LA with ease. We treated ourselves to lunch here, as the view from the dining terrace was spectacular, but you could also bring your own snacks.
The observatory itself is free to enter, and the shows are reasonably priced. We attended the 35-minute Signs of Life show in the Samuel Oshin Planetarium, which was incredibly meditative and well-narrated live. Tickets for the show cost $10 per adult, with discounts for minors and seniors.
Marina Del Rey
We booked a little one-hour boat trip in Marina Del Rey, which was mostly a tour around the marina since the sea was too choppy to head out of the harbour, but still stunning. It’s a perfect chance to see local sea lions taking over the port!
Fun fact: Marina Del Rey is North America’s largest man-made harbour, with around 5,000 boats—it took 30 minutes to leave the harbour alone!
From there, we took a scenic walk through the back streets towards Venice Beach, crossing the charming Grand Canal bridge. The beach houses tucked behind the beach capture the Venice Beach vibe: colourful, unique, and a scenic way to reach the main area of Venice Beach. #AlwaysTakeTheScenicRoute
Beverly Hills & La Brea Tar Pits
Take a drive through Rodeo Drive and Beverly Hills en route to the La Brea Tar Pits. I put the window down to capture some videos and photos of the iconic shops—perfect for a little souvenir!
History lovers will appreciate La Brea Tar Pits, an active paleontological research site where you can see preserved creatures dating back centuries in Hancock Park. Tickets are $18 per adult, and more information is available on their website here. There was also a little bush outside the entrance which was loved by a group of hummingbirds!
Escondido Canyon Trail & Waterfalls
I’m not a huge hiker, but I enjoy a good walk with a reward at the end, and if you’re a waterfall lover, the Escondido Canyon Trail is for you! It’s a pleasant, shaded 45-minute walk that’s manageable even for beginner hikers or casual walkers. At the end, you’re rewarded with a beautiful waterfall where you can sit and soak it all in. I’d recommend going on a cloudy day, bringing lots of water, and packing snacks to enjoy by the falls.
Malibu
A trip to LA isn’t complete without a visit to Malibu! Start at Malibu Pier, where you can park for a fee and enjoy a stroll to the end, stopping at Malibu Farm Cafe for a delicious bite. It’s a popular spot, so breakfast or brunch is your best option if you want to beat the crowds. There are also adorable beach shops along the way.
After exploring the pier, stroll past Malibu Beach and check out the small lagoon with a large population of pelicans flying overhead. On the drive back, stop by Rosenthal Wine Bar for a fantastic rosé to wrap up your Malibu adventures!
Getty Centre
The Getty Center offers something for everyone, with its striking architecture and beautiful gardens. Admission to the grounds is free, but you’ll need to reserve a specific entry time. Here’s their website with everything you need to know and plan your visit.
Santa Monica & Venice Beach
Santa Monica was a top highlight of our LA trip! It has that tropical-meets-city vibe I adore and is perfect for getting your steps in with scenic views. We began our day exploring the shops in Santa Monica before heading to the iconic pier. There’s a bustling, beachy charm here, including the Bubba Gump Shrimp shop for souvenirs. Head to the end of the pier for Pacific Park rides, then take the promenade that bridges Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
The walk is about 45–60 minutes, and there are great spots to stop along the way. Venice Beach is lively and full of sights! On the way, you’ll pass Muscle Beach, expansive sandy shores, and the skate park, where you can sit back and watch talented skaters do their thing.
Topanga
We ended our trip in Topanga Canyon, a gem with a unique charm only felt by those who visit. It’s a haven of peace and hidden beauty!
Topanga’s a bit tricky to reach without a car, but it was one of the highlights of our week. Nestled in the canyon, Topanga has a rainforest feel, cooler and shaded from the sun. Start at Pine Tree Circle, a small shopping village with free parking, then stroll to Hidden Treasures—a vintage shop that’s just as magical as its name.
Don’t miss Café on 27, a treehouse-style spot where you can savour a bite while taking in the canyon views. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale.
Writing this has me reliving some incredible memories from our whirlwind week in Los Angeles. I’m amazed we packed so much into seven days! Thanks to my aunt, who played chauffeur, and some pre-trip research, we balanced popular hot spots with hidden gems. A car makes it easier to experience LA’s best, especially on a tight schedule.
I hope this blend of well-known sights and tucked-away treasures offers a bit of LA inspiration for your next trip! 😊
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