Curator’s statement
Having lived in both Los Angeles and Orange County for many years, I’m excited to share my personal favorites for what to see, do, and eat in each. LA is sprawling and endlessly diverse—you could spend months exploring—but my top picks include hitting the beach towns of Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach, shopping in Beverly Hills and Century City, hiking in the Hollywood Hills, and dining like a local. Head a few hours south to Orange County and the pace slows down. The traffic thins out, the vibe is more relaxed, and you’ll find some of the most iconic surf spots in the world.
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Where to stay in Los Angeles & Orange County
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Things to do in Los Angeles & Orange County
Rooftop pickleball court at Kimpton La Peer
Los Angeles
A hike through Runyan Canyon may feel familiar, as it has been featured on many popular TV shows. Quintessially LA, it features panoramic views of gorgeous Hollywood Hills homes as well as the famous Hollywood sign.
Check out Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills to experience the most iconic shopping in Los Angeles. Then head to Westfield Century City and experience over 100 popular stores, entertainment venues, and dining, including Eataly. If you still want more shopping, check out Abbott Kinney in Venice Beach for some more eclectic stores.
Head down to Hermosa Beach and rent beach cruisers from Hermosa Cyclery, then ride the strand down to Manhattan Beach. Explore the pier and then the shops and restaurants on Manhattan Beach Boulevard. When you get back to Hermosa Beach, try some Creamy Boys Ice cream for something a bit different than your average scoop.
If you stay at the Kimpton La Peer, don’t miss the rooftop pickleball court! You can reserve the court, and it’s complimentary for hotel guests.
Orange County
Newport Harbor is home to numerous places where you can rent a Duffy Boat by the hour. These electric, easy-to-navigate vessels cruise at a relaxed pace, making them the perfect way to soak in the beauty of this upscale coastal enclave—without the commitment of a full yacht charter.
Rent a skim board at 15th Street Surf Supply and head to Crystal Cove, where public parking is easily accessible and the views are stunning. We saw a pod of dolphins on a recent visit.
Make your way to Laguna Beach and visit the iconic oceanfront basketball court featured in White Men Can’t Jump. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through town to explore its charming boutiques and top-notch restaurants.
Places to eat & drink in Los Angeles & Orange County
Yamashiro Hollywood with the best views
Check out Yamashiro Hollywood for the most amazing city views and great sushi.
Urth Cafe has locations in West Hollywood and Laguna, among other locations, and they feature coffee and breakfast in addition to great people-watching.
You may have heard of the famous farmers market in LA. Next door to the newer Grove shopping center is The Original Farmers Market (est. 1934), where you will find a plethora of food stalls and something for everyone, as well as a piece of LA history.
Try Zinque for a neighborhood restaurant with beautiful outdoor seating and casual fare—great for breakfast all the way through dinner, featuring live music and guest DJs.
230 Forest has delicious seafood and is on the main walkable street in Laguna Beach.
Try Coyote Grill for the best Mexican breakfast menu.
Enjoy the lobster mac n cheese at Malibu Farm Lido in the Lido Marina Village while watching the boats on the harbor.
Need to know
Make sure to rent a car. Also, this itinerary works best by flying into LA and flying out of Orange County.
Travel Advisor
Chrissy Jenkins
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