Vacationing Like a Local in Los Angeles

Want to experience LA like a real local? Meet Caroline Juen, a longtime Angeleno who gained popularity through her blog, Love and Loathing LA. She has since launched her own canned wine line, Best Coast Beverages, while continuing to share her favorite spots to eat, drink, and stay in the city. Follow her guide for an authentic local vacation experience in Los Angeles.

Accommodation Options

The Hollywood Roosevelt is a classic choice nestled in the heart of Hollywood's rich history. Ideal for sipping cocktails by the pool during the warmer months, the hotel's stunning pool is complemented by Shirley Brasserie, which features a raw bar and a French-inspired dinner and Sunday brunch menu.

Also situated in Hollywood, the Prospect Hotel is a centrally located gem designed by Martyn Bullard, and it’s one of Juen’s top boutique hotel picks. She describes it as "small, cozy, and exuding true 'Old Hollywood' glamour." Each room boasts a unique theme, perfect for groups or couples celebrating special occasions like birthdays or bachelorette parties.

Silver Lake Pool & Inn is located on LA's east side in the vibrant Silver Lake area, known for its delicious eateries, boutiques, and nightlife. With retro decor, a stunning pool offering views of the Griffith Observatory, and a walkable setting, it's no surprise that both locals and visitors love this spot. This urban retreat also features Marco Polo, an onsite restaurant serving Italian dishes in a poolside atmosphere.

Among the many downtown hotels, Hotel Per La stands out as the perfect "Goldilocks" choice. This property offers everything you need—and at a surprisingly affordable price. Housed in a historic bank building, its decor and amenities are cozy and picture-perfect. Highlights include a rooftop pool and Ristorante Per L’Ora, which captures the essence of the Italian coastline.

The Fairmont Century Plaza in Century City is conveniently close to numerous major attractions, blending style and comfort with a quintessentially LA experience. Originally opened in 1966, the hotel has hosted multiple presidents and celebrities throughout its remarkable history, and it underwent a $2.5 billion renovation as part of Century Plaza’s transformation. With its prime location, storied background, fantastic dining options, exquisite rooms, and one of the city's largest and finest spas, it guarantees a relaxing stay.

"For a perfect staycation, The Surfrider Malibu is our go-to spot," shares Juen. "It’s trendy, peaceful, close to the beach, and just far enough away from the chaos to feel like a true getaway." The highlight of this Malibu treasure is its exclusive rooftop bar and restaurant, available only to hotel guests.

Dining Options

Situated on one of East LA's most vibrant streets, Checker Hall is a popular Highland Park spot that buzzes with locals, offering a Mediterranean-inspired menu. Recently redesigned by Martyn Bullard, this vintage-style venue features cozy, dim lighting and a large bar. It’s perfect for enjoying a full meal or grabbing cocktails and snacks before heading out for the night.

"LA adores our Bacari locations, but Bacari Silver Lake truly shines," notes Juen. Bacari is celebrated for its shareable tapas-style dining. With a diverse menu of delicious dishes, the Silver Lake spot offers an enchanting atmosphere with varying levels, surrounded by lush greenery, candlelight, and inviting textures.

Coucou is a California-inspired French bistro located in Venice. Since its opening in 2023, it has quickly made a mark on the local dining scene, featuring standout menu items like the Million Dollar Martini, gourmet hot dog, and delightful soft-serve sundae.

Need a reason to cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway? Broad Street Oyster in Malibu captures everything that makes California special. With the ocean breeze, sunshine, and delicious lobster rolls, this restaurant embodies classic California charm. Enjoy a meal on the spacious patio or grab takeout for a beach picnic.

Clark Street Diner, previously known as Cafe 101, is a legendary spot in Los Angeles. Many films have been shot and scripted here, and the diner remains a hub for young creatives and industry professionals. Be sure to try their outstanding pastries while you're there.

Drinking Venues

Oriel is one of LA's best-kept secrets. This modern wine bar, illuminated by pink neon lights, is tucked beneath a freeway in Chinatown. Stop by for a glass of wine and relaxed French dishes, especially during their excellent happy hour from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

A local landmark, The Dresden Restaurant and Lounge in Los Feliz has been a staple since 1954. The lounge offers live jazz every night, but its standout feature is the exceptional cocktail menu. It exudes that classic Hollywood atmosphere that even longtime locals yearn for.

Located in Glassell Park, Capri Club is one of the city's hottest new cocktail bars. In addition to fantastic cocktails (including Negronis), you'll find an array of Amaro, red vinyl booths, European-style outdoor seating, and delicious Italian snacks. "If you're hunting for the best lasagna in town, make sure to visit Capri Club on a Monday," suggests Juen.

Step into the past at The Spare Room. Nestled within the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, this venue offers a fantastic atmosphere to enjoy classic cocktails while playing board games and card games. If you're in the mood for some fun, you can reserve one of their two vintage bowling lanes.

"In my opinion, Lolo Wine Bar is one of the trendiest wine bars in the city," shares Juen. "Every time I walk in, I feel like capturing countless photos or getting proposed to… or maybe both!" With its checkered floors, candlelit ambiance, small plates, and selection of natural wines, Lolo is a true homage to wine lovers.

Hiking Locations

Prefer ocean vistas to cityscapes? The Zuma Canyon Ocean View Trail is situated deep in Malibu, and the drive is definitely worthwhile. This trail offers an easy walk, and you can also opt for a full loop if you wish.

If you’re looking for a hiking experience similar to Runyon Canyon but with fewer crowds, explore the trails in Griffith Park. Still centrally located, it can get busy, but you'll find many trail options and diverse views, including a path that takes you close to the famous Hollywood sign.

Elysian Park offers a quieter, more urban hiking experience. The Elysian Park West Loop spans about 2.4 miles and is perfect for enjoying stunning views of Downtown LA, fitting in a quick walk, or exercising with your dog.

If there’s one outdoor spot where all LA residents gather for an intense leg workout, it’s the “Culver City Stairs” (also known as the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook). The stairs are challenging, but the reward is a breathtaking 360-degree view of Los Angeles. There are also plenty of trails nearby if you choose to explore further.

Attractions and Activities

Established in 1927, Highland Park Bowl holds the title of LA’s oldest bowling alley and remains one of the city’s most beloved hangout spots. Its beautifully restored vintage lanes are complemented by a full bar, lounge, and a craft pizza menu. If you're with a group, this is a must-try activity on your list.

What could be more charming than pedaling around on a swan-shaped boat? Given LA's favorable weather, Echo Park Lake offers a delightful outdoor experience to soak up the local vibe. After your boat ride, enjoy a picnic in the park or stroll along Echo Park Boulevard to uncover your new favorite bar or café.

“A must-do activity in LA is attending an outdoor movie screening,” says Juen. “These events happen almost year-round and come from various hosts.” The most renowned is Cinespia, known for its screenings at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Other great options include Street Food Cinema, Rooftop Cinema Club, and Melrose Rooftop Theatre.

The Last Bookstore is genuinely unique. Regardless of whether you’re an avid reader, a visit here is a magical and inspiring experience. Housed in a building over a century old, it boasts a sprawling, multilevel space of 22,000 square feet filled with books, records, art, installations, and more.

While LA boasts numerous fantastic museums, The Broad stands out as a true representation of the city's culture. It features modern art within stunning contemporary architecture and is one of the newest additions to the city's museum scene. Don’t miss the Infinity Mirror Rooms by Yayoi Kusama, and remember to book your free reservation in advance.