Since the golden age of Hollywood, Los Angeles has been a trailblazer for style, luxury and chic city breaks. You could easily spend weeks (or years) exploring the city’s many faces – from Santa Monica to Sunset Boulevard, the exclusive boutiques of Rodeo Drive to the star-studded Walk of Fame. Beyond the metropolis are beach retreats, rolling hills dotted with waterfalls and wildflowers, and Big Sur with its endless ocean views.
BEACHES
Sun-drenched Santa Monica Beach is a beautiful stretch of Californian coastline. You could stroll along the promenade to hip Venice Beach. Or drop into a waterside restaurant for fresh seafood or colourful sushi. To see and be seen, drive to the sands at Malibu – you might find yourself sunbathing alongside the stars.
SHOPPING
For the latest designs and exclusive boutiques, The Beverly Center won’t disappoint. Or spend time at The Grove and marvel at the dancing fountains in between browsing the stores. Closer to the ocean, Santa Monica Place is particularly pleasant to wander around. And, if you prefer something a little more provincial, you’ll find farmers’ markets filled with enticing sights and smells.
NATURE
The hills and canyons fringing LA make it ideal for combining the best of a city break with adventures in the great outdoors. Choose a hiking trail that gives a unique view of the city – from the Hollywood sign to Sunset Strip. Or visit Bronson Canyon, the site of many classic movies. For ocean and mountain vistas, try the Will Rogers State Park near Santa Monica.
Meander along Santa Monica’s Ocean Front Walk to watch chess being played beside the beach. Or pit your skills against the locals and join an open table.
