LAX - airport hotel for plane spotting

Question

Hello, any recommendations for an LAX hotel with the best plane spotting and views of the runway? We have a one day layover and my sons are huge aviation enthusiasts. Appreciate any recommendations.

Thanks!

Answer

For aviation enthusiasts, staying near LAX with runway views can make a layover especially exciting. While LAX doesn’t have hotels directly on the airfield, several nearby hotels offer good views of aircraft movements and the airport environment.

Top hotel options for plane spotting near LAX:

Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport: Located directly across from LAX, some rooms have partial runway views. The hotel is modern, comfortable, and has a rooftop area where you can often see planes taking off and landing.
Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles LAX/Century Boulevard: Rooms facing the airport side provide a decent view of aircraft. This hotel is conveniently located for easy access to terminals.
H Hotel Los Angeles, Curio Collection by Hilton: About 1 mile from LAX, some rooms have airport views. The rooftop or higher floors are often best for spotting planes.
Embassy Suites by Hilton LAX South: Some suites offer partial airport and runway views. Spacious rooms make it comfortable for families.

Additional Tips:

Ask for a room specifically facing the airport or the runways when booking, as not all rooms have a view.
Higher floors generally provide better sightlines over airport buildings and hangars.
For more active plane spotting, consider visiting nearby public areas like Clutter’s Park in El Segundo, which is outside the airport perimeter and popular with aviation enthusiasts.
Bring binoculars and a camera if your sons want close-up photos of the aircraft taking off and landing.

Staying at one of these hotels can make a one-day layover memorable for aviation fans, providing comfortable accommodation and easy access to LAX while enjoying some excellent plane spotting opportunities.