Where to stay in LA!?

Question

Hi all, after recommendations on where to stay in LA please.

My family and I (two kids; 11 and 6) will be visiting from Australia in October and land at LAX at 6am. I initially didn’t want to stay in LA at all but we’re now ‘bookending’ our trip with Universal Studios & Disneyland.

We’re staying in the LA area for the first 3 nights (day one to rest and go with the flow after long flight, day 2 Universal, day 3 to explore- thinking Santa Monica, day 4 we’re driving to our next destination), and I’m seeking recommendations on exactly where that should be.

We were initially going to stay in/around Santa Monica/Venice beach, noting the travel to/from Universal.

I’ve read sooo many reviews on Booking.com that I’ve confused myself.

Definitely don’t want to be around downtown LA.

After suggestions please? Thank you!

Answer

Great question. Given your trip plan (resting after the long flight, a day at Universal, then a “beach / explore LA” day), I think you’ve picked a very sensible part of LA to stay — and there are a few very good neighbourhoods to consider, depending on how you balance convenience, vibe, budget, and your priorities.

Here are some top recommendations for where to stay for you and your family for those first 3 nights, plus pros, trade-offs, and tips:

Santa Monica / Ocean Avenue / Near Santa Monica Pier
This is a classic, very family-friendly beach base. There’s a relaxed, walkable feel, lots of restaurants, the Pier, and shops on Third Street Promenade. According to travel guides, Santa Monica is safe, clean, very welcoming for families.
From Santa Monica, you can still do Universal — though it’s a drive. As your first morning in LA is to “go with the flow,” being by the beach gives you a calm place to ease into things. The Visit USA/AU guide notes that Santa Monica is around 21.5 miles from Universal, and public transit is possible, though you might prefer driving for convenience.
Venice / Marina Peninsula
If you like a more bohemian, artsy beachside vibe, Venice is a great option. There’s more of that laid-back street-performer culture, Art Walls, and the canal area. The Marina Peninsula (just adjacent) is quieter and more residential.
This gives you beach access, great food spots, and a vibrant local feel — but know that parking can be tricky and staying “right on the boardwalk” may feel more touristy. Also, driving to Universal from here is similar to Santa Monica — doable, but traffic is a factor.
West Hollywood / Norma Triangle
This is a more central, walkable, “city + style” option. West Hollywood (WeHo) is trendy, safe, and has lots of restaurants and shops. The Norma Triangle is a quiet sub-neighbourhood within it.
Staying here would make it relatively easier to reach Universal, while also giving good access to other LA attractions. Some locals in Reddit threads recommend WeHo or Beverly Grove for families wanting a balance between beachtime and being “in LA.”
Beverly Grove / Mid-City (near The Grove / La Brea)
A good middle-ground, more affordable than beachfront hotels, and quite central. According to guests on forums, this area is very walkable, with good shopping (like The Grove), restaurants, and it's well located for both Universal and westside / beach exploring.
The trade-off is that it's not on the beach, but you’d save on accommodation cost, and still be well-placed for day trips around LA.

My Recommendation (for Your Family):

Given that you’re “bookending” with Universal & Disneyland, and you want a relaxing first few days to recover from the flight, Santa Monica feels like the best base. It’s safe, calm, very family oriented, and gives you that classic SoCal beach feel — plus good dining and easy walks. Even though Universal is a drive, it’s quite manageable for one dedicated day. Then on your explore day, you can do beach stuff, walk or bike along the water, go to the Pier, and enjoy the laid-back coast.

Alternatively, if you like more of a “local city feel” and don’t mind not being right on the sand, West Hollywood or Beverly Grove give you great access to restaurants, shops, and are well located for getting around LA.

Tips for Your Stay:

Consider booking a place with easy parking — you’ll likely have a rental car, especially for Universal. Beach areas can be tight.
Plan your Universal day to leave early (or later) to avoid peak traffic — LA freeways can be very busy.
For your “explore” day, take advantage of beach paths, bike rentals, or walking — Santa Monica is very walkable and bikeable.
Bring layers — evenings by the coast can be cooler, even in October.

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