Live Your Best Lives
  1. Travel FAQs
  2. United States
  3. California (CA)
  4. Los Angeles

48 hours in LA area

Hi

I have a couple od days on the LA area and will have a rentaed car. Not my first visit. We're three adults. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Love nature and culture

With 48 hours in the Los Angeles area, and a love for nature and culture, you can enjoy a mix of iconic sights, outdoor experiences, and cultural hotspots without feeling too rushed. Having a rental car is a big advantage, as it allows you to navigate LA’s sprawling neighborhoods efficiently.

Here’s a suggested approach to maximize your two days:

  • Day 1 – Culture and iconic LA:
    • The Getty Center: Combines stunning art collections with beautiful architecture and gardens overlooking the city.
    • Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): If you prefer downtown or mid-city, LACMA offers a wide range of art exhibitions, and the nearby La Brea Tar Pits provide an interesting natural history element.
    • Hollywood & Walk of Fame: A short drive can give a quick taste of the classic tourist experience; consider the nearby TCL Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre for context.
    • Griffith Observatory & Griffith Park: Offers both nature and culture with exhibits and stunning views of LA and the Hollywood Sign. Ideal for sunset if your timing works.
  • Day 2 – Nature and coastal experience:
    • Santa Monica & Venice Beach: Walk or bike along the beachfront, enjoy ocean views, and explore the unique Venice canals and boardwalk.
    • Malibu coastal drive & beaches: Stop at Zuma Beach or El Matador Beach for scenic coastal views and short hikes.
    • Hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains: Trails like Solstice Canyon or Temescal Canyon offer moderate hikes with ocean views, combining outdoor activity with natural beauty.

Additional tips:

  • Start early to avoid traffic, especially if crossing from inland areas to the coast.
  • Pack layers; mornings can be cool in the hills and evenings by the coast.
  • Prioritize what interests your group most—art museums, hiking, or scenic drives—so you don’t feel rushed.

Overall, a blend of the Getty Center, Griffith Observatory, and either coastal drives or beach hikes gives a balanced two-day itinerary combining culture, nature, and iconic LA scenery.

More Los Angeles Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Observatory
Los Angeles
Venice
beach
Mali
canal

Popular Destinations

Huangyang Mountain
Xingyang Botanical Garden
Baijiayan
Penglai Pavilion

Popular Travel Questions