Areas to Avoid in Los Angeles
United States
|⚠️ CautionHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Los Angeles. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Los Angeles is generally Use Caution
2 areas to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Santa Monica, West Hollywood, Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
Travel Insurance for Los Angeles
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Los Angeles are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Skid Row (DTLA)
This area has a very high concentration of homeless individuals and is not a tourist destination; it can be overwhelming and unsafe for visitors.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Santa Monica
A vibrant beach city with a lively pier and upscale shopping.
Certain stretches of Hollywood Boulevard (away from major attractions)
While the Walk of Fame area is a tourist hub, venturing too far off the beaten path, especially at night, can lead to areas with increased petty crime and aggressive panhandling.
🛡️ Stay here instead: West Hollywood
The epicenter of LA's nightlife, arts, and LGBTQ+ scene.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Los Angeles
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Los Angeles Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Los Angeles on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Los Angeles Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Los Angeles with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Los Angeles: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Los Angeles's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Los Angeles: Scenic Excursion
Escape Los Angeles for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Los Angeles Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Los Angeles's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Los Angeles
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
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Explore Los Angeles safely with a local guide
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Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
Santa Monica
A vibrant beach city with a lively pier and upscale shopping.
Generally very safe during the day with a visible police presence; evenings are also safe in well-lit tourist areas, but be aware of your surroundings.
West Hollywood
The epicenter of LA's nightlife, arts, and LGBTQ+ scene.
Generally safe, especially on main streets with active nightlife. Be mindful of your belongings and avoid poorly lit side streets late at night.
General Safety Tips for Los Angeles
At Night
Varies significantly by neighborhood. Tourist hubs like Santa Monica Pier and parts of West Hollywood are generally safe. DTLA and certain parts of Hollywood require more vigilance. Avoid walking alone in deserted or poorly lit areas.
Solo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Public transport can be less safe late at night.
Emergency Number
911
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Los Angeles
- 1Fake petitions/charity collectors in tourist areas.
- 2Overly friendly strangers offering 'free' tours or help, leading to requests for money.
- 3Street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
Travel Insurance for Los Angeles
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Santa Monica
A vibrant beach city with a lively pier and upscale shopping.
Generally very safe during the day with a visible police presence; evenings are also safe in well-lit tourist areas, but be aware of your surroundings.
West Hollywood
The epicenter of LA's nightlife, arts, and LGBTQ+ scene.
Generally safe, especially on main streets with active nightlife. Be mindful of your belongings and avoid poorly lit side streets late at night.
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
A rapidly evolving urban core with historic architecture, modern skyscrapers, and diverse cultural offerings.
Daytime is generally safe in business and tourist districts. Nighttime requires caution; stick to well-lit main streets and avoid deserted areas. Homeless encampments are common.
Koreatown
A bustling, diverse neighborhood renowned for its incredible food scene and 24/7 energy.
Generally safe during the day and early evening, especially around main thoroughfares. Be aware of your surroundings at night, as some areas can be dimly lit or have increased foot traffic.
Safety in Los Angeles
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. Public transport can be less safe late at night.
At Night
Varies significantly by neighborhood. Tourist hubs like Santa Monica Pier and parts of West Hollywood are generally safe. DTLA and certain parts of Hollywood require more vigilance. Avoid walking alone in deserted or poorly lit areas.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Fake petitions/charity collectors in tourist areas.
- 2Overly friendly strangers offering 'free' tours or help, leading to requests for money.
- 3Street vendors selling counterfeit goods.
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