Where to Stay in Los Angeles
Safe neighborhoods, social hostels, and practical tips for women travelling alone
Top 3 Areas to Stay in Los Angeles
Safest neighbourhoods with low crime and well-lit streets
Santa Monica
A vibrant beach city with a lively pier and upscale shopping.
Our top picks in Santa Monica
Luxurious beachfront hotel with a sophisticated, Hamptons-like feel.
Book NowArt Deco-inspired hotel with a popular rooftop bar overlooking the ocean.
Book NowChic boutique hotel with a cozy, residential feel and a lovely courtyard.
Book Now
Koreatown
A bustling, diverse neighborhood renowned for its incredible food scene and 24/7 energy.
Our top picks in Koreatown
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
A rapidly evolving urban core with historic architecture, modern skyscrapers, and diverse cultural offerings.
Our top picks in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
Iconic hotel with a rooftop pool and bar offering stunning city views.
Book NowHoused in a historic theater, known for its stylish design and vibrant lobby scene.
Book NowTrendy hotel with a rooftop pool, offering both private rooms and shared accommodations.
Book NowWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Neighbourhood Comparison for Solo Female Travellers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|---|
#1Koreatown | Budget | A bustling, diverse neighborhood renowned for its incredible food scene and 24/7 energy. | foodiesbudget | Generally safe during the day and early ... |
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) | Mid-range | A rapidly evolving urban core with historic architecture, modern skyscrapers, and diverse cultural offerings. | culturefoodies | Daytime is generally safe in business an... |
Santa Monica | Luxury | A vibrant beach city with a lively pier and upscale shopping. | familiescouples | Generally very safe during the day with ... |
West Hollywood | Luxury | The epicenter of LA's nightlife, arts, and LGBTQ+ scene. | nightlifecouples | Generally safe, especially on main stree... |
Find safe, well-reviewed hotels in Los Angeles
Hotels in safe neighbourhoods with great reviews
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Tips for Solo Female Travellers in Los Angeles
Share Your Location
Use Google Maps or WhatsApp location sharing with a trusted contact back home, especially when exploring new areas.
Use Official Transport
Stick to official taxis, ride-hailing apps, or public transport in Los Angeles. Avoid unmarked vehicles, especially at night.
Choose Central Accommodation
Staying in well-lit, central areas reduces risk and the need for late-night transport. Read reviews from solo female travellers specifically.
Learn Key Phrases
Knowing basic local phrases for help, directions, and refusal can be invaluable. Download an offline translation app.
Book a group tour in Los Angeles
Safe, social ways to explore the city
Best Neighborhoods for Solo Female Travellers
Ranked by relevance for solo female travellers visiting Los Angeles
Koreatown
BudgetA bustling, diverse neighborhood renowned for its incredible food scene and 24/7 energy.
- +Unbeatable and affordable food options
- +Vibrant nightlife and entertainment
- +Good access to public transportation (Metro Red/Purple Lines)
- -Can be noisy and crowded
- -Street parking is very difficult
- -Less aesthetically polished than some other areas
🛡️ 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.
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
Mid-rangeA rapidly evolving urban core with historic architecture, modern skyscrapers, and diverse cultural offerings.
- +Excellent public transport hub
- +Wide range of dining and cultural attractions
- +Revitalized areas with impressive architecture
- -Can feel desolate in certain areas at night
- -Visible homelessness is a significant issue
🛡️ 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.
Santa Monica
LuxuryA vibrant beach city with a lively pier and upscale shopping.
- +Direct beach access and ocean views
- +Excellent walkability and many amenities
- +Good public transport connections (Expo Line)
- -Can be very crowded, especially on weekends
- -Higher cost of living and accommodation
🛡️ 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
LuxuryThe epicenter of LA's nightlife, arts, and LGBTQ+ scene.
- +Incredible dining and entertainment options
- +Stylish and trendy atmosphere
- +Central location for exploring other parts of LA
- -Can be noisy due to nightlife
- -Parking can be challenging and expensive
🛡️ Generally safe, especially on main streets with active nightlife. Be mindful of your belongings and avoid poorly lit side streets late at night.
Daily Budget (Budget)
USD 100/day
Hidden Gems in Los Angeles
Lesser-known spots the locals love
The Last Bookstore
This iconic independent bookstore is a labyrinth of new and used books, with a famous art gallery and a unique Instagrammable tunnel of books.
Grand Central Market
A historic food hall buzzing with energy, featuring a diverse array of vendors offering everything from pupusas to gourmet ice cream.
Langer's Deli
Consistently rated as one of the best delis in the country, famous for its #19 pastrami sandwich on rye.
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.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Los Angeles
Join small group tours led by local guides for a safe, social way to explore the city.
Los Angeles Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Explore Los Angeles safely in a small group with a knowledgeable local guide. A great way to get your bearings and meet fellow travellers on day one.
View Tour Details
Los Angeles Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Visit trusted restaurants and street food stalls in Los Angeles with an experienced guide by your side. Safe, social, and seriously delicious.
View Tour Details
Best of Los Angeles: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
See Los Angeles's top sights without the stress of navigating alone. Pre-booked skip-the-line access with a guide who handles all the details.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Los Angeles: Scenic Excursion
Explore beyond Los Angeles without worrying about logistics. Transport, guide, and a group of fellow travellers are all included.
View Tour Details
Los Angeles Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Experience the culture of Los Angeles in a friendly group setting. Evening tours, cooking classes, and neighbourhood walks designed to be safe and social.
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.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Los Angeles
Solo Female Travellers in Los Angeles: FAQ
What is the best area in Los Angeles for solo female travellers?
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