What’s the best time to visit Los Angeles?
The movies make it seem like Los Angeles is a summer wonderland 365 days a year; but L.A. does actually have seasons, they are just not the ones you know back home. The city's various microclimates mean it can be gloomy and cold in one part of town and scorching in another. The dry season starts around April or May, and the city doesn't see a drop of rain until November. Fog can make May gray or June gloomy, but July through October is the finest time of year in the beach communities. Typically, they enjoy sunny 75 F days and nights perfect for sleeping with open windows. Further inland and in the valleys, however, temperatures get into the 80s and 90s, making air-conditioning a must, so if you've planned a summer vacay pack the suntan lotion and a hat. By September or October, enclaves in the canyons and near national forests become hot and dry tinderboxes subject to devastating wildfires. Even during the season between November and April, there isn't that much rain. Just 15 inches falls in an average year, usually in the form of big downpours between January and March. When it's not raining, days are sunny and bright, with temperatures in the high 70s and 80s during the day and 50s or 60s at night.
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On June 11Natalie Wearstler answered the question:
What are the best day trips near Los Angeles?
Catalina Island is a perfect day trip destination if you find yourself in need of a break from the congestion of Los Angeles.
To get there, hop on board the Catalina Express for the short trip — the island is only 22 miles off the coast of Los Angeles, and the high-speed boat will have you there in just over an hour. Once you've docked, take some time to explore the quaint city of Avalon. The independent boutiques and shops sell a little bit of everything; on a recent visit, I particularly enjoyed picking up a bag of saltwater taffy from Lloyd's of Avalon and admiring the carefully curated inventory of jewelry and home décor at Two's Company of Avalon. I also recommend taking a behind-the-scenes tour of the Catalina Casino to learn about history of the beautiful Art Deco theatre and ballroom. If you're feeling brave, the Catalina Zip Line Eco Tour is a breathtaking way to spend two hours.
For breakfast or lunch (depending on when you arrive on the island), you simply must make reservations to dine at the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Inn on Mount Ada. The charming boutique hotel has a lovely outdoor patio that overlooks Avalon Bay and the Pacific Ocean. Pair it with a bountiful turkey sandwich or a plate of banana pecan French toast, and it's even better. -
On May 30Christina Xenos answered the question:
What are the best beachside hotels in Los Angeles?
When you visit Los Angeles there's no question that at some point you'll want to visit the beach, so why not stay there? The coast from Palos Verdes to Malibu is peppered with plenty of options. Here are some highlights:
Casa del Mar
The Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel offers sweeping ocean views from most of their 129 guest rooms, in addition to a lively lobby bar scene and restaurant, Catch that offers farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on seafood selections. You can also visit their Sea Wellness Spa for a variety of skincare and body treatments and wellness programs.
Shutters On The Beach
Valet your car and immediately stick your toes in the sand at this Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star beachside property. You can enjoy the sound of waves hitting the shore from many of the 186 guestrooms and 14 suites, in addition to their stellar market driven restaurant One Pico that offers nearly panoramic seaside views. If you're still not relaxed book a service at the spa and layout by the pool while you wait.
The Terranea
While not technically on the beach (you're on a hill's edge overlooking the Pacific Ocean), you can get a full luxury seaside experience at the Terranea Resort. On site you have everything you need to pamper yourself at your finger tips: an award-winning 9-hole par 3 golf course, destination spa, three pools with ocean views and eight unique restaurants, in addition to a wide selection of resort activities. -
On May 30Christina Xenos answered the question:
What are the best hair salons in Los Angeles?
Hair trends start in Los Angeles, so why not book an appointment at the salons setting the trends? Here are three salons where you can get your tresses tamed with the highest skill.
José Eber
With a name that is synonymous with covet-worthy hair José Eber's flagship salon in Beverly Hills is a must visit if you need a fresh new look, or even if you just want to freshen up what you already consider perfection. With a service menu that offers everything from cuts and styles, to color and extensions and makeup and manicures, you can't go wrong here.
Warren Tricomi
Los Angeles also offers you the opportunity to visit the Melrose Ave. outpost of legendary luxury hair gurus Joel Warren and Edward Tricomi. Whether you want a slick style or expert color, the salon menu will fulfill all your hair and makeup needs.
Sally Herschberger
The hairstylist to some of Hollywood's biggest stars (think Meg Ryan, Blake Lively, Michelle Pfeiffer) Sally Herschberger and her team of stylists in know how to bring your look in line with the season's hottest trends, whether it's bangs or curls, extensions or color. -
On May 30Christina Xenos answered the question:
What is the hottest nightclub in Los Angeles?
Focusing on just one nightclub in Los Angeles would do it a disservice. L.A. is a playground for nightlife activity no matter where in the city you might be.
Hollywood is your epicenter for clubbing in L.A. At the newly opened Emerson Theater you can sip cocktails in the glamour of the 1920s that is fused with a contemporary twist. Not far away, newly opened high energy nightspot Create nightclub features the best in high-profile dance music talent and emerging artists; while The Colony takes an elite East Coast angle and transports you to a hip Hamptons beach house for the night.
In West Hollywood you can party poolside at SkyBar at the Mondrian Hotel. While the actual open-air SkyBar effortlessly floats above the pool, nothing can stop you from taking your drink to the water's edge. Farther west on Sunset Blvd., you can't go wrong with catching a show at music clubs like the House of Blues, Viper Room and The Roxy and new swank retro‑vaudeville lounge Bootsie Bellows. -
On May 27Christina Xenos answered the question:
What are the best sushi restaurants in Los Angeles?
To most people living in Los Angeles, eating sushi comes to them as naturally and as often as breathing. You will find sushi dens every few blocks, on a rate where you wonder if there are enough fish in the sea to sustain the local culture. While L.A. has numerous gems like Katsuya, Yamashiro (known mainly for its view) and Hirozen, here are three gems that you should not miss.
Urasawa
Do you want your own "Jiro Dreams of Sushi" experience in Los Angeles? You may find it at Urasawa. Known to be one of the top (in quality and price) sushi restaurants in the country, Urasawa might be considered a bucket list restaurant to most people. Chef-owner Hiroyuki Urasawa obsessively creates each bit of melt-in-your-mouth sushi for a tiny bar area that seats 10 people at a time.
Nobu
Dine on chef Nobu Matsuhisa's signature dishes—wagyu tacos, seabass jalapeno miso, kanpachi sashimi, black cod with miso—and a delectable sushi selection in two locations on La Cienega Blvd. and seaside in Malibu.
Sugarfish
Chef Kazunori Nozawa (aka the "Sushi Nazi") left his famed Studio City sushi outpost to man locations of Sugarfish in Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Brentwood, Marina del Rey, downtown and Studio City. You won't find fancy rolls and sauces here because chef Nozawa chooses to focus on the highest level of fish and rice. Although you may order a la carte, most everyone selects from one of three "Trust Me" menus that feature what the chef deems to be the freshest and highest quality sushi of the day. Seating is on a first-come-first-served basis. -
On May 26Christina Xenos answered the question:
What are the best clothing boutiques in Los Angeles?
With all the glitz and glam that amp up living and visiting Los Angeles, there's no doubt you'll want to shop for some new styles while you here. Find a wide selection of top fashion trends at these clothing boutiques around the city.
Start shopping on Robertson Blvd. for boutiques like Kitson, Curve and a cutting-edge Chanel concept store. Around the corner, the West 3rd Street shopping district is home to Trina Turk, Milk and a 4,000 square-foot Rag & Bone flagship store (the largest to date).
Luxury also pops up on Melrose Ave. which is now home to Fred Segal, Vivan Westwood, Alexander Wang, Joie, Isabel Marant, Kelly Wearstler and James Perse.
Sunset Plaza crowns the Sunset Strip offering labels like Sand, H. Lorenzo and an eclectic mix of designer style at Tags.
On the west side Abbot Kinney Blvd. in Venice is brimming with outposts for Burning Torch, Wills Leather Goods, the first Toms Shoes flagship, while in Santa Monica find yet another Fred Segal and a mix of designer shops in Santa Monica Place (think Bloomingdale's, Ted Baker, Eva Varro and Free People). On north end of Santa Monica you'll find Montana Ave. and boutiques like Coquette from designer Aries Milan, Ruti, Rosark. -
On May 26Christina Xenos answered the question:
What are the best beaches in Los Angeles?
With nearly yearlong perfect weather and 72 miles of pristine Pacific Ocean coastline, one of the main attractions in Los Angeles is the stretch of beaches from Malibu to Orange County. Even if you hit a foggy day along the cost, you can still pack your beach towel, sweatshirt and umbrella and head to the shore. Wetsuits also come in handy year-round if you want to surf, kite board or take part in other water activities.
The South Bay beaches are very relaxed with large stretches of powdery sand from the boardwalk to the shore. You have your choice from Redondo Beach, which offers a lively pier, and Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach which feature downtown areas full of dining, shopping and drinking options.
Farther north, Venice Beach is full of fun in the sun and the boardwalk is (for better or for worse) one of L.A.'s iconic attractions. Santa Monica is home to a lovely beach and the Santa Monica Pier, which features the iconic Ferris wheel and carnival atmosphere of Pacific Park.
Capping off L.A.'s beach scene are the pristine Malibu beaches like Point Dume and Zuma Beach. Lay down your towel and catch a view of the surfers and kite borders, or jump in the waves for yourself. Paradise Cove, on the beach in Malibu, is where you want to dine if you're spending a casual day at the beach. You can either grab a bite in their beachside cafe or book a cabana on the beach (definitely plan that in advance during warmer days). -
On May 26Christina Xenos answered the question:
What is Los Angeles’ dining scene like?
The Los Angeles dining scene is a melting pot of options and cuisines, highlighted by the fact that L.A. is a city of immigrants whose international influence plays in heavy with what's being served in restaurants around the city.
When you're dining out in Los Angeles, be adventurous about trying new cuisines. They could be in the form an epic carte blanche tasting menu at Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star French restaurant Mélisse; Ricardo Zarate's take on upscale Peruvian cuisine at Mo-Chica, Picca and Paiche; or a bite of Roy Choi's own blend of L.A. Soulfood at Chego. No matter what you choose, you'll walk away with a unique culinary experience.
You'll also want to plan ahead with advance reservations if you're trying to access some of L.A.'s more popular restaurants on busy weekend nights, or at all. If you happen to come across a restaurant that doesn't take reservations, just show up, embrace the wait, grab a cocktail or a glass of wine and enjoy! -
On May 26Christina Xenos answered the question:
What are the best farmers markets in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is a hotbed for farm-to-table cuisine and where best to find the finest ingredients than at one of L.A. farmers markets. Certified Farmers Markets pop up daily in different neighborhoods around the city. Here’s where you’ll want to start.
Los Angeles is lucky to be home to the Wednesday Santa Monica Farmers Market, the largest grower-only Certified Farmers Market in Southern California. At the market you'll find more than four blocks of farmers selling their locally grown produce, sustainably raised meats, flowers, prepared foods and more. The finds at this market also serve as the cornerstone of many chefs’ menus at restaurants from Santa Monica to downtown.
Hollywood also boasts a certified farmers market on Sunday mornings on Ivar Ave. at Selma St. There you'll find two blocks of produce, meats, fresh fish and plenty of prepared food and gourmet items to take home. Hit the oyster tent on the south end of Ivar Ave. for a freshly shucked treat.
You can’t mention “Los Angeles” and “farmers market” in a sentence without highlighting the Original Farmers Market on 3rd St. and Fairfax Ave. This nearly 80-year-old iconic landmark has 120 produce stalls, restaurants and gift shops and often features live music and other events. -
On May 26Christina Xenos answered the question:
What are the best farmers markets in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is a hotbed for farm-to-table cuisine and where best to find the finest ingredients than at one of L.A. farmers markets. Certified Farmers Markets pop up daily in different neighborhoods around the city. Here’s where you’ll want to start.
Los Angeles is lucky to be home to the Wednesday Santa Monica Farmers Market, the largest grower-only Certified Farmers Market in Southern California. At the market you'll find more than four blocks of farmers selling their locally grown produce, sustainably raised meats, flowers, prepared foods and more. The finds at this market also serve as the cornerstone of many chefs’ menus at restaurants from Santa Monica to downtown.
Hollywood also boasts a certified farmers market on Sunday mornings on Ivar Ave. at Selma St. There you'll find two blocks of produce, meats, fresh fish and plenty of prepared food and gourmet items to take home. Hit the oyster tent on the south end of Ivar Ave. for a freshly shucked treat.
You can’t mention “Los Angeles” and “farmers market” in a sentence without highlighting the Original Farmers Market on 3rd St. and Fairfax Ave. This nearly 80-year-old iconic landmark has 120 produce stalls, restaurants and gift shops and often features live music and other events. -
On May 26Christina Xenos answered the question:
What are the best wedding venues in Los Angeles?
Known as a city of infinite possibility, the same rings true for wedding venues in Los Angeles. Any storied spot in L.A. can be turned into the party of a lifetime; the only thing limiting you is budget and how far your imagination can stretch.
If you're going for traditional, the sophisticated seaside ambiance at Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel Casa del Mar in Santa Monica will offer that to you. Find expansive views of the Pacific, picture perfect grand staircases and a beachfront terrace, not to mention a lively lounge perfect for a reception or after party. The Langham Huntington, Pasadena is also a storybook spot. Fans of ABC's "The Bachorlette" may have seen Ashley and J.P. tie the knot there at the end of the 2012 season in an episode that showcased the Langham's sprawling gardens and grand ballrooms that date back to 1907.
If you start thinking on a much grander level, consider renting out some of L.A.'s iconic attractions. What about a wedding on Paramount Studios Backlot? There, New York Street encompasses a five-acre site and recreates eight areas of the city including Brooklyn, Greenwich Village, SoHo, among others. Tables are set up right in the middle of the street for dinner service and stages for entertainment are perfectly situated in any intersection. Tying the knot next to Space Shuttle Endeavor at the California Science Center is also a possibility, as are any of the halls in the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles. -
On May 25Christina Xenos answered the question:
Where is the best nightlife in Los Angeles?
Whether you want bottle service in a poolside cabana, champagne over panoramic views, or a speakeasy shaking some of the best cocktails around—you'll find plenty of options around Los Angeles.
You can't visit Los Angeles without a trip to the Sunset Strip and that is best done at night so you can get a taste of its storied past. Bar Marmont is the low-key counterpart to the infamous Chateau Marmont hotel and is perfect for martinis and even an oyster nosh. Party poolside at SkyBar at the Mondrian Hotel. While the actual open-air SkyBar effortlessly floats above the pool, nothing can stop you from taking your drink to the water's edge. Farther west on Sunset Blvd., you'll find famous music clubs like the House of Blues, Viper Room and The Roxy and new swank retro‑vaudeville lounge Bootsie Bellows.
In Hollywood the newly opened Emerson Theater captures the glamour of the 1920s and fuses it with a contemporary twist. Over at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, the Tropicana lounge is a must with weekend evenings often featuring DJ talent spinning around the pool that boasts an underwater mural by artist David Hockney. Also in the hotel you'll find super exclusive club Teddy's; fresh crafted cocktails at the Library Bar and a trendy cocktail scene alongside a two-lane bowling alley in the Spare Room.
Downtown you can get your cocktails up high over sweeping views of the city poolside at the Standard Hotel; with a little French fusion at Perch and with the option of eating sushi next door at Elevate Lounge. -
On May 24Christina Xenos answered the question:
What are the best stores for designer clothes in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is king when it comes to designer style. Even when the aesthetically conscious population is heading to their daily yoga classes, they are most often outfitted in lululemon from head to toe. Shopping for luxury wears is never far away and there are plenty of options from which to choose.
Head over to Robertson Blvd. for boutiques like Kitson, Curve and a cutting-edge Chanel concept store. Around the corner, the West 3rd Street shopping district is home to Trina Turk, Milk and a 4,000 square-foot Rag & Bone flagship store (the largest to date). Luxury also pops up on Melrose Ave. which is now home to Fred Segal, Vivan Westwood, Alexander Wang, Joie, Isabel Marant, Kelly Wearstler and James Perse. Sunset Blvd. shows off Sunset Plaza offering labels like Sand, H. Lorenzo and an eclectic mix of designer style at Tags. On the west side Abbot Kinney Blvd. in Venice is brimming with outposts for Burning Torch, Wills Leather Goods, the first Toms Shoes flagship, while in Santa Monica find yet another Fred Segal and a mix of designer shops in Santa Monica Place (think Bloomingdale's, Ted Baker, Eva Varro and Free People). On north end of Santa Monica you'll find Montana Ave. and boutiques like Coquette from designer Aries Milan, Ruti, Rosark.
