• about
    • City Guides
    • Tips and Tricks
    • Work with Me
    • shop

    round trip travel and lifestyle blog

    How to Spend a Weekend in Los Angeles

    July 6, 2016

    Los Angeles: land of beaches, mountains and, of course, Hollywood.  With a city so renowned, I was so excited to embark upon my adventure to the West Coast.  Naturally, I turned to my black hole addiction known as Pinterest, and I became more confused and bewildered than when I began.  I soon learned about 4,109,275,844 things I could do during my two full days dedicated to exploring L.A.  Great…  Fortunately, I had the help of some friends: S, Taylor and Suzanne.  No, this list isn’t exhaustive, but if you’re looking for several quick highlights of L.A., here’s how to spend a weekend in Los Angeles.

    DAY 1

    Take a trip to Balboa Island

    In Los Angeles (or really any big city), you will find a bounty of tacky tourist stores.  I guarantee it.  However, Balboa Island houses so many cute little boutiques and non-chain stores.  While many of these adorable boutiques included steep prices, I enjoyed poking around in Valinda’s Art for the Soul.  Although I didn’t fancy their logo font choice (I’m a bit of a font nerd), the store had fun notebooks, magnets and, duh, artwork.  I bought a Paris notebook with some fun quotes because I can always use more Paris memorabilia.  Thanks to S for this fun suggestion.

    Balboa Island Los Angeles California

    Dine at Wilma’s Patio

    My two favorite things: all-day breakfast and Mexican food.  I ordered an Egg Quesadilla.  Although a bit oniony, the jack and cheddar cheese was so gooey and full of flavor.  The dining was casual, and the staff was friendly.  Even better, there was no wait on a Saturday afternoon!

    Wilma's Patio Balboa Island Los Angeles

    Get your java fix at Crocker’s “The Well Dressed Frank”

    Walking into this cute cafe, you’ll notice immediately there is minimal space to walk.  But the wooden tables and bar stools that look directly to the sidewalk from an open window create a charming atmosphere.  I ordered a Mocha Mint Cooler (espresso, chocolate, mint and vanilla ice cream).  OH, SNAP.  It was incredibly creamy and smooth.  The consistency was a crossover between iced coffee and a frappuccino.  You can get a caramel macchiato or a frappuccino-like mocha virtually anywhere, but I’ve never had any drink like this Mocha Mint Cooler.

    Wiggle your toes in the sand of Treasure Island

    Right below the Montage Resort (which is absolutely stunning!), Goff Island provides a small free beach called Treasure Island.  This has to be in the top 3 of most beautiful place in the world; S nailed it with this suggestion.  The deep blue ocean contrasted the rocky cliffs so beautifully; the view took my breath away.  I enjoyed putting my toes in the cold water, collecting shells and snapping some pics of God’s majestic creation.  AMEN.

    • Treasure Island Laguna Beach Los Angeles
    • Treasure Island Laguna Beach Los Angeles Rock

    Enjoy the drive to Dana’s Point

    We’d heard from a number of people that Dana’s Point was also a beautiful area.  And honestly, just driving on Highway 1 in SoCal is beyond gorgeous.  We meandered over to this area, and I particularly enjoyed the more residential and less crowded feel.  While I didn’t stop by, we drove by some cute shops.

    Cool off at Rita’s Ice Custard Happiness

    Also in Dana’s Point, we quenched our thirst at Rita’s Ice Custard Happiness.  Judge me because I didn’t get custard, but I ordered a strawberry slush (blended Italian ice).  It was very refreshing, and it can be nice to get away from the crowds.

    Stroll down Huntington Beach Pier

    Next, we headed over to Huntington Beach per B’s request and strolled by the shops on the pier and those on the street connected to the pier.  Billabong offers an array of surfer-vibe clothes.  But even better, I found pomegranate chapstick with 30 SPF.  I’ve never seen over 15 SPF, and who can beat pomegranate?!  I also saw the word “gelato” and had to stop inside at Mangiamo.  I ordered one scoop of Nutella Swirl and one of Stracciatella (chocolate chip).  It couldn’t compare to the glorious gelato of Italy, but for $3.50, it was alright.

    • Huntington Beach Los Angeles
    • Huntington Beach Pier Los Angeles

    Fuel up at Umami Burger

    It’s America; everybody does burgers.  But holy cow!  Nobody does burgers like Umami.  I ordered the Sunny Side burger: a meat patty topped with Parmesan frisco, sunny-side up egg, truffle thyme compound butter, truffled arugula and truffled aioli.  I ordered mine gluten-free style on a lettuce wrap and sans arugula.  The garlic sauce, parmesan crisp and egg complemented the savory grilled burger.  I’ve never had such a great burger.  S/o to my sister Taylor for the fabulous recommendation.

    Day 2

    Become more cultured at the Getty Center in Los Angeles

    This museum boasts many famous works of art such as Irises by Vincent Van Gogh.  I personally enjoyed Christ’s Entry into Brussels in 1889 by James Ensor; this massive piece of art showcased many faces, several French phrases (which I enjoyed translating) and the unconventional placement and size of the artist’s signature.  For those of you who just lost me in that last sentence, here’s the bottom line: the Getty has beautiful gardens and views that will take your breath away.  S/o to S for another great idea.

    Getty Center Los Angeles Pano
    • Getty Center Los Angeles Waterfall
    • Getty Center Los Angeles Garden

    Dine at the cafe at the Getty

    If you missed the beginning of Day 1, please note that I love Mexican food.  So, of course, I opted for a Fiesta Bowl with chicken.  Spicy yet satisfying.  As you’d expect, it’s overpriced.  If you’re able, maybe plan your day so that you either eat right before the Getty or right after to save some moolah.  But if you must, the Cafe offers some decent options with a killer view.

    Getty Center Los Angeles Cafe

    RELATED ARTICLES: How to Spend a Day in Santa Monica

    Stargaze on Hollywood Boulevard

    I’ve never been anywhere on Earth like Hollywood.  Crowds like you’ve never imagined.  Add up all the street performers you’ve ever seen in your life, and they’ve all migrated to Hollywood.  Traffic so bad that Siri said it will take 6 minutes to go .6 miles (true story).  I’m not gonna lie; it’s hectic.  But Hollywood is a must.  And don’t forget a selfie in front of the Chinese Theater and some shots of the stars.

    Chinese Theater Los Angeles

    Let your inner child run free at Sweet!

    While on Hollywood Boulevard, I dropped by this large candy store per Suzanne’s suggestion.  In the Wonka section of the store, I bought The Endless Summer truffle (milk chocolate, sea salt and caramel).  I took small bites and let them melt in my mouth.  Oh, my dang—scrumptious!!

    Sweet! Candy Hollywood

    Walk up to the Griffith Observatory to see the Hollywood sign

    Suzanne also mentioned that most tourists come to the Griffith Observatory to get a view of the Hollywood sign.  If you’re wondering how to spend a weekend in Los Angeles, this must be on your list! It’s a necessity to snap some pics with this iconic landmark.  And the observatory has some beautiful architecture and a nice rooftop patio.

    Griffith Observatory Los Angeles
    Hollywood Sign

    Grab a burger at In-and-Out

    It’s not a trip to Cali if you don’t get the classic In-and-Out.  I ordered a cheeseburger protein-style and a chocolate shake.  This inexpensive joint will surprise you with its quality burgers and thick, creamy shakes.

    In-and-Out Burger Los Angeles

    I prepared for L.A. with a Spotify California playlist nearing 3 hours (thanks, Tay) and excitement.  Unfortunately, we’d bought tickets to come home.  So, I left, wishing I could take the perfect weather with me and beautiful landscapes.  Until next time, Los Angeles …

    Version 2

    Author Signature

    Share with a friend & save for a future adventure!

    • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
    • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
    • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
    • Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
    • Click to print (Opens in new window)
    21 Comments

    My Fave Finds

    Previous 11 Things to Buy if You Love France
    Next How I Discovered the Beauty of Travel

    You might also like:

    40 Things to Do in St. Louis

    Photo Diary: Small Town Hoppin’ in Mid-MO

    9 Things You Shouldn’t Forget to Pack

    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. freebutfun says

      July 7, 2016 at 12:39 pm

      One day…

      Reply
      • roundtriptravel says

        July 7, 2016 at 12:53 pm

        Did you only have one day?!

        Reply
        • freebutfun says

          July 7, 2016 at 1:01 pm

          No, one day I’ll see those places myself!☺

        • roundtriptravel says

          July 7, 2016 at 1:02 pm

          Ahh definitely! It’s absolutely gorgeous–definitely worth a visit!

    2. Abby says

      July 7, 2016 at 9:10 pm

      Looks absolutely beautiful! Your pictures are awesome 🙂

      Reply
      • roundtriptravel says

        July 7, 2016 at 9:51 pm

        Thank you so much!! Hope to see some posts on your blog soon 🙂

        Reply
    3. lcdorkin says

      February 3, 2017 at 6:22 pm

      I’m going to LA in April! Any must-do tips?

      Reply
      • roundtriptravel says

        February 3, 2017 at 6:33 pm

        Hi Leigh! I’m jealous 🙂 Laguna Beach truly is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen with my two eyes. Photos sincerely can’t do it justice because it’s that gorgeous. The Getty Museum was also very beautiful and fun to walk around! Happy travels!

        Reply
        • lcdorkin says

          February 3, 2017 at 6:41 pm

          Thanks so much! I really cannot wait! Ill definitely add those to my to-do list!

    Trackbacks

    1. How I Discovered the Beauty of Travel – Round Trip says:
      July 13, 2016 at 3:52 pm

      […] hassle of planes can make travel seem daunting and simply not worth it.  But after two weeks in Los Angeles, I gained a new appreciation for travel and fell in love with the beauty of […]

      Reply
    2. Top 10 Beauty Products for Travel – Round Trip says:
      August 31, 2016 at 3:04 pm

      […] Chapstick, but when a sweltering afternoon ruined it, I began the hunt for chapstick nearby Huntington Beach.  I found Sun Bum Pomegranate chapstick which tastes phenomenal.  It also helps that it’s […]

      Reply
    3. Finding My Home Away from Home – Round Trip says:
      October 5, 2016 at 11:01 am

      […] of terminals and food options, but almost every airport includes a Starbucks.  I could be in Los Angeles or London, but I know I can find that wonderful green and white logo for some java.  Before […]

      Reply
    4. 12 More Things to Do in St. Louis – Round Trip says:
      November 2, 2016 at 11:07 am

      […] and you’re craving some more.  This little big city may not be the Big Apple or good ole Los Angeles, but this town still has an abundance of activities and sights.  And here are […]

      Reply
    5. A Love Letter to Travel – Round Trip says:
      February 13, 2017 at 11:04 am

      […] just staring out the window.  It was the same country I’d lived in my whole life; I’d seen Los Angeles in the movies plenty of times.  But there was something exotic and enticing about the […]

      Reply
    6. My 4 Biggest Travel Regrets (+ Giveaway!) – Round Trip says:
      April 12, 2017 at 11:15 am

      […] my several years of French at the Louvre or letting the icy waves creep between my toes in Los Angeles, travel has taught and captivated me all at the same time.  While I’m forever enamored by […]

      Reply
    7. 6 Museums to Visit in Los Angeles – Round Trip says:
      May 17, 2017 at 11:04 am

      […] gave a shout-out to this art museum in her Weekend in Los Angeles post, and she’s spot-on about the lovely views of the city. But what she didn’t mention: If you park […]

      Reply
    8. BLOG // 6 Museums to Visit in Los Angeles – Taylor Blake's Portfolio says:
      July 26, 2017 at 9:47 pm

      […] gave a shout-out to this art museum in her Weekend in Los Angeles post, and she’s spot-on about the lovely views of the city. But what she didn’t mention: A cute […]

      Reply
    9. How to Spend a Day in Santa Monica – round trip says:
      January 10, 2018 at 11:01 am

      […] truly astounds me how freakin’ big Los Angeles is.  On my last trip there, I spent my time near Huntington, Laguna and Hollywood, but despite my two weeks, I only […]

      Reply
    10. Where to Travel Based on Your Enneagram Type – round trip says:
      June 26, 2019 at 9:01 am

      […] Los Angeles is the spot for you. One friend wants to swim, the other wants to hike? No problem. In Los Angeles, you can hike at the Griffith Observatory and swim in the Pacific. Your dad wants to explore a […]

      Reply
    11. 6 Things I Didn't Know Before Starting A Travel Blog - round trip says:
      June 27, 2020 at 7:05 pm

      […] to quit their day job to adopt a nomadic life.  Second, if you had a friend who recently visited Los Angeles and you’re headed there next month, it’s only natural that you’d ask for recommendations.  […]

      Reply
    12. How to Spend a Day in Santa Monica - round trip says:
      August 31, 2020 at 9:58 pm

      […] truly astounds me how freakin’ big Los Angeles is.  On my last trip there, I spent my time near Huntington, Laguna and Hollywood, but despite my two weeks, I only […]

      Reply

    Leave a Reply Cancel reply

    Primary Sidebar

    Bonjour

    Hi, I'm Kristin. I'm a content creator living and working in southern France. You can find me planning my next weekend trip, sharing my best expat trips and sipping iced coffee.
    learn more about my story

    Ad

    Bienvenue

    Hey there, I'm Kristin, a Missouri girl living and working in southern France. I love planning weekend trips, sharing my best expat tips and sipping iced coffee.

    Categories

    Copyright © 2023 round trip
    Theme by SheShoppes
     

    Loading Comments...