Los Angeles
Epic LA adventures on a shoestring: hikes, waves, and free vistas
Highlights
Stunning free panoramas of the city and Hollywood Sign from hilltop trails.
Budget intro to surfing on iconic waves with beach boardwalk energy.
Moderate trails with 360-degree LA views and celebrity spotting potential.
Free lake strolls into affordable bars and live music vibes.
Street food haven with local flavors under $15 in historic architecture.
22-mile free coastal walk blending beach, photography, and ocean air.
Where to Stay
2 picks
Samesun Hollywood
Clean hostel with private couple rooms, communal kitchen, and rooftop lounge.
Banana Bungalow Hollywood
Lively budget hostel near Walk of Fame with free breakfast and social events.
Where to Eat
6 picks
Tacos Tumbras a Tomas
Street-style tacos with al pastor and carnitas; get the trio plate.
Pink's Hot Dogs
Iconic street dogs with chili and toppings; split a combo.
The Shack Tacos & Tequila
Fish tacos and veggie options; beachside picnic-style.
Banana Leaf Thai
Curry bowls and pad thai; share plates for value.
Tacos Tumbras (GCM Stall)
Breakfast burritos and egg tacos; quick and filling.
Eggslut (Food Truck Nearby)
Slutty egg sandwich; portable and indulgent.
What to Do
9 picks
Griffith Observatory & Park Hike
Free observatory exhibits, city views, and easy-moderate trails to Hollywood Sign overlook; wear sneakers, bring water.
Runyon Canyon Hike
Free 2-mile loop with city panoramas and Hollywood Sign; medium fitness, 1-2 hours.
Hollywood Walk of Fame & Bars
Free star-gazing stroll into dive bars for cheap drinks and live music.
Venice Beach & Surf Lesson
Free boardwalk people-watching, street performers, then 2-hour group surf lesson; book ahead, wear swimsuits.
Venice Canals & Abbot Kinney
Free canal walks with architecture, then street shopping and markets on Abbott Kinney Blvd.
The Strand Coastal Walk
Free 3-mile beach path with ocean views, skate park, and pier peeks.
Grand Central Market
Historic market with street food stalls, architecture, and people-watching.
La Brea Tar Pits Park
Free outdoor fossil pits and nature walks; photography of bubbling tar.
Echo Park Lake Stroll
Free lotus-filled lake path with skyline views and skyline architecture.
Good to Know
5 picks
Pack Layers for Microclimates
LA weather shifts from cool beaches to hot hills; bring light jacket and hat for hikes.
Cash for Street Vendors
Many food trucks and markets are cash-only; withdraw $50/day for tacos and tips.
Reserve surf/lessons via apps day prior for group discounts under $70.
Secures medium-risk thrills on budget for couple's schedule.
Free Parking Hacks
Street park before 8 AM or use apps like SpotHero for $5-10 lots near clusters.
Hydrate on Hikes
Refill at free park fountains; carry reusable bottle as temps hit 80F.
Map
Best For
Start planning your trip with this itinerary in Takeoff.
Don't have the app? Download it free on the App Store.