7 Best Locations to Stay in Los Angeles with Family for a Perfect Vacation

Santa Monica

Santa Monica easily tops the list of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family. Here, you can spend hours at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, riding the Pacific Park Ferris wheel or playing games in the arcade with your kids. Families love renting bikes to ride the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, which runs right along the sand. You can also take the kids to Heal the Bay Aquarium under the pier for a fun ocean lesson or stroll down Third Street Promenade to shop for a quick bite while watching entertaining street performers. The Santa Monica State Beach here is also clean and safe, perfect for building sandcastles or playing volleyball. Many families say this beachside spot feels like one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family because it’s both lively and relaxed. 

Pasadena

Pasadena stands out as one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family thanks to its welcoming vibe and cool local spots. You can spend the day at Kidspace Children’s Museum, where your little ones can explore nature gardens and interactive exhibits, plus families love the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens for taking walks and quiet picnics. There is a lot to explore here with Old Pasadena for unique shops or watching movies at the historic Laemmle Playhouse 7. The Central Park in Pasadena is also a great space for kids to run around. The place has a laid-back vibe and is packed with things to do, making it one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family. 

Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills shines as one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family, especially if you love Hollywood glamour. There is Rodeo Drive here, which is a world-famous destination for luxury shopping, and families can enjoy browsing the high-end boutiques and cafes. You can grab brunch at The Farm of Beverly Hills or a treat at Sprinkles Cupcakes, then wander the palm-lined streets and simply take in the vibe of the place. Families can additionally enjoy picnics and playtime at Beverly Gardens Park, which has wide green lawns and the famous Beverly Hills sign. The Museum of Television and Radio at the Paley Center for Media is a great spot for kids to see cool TV history. The place is posh and expensive but also beautiful, and fun to explore, making it one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family. 

Bel Air

Bel Air is often called one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family if you love a more serene vibe plus stunning hillside views. It's a hit with families with scenic drives through winding streets lined with grand estates and lush gardens. Families love visiting the Getty Center, just a short drive away while kids enjoy the Central Garden and the Family Room packed with hands-on activities. You should stop by the nearby UCLA Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden for a quiet walk among unique plants. The place feels calm and classy, giving you a break from the city noise while still being close to Beverly Hills and Westwood. Many families say it’s one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family when you want a touch of luxury without the crowds. 

Rancho Palos Verdes

Rancho Palos Verdes is one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family for people who love ocean views and nature trails. It’s a more quiet destination with nature activities like spotting whales at Point Vicente Interpretive Center or hiking the beautiful trails at Abalone Cove Shoreline Park. Kids can  also explore tide pools and hunt for seashells while you take in the sea breeze. Additionally, families often check out the scenic Terranea Resort area for coastal paths and family-friendly dining with a view. The place is also known for the Wayfarers Chapel, a glass church surrounded by redwoods and ocean views,  very peaceful and photo-worthy. Locals say Rancho Palos Verdes feels like one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family when you want to relax far away from city crowds. 

Hollywood

For movie buffs, Hollywood has always been one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family. You will find the infamous Hollywood Walk of Fame with the names of your favorite stars as well as the ever popular Madame Tussauds Wax Museum here. Many people agree it’s one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family because there’s always something happening, day or night. It is an upbeat spot and families love to visit the TCL Chinese Theatre to check out famous handprints, or explore the Hollywood Museum inside the historic Max Factor Building and if you're looking for a bit of adventure, you can hike up to the Griffith Observatory and snap family photos with the Hollywood Sign in the background. It is one of LA’s most iconic neighborhoods promising tons of activities and memories to indulge and cherish with your family.

 Malibu

For nature and beach lovers, Malibu is hands down one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family. You can spend sunny days at Zuma Beach or El Matador Beach, both perfect for picnics and tide pooling. Families often like to visit the Malibu Pier for fishing or grabbing fresh fish tacos at Malibu Farm. There are also trails to hike Malibu Creek State Park and explore the scenic Solstice Canyon for family walks. Kids would love a fun day out at the Malibu Wine Safari where they can spot zebras and llamas. You’ll additionally find local cafés, cozy beach houses, and endless ocean views that you and your family can wake up to. You can plan spontaneous beach picnics with your family and spend quality time with your kids in Malibu. The place is especially loved by families due to its casual vibe and family friendly spots, making it one of the best locations to stay in Los Angeles with family. 

Conclusion

So to sum it up, your next family trip in LA deserves the perfect base. Pick from these top recommended locations, each offering a unique adventure and experience, to create lifelong memories with your loved ones in the City of Angels, ensuring a vacation that's both fun and stress-free, with something for every family to enjoy.