My Favorite Views of LA
Southern California appreciation post
Hey team!
I’ve seen a lot of stunning sunsets lately and it had me thinking about my favorite views around the city. Not to sound so so cliché, but it’s easy to get bogged down in big city living, go through the motions and overlook the beauty of Los Angeles. Do me a favor and get outside sometime this week to see the sunrise or sunset, you won’t regret it!
I’ve divided my favorite views into two categories: Beach Views and Mountains & Valley views. Some of these spots offer both on the clearer days, but I categorized them as best I could :) Enjoy!
Mountains & Valley Views
Cedar Grove, Griffith Park - Yes, this is a part of Griffith Park, but Cedar Grove offers a slightly different topography with the redwood trees towering over you. So beautiful!
Dolby Family Terrace, Academy Museum of Motion Pictures - I’m prettyy sure you have to have a ticket to the museum or attend an event in order to access this terrace, but it really is quite stunning and unexpected for the middle of the city!
The Getty - Classic for a reason
Griffith Observatory - I’ve said it before, but the Griffith is my favorite “tourist attraction” in LA. You get the views of the city + Hollywood sign, the building is architecturally stunning, and the museum itself is wonderful (and free)
Kenneth Hahn View Point - This is where the cover photo for this post was taken! Especially beautiful in winter/spring when you can see the snow-capped mountains in the distance
Nike Missile Control Site LA-96 - This abandoned missile site is tucked away near Mandeville Canyon. There’s an added thrill from climbing the metal tower, makes me feel like I’m in high school and I’m in a place where I don’t belong LOL
Beach Views
Venice Canals - This one feels very postcard to me, but isn’t so cliché LA. Always a fun place to take visitors in town!
Palisades Park, Santa Monica - I try to walk down here at least once a week - no matter what time of day, you can see stunning views of the pier all the way to Malibu
Temescal Canyon - You have to hike to this one (and never underestimate this hike, it’s TOUGH) but the payoff makes it worth it. Beautiful beach views, but more on the Palisades side of town.
Malibu Pier - Really cute and quaint! Grab drinks and apps at Malibu Farm after
El Matador State Beach - The rock caves give this beach view major bonus points. Just a stunning beach overall!
Point Mugu Rock - This one is for when you want to ~just keep driving~ down PCH. Definitely far north past all the Malibu lookouts, but so pretty!
Manhattan Beach Pier - Love walking down the boulevard onto the pier. MB has such a small beach town feel, I love it every time I’m there!
Wayfarer’s Chapel - This all-glass chapel is a sight to see on its own, but the cliffside location in Palos Verdes makes it an even more stunning view. More views in PV + day trip itinerary here.
What’s your favorite view in LA? Reply directly to this email or drop a comment on Substack! See you next week - I’ll be endlessly scrolling (and posting) on TikTok till then. Bye!
Ticket to Sarahdise Event Digest - Week of 11/27
Every week, I’m sharing events you should be checking out in LA. Here’s this week’s download!
Steep LA Holiday Market - All day Friday 12/2, Steep is hosting 30+ vendors for a holiday market! Stick around and you can continue the fun at…
Chinatown First Fridays - music, art, food and goood times
Chili Cook-Off - Benny Boy Brewing is hosting a chili cook-off this coming Sunday!! So epic! $15 gets you in + includes samples from each competitor