The Perfect 2 Days in LA Itinerary

Los Angeles, often called the “City of Angels,” is where dreams meet reality. With its stunning beaches, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture, it’s no wonder it’s a must-visit destination. If you’ve only got two days to explore, don’t worry we’ve got you covered. In this blog, I’ll take you through a jam-packed itinerary that balances relaxation and adventure, giving you a taste of what makes LA so unique.

If you’re a first-time visitor or just planning a quick weekend getaway, this guide will help you make the most of your time. From sunrise on the beach to Hollywood’s glitz and glam, let’s dive into our 2 days in LA adventure.

Morning: Catching Sunrise at Huntington Beach

We started our day early, leaving our hotel around 6:30 AM to catch the sunrise at Huntington Beach. Known as “Surf City, USA,” this spot is perfect for soaking in California vibes. The sunrise here is something else with golden rays bouncing off the waves as surfers carve through the water.

Watching the surfers is a mesmerizing experience, even if you’re not ready to ride the waves yourself. Taking a leisurely stroll down Huntington Beach Pier is a must, and Ruby’s Diner at the end offers a great breakfast with ocean views. The boardwalk is also bike-friendly, so we rented bikes and cruised along the coast for about an hour. Allocate about two hours here to take it all in.

If you have extra time, consider visiting the International Surfing Museum a part of your 2 days in LA trip. It is just a short walk from the pier. It’s a small but fascinating spot that celebrates the history of surfing and its deep connection to Huntington Beach. You’ll find vintage boards, photos, and memorabilia that add more depth to your visit.

Mid-Day: Exploring Laguna Beach’s Art Scene

By mid-morning, we drove about 30 minutes south to Laguna Beach. This charming coastal town is a haven for art lovers, with galleries and murals around every corner. We spent about an hour exploring local galleries showcasing everything from abstract paintings to coastal-inspired photography. The downtown area is filled with unique boutiques perfect for finding souvenirs, and we grabbed lunch at Nick’s Laguna Beach, enjoying fresh fish tacos and refreshing lemonade. For animal lovers, the Pacific Marine Mammal Center is a heartwarming stop. It’s free to visit and offers a glimpse into their work rescuing and rehabilitating sea lions and seals.

You can also go for a short hike and head to Heisler Park, a scenic spot overlooking the ocean. The walking trails here are lined with public art installations, and the park offers stunning viewpoints perfect for photos. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy Laguna Beach’s natural beauty before heading to your next destination.

If you want to explore more around Laguna Beach, read this blog to get some ideas on making the most of your 2 days in LA trip.

Evening: Downtown LA’s Energy

After soaking in the coastal vibes, we drove about 1.5 hours to Downtown LA. Arriving around 5 PM, we were ready to explore the city’s bustling heart. We started at Olvera Street, known as the birthplace of Los Angeles. This vibrant marketplace is full of Mexican culture, from handmade crafts to delicious street food, and we spent about 45 minutes here. Next, we visited Skyspace LA, where we couldn’t resist trying the Skyslide, a glass slide attached to the city’s tallest building. The views of LA at sunset were breathtaking. We ended our evening with dinner at Grand Central Market, a foodie’s paradise offering everything from ramen to artisanal pizza. The variety and casual atmosphere made it the perfect spot to wind down.

And if you’re not quite ready to call it a night, consider walking through the Arts District. This trendy neighborhood is full of colorful murals, breweries, and coffee shops that stay open late. It’s a great way to soak in Downtown LA’s creative energy and wrap up your first day.

Morning: Hollywood Highlights

Day two started bright and early at Hollywood Boulevard. We parked nearby and were ready to explore by 8:30 AM. The Hollywood Walk of Fame was our first stop, where we spotted our favorite stars on the sidewalk. It’s fun to see who you recognize and snap a few photos. We took a guided tour of the TCL Chinese Theatre to admire the iconic handprints and learn about its history. By late morning, we drove about 20 minutes to Griffith Observatory. The panoramic views of LA and the Hollywood Sign were stunning, and we spent around 1.5 hours here, including a quick planetarium show. Parking at Griffith can be tricky, so arrive early or be prepared to walk.

Also, why not feel adventurous and take one of the hiking trails around Griffith Park. The Mt. Hollywood Trail, for instance, offers even better views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy fresh air before moving on to your next stop on your 2 days in LA trip.

Mid-Day: LACMA and La Brea Tar Pits

After Hollywood, we headed to Museum Row, which was about a 30-minute drive. We started at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). The Urban Light installation, an outdoor display of vintage lampposts, is an Instagram favorite and a must-see. Inside the museum, the diverse collection kept us entertained for about an hour. Just next door, we explored the La Brea Tar Pits, a fascinating prehistoric site. The bubbling tar and life-sized models of mammoths made it feel like stepping back in time. We planned for at least 45 minutes here to explore fully.

If museums aren’t your thing, you can stroll nearby Miracle Mile. This stretch is packed with historic architecture and quirky shops. Grab a quick coffee or snack from a local cafe to keep your energy up for the evening.

A 2 days in LA itinerary might be overwhelming for some who struggle to jam-packed everything into a short time and wanted to see a lot of the tourist attractions as well. If you want some tips on what to prepare the most in a trip. Read our blogs here. 

Evening: Sunset Strip Vibes

Our final stop was the Sunset Strip, about a 20-minute drive from LACMA. Arriving as the sun set felt perfect for wrapping up our LA adventure. The Sunset Strip is known for its live music venues, like Whisky a Go Go and The Roxy, which are worth checking out. We caught a live performance that felt like classic LA. For a more relaxed vibe, we headed to a rooftop lounge and sipped cocktails while taking in views of the sparkling city skyline.

The nightlife is also top tier in Los Angeles. End your trip with a bang at one of the Strip’s legendary nightclubs. Alternatively, take a late-night drive up Mulholland Drive for one last breathtaking view of the city lights. It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to LA.

2 days in LA might seem short, but how much you can see and do with a little planning is amazing. From the relaxing beaches to the buzz of Hollywood and the rich cultural experiences in between, LA offers something for everyone. If you’re planning your own trip, use this itinerary as a starting point. Adjust it to your pace, but don’t miss the highlights like Huntington Beach, the Walk of Fame, and Griffith Observatory. And remember, LA is a city that rewards curiosity, so don’t be afraid to explore off the beaten path. Ready to pack your bags? LA is waiting for you!

Recently, Los Angeles has faced devastation from wildfires, affecting many communities and natural areas. If you’d like to support those impacted, consider donating to organizations helping with relief efforts. Click Here for links to get involved and make a difference.

 As always, my thoughts and opinions are my own.

Angie xoxo