Kay's Guide to Los Angeles
- Kayleigh Turner
- May 27, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jan 12
EAST COAST GIRL GOES TO THE WEST COAST FOR THE FIRST TIME!!
Visiting Los Angeles has been on my bucket list for quite a while! My friend Siena and I were planning to attend Stagecoach this year, so we decided to turn it into a bigger trip and include LA in our plans!
We met up with her friend Izzy who lives here and she showed us the ropes of the city. Siena had been to visit her before, so this was my first time!!
WHERE TO STAY:
We ended up finding the cutest Airbnb called "Take it easy on the porch in a Hollywood hideaway". It was located in Central Hollywood which was a perfect location to everything that we wanted to go to. I was a little iffy on it because it was in someone's backyard.. BUT it was absolutely perfect. You had your own entry way as well as the host Roxy was super sweet and left you alone unless you needed anything!
PLACES TO EAT:
Alma Cocina de Mexico: This was located in The Grove on the left when you walk in from the main parking. Their food was AMAZING! They had the best guac I have ever eaten and their drinks were to die for!
IN-N-OUT: There are several of these throughout the city, but be sure to go here and ask for your meal to be animal style!! YOU WON'T REGRET IT!
South Beverly Grill: Izzy works here and got us a table for our last night and to say I have been thinking about it ever since would be an understatement. There was a variety of options on the menu - I had the sushi and it was absolutely amazing!!
BRIEF ITINERARY:
Day 1: The Grove & Shopping
Day 2: Exploring Los Angeles
Day 3: Santa Monica & Beverly Hills
DAY 1: THE GROVE & SHOPPING
Highlights
The Grove
The Grove is an outdoor shopping and entertainment complex with an unique blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment, including a dancing fountain, a trolley, and movie theatre.
I had never heard of it until Izzy mentioned it, and we had an amazing time exploring, shopping, and dining!
Don't miss the Farmer's Market that's linked to it. There are numerous food choices from various cultures, making it a delightful experience!
DAY 2: EXPLORE LOS ANGELES
Hollywood Sign
It's clear that a visit to Hollywood isn't complete without snapping a photo with the Hollywood sign! Fortunately, we didn't have to hike much to reach this spot, which was fantastic since I'm not a fan of hiking!
We went a bit earlier in the morning too which was nice because there were only maybe 3 other groups there while we were.
IN-N-OUT
I received mixed feedback about IN-N-OUT, but I absolutely LOVED it!!! I ended up going back twice because I was so hooked! I must admit, I wasn't the biggest fan of the fries, but the burger definitely deserves a 10/10. I really wish they would open locations on the east coast!!
Hollywood Walk of Fame
This huge landmark located on Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street celebrates the accomplishments of figures in the entertainment world. To discover all the various stars, you should definitely stroll along the street. It's a major tourist hotspot, so be ready for the crowds. However, when we visited, it wasn't too overwhelming!
You may even be surprised at some of the people who do have stars and who don't, I know I was!!
DAY 3: SANTA MONICA & BEVERLY HILLS
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica is roughly a hour drive from Los Angeles, but it's definitely worth the trip. You'll experience California's beach atmosphere instead of the urban vibe, which is really exciting. The pier is a must-visit, offering plenty of fun with numerous arcade games, rides, and souvenir shops.
Pacific Ocean
The Pacific Ocean is significantly cooler than the Atlantic Ocean, but visiting the west coast without dipping your feet in is unthinkable! That's precisely what I did, and let me tell you, it truly is FREEZING compared to the Atlantic!
But hey! At least I can say I've been in the Pacific!!
Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive, located in Beverly Hills, is a renowned luxury fashion street celebrated for its upscale shopping and glamorous ambiance. As a key attraction in Los Angeles, it's a must-visit if you have the opportunity. You'll find stores like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Chanel, Versace, and many others of similar prestige.
Clearly, I can't afford anything on this strip, but it was fun to imagine that I could LOL!
Honestly, I was very sad to leave Los Angeles, and after visiting, I found myself genuinely wanting to move there! Hopefully, one day I'll return and explore more of the City of Angels!
xoxo
Keeping up with Kay
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