How to make the most out of your layover in Los Angeles

There are so many reasons to visit Los Angeles. After all, this is the home of Hollywood, the center of world entertainment for well over a century now. There's also the beautiful Southern California weather and the almost endless beaches right on the doorstep of the city. Plus, there's the lively culture, with the city home to some of the best restaurants, museums, and performing arts venues in the whole country. Los Angeles even has some of the best theme parks in the world if that's your kind of thing.

In fact, there's so much to do in Los Angeles that even if you're just passing through on a layover at Los Angeles International Airport, you'll be tempted to go and explore at least some of the city for yourself. And why not? A Los Angeles layover could be the perfect opportunity to see at least a sample of the City of Angels.

Leave your bags behind with a Bounce LA luggage storage facility, and the city is your oyster. If you have a short Los Angeles layover of more than a few hours, it's worth considering how you can best spend your time enjoying the place.

Key considerations before leaving the airport on a Los Angeles layover

LAX is a busy airport with multiple terminals, including the Tom Bradley International Terminal, which serves many international flights. If you’re on a layover, allow yourself plenty of time to get through customs if you’re arriving from abroad.

US travelers don't need to worry about any visas before leaving the airport, but international visitors might. Some of the countries that don't require a visa include the UK, Australia, Canada, and the EU, although an ESTA approval is needed before you even board the plane. All visas should be arranged well before your visit, so make sure to plan ahead even if you only intend to leave the airport for a few hours.

Minimum layover times in Los Angeles

With LAX’s proximity to the coast and many iconic locations, you can make the most of your layover with the right planning. Here are some general time guidelines:

• Short LAX layover (2-3 hours): Staying in the airport is likely best, but you can still grab a bite at the famous In-N-Out Burger just outside LAX, accessible via a short shuttle or rideshare.
• 4-6 hour layover: With this time frame, you can reach a nearby beach like Manhattan Beach for a quick scenic stroll along the Pacific Ocean or relax with some food by the pier.
• 8+ hour layover: A longer layover gives you time to explore Santa Monica (one of the top beach cities), Venice Beach, or even downtown LA to experience the highlights before your next flight.

Exploring Los Angeles during a layover

Los Angeles’ vibrant neighborhoods, sandy beaches, and diverse attractions make it an ideal layover destination. From beach boardwalks to the scenic Santa Monica Mountains, there’s plenty to see and do for every type of traveler. Make things easier on yourself by dropping off your bags at a Bounce luggage storage facility. We partner with local businesses close to the airport and throughout downtown LA, so you can store any size of bag for as long as you need. Simply download our app to find your nearest location, then book luggage storage in advance for perfect peace of mind. Your belongings will be safely waiting for you until you're ready to pick them up.

Short layover (4-6 hours): Beaches near LAX

If you have a few hours, take a quick trip to one of the beaches close to LAX for fresh air, scenic views, and a taste of LA’s coastal charm.

• Activities: Head to Manhattan Beach, just a short drive (a taxi or rideshare are best) south of LAX, for a peaceful beachside atmosphere, volleyball courts, and stunning ocean views. The Manhattan Beach Pier in South Bay is perfect for a stroll along the water, and you’ll find plenty of cafés and shops nearby. For a classic LA experience, In-N-Out Burger is also close to LAX and perfect for a quick stop on your way back.
• Other beach options: Redondo Beach and Hermosa Beach are also nearby and offer nice views, relaxed vibes, and ample outdoor space to stretch your legs by the Pacific Ocean.

Half-day layover (6-8 hours): Santa Monica and Venice Beach

With a bit more time, Santa Monica and Venice Beach provide the perfect mix of bucket list LA experiences.

• Activities: Start at the Santa Monica Pier, where you can enjoy views from the Ferris wheel or simply soak in the beach atmosphere. The LAX FlyAway bus stops at Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade for added convenience. From there, head down to the Venice Beach Boardwalk to explore its eclectic shops, street art, and street performers. For those who enjoy scenic walks, a stroll between Santa Monica and Venice Beach provides views of the ocean, bikers, and lively beachgoers. In this busy area, you don't want to carry more than you need to, so don't forget to drop off your bags with us. Leave them close to the airport for maximum convenience, or bring them with you into the city and drop them off at one of our multiple locations there. Either way, your belongings will be safely protected until you're ready to pick them up on your way to get your connecting flight.
• Dining options: For lunch, try The Albright on the Santa Monica Pier for fresh seafood, or visit one of Venice Beach’s popular spots like Gjusta for sandwiches and salads.

Full-day layover (8+ hours): Downtown LA and beyond

If you have a full day, venture into downtown LA or explore more of LA’s diverse neighborhoods and famous landmarks.

• Activities: Start with a visit to downtown LA via the FlyAway bus or light rail to Union Station. From there, you can explore historic landmarks and world-class museums, such as The Broad or the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA). If you’re a movie fan, head to Hollywood Boulevard, where you can do a self-guided tour of the Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre. Alternatively, enjoy the scenic Santa Monica Mountains with a hike for panoramic views of the city.
• Afternoon options: For those looking to relax by the water, head to Marina del Rey for a harbor view and enjoy lunch with a waterfront view. You can also rent a paddleboard or kayak if time allows. Downtown’s Union Station offers easy access back to LAX, which works well for travelers on longer layovers. Bounce also offers multiple luggage storage locations close to Union Station, so if you're taking advantage of public transit in the city, this is a great option. You can leave your things behind and have an active day in the city, then pick up your bags on your way back to the airport for the next stage of your journey.

Tips for making the most of your Los Angeles layover

• Allow time for security: LAX can have long lines at security, especially in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. Make sure to plan for time to re-enter security, particularly if you’re on an international flight.
• Check traffic: LA traffic is often unpredictable, so account for potential delays if you’re using ground transportation. The FlyAway shuttle bus from Union Station is an economical and reliable option for reaching downtown and back to LAX on time.
• Dress comfortably: LA's coastal weather is generally mild, but it can vary throughout the day. Dress in layers if you’re visiting the beach or heading downtown.
• Explore local cuisine: LA is known for its diverse food scene, so take the opportunity to try some local cuisine. From quick bites at Venice Beach to fresh seafood in Marina del Rey, there’s something for every taste.
• Currency and payments: LA uses the US dollar and credit cards are accepted pretty much everywhere. Depending on rates, it may make sense to use credit and avoid paying hefty cash withdrawal and conversion fees, especially at the airport.

With options ranging from beachside relaxation to vibrant city exploration, a layover in Los Angeles offers a great introduction to the city’s diverse attractions and well-known neighborhoods. Whether you’re enjoying fresh air at Manhattan Beach or exploring downtown’s cultural gems, your LA layover is the perfect opportunity to enjoy this world-famous city for yourself.

Hitting the beach, taking a food tour, or going in search of the stars along Hollywood Boulevard is a lot easier if you're not carrying more than you need to. Let Bounce look after your heavy bags at one of our local partners while you explore. Then, you'll have your hands free to taste food, play volleyball, or shop for souvenirs along Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. Plus, having us look after your bags means you'll have one less thing to worry about, so you can enjoy your time in the city, however brief, and not even think about what to do with your bags until it's time to pick them up again.