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Hollywood needs no introduction…
I might be presuming here, but I think you might just have heard of it… you know, that city with all the movie stars and the big “HOLLYWOOD” sign on the hill?
Hollywood isn’t just any old LA neighborhood, as the historic heart of the American film industry there’s more to it than just the famous sign (even though it is pretty cool to see).
The city offers dazzlin’ beaches, incredible shopping and WILD nightlife. Keep your eyes peeled for iconic filming spots and try to play it cool as you will probably come across a few celebs around town.
I had many “pinch me” moments in Hollywood. It’s one of those places that you hear so much about, that standing in the middle of the city seemed mad. I’ve now been back a few times, so I’m kiiiinda getting used to it now, but celeb spotting always gets me excited.
Deciding where to stay in Hollywood is an important decision. You’ll want to choose an area that best suits you, your travel style and of course, your budget.
And I’m here to help! In this guide, you’ll find the best areas to stay and my favourite places to stay in each. From budget dives to luxury villas, I’ve filtered through the duds and I’m here to bring you the stars.
So, it’s time to dive into all the ins and outs of where to stay in Hollywood. So, whatever you’re looking for; glitz, glamour or unexpected nature and culture. I’ve got them all covered!
Three….Two….One….Action!
- Where to Stay in Hollywood
- Hollywood Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Hollywood
- Hollywood’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Hollywood
- What To Pack For Hollywood
- Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Hollywood
- Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Hollywood
- Buy Us a Coffee!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Hollywood is a district within Los Angeles, California. LA is big so if you want to experience Hollywood, we suggest staying in Hollywood. In fact, it’s our go-to areas to stay when we do visit LA.
Is it already showtime? If you’re in a rush to snag the best Hollywood accommodation option for you, then these are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Hollywood.
Orange Drive Hostel | Best Hostel in Hollywood
The Orange Drive Hostel is just on the outskirts of Whitley Heights, and is mere steps away from some of the most famous Hollywood sites! Parking is available for only $10 per night, and there is a fully equipped communal kitchen available to use.
There is also a patio BBQ and a common room with a huge TV and a stack of DVDs to choose from. You’ll feel right at home in this incredible Hollywood hostel.
Head over to our comprehensive guide to the best hostels in Hollywood before starting your backpacking adventure!
The Orlando Hotel | Best Hotel in Hollywood
The Orlando Hotel is a positively gorgeous hotel in Beverly Grove. It has enormous rooms and lux bathrooms. You can expect to feel exceptionally well taken care of at the Orlando Hotel. The large outdoor saltwater pool and full-service spa will leave you feeling profoundly pampered.
Stylish and Modern Studio in Whitley Heights | Best Airbnb in Hollywood
This newly renovated spacious studio is filled with natural light and is the best place to stay in Hollywood for the first time. Located right in the heart of Hollywood, you’ll only be a few blocks away from all the iconic sighs in Hollywood and you’ll be able to explore the exciting area easily. Go home to a very cosy and stylish place. This is certainly one of the best vacation rentals in Los Angeles.
Whitley Heights
Whitley Heights is also known as “The Hill.” It’s a residential neighborhood in the Hollywood hills and is famous for being where the actors and other people involved in the film industry reside.
Thai Town
Thai Town is a six-block area, around 1.5 miles in length, that flanks Hollywood Boulevard between Normandie Avenue and Western Avenue. Both of the entrances of Thai Town are marked by two statues of half-lion, half-human angles that come from traditional Thai legends.
Sunset Strip
The Sunset Strip is West Hollywood’s nightlife hotspot. It’s packed with bars, lounges, and tons of live music venues. Most of these are actually celebrity-owned. You never know when Johnny Depp will stop by his own club, right?
La Brea
La Brea is one of the trendiest areas in Los Angeles! It is actually just a two-block district, right in mid-city Los Angeles. It was known for its furniture stores and art galleries until the economic crash in 2008 when many of the shops had to close.
Beverly Grove
Beverly Grove, also more simply called “The Grove,” is on the westside of Los Angeles, and is actually referred to sometimes as Mid-City. It’s nestled right between Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, making it one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Hollywood.
Did you know that Hollywood started as just a single adobe hut on some land outside of Los Angeles back in 1853? Hollywood was actually a thriving agricultural community before it became synonymous with the American film industry!
It wasn’t until the early 1900s that movie makers began flocking to Hollywood, to escape Thomas Edison’s Motion Picture Patents Company in New Jersey.
These patents usually forced filmmakers to stop making movies because they were getting sued. Whereas out in California, it was harder to enforce these patents and given the ideal weather, La-La-Land became home to Hollywood.
Hollywood quickly became one of the hottest tickets for places to live and to visit, for American citizens and for international tourists alike.
From the renowned Whitley Heights where the majority of the starlets live, to the famous celebrity-owned bars, restaurants, and hotels on the Sunset Strip, Hollywood is brimming with some of the coolest places to stay ever.
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Hollywood’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
Heading to Tinseltown but not sure where to lay your head down at night after a long day of celebrity scouting? We’ve got you covered. Here are the five best neighborhoods to stay in Hollywood. Are you ready? Because it’s showtime!
#1 Whitley Heights – Where to Stay in Hollywood for the First Time
Whitley Heights is also known as “The Hill.” It’s a residential neighborhood in the Hollywood hills and is famous for being where the actors and other people involved in the film industry reside.
Actually, Whitley Heights was Hollywood’s first National Historic District, as actors and actresses purchased houses there all back in the early 1900s. We’re talking about celebrities like Charlie Chaplin and Bette Davis here! The stars were drawn to this rather secluded hillside residential neighborhood.
Along with the relative isolation, it also has an easy commute to Warner Brothers, RKO Pictures, Paramount, and Chaplin Studios. Even the stars like a short commute! Personally, this is my area of choice when I come to Hollywood, its peaceful vibe is a great remedy to the buzzing streets downtown.
If you decide to stay in Whitley Heights be prepared to spend a pretty penny and be surrounded by true star power! The sheer density of famous people makes Whitley Heights one of the best areas to stay in Hollywood.
If you’re wondering where to stay in Hollywood for the first time or even, where to stay in Hollywood for one night only, we couldn’t recommend Whitley Heights more.
Make sure to note that there are no Hollywood Accommodation options nestled directly in between to the star’s homes—sorry folks. The Whitley Heights hotels and hostels are all on the outskirts of this star-studded residential neighborhood. Close enough to count, obviously!
Orange Drive Hostel | Best Hostel in Whitley Heights
The Orange Drive Hostel is just steps away from all the Hollywood action and sites, but it is still a slice of peace and quiet. We love the free breakfast which includes all you can eat waffles and pancakes! Can you believe it? There are different room types, from dorms to private rooms available, all of which are relatively budget-friendly.
There is also laundry facilities, a shared communal kitchen, free lockers, and a patio BBQ area. I’ve often stayed here when I’m looking for somewhere affordable with all the benefits of the Hollywood Hills.
Trylon Hotel | Best Hotel in Whitley Heights
The Trylon Hotel is located just on the outskirts of Whitley Heights. It is conveniently located right near Hollywood Boulevard and all the attractions are close by. It’s only a thirty minute walk to the Hollywood Bowl from their front doorstep.
Hilton Garden Inn – Los Angeles | Best Hotel in Whitley Heights
The Hilton Garden Inn is right on the edge of Whitley Heights and offers guests a wonderfully comfortable stay that is perfect if you’re wondering where to stay in Hollywood for one night. With onsite dining, a fitness center, a hot tub, and an outdoor swimming pool, the Hilton Garden Inn has all you need.
Stylish and Modern Studio in Whitley Heights | Best Airbnb in Whitley Heights
This newly renovated spacious studio is filled with natural light and is the best place to stay in Hollywood for the first time. Located right in the heart of Hollywood, you’ll only be a few blocks away from all the iconic sighs in Hollywood and you’ll be able to explore the exciting area easily. Go home to a very cosy and stylish place.
Things to See and Do in Whitley Heights
- Pack a picnic and catch an incredible show at the Hollywood Bowl, the famous outdoor concert venue in the Hollywood Hills
- Drive up to the Jerome C. Daniel Overlook above the Hollywood Bowl which is a perfect scenic spot to see the Hollywood Sign
- Go for a hike in the Runyon Canyon Park and be bask in California’s natural beautiful
- Enjoy dinner and a magic show at the Magic Castle
- Go scouting for Hollywood stars residential homes around Whitley Heights
- Take a tour maybe even catch a film premiere at the historic Dolby Theatre, which is where the Oscars are hosted
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View on Osprey#2 Sunset Strip – Best Area to Stay in Hollywood for Nightlife
The Sunset Strip is West Hollywood’s nightlife hotspot. It’s packed with bars, lounges, and tons of live music venues. Most of these are actually celebrity-owned. You never know when Johnny Depp will stop by his own club, right?
If you want to be exact, the Sunset Strip runs between Hollywood and Beverly Hills, running from Crescent Heights Boulevard to its western border of Beverly Hills at Sierra Drive.
The Sunset Strip is world-renowned for its restaurants, rock clubs, and nightclubs, and Hollywood nightspots that are all on the absolute cutting edge of the entertainment industry.
The party never stops on the Sunset Strip. That is definitely what makes the Sunset Strip the best area to stay in Hollywood for nightlife.
There is a huge concentration of the young, the cool, and the beautiful in the clubs, bars, and lounges on this infamous 1.6-mile strip of land. The Sunset Strip is truly legendary. The glam, the glitz, the glory all make the Sunset Strip one of the best areas in Hollywood to stay in.
Modern Cosy Studio in Prime Location | Best Airbnb in Sunset Strip
This recently renovated stylish guest suite is ideal for those who want to go out in the vibrant Hollywood. Located right in West Hollywood and just one minute walk away from sunset strip, you’ll be able to go out all night and not worry about transportation. Comfortable and convenient, it comes with a smart TV with Netflix, a private bath and bathtub, a desk and a cosy futon.
Grafton on Sunset | Best Hotel on the Sunset Strip
Right on the famous Sunset Strip, Grafton on Sunset is a boutique hotel that actually has the largest saltwater pool in West Hollywood. There is also a state of the art fitness center and an onsite bar and restaurant. Vacation in style at one of the best areas in Hollywood to stay in.
1 Hotel West Hollywood | Best Hotel on the Sunset Strip
Just 300 meters off of the Sunset Strip, 1 Hotel West Hollywood promises guests a wonderful stay. With giant floor-to-ceiling windows, the rooms are modeled more naturally with rustic wood and clay tones. For a slightly more quieter stay on the Sunset Strip, the 1 Hotel West Hollywood is for you.
The Standard | Best Hotel on the Sunset Strip
Located directly on the Sunset Strip, The Standard has a huge rooftop pool with incredible city views. The room decor is all inspired by Warhol, so each room has funky and unique vibes. Their onsite restaurant has an incredible 24/7 international menu.
Things to See and Do in Sunset Strip
- Catch a comedy show at The Comedy Store where many comedians, like Jay Leno, got their start
- Sip a fancy cocktail at Libertine, a trendy nightclub that you might spot a celebrity or two at
- Enjoy a delicious and spicy lunch at the Cajun Bistro
- Spend an evening at the famous House of Blues, where a concert house meets a restaurant meets a bar
- Dine at Carney’s Restaurant which is housed in a vibrant yellow train car
- Feel famous while sipping drinks at The Viper Room, a popular nightclub owned by Johnny Depp
- Rock out at the Roxy, arguably one of Hollywood’s best rock clubs
#3 Thai Town – Where to Stay in Hollywood on a Budget
Thai Town is a six-block area, around 1.5 miles in length, that flanks Hollywood Boulevard between Normandie Avenue and Western Avenue. Both of the entrances of Thai Town are marked by two statues of half-lion, half-human angles that come from traditional Thai legends.
Thai Town is the heart for the Thai community in Los Angeles. Thai Town is also where there are an abundance of delicious Thai restaurants and sweet shops, mixed in with bookstores, markets, and other sundry shops. Having spent a lot of time travelling around Thailand, I always love to either visit or stay in Thai Town when I am in LA.
If you’re looking for the best pad thai around and wondering where to stay in Hollywood on a budget, then look no further than Thai Town. From the beautiful Buddha statues to the omnipresent colorful garlands, Thai Town is a unique place to stay in Hollywood.
Thai Town is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Hollywood if you’re looking for Hollywood accommodation deals and steals.
Banana Bungalow Hollywood Hostel | Best Hostel in Thai Town
Close enough that we are going to count it, the Banana Bungalow Hollywood Hostel is just across the 101 from the entrance to Thai Town. This hostel is full of cool vibes and has a great social scene.
Plus it’s where to stay in Hollywood on a budget if you’re looking to get as close to Thai Town as you can get! What’s more? You can actually see the Hollywood sign right from their courtyard!
The Dixie Hollywood | Best Hotel in Thai Town
The Dixie Hollywood is located in a prime location in Thai Town. With affordable rates and a supermarket right across the street, the Dixie is hard to beat. It’s also just a short walk or a $6 Uber ride into downtown Hollywood. There is also free parking available for those who are traveling with a car.
Hollywood Premiere Motel | Best Hotel in Thai Town
It’s hard to find a cheaper hotel or motel room in Hollywood than those at the Hollywood Premiere Motel. If you’re looking for where to stay in Hollywood on a budget that’s not in a dorm room, this no-frills back-to-the-basics LA motel is the way to go. Don’t get your expectations too high though, folks.
Things to See and Do in Thai Town
- Stock up for the most eccentric pantry items, from bitter gourds to preserved jackfruit
- Stop by Thailand Plaza and buy some Salacca Drink in their grocery store inside, apparently, it is the only place in Thai Town that sells Salacca!
- Explore the Thai literary world at Dokya Bookstore
- Eat Boat Noodle or spicy noodles at Bangkok Street Food restaurant
- Enjoy a burlesque show or live music at Harvey and Stone and make sure to try their inventive cocktails
- Try the traditional Hoy Ka noodle soup at big, beautiful Hoy Ka Noodle Restaurant
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Grab an eSIM!#4 La Brea – Coolest Place to Stay in Hollywood
La Brea is one of the trendiest areas in Los Angeles! It is actually just a two-block district, right in mid-city Los Angeles. It was known for its furniture stores and art galleries until the economic crash in 2008 when many of the shops had to close.
It wasn’t until 2012 that the area got a shot of energy by investors and today, there are dozens of fabulous new restaurants and boutiques popping up left and right. La Brea is hands down one of the coolest places to stay in Hollywood!
La Brea is home to some of the most delicious and trendiest restaurants that leave us positively drooling. From the Yucatan bowls at the Sycamore Kitchen, to the Snake River wagyu tri-tip at Odys + Penelope, to the shakshuka at Republique — La Brea is a foodie’s dream.
There are also some incredible boutiques which promise shoppers a truly unique shopping experience, including testing out winter clothing items inside an actual walk-in freezer at AETHER Apparel. We’re serious. Now do you believe us when we say that La Brea is one of the coolest places to stay in Hollywood?
Stunning Studio in Historic Hollywood | Best Airbnb in La Brea
This spacious and modern house is located in a very peaceful and relaxing area near Hollwood Walk of Fame, Hollywood Sign, Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, Hollywood Bowl, Beverly Hills, The Grove and more. The house consists of a private bedroom with a kettle and a fridge and a private bathroom. It’s an ideal place to stay in Hollywood.
Park Plaza Lodge | Best Hotel in La Brea
Spacious rooms with big refrigerators, the Park Plaza Lodge is a great choice of where to stay in La Brea. The location is perfect as it’s very close to The Grove and the Farmer’s Market. It is actually within walking distance of a large outdoor park, which is lovely for an evening stroll after dinner. Market.
Sycamore Villa | Best Rental in La Brea
Sycamore Village is a giant holiday home that could be yours for your next Hollywood trip. This 5 bedroom villa has all the bells and whistles and is complete with everything you could need. Make sure you enjoy the swimming pool and the hot tub!
Cozy Apartment in the Heart of Los Angeles | Best Rental in La Brea
This Cozy Apartment in the heart of Los Angeles located in La Brea comes with a fully equipped kitchen and one bathroom. You can also use the laundry facilities for a small additional fee. The location is near some great coffee shops, restaurants, and even an especially tantalizing donut shop.
Things to See and Do in La Brea
- Do brunch at the Republique restaurant, make sure to try the shakshuka: a steaming hot stew of tomatoes, eggs, and peppers
- Snap a photo of the silver sculpture of Lenin’s head
- Check out the art at the Ace Museum, a nearly hidden art museum that has off-the-cuff exhibits
- Go shopping at I Love Ugly, a skater oriented boutique that hails from Auckland, NZ
- Enjoy culinary grillhouse perfection at Odys + Penelope, reservations are recommended
- Pick up some home goods at A+R, a modern and international home accessory story
- Catch a show at the Lyric Theatre Los Angeles
#5 Beverly Grove – Best Neighborhood in Hollywood for Families
Beverly Grove, also more simply called “The Grove,” is on the westside of Los Angeles, and is actually referred to sometimes as Mid-City. It’s nestled right between Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, making it one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Hollywood. It’s one of the team favourites due to how chilled out and low-key the area is.
Popular among the locals, Beverly Grove is absolutely where to stay in Hollywood for families. There are no nightclubs at all in this district. There are just a couple of smaller bars, all of which are quiet watering holes. The lack of Hollywood party animals is an obvious reason why Beverly Grove is where to stay in Hollywood with kids.
Despite the lack of clubs and nightclubs, Beverly Grove is teeming with dining and shopping options, in absolutely all price ranges. Yep, Beverly Grove is one of Hollywood’s best neighborhoods.
The Orlando Hotel | Best Hotel in Beverly Grove
The Orlando Hotel is an absolutely stunning hotel in one of the best neighbors to stay in Hollywood. The comfy beds and huge bathrooms leave plenty of room for the whole family to stretch out and relax. Make sure to enjoy the outdoor saltwater pool and the 24-hour gym.
Sofitel Los Angeles | Best Hotel in Beverly Grove
The modern rooms at Hotel Sofitel include all you need for a great stay in Hollywood. The pool and their poolside bar only adds to the relaxation factor at Sofitel. Their giant outdoor patio is perfect to enjoy a glass of wine after a long day of exploring. This luxurious hotel is worth the splurge!
Minimal Hollywood Sanctuary | Best Airbnb in Beverly Grove
This Scandi-style house is perfect for families visiting Hollywood and to relax in a quiet secluded patio right in the heart of West Hollywood, near Melrose. Step aways from shops, restaurants and cafes, it’s a great escape from the busy city yet so close to all the main attractions. It comes with all the facilities you need to have a comfortable stay.
Garden Cottage Bed and Breakfast | Best B&B in Beverly Grove
The Garden Cottage Bed and Breakfast is a charming Hollywood accommodation option that cooks up quite the breakfast each morning, with farm fresh eggs, fruit parfaits, and flakey croissants. The garden setting is truly lovely and is perfect for the whole family to stay in an atmosphere of ease and comfort.
Things to See and Do in Beverly Grove
- Head on over to the Zimmer Children’s Museum, designed for kids 8 and under for some fun
- Enjoy no-frills comfort food meals 24/7 at NORMS Restaurant
- Go shopping at The Grove, a popular outdoor mall or at the Beverly Center which is a ginormous 8-story shopping mall that houses stores like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Burberry
- Catch a performance at the Saban Theatre
- Browse the upscale, fancy boutiques sprinkled along Melrose Avenue and Robertson Drive
- Dine in style at a Beverly Grove classic, The Ivy
- Indulge on incredible desserts at Lady M Cake Boutique, like the decadent milles crepe cake
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Hollywood
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Hollywood and where to stay.
What To Pack For Hollywood
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Hollywood
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Hollywood
Hollywood, California has to be one of the most famous places to visit in the United States. Located in La-La-Land, Hollywood has some of the most trendy neighborhoods to stay in. Hollywood is truly buzzing with things to do and places to see, all backdropped with that enormous Hollywood sign.
To recap Hollywood’s best neighborhoods, if you’re looking for the coolest place to stay in Hollywood, La Brea is for you. Renting the entire Sycamore Villa is a splendid choice.
Our favorite hostel in Hollywood is the Orange Drive Hostel in Whitley Heights. It has excellent common areas, from a communal kitchen to a patio BBQ. We love this homey Hollywood hostel and have stayed there on many occasions.
If you’re looking at where to stay in Hollywood for families, The Orlando Hotel is a gorgeous option in Beverly Grove. The luxurious outdoor saltwater pool is quite the perk.
Do you have any insider tips about Hollywood to share? Or any Hollywood secrets? We are all ears. Write us a note in the comments below.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around California.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Hollywood.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in California instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
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