56 Instagrammable Places in Los Angeles and Across Southern California for Stunning Photos

I put together some of the most Instagrammable places in Los Angeles for anyone planning a visit, or just saving ideas. Since we live in Arizona, LA has always been one of the places we love to visit whenever we get the chance. Before kids, I used to be there even more, and now we do a mix of different trips, but LA is still such an easy, familiar getaway, especially when we want a quick break or a little escape from the heat.

I’ve been to many of these spots over the years, and some of them are still on my list for future trips. So I thought I’d put everything together and share 56 Instagrammable places in Los Angeles that are so photo-worthy.

Whether you’re heading there soon or just like having ideas saved for when the timing is right, this is one of those posts you’ll want to keep.

1. Santa Monica Beach

I always end up back at Santa Monica Beach because it looks beautiful every single time. The beach is wide, the palm trees are perfectly spaced, and the light is almost always good, even when you’re not planning on taking photos. I love that nothing feels cluttered in the background, so everything looks clean and bright. It’s one of those places where you don’t even try, and your photos still come out looking really good.

2. Santa Monica Pier

I know it’s touristy, but I still love the Santa Monica Pier. There’s something about the Ferris wheel, the ocean, and all that movement behind you that just makes photos feel fun. Even when it’s crowded, the photos don’t feel messy; they feel alive. Especially at sunset, when everything gets warm and glowy, it honestly never disappoints.

3. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Venice Beach Boardwalk is not polished at all, and that’s exactly why I like it. It’s loud, colorful, a little chaotic, and very real. Skaters, murals, random moments happening around you. Photos here don’t feel staged; they feel cool without trying too hard, which is very Venice.

4. El Matador State Beach

El Matador is one of those places where you look at your photos later and still can’t believe it’s real. The rocks, the cliffs, the ocean, it’s dramatic without trying. Even if you’re not in the mood to take photos, you’ll end up taking them anyway because everything looks unreal.

5. Malibu Pier

Malibu Pier feels quiet and calm compared to other spots. The wood pier, the ocean, and the soft light make everything feel effortless. I like it when photos don’t feel forced, and this is one of those places where they never do.

6. Malibu Bluffs Park

Malibu Bluffs Park is so underrated. You’re up above the ocean, and that alone makes photos look more dramatic. The views are wide and clean, and everything just feels elevated. It gives that coastal, expensive look without doing anything special.

7. Malibu Lagoon State Beach

Malibu Lagoon is one of those places I go when I want things to feel calm. The reflections in the water, especially around sunset, make photos look really soft and natural. It’s not bold or dramatic, it’s just quietly beautiful.

8. Point Dume

Point Dume always makes me stop for a second. The views go on forever, and everything feels so big and open. Photos here don’t need much; the background does all the work. It’s one of my favorite spots when I want something that feels truly California.

9. Manhattan Beach Pier

Manhattan Beach Pier feels very clean and polished, which is why photos always look good here. The pier stretching into the ocean creates such a nice line in photos. It’s classic, simple, and never feels dated.

10. Hermosa Beach Pier

Hermosa Beach Pier feels more playful and fun. The energy is lighter, and photos don’t feel serious at all. It’s perfect for casual, happy beach photos that feel natural and relaxed.

11. Redondo Beach Pier

Redondo Beach Pier is more laid-back and local, which I really like. The marina and boats add something extra to photos without overpowering them. It’s a nice change if you want beach photos that feel a little different.

12. Manhattan Beach Strand

The Manhattan Beach Strand is basically a postcard in real life. Palm trees, bikes, beach houses, ocean — everything lines up perfectly. No matter where you stand, the background looks good, which makes photos feel effortless.

13. Bluff Cove Trail

Bluff Cove Trail feels untouched, which is why photos look so good here. The cliffs and greenery make everything feel dramatic but peaceful at the same time. It’s one of those places where nature completely steals the show.

14. Korean Friendship Bell

The Korean Friendship Bell is lovely, and I love how open this spot feels. Ocean views, sky, and the bell as a focal point make photos look clean and uncluttered. It’s peaceful and never feels overly busy.

15. Adamson House

Adamson House feels timeless. The tile work, the arches, and the ocean right there make everything look rich and detailed. It’s elegant without feeling stiff, and photos here always feel special without being overdone.

16. Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory is one of those places where photos almost feel unfair because the view does everything for you. You get the city, the hills, the sky, and sometimes even the Hollywood Sign all in one shot. It doesn’t matter if you’re dressed up or totally casual; the background makes everything look elevated. Especially at sunset or at night when the city lights come on, it just hits every time.

17. Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign is Instagrammable because it’s literally the symbol of LA. You don’t even need a close-up. Seeing it in the distance already makes the photo. It works best when it’s casually in the background, like you just happened to catch it. Simple, iconic, and instantly recognizable.

18. Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Walk of Fame is fun because it feels very old-school Hollywood. The stars, the sidewalks, the chaos, it all feels nostalgic. Photos here don’t feel polished, but they feel very “Hollywood.” It’s one of those places that doesn’t need explaining when you post it.

19. Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard is busy and messy, but that’s kind of the point. There’s so much history packed into one street that photos feel layered and interesting. It’s not about perfection here, it’s about character. If you like photos that feel real and a little gritty, this is it.

20. Urban Light at LACMA

Urban Light is Instagram-famous for a reason. The rows of white lamps create instant structure and symmetry in photos. Day or night, it always looks good. You don’t need to pose much, just stand there, and it works.

21. The Broad Museum

The Broad Museum photographs really well because of the architecture alone. The building is clean, modern, and graphic, which makes photos feel sharp and intentional. Inside or outside, everything looks curated. It’s perfect if you like that modern, artsy Instagram look.

22. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Walt Disney Concert Hall looks unreal on camera because of the curves and metal. The way it reflects light makes photos change depending on the time of day. Every angle feels different, which is fun. It’s dramatic without being over-the-top.

23. The Last Bookstore

The Last Bookstore looks amazing. Books stacked everywhere, tunnels, sculptures, warm lighting, it feels cozy and artsy at the same time. Every corner looks like a moment waiting to be photographed.

24. The Grove

The Grove looks lovely in photos… simply because it feels like a movie set. The trolley, the lights, the fountains, everything feels polished and pretty. Day or night, it always looks festive. It’s very easy to make photos look put together here.

25. Farmers Market Los Angeles

The Farmers Market has so much character. Old signs, stalls, and food stands, it feels nostalgic and casual at the same time. Photos here feel warm and familiar, like a place you actually spend time, not just visit once.

26. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios is Instagrammable because it feels playful. Bright colors, themed streets, and that fun energy make photos feel lively. It’s not about perfection here; it’s about fun, and that always comes through in photos.

27. Hollywood Bowl Overlook

The Hollywood Bowl Overlook is so beautiful. It gives you that classic city-from-above view without a full hike. You get the bowl, the city, and the hills all layered together, which always looks amazing in photos. Especially at golden hour when everything softens a little. It’s one of those quick stops that ends up being totally worth it.

28. Lake Hollywood Park

Lake Hollywood Park is one of my favorite low-effort spots. You’re basically standing right below the Hollywood Sign, but it doesn’t feel touristy or crowded. The grass, the open space, and the sign in the background make photos feel clean and iconic without trying too hard.

29. Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive is Instagrammable because it just feels expensive without you doing anything. The streets are clean, the stores are iconic, and everything looks polished from every angle. Even a casual outfit somehow looks more elevated here. It’s one of those places where the background alone carries the photo.

30. Greystone Mansion

Greystone Mansion always makes photos look cinematic. The stairs, the gardens, the architecture, everything feels grand without being over-the-top. Even simple outfit photos look elevated here. It’s one of those places where every corner works.

31. Melrose Avenue

Melrose Avenue is Instagrammable because it never feels boring. Murals, shops, color, texture, there’s always something interesting behind you. Photos here feel fun and current, especially if you like that fashion-meets-street-style vibe.

32. Melrose Place

Melrose Place feels quiet and pretty compared to the rest of Melrose. The trees, cafes, and clean streets make photos feel calm and chic. It’s perfect when you want something stylish without feeling busy or loud.

33. Sunset Strip

The Sunset Strip works on Instagram because it feels iconic and a little dramatic. The signs, the hills, the energy, it all gives photos that classic LA edge. Day or night, it always feels like a moment.

34. Larchmont Village

Larchmont Village is so charming and low-key. The street, the little shops, the cozy vibe, photos here feel warm and lived-in. It’s perfect if you like things that feel real and not overly styled.

35. Chinatown Los Angeles

Chinatown photographs beautifully because of the colors, gates, and architecture. It feels old-school and cinematic without trying. Photos here always feel a little different from typical LA shots, which makes them stand out.

36. Arts District Los Angeles

The Arts District is perfect for photos if you like an urban, creative look. Murals, brick walls, warehouses, everything feels textured and cool. It’s great for outfit shots that don’t feel too polished.

37. The Beverly Hills Hotel

The Beverly Hills Hotel is one of those places where you don’t even need to pose because the setting does everything for you. The pink walls, the palm trees, the old Hollywood vibe — it all photographs beautifully without trying. Every corner feels iconic and timeless. Even casual photos here somehow look polished and classic.

38. Hotel Bel-Air

Hotel Bel-Air feels like a secret garden. The greenery, pathways, and quiet luxury make photos feel soft and elegant. Nothing feels loud or flashy here, which is why images come out so beautiful. It’s very understated, very chic, and always looks timeless on camera.

39. Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills

The Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills hotel is Instagrammable because everything feels sleek and modern. The rooftop views alone make photos look unreal, especially with the city behind you. The clean lines and neutral tones make outfits pop without competing with one another. It’s very polished and very photogenic.

40. Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills

The Four Seasons always feels calm and elegant, which translates really well in photos. The interiors, pools, and outdoor spaces are all beautifully balanced. Nothing feels overdone, which is why photos here always feel effortless. It’s luxury without trying to show off.

41. The Maybourne (Montage Beverly Hills)

The Maybourne Beverly Hills, formerly Montage Beverly Hills, is one of those hotels where everything looks so beautiful and polished. The courtyard, balconies, and details make photos feel very refined. Even quick snapshots look intentional here. It’s a great spot if you love that classic, upscale aesthetic.

42. The Peninsula Beverly Hills

The Peninsula photographs beautifully because it feels calm and perfectly maintained. The greenery, neutral tones, and soft light make everything look clean and elegant. Photos here feel peaceful and timeless. It’s one of those places where nothing ever looks messy.

43. Sunset Tower Hotel

Sunset Tower Hotel gives major old Hollywood energy. The views, the architecture, the pool, everything feels cinematic. Photos here always have that moody, glamorous feel. It’s perfect if you like a little drama in your shots.

44. The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles

The Ritz-Carlton photographs beautifully because of the views. High floors, city lights, and clean interiors make photos feel sleek and elevated. Especially at night, everything looks dramatic in the best way. It’s very refined and very Instagrammable.

45. Malibu Beach Inn

Malibu Beach Inn is one of those places where you open the door, and the ocean is just right there. The rooms, the balconies, the light, everything is soft and calm and beachy. Photos here don’t feel staged at all; they feel relaxed and expensive in a quiet way. It’s the kind of place where even morning coffee pics look unreal.

46. Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Nobu Ryokan is very minimal and very intentional, which is why it photographs so well. The clean lines, neutral colors, and ocean views make everything look serene and elevated. Nothing feels busy here. It’s perfect if you like that calm, luxury, editorial vibe.

47. Shutters on the Beach

Shutters is one of those hotels that just screams coastal California. The white interiors, ocean views, and soft light make photos feel bright and airy. Everything looks fresh without feeling cold. It’s very “effortless beach chic” in photo form.

48. Casa del Mar

Casa del Mar feels a little moodier than Shutters, which I love. The darker tones, combined with the ocean backdrop, make photos feel rich and cozy. It still feels beachy, just more dramatic. Great if you want something romantic but still coastal.

49. Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

The Fairmont Miramar is great for photos because it feels like a mix of city and beach. The palm trees, ocean views, and open spaces make everything look classic LA. Whether you’re by the pool or walking the grounds, photos feel polished but relaxed.

50. The Resort at Pelican Hill

Pelican Hill looks unreal in photos because everything is so perfectly placed. The ocean views, the architecture, the landscaping, it all feels very refined. Even wide shots look incredible here. It’s one of those places where photos instantly look luxurious.

51. Montage Laguna Beach

Montage Laguna Beach is pure drama in the best way. The cliffs, the ocean, the views, everything looks insane on camera. Photos here always feel bold and powerful without being flashy. It’s one of my favorite places for those “wow” shots.

52. Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel

The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel photographs beautifully because it’s right on the cliffs. The ocean feels endless from almost every angle. Photos here always feel calm and grand at the same time. Especially at sunset, it’s hard to take a bad photo.

53. Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach

The Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach feels very polished and serene. The grounds, the ocean views, and the soft color palette make photos look clean and elevated. It’s luxury without feeling stiff. Everything just looks put together.

54. Surf & Sand Resort

Surf & Sand is literally right on the water, which makes photos look unreal without trying. You’re so close to the ocean that everything feels immersive. Morning and sunset shots here are especially good. It’s very relaxed, very beachy, and very photogenic.

55. Balboa Bay Resort

Balboa Bay Resort is all about the marina views. Boats, water, and reflections give photos a distinct coastal look. It feels calm and a little more relaxed than oceanfront spots. Great if you want something a bit different.

56. Disneyland Park

Disneyland Park is one of those places that’s surprisingly photogenic, no matter your age. Beyond the rides, it’s the details that make it so Instagrammable, from Main Street’s vintage charm and pastel storefronts to the castle views, seasonal décor, and perfectly styled corners throughout the park.

Bottom Line

Whether you’re heading to LA soon or just saving ideas for later, I hope this list helps you plan your next trip or at least gives you a little inspiration. Some of these places bring back so many memories for me, and others are still on my list for the next time we go. That’s honestly one of the things I love about Los Angeles: there’s always something new to see, even if you’ve been a hundred times.

If you end up visiting any of these spots, save them, screenshot them, or come back to this list when you’re planning. And if you have a favorite Instagrammable place in LA that I didn’t include, I’d love to hear about it. I’m always looking for an excuse to add another stop to our next trip.

Love,

Sherry XOXO