Los Angeles is known for its movie magic, palm-lined streets, and endless sunshine. Seeing the city from above adds another layer to the experience. From hilltop trails to rooftop lounges, the skyline, the Hollywood Sign, and even the Pacific Ocean all come into view with striking perspective.
This guide brings together the best views in Los Angeles, highlighting classic spots like Griffith Observatory and Mulholland Drive as well as hidden overlooks and coastal cliffs. You’ll see sweeping views of downtown Los Angeles, the mountains, and the ocean, with tips to help you make the most of each location.
And if you’d rather relax while someone else does the navigating, Hollywood Bus Tours offers tour routes with built-in stops at scenic viewpoints. It’s an easy way to take in the skyline and iconic landmarks while learning the stories that bring Los Angeles to life.
Griffith Observatory and the Classic Skyline View
Griffith Observatory is the spot most travelers picture when they think of Los Angeles views. Set on the slopes of Griffith Park, it looks out across the city with a direct line to the Hollywood Sign, the downtown skyline, and even the Pacific Ocean on a clear day. The setting is as cinematic as it gets, with a mix of science, architecture, and wide-open terraces perfect for photos.
The best times to go are late afternoon into sunset, or just after dark when the city lights stretch endlessly across the basin. Admission is free, though parking fills quickly, so it pays to arrive early or plan for a short uphill walk. Inside, you’ll find exhibits and the historic planetarium, but many visitors spend most of their time on the decks outside soaking in the view.
If you’re joining our A Taste of LA Tour, you’ll have a built-in stop at Griffith Observatory. It’s a chance to step out, take photos of the Hollywood Sign and skyline, and let your guide share stories that bring both the city and the landmark to life.
Mulholland Drive and Scenic Overlooks
Mulholland Drive winds along the ridgeline of the Hollywood Hills, offering some of the best views of Los Angeles from above. This famous road has several scenic turnouts where you can pull over and take in the skyline, the San Fernando Valley, and the winding hillsides dotted with homes.
The overlooks are generally easy to reach by car, with signs marking most turnouts along the way. Parking can be limited at popular sites, especially around sunset, so arriving early helps. Some overlooks are smaller than others, so be prepared for a quick stop if spaces are full.
Universal City Overlook
Facing Studio City and the San Fernando Valley, this stop offers a wide perspective of neighborhoods and mountains stretching beyond the city. It’s quieter than some of the busier turnouts and makes a great photo stop if you’re driving the Hollywood Hills.
Jerome C Daniel Overlook
One of the most popular viewpoints on Mulholland Drive, this spot looks directly onto the Hollywood Bowl with the downtown skyline behind it. On a clear day, you can see past the skyscrapers to Catalina Island. It’s a classic Los Angeles viewpoint and a favorite for both travelers and locals.
Runyon Canyon and Hollywood Hills Vistas
Runyon Canyon is one of the most popular hiking trails in Los Angeles, known for its mix of exercise, people-watching, and wide city views. The trail winds through the Hollywood Hills with several routes that vary in length and difficulty, from shorter loops to a 3.5-mile circuit.
The payoff comes at the top, where you’ll see the Hollywood Sign, the downtown skyline, and on a clear day the Pacific Ocean. The Vista Street and Mulholland entrances lead to steeper climbs that are often less crowded, giving you different perspectives on the skyline compared to the main Fuller Avenue entrance.
Because the paths are mostly exposed, sun protection and plenty of water are essential. Runyon is busiest on weekends and evenings, so early mornings are the best choice if you’re hoping for a quieter hike. Dogs are welcome on leash, and you’ll often find locals exercising with their pups along the way.
Top of Topanga Overlook for Golden Hour Los Angeles Views
Set just above the San Fernando Valley, the Top of Topanga Overlook offers a dramatic view across the basin with the Los Angeles skyline rising in the distance. From this perch, you can take in the sweep of neighborhoods below framed by the Santa Monica Mountains.
The overlook is smaller than Griffith or Mulholland stops, which makes it feel more peaceful. It’s especially rewarding at golden hour, when the late light washes across the valley and the skyline starts to glow.
There’s a small lot and overflow parking along the road. The path to the overlook is short and easy, but spaces fill quickly, especially at sunset. The drive up Topanga Canyon Boulevard is winding, so take your time if you’re not used to mountain roads.
Getty Center Views and Westside Skyline
The Getty Center is as famous for its views as it is for its art. Perched on a hilltop in Brentwood, the museum looks across the westside toward the ocean, with the Los Angeles skyline stretching to the east and the Santa Monica Mountains behind you. On a clear day, you can see the Pacific shimmering in the distance.
The architecture itself feels designed to frame the scenery. Outdoor terraces, sculpture gardens, and open-air walkways give you space to take in the skyline and the surrounding hills. It’s one of the best places in Los Angeles to combine culture, design, and sweeping views.
Admission is free, but parking is paid, and you’ll ride a tram from the base lot up to the museum complex. Plan to spend at least a few hours here—there’s plenty to see indoors and outside, and the views are worth lingering over even if you only explore the gardens and terraces.
Rooftop Bars With the Best Views in LA
Los Angeles has no shortage of rooftop bars, and many of them double as some of the city’s best viewpoints. From skyline lounges in downtown to terraces overlooking the Sunset Strip, these spots combine food, drinks, and views of the city from above. Reservations are often recommended, especially around sunset when the demand for tables is highest.
Perch in Downtown LA
Perch pairs French-inspired décor with sweeping skyline views. Located near Pershing Square, its outdoor patios are popular for both weekend brunch and evening cocktails.
Harriet’s in West Hollywood
Set above the Sunset Strip, Harriet’s offers a stylish vantage point over West Hollywood and Beverly Hills. The scene leans upscale, and the view westward at sunset is one of the highlights.
Spire 73 at the InterContinental
Located on the 73rd floor of the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, Spire 73 is the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere. From here, you get a rare skyscraper-level perspective of the LA skyline stretching in every direction.
EP & LP in WeHo
EP & LP combines a lively atmosphere with unobstructed views of the Hollywood Hills and beyond. It’s more casual than some of the other rooftop options, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Jerome C Daniel Overlook and Hollywood Bowl Panorama
This overlook sits along Mulholland Scenic Parkway and delivers one of the best views of Los Angeles in a single frame. From the platform, you can look straight down at the Hollywood Bowl with the downtown skyline rising behind it. On a clear day, Catalina Island even comes into view across the Pacific.
The viewpoint is easy to reach by car, with a small free parking lot right next to the platform. Parking is very limited and often fills quickly during peak hours, so arriving earlier in the day gives you a better chance at a spot. The overlook is open daily from 7 AM to 6 PM.
El Matador State Beach and Malibu Cliffs
El Matador State Beach offers a completely different kind of Los Angeles view—rugged cliffs, sea caves, and the Pacific stretching endlessly into the horizon. Located in Malibu, it’s one of the most scenic stretches of coastline in Southern California and a favorite for photographers.
The viewpoint starts from the bluff, where you can look down at the dramatic rock formations and waves crashing below. A steep trail and staircase lead from the parking area to the sand, so be prepared for a short but somewhat challenging walk back up.
Sunset is the most popular time to visit, when the cliffs glow golden and the ocean reflects the fading light. Mornings can be quieter, with a misty atmosphere that makes the beach feel more secluded. Parking is available in a small paid lot or along Pacific Coast Highway, but spaces fill quickly on weekends.
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area Skyline View
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area is one of the best places in Los Angeles to enjoy wide-open green space paired with a skyline view. From the park’s upper viewpoints, you’ll see downtown Los Angeles framed by the San Gabriel Mountains, and on clear days the ocean shimmers in the distance.
The park itself is family-friendly, with picnic areas, walking trails, and landscaped gardens including a Japanese-style garden. It’s far less crowded than spots like Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park, which makes it a peaceful choice if you’re looking for space to relax with a view.
Parking is available in several lots throughout the park for a small fee, and the viewpoints are easy to access by car or a short walk. Sunset is especially rewarding here, when the skyline and mountains light up in the fading glow.
Los Angeles City Hall Observation Deck
For a free and lesser-known skyline view, head to the observation deck on the 27th floor of Los Angeles City Hall. From here you’ll get a full 360-degree panorama of the city, including downtown skyscrapers, the Hollywood Hills, and the San Gabriel Mountains.
The deck is open on weekdays during business hours, and you’ll need a photo ID to check in at the lobby before taking the elevator up. Once there, outdoor terraces wrap around the building so you can see the city from every angle without the usual crowds.
It’s a favorite spot for photographers looking for clear views of downtown Los Angeles, and it doubles as a hidden gem for anyone wanting a skyline experience without the cost of a rooftop bar or the crowds at larger attractions.
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook in Culver City
Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook rises above Culver City with dramatic views that stretch from downtown Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean. From the top, you’ll see the skyline, the Santa Monica Mountains, and on clear days even the Palos Verdes Peninsula.
Visitors can reach the overlook in two ways: by hiking a steep staircase with more than 280 steps, or by driving up to the parking lot near the visitor center. The climb is popular with locals as a workout, while the drive offers a quicker way to the top.
The park is open daily, with trails, rest areas, and exhibits in the visitor center. Sunset is one of the best times to visit, when the city lights begin to sparkle and the view opens wide across the basin. Parking at the top requires a small fee, and spaces can be limited on weekends.
Hollywood Sign Hikes for Iconic Views
Few views in Los Angeles are as iconic as standing near the Hollywood Sign. Several trails in Griffith Park lead you to different vantage points, each offering a slightly different perspective of the landmark and the city below.
Mt Hollywood Trail in Griffith Park
Starting from Griffith Park, this trail climbs gradually toward one of the park’s highest points. From the top, you’ll see sweeping views of the Hollywood Sign, the Los Angeles skyline, and the San Fernando Valley. The route is well-marked and moderate in difficulty, making it one of the most accessible ways to pair a hike with panoramic views.
Brush Canyon Trail to the Sign
For a closer experience, the Brush Canyon Trail winds up from Canyon Drive toward the back of the Hollywood Sign. It’s a steeper route, but the payoff is standing just behind the letters with the city spread out below. The perspective here is unique, giving you a clear view of downtown Los Angeles, Griffith Park Observatory, and the San Gabriel Mountains on a clear day.
Santa Monica Pier and Coastal Perspectives
Santa Monica offers a classic mix of beach, boardwalk, and skyline views. From the pier, you can look back toward the city with the Santa Monica Mountains framing the coast. It’s one of the best Los Angeles viewpoints for combining ocean and city scenery in a single stop.
Ferris Wheel Views
The Pacific Wheel on the pier is the world’s first solar-powered Ferris wheel and gives riders a sweeping view over the ocean, coastline, and downtown Santa Monica. At the top, you can see along the coast toward Malibu in one direction and Palos Verdes in the other. Tickets are required, but the perspective is worth it for anyone who wants an elevated view of the beach.
Marina del Rey Boat Cruises
A short drive from the pier, Marina del Rey offers a completely different angle: views of Los Angeles from the water. Whether you’re on a harbor cruise, a rented sailboat, or a kayak, the sight of the skyline with the coastline behind it feels both unique and relaxed. Sunset cruises are especially popular, giving you a front-row seat to the sun dropping behind the Pacific.
Bonus List of the Best Tours With Built-In Views
Want to take in Los Angeles without juggling directions or parking? Hollywood Bus Tours includes many of the city’s most scenic viewpoints as part of our itineraries.
- A Taste of LA Tour (5.5 hours) includes three extended stops: Santa Monica Pier, The Farmers Market at The Grove, and Griffith Observatory. From Griffith you’ll capture photos of the Hollywood Sign and skyline while exploring one of LA’s most iconic landmarks.
- Celebrity Homes Tour (2 hours from Hollywood or 3.5 hours from Santa Monica) takes you along Mulholland Drive, into the Hollywood Hills, and through Beverly Hills. It includes a photo stop at the Beverly Hills Sign and Rodeo Drive, where you can stretch your legs and take in the surroundings.
- Perfect Day in LA Tour combines both experiences into a full-day adventure, giving you city highlights, celebrity homes, and famous lookouts in one seamless package.
Whether you have a half day, just a few hours, or want the complete experience, each tour is designed with built-in views that showcase the city at its best.
FAQs About the Best Views in Los Angeles
What is the best view in Los Angeles?
The best view in Los Angeles depends on what you want to see. Griffith Observatory offers a classic skyline and Hollywood Sign panorama, while Mulholland Drive overlooks highlight both the city and the San Fernando Valley. For ocean views, El Matador State Beach and Santa Monica Pier are top choices.
Where can I see the Los Angeles skyline?
The skyline is most visible from Griffith Observatory, the Jerome C. Daniel Overlook, and the Los Angeles City Hall Observation Deck. For a higher perspective, Spire 73 in downtown Los Angeles provides a skyscraper-level skyline view.
What is the best time to visit Griffith Observatory for views?
Late afternoon through sunset is ideal at Griffith Observatory. You’ll see the Hollywood Sign and skyline during daylight, then watch as city lights spread across Los Angeles after dark.
Where can I see the Hollywood Sign up close?
Popular hiking routes include the Mt Hollywood Trail in Griffith Park and the Brush Canyon Trail from Canyon Drive. Both give you clear, direct views of the Hollywood Sign with the city as a backdrop.
What are the best free viewpoints in Los Angeles?
Free viewpoints include Griffith Observatory’s terraces, Jerome C. Daniel Overlook on Mulholland Drive, and the Los Angeles City Hall Observation Deck. Each provides sweeping views without an admission fee.
Which beach in Los Angeles has the best views?
El Matador State Beach in Malibu is known for its cliffs, sea caves, and sunset views. Santa Monica Pier also offers panoramic perspectives of both the Pacific Ocean and the city.
Where can I see both mountains and the city?
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area offers a unique view of downtown Los Angeles framed by the San Gabriel Mountains. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook also combines skyline and mountain perspectives in one vantage point.
Complete Your Los Angeles Experience
Los Angeles looks different from every angle—skyline views from Griffith Observatory, coastal cliffs in Malibu, and sunsets from canyon overlooks all capture a unique side of the city. Whether you’re into hiking, photography, or simply taking in the scenery, these spots show why LA’s landscapes are as iconic as its landmarks.
When you’re ready to see it all in one day, Hollywood Bus Tours makes it easy. Join a guided experience that blends famous views, city highlights, and the stories that bring Los Angeles to life.
