15 Most Instagrammable Spots in Los Angeles Every Tourist Loves

Los Angeles is a city that practically lives through the lens, and it’s no wonder travelers constantly search for the most instagrammable spots in Los Angeles. Between its golden beaches, colorful murals, and the way the skyline glows at sunset, LA offers endless backdrops that feel like they were designed for your feed.

What makes this city special isn’t just the big names like Hollywood or Beverly Hills, but the mix of iconic and unexpected corners where the light hits just right.

I’ve spent years wandering LA’s neighborhoods, from early morning hikes up Griffith Park to late nights along Santa Monica’s buzzing beachfront.

What I’ve learned is this: capturing the city isn’t just about pointing your camera at the obvious—it’s about knowing where to stand, when to visit, and which details tell the real story. That’s why this guide breaks down 15 locations I’ve personally photographed, loved, and returned to again and again.

Some are classics you’ll instantly recognize on your Instagram feed, while others are hidden gems most tourists miss. Either way, these spots are perfect for creating photos that balance beauty with authenticity.

By the time you finish this guide, you’ll know exactly where to frame your shots, what times give the best glow, and how to avoid the crowds. Simply put, these are the most instagrammable spots in Los Angeles every traveler will want to experience.

15 of the Most Instagrammable Spots in Los Angeles Ranked & Reviews

Quick glance before we dive in:

• Iconic landmarks like the Hollywood sign and Santa Monica Pier.
• Colorful murals and walls across Venice and Melrose.
• Scenic hikes and sunset views at Griffith Observatory and Runyon Canyon.
• Hidden corners like the Bradbury Building and El Matador Beach.

1. Hollywood Sign (Griffith Park Hike)

No Los Angeles photo collection feels complete without the Hollywood sign. I’ve hiked to it multiple times, and each route offers a different story. The most popular approach is from Griffith Park, where trails weave through dusty hills and give you that cinematic view of the sign perched over the city.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

It’s not just about the letters; it’s about the drama of the Hollywood Hills spread around them. From certain spots, you can frame the sign with the skyline behind it, which makes for a striking contrast of nature and city.

Travel tips:

Go early in the morning—by midday the heat makes the hike tougher, and the light flattens out. Parking can be tricky near Beachwood Drive, so I often use the lots around Griffith Observatory and hike from there.

Insider shot tip:

If you want that head-on angle, stop by Lake Hollywood Park. You’ll get a clear view of the Hollywood sign without hiking too far.

2. Santa Monica Pier & Beach

Santa Monica has this effortless charm that’s both coastal and classic LA. I’ve photographed here at all hours, but nothing beats golden hour when the Ferris wheel lights up and surfers still linger in the waves.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

The pier’s carnival energy, combined with the wide stretch of Santa Monica beach, gives you endless shot possibilities. The neon lights against a cotton-candy sunset are iconic, and if you frame the Santa Monica Pier from the waterline, you’ll capture both the amusement rides and the Pacific stretching out behind them.

Travel tips:
Weekends get packed. If you want those cleaner shots, aim for a weekday evening. The beach itself is free, and walking the pier won’t cost you a thing unless you hop on the rides.

Insider shot tip:
Stand just south of the pier near the lifeguard towers. It gives you symmetry with the Ferris wheel above, sand in the foreground, and the Pacific Ave energy just behind you.

3. Venice Beach Murals & Skate Park

Venice Beach is loud, chaotic, and irresistibly photogenic. I’ve spent entire afternoons here, moving from the boardwalk to the skate park, waiting for the right moment when a skater flies against the ocean backdrop.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

This is LA at its rawest—graffiti-covered walls, sun-soaked pavement, and a mix of performers and locals. The murals around the Venice sign and the iconic skate park make for dynamic backdrops. Don’t skip the stroll along the Venice Canals, either—it’s quieter but just as photogenic.

Travel tips:
Arrive in the late afternoon when the light softens and shadows stretch across the pavement. Parking near the beach fills fast, so I usually leave my car on Rose Avenue and walk in.

Insider shot tip:
Frame a shot with the ocean in the background at the skate park, or capture the vibrant street art right off Pacific Ave. Both are pure Venice—messy, colorful, and unforgettable.

4. The Getty Center Gardens

The Getty Center is more than just an art museum; its gardens are a masterpiece in themselves. I remember walking through the Central Garden on a crisp spring afternoon, and it felt like stepping into a living painting. The carefully manicured plants, winding paths, and water features create layers of color and texture that look incredible on camera.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

The elevated location gives sweeping city views, while the gardens themselves provide a palette of greens, reds, and purples that pop in photos. Whether you’re into detailed flower shots or wide cityscapes, you’ll find plenty here.

Travel tips:
Entrance is free, but you’ll need to pay for parking. Try to arrive late morning when the sun highlights the flowers without casting harsh shadows. Take the tram up from the parking lot—it’s part of the fun.

Insider shot tip:
Walk toward the lower gardens and shoot upward, framing the museum’s architecture against the blue LA sky. It gives your followers that “wow” factor shot, especially when the blooms are in full swing.

5. Urban Light at LACMA

I’ll admit, I wasn’t expecting much the first time I visited Urban Light, but seeing 202 restored street lamps glowing at dusk changed my mind instantly.

The installation outside the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has become one of the most recognizable photo spots in the city, and with good reason.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

The symmetry of the lamps creates endless creative opportunities. By day, it’s clean and minimal. By night, it glows with cinematic romance—perfect for portraits, couples’ shots, or moody travel content.

Travel tips:
It’s open 24/7 and free to visit, so I usually go at night when the lamps are lit. Parking nearby can be tricky; I often use ride-shares to avoid the hassle.

Insider shot tip:
Crouch low between two rows of lamps and angle upward. It creates depth and makes the Urban Light installation feel towering, even monumental, on your Instagram feed.

6. Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills

Few places capture luxury quite like Rodeo Drive. Walking down these polished streets in Beverly Hills, I’ve seen everything from tourists snapping selfies to celebrities slipping out of boutiques. Even if high-end shopping isn’t on your agenda, the street itself is worth photographing.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

Think sleek storefronts, palm-lined avenues, and that distinct LA glamour. The architecture is stylish, the cars are flashy, and the vibe screams exclusivity—perfect for aspirational shots.

Travel tips:
Weekday mornings are best if you want fewer crowds. You don’t need to spend money here to enjoy it—strolling down Rodeo is an experience in itself.

Insider shot tip:
Stand at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard. From there, you can capture the curve of the street framed by palms, with the Beverly Hills Hotel just a short drive away for another classic backdrop.

7. The Grove & Farmers Market

Every time I return to LA, I find myself at The Grove. It’s not just another shopping destination; it’s a lively outdoor space that feels like a stage set with its twinkling lights, fountains, and seasonal decorations. Just steps away, the Farmers Market has been feeding locals since the 1930s, and it’s packed with food stalls that smell like heaven.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

The Grove’s European-style walkways, combined with the market’s vintage neon signs, give your photos a mix of polished and nostalgic. Around the holidays, the lights make it extra photogenic.

Travel tips:
Parking is easy with the structured garage, and entry is free. For fewer people in your shots, arrive mid-morning before lunch crowds gather at the Farmers Market.

Insider shot tip:
Take a wide shot from the second floor near Barnes & Noble, overlooking the fountain and trams below. It captures The Grove’s charm in one frame.

8. Griffith Observatory (Skyline & Sunset)

If I had to pick one spot that sums up LA’s skyline magic, it would be the Griffith Observatory. I’ve been here more times than I can count, and each visit feels different depending on the season or the haze level in the city. At sunset, it’s pure magic—the city lights flicker on as the sky turns gold to deep purple.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

From the observatory’s terraces, you can capture sweeping shots of downtown LA, the Hollywood sign, and the twinkling sprawl of the basin. The building itself, with its art deco design, adds another layer of beauty.

Travel tips:
Parking near the top can be chaotic. I usually park lower on the hill and take the shuttle. Best time for photos? Just before dusk, when both the skyline and the observatory dome glow.

Insider shot tip:
Stand on the north terrace and shoot toward the Hollywood Hills during golden hour. The mix of skyline, hills, and art deco architecture is unbeatable.

9. Bradbury Building (Historic & Film Famous)

Stepping inside the Bradbury Building feels like stepping back a century. I remember walking through its doors for the first time and recognizing it immediately from movies like Blade Runner. The ironwork, open cage elevators, and skylit atrium make this historic building unlike anything else in LA.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

The interplay of natural light streaming through the glass ceiling with the ornate staircases creates dramatic shadows and textures that make photos pop. It’s one of those affordable places where every corner feels cinematic.

Travel tips:
The building is free to enter, but access is limited to the ground floor for visitors. Go in the late morning when sunlight streams down perfectly from the skylight.

Insider shot tip:
Angle your camera upward from the main lobby floor, framing the iron staircases against the skylight. It gives your followers that timeless, old-LA atmosphere.

10. El Matador Beach, Malibu

Driving up the Pacific Coast Highway, I always make time to stop at El Matador. It’s one of Malibu’s most dramatic beaches, with rocky arches, hidden caves, and cliffs that look straight out of a movie set. The walk down the steep staircase isn’t easy, but once your feet hit the sand, it’s worth every step.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

The golden cliffs glow at sunset, and the sea stacks create natural frames for wide-angle shots. Couples love it for romantic portraits, but even solo travelers can capture moody, cinematic scenes here.

Travel tips:
Parking is limited in the small lot, so I usually arrive mid-afternoon to secure a spot. Be careful during high tide—the caves can flood quickly.

Insider shot tip:
Shoot through the archways with the Pacific in the background. Around golden hour, the light beams through perfectly, making your photos look otherworldly.

11. Melrose Avenue Walls (Pink Wall & Angel Wings)

Melrose Avenue is where LA’s street art meets fashion culture. I’ve walked this stretch countless times, and every visit brings something new.

The iconic Pink wall outside Paul Smith draws endless lines of people waiting for their turn, while the Angel Wings mural by Colette Miller has become a symbol of LA’s playful side.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

Bright, bold colors dominate here. The Pink wall especially makes photos pop on an Instagram feed, while the murals nearby give you variety without walking far.

Travel tips:
The area is busiest on weekends, so head out early in the morning if you want clean backdrops. Parking along side streets can be hit or miss, so budget extra time.

Insider shot tip:
Stand slightly off-center at the Pink wall to add depth, or use the wide sidewalk on Melrose to capture both mural and foot traffic—it gives your shot that lived-in LA vibe.

12. Walt Disney Concert Hall

The first time I saw the Walt Disney Concert Hall, I thought it looked like a sculpture dropped into downtown LA. Designed by Frank Gehry, its sweeping stainless-steel curves catch sunlight in ways that constantly change throughout the day.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

Its futuristic architecture photographs beautifully from every angle. You can capture clean, minimal close-ups of the metal panels or go wide to include the whole building against the cityscape. Inside, the acoustics are world-famous, but outside is where photographers flock.

Travel tips:
It’s free to wander around the exterior, though parking downtown can be pricey. Midday light can be harsh, so late afternoon is best when the metal glows soft gold.

Insider shot tip:
Head to the small rooftop garden. From there, you can capture the concert hall’s curves with bits of greenery peeking in—a refreshing twist on the classic shot of The Broad just down the street.

13. Downtown LA Rooftop Bars

There’s something surreal about watching the city lights flicker on from a rooftop in Downtown LA. I’ve spent evenings at places like Perch and Spire 73, and every time the view feels larger than life. From up high, the traffic sounds fade, and the skyline becomes the star.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

These rooftops give you sweeping city panoramas framed by glass towers. At night, the lights shimmer, and during golden hour, you can catch that soft LA glow against skyscrapers.

Travel tips:
Most rooftop bars have a dress code, so plan accordingly. Drinks can be pricey—expect to pay at least $15–20—but you’re paying for the view as much as the cocktail.

Insider shot tip:
Go just before sunset. Position yourself near the edge and capture the skyline with your drink in the foreground. It’s a classic shot that shows you’re living the LA high life.

14. Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

Just outside the city bustle, the Arboretum feels like an oasis. I first wandered here on a spring morning, and the variety of landscapes—from waterfalls to tropical plants—surprised me. Peacocks roam freely, adding a touch of whimsy to the photos.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

The gardens are vast, with themed sections ranging from desert landscapes to lush rainforests. Each turn gives a new backdrop, perfect for creating a series of shots that feel like different destinations.

Travel tips:
Admission is around $15, and weekdays are quieter than weekends. Wear comfortable shoes; you’ll do a lot of walking.

Insider shot tip:
Head to Baldwin Lake inside the Arboretum. The water reflects palm trees and blue skies, giving you that serene, picture-perfect LA vibe.

15. Runyon Canyon (Hike + City Views)

For me, Runyon Canyon is the ultimate LA hike. I’ve tackled it in the early morning when the city is just waking up and in the late afternoon when the sun sets behind the hills. Either way, the views stretch endlessly, making you feel like LA is at your feet.

Why Travelers Love Shooting Here:

From the top, you’ll get sweeping shots of downtown, the basin, and even glimpses of the ocean on a clear day. The trails themselves, winding through dusty hills, create natural leading lines for photos.

Travel tips:
Parking is limited, so I usually ride-share to the Fuller Avenue entrance. The hike is free and relatively short but can be steep in sections—bring water.

Insider shot tip:
Pause halfway up and frame the city skyline behind you. The combination of rugged trail and urban sprawl captures the contrast that makes LA unique.

Instagram Tips for LA

After exploring the most instagrammable spots in Los Angeles, you’ll want your photos to stand out on your Instagram feed.

Over the years, I’ve learned that it’s not just the location—it’s how you capture and share it. LA’s light, colors, and iconic backdrops give you an advantage, but a few insider tips can make a huge difference.

Best Times for Lighting

• Golden Hour: About an hour after sunrise and before sunset. Perfect for the Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Observatory, and Rodeo Drive where soft light highlights both architecture and skyline.
• Midday with Shadows: Works well at Urban Light or the Pink wall, since bright conditions make the colors pop.
• Night Shots: Rooftop bars in Downtown, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, or even the Venice sign glow beautifully after dark.

Editing Styles That Fit LA

I’ve tested countless presets, and these styles really amplify LA’s look:

• Warm tones for beaches like El Matador or Venice Beach.
• High contrast for murals on Melrose Avenue and street art around West Hollywood.
• Minimalist clean edits for shots at The Getty or The Broad, where architecture dominates.

Hashtags & Geotags to Boost Reach

Using the right tags connects your content to a wider audience. Some of my go-to’s include:

• Hashtags: #LosAngeles, #LAMoments, #InstaLA, #SantaMonica, #VeniceBeach, #BeverlyHills.
• Geotags: Always tag the exact spot—whether it’s “Griffith Observatory,” “Santa Monica Pier,” or “Beverly Hills Hotel.” Specific geotags attract travelers searching for those exact unique places.

Quick Pro Tips

• Keep an eye on reflections: fountains at The Grove or Baldwin Lake in the Arboretum make for stunning mirror shots.
• Mix wide cityscapes (like Hollywood Hills) with close-ups (like murals or architectural textures) to balance your gallery.
• Don’t be afraid to include locals or street performers—it adds life and authenticity to your shots.

Final Thoughts

Los Angeles is more than just palm trees and movie stars—it’s a one of the most unusual cities layered with stories, colors, and backdrops that feel almost too perfect for a camera. From the timeless Hollywood sign perched above the Hollywood Hills to the playful murals along Melrose Avenue and the dreamy glow of the Santa Monica Pier, every corner tells a different story.

What makes the most instagrammable spots in Los Angeles so special is how they capture both the city’s polish and its raw edges. One moment you’re soaking up elegance on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, the next you’re chasing golden light at El Matador Beach or waiting for street performers at Venice Beach.

Even tucked-away gems like the Venice Canals or cultural icons like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad remind you that LA never runs out of creative angles.

If you’re planning a trip, my advice is simple: mix the classics with the unexpected. Visit the spots you’ve seen on everyone’s Instagram feed, but don’t miss the quieter corners where the light, shadows, and locals tell stories guidebooks often skip.

So save this guide, share it with a travel buddy, and start sketching your own LA adventure. Whether you’re chasing sunsets at Santa Monica, neon glows at the Venice sign, or reflections in the Arboretum’s Baldwin Lake, the city is waiting to fill your camera roll—and maybe even surprise you with moments you didn’t see coming.

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