What is the best time to visit Los Angeles?

The best times are March-May and September-November with perfect weather (65-75°F), fewer crowds, and clearer skies. Summer (June-August) has 'June Gloom' coastal fog mornings but warm afternoons - peak tourist season. Winter (December-February) is mild (60-70°F) but rainier. LA has year-round pleasant weather - even 'winter' rarely needs heavy coats. Avoid July-August for beach crowds and September-October for heat inland.

How do I get from LAX airport to Hollywood/Downtown?

LAX is spread out with no direct train. Options: FlyAway bus to Union Station Downtown ($9.75, 45 minutes) or Hollywood ($9.75, 1 hour), Uber/Lyft ($35-60 to Hollywood, $40-70 to Downtown, 30-60 minutes depending on traffic), airport shuttles ($20-25), or rental cars. Traffic is always heavy - allow extra time. Metro K Line (opening soon) will connect LAX to transit system. Rideshare pickup from LAX-it lot.

Is Los Angeles safe for tourists?

LA is generally safe for tourists in popular areas like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Venice Beach (daytime), and Downtown Arts District. Crime rates vary widely by neighborhood. Standard precautions: secure valuables (especially in cars - break-ins common), be aware of surroundings, avoid isolated areas at night, and don't display expensive items. Some areas (parts of Hollywood at night, certain Downtown blocks) need extra caution. Beach areas are heavily patrolled during day.

Do I need a car in Los Angeles?

Realistically, yes. LA is designed for cars - public transit is limited and slow. Rent a car to visit multiple areas (beaches, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, theme parks). Alternatives: Uber/Lyft for select trips (adds up fast), Metro rail for Downtown-Hollywood-Santa Monica corridor only, or stay in one walkable area. Parking costs $10-40/day. Traffic is terrible 7-10am and 3-7pm. Use Waze/Google Maps for navigation and traffic avoidance.

How far apart are LA's main attractions?

LA is HUGE and spread out. Distances with no traffic: Santa Monica to Hollywood (16 miles, 25 min), Hollywood to Beverly Hills (8 miles, 15 min), Hollywood to Downtown (10 miles, 20 min), Santa Monica to Disneyland (45 miles, 1 hour), LAX to Malibu (30 miles, 45 min). With traffic, double or triple these times! Plan one area per day. Don't try to do Santa Monica beaches and Universal Studios same day - you'll spend hours in traffic.

How much money do I need per day in Los Angeles?

Budget travelers: $100-150/day (hostels, In-N-Out/food trucks, free beaches/Griffith Observatory, public transit). Mid-range: $200-350/day (3-star hotels, mix of casual and sit-down restaurants, paid attractions, rental car/Uber). Luxury: $500+/day (Beverly Hills hotels, fine dining, premium experiences, luxury car rental). Key costs: hotels $120-500/night, meals $15-80 per person, theme parks $100-150, parking $10-40/day, gas expensive. Beach access is free!