The best viewpoints in Los Angeles in 2026 are Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center terraces, the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, the Mulholland Drive overlooks and Lake Hollywood Park for the Hollywood Sign. On the coast, Palisades Park, Point Dume and Point Vicente frame the Pacific.
LA's views come from its hills: the Santa Monica Mountains, the Hollywood Hills and the Baldwin Hills. Clear days after rain or a Santa Ana wind give the longest views, from downtown to the ocean and Catalina.
The classic LA view, from downtown to the Hollywood Sign.
The terraces and roof of Griffith Observatory look across the basin to downtown, the ocean and the Hollywood Sign. It is free and open into the night on most days.
Stay after sunset for city lights.
Good to know: Hike up from the Fern Dell trailhead to avoid the parking scrum.
2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
A 360-degree view from downtown to the ocean, up a steep stairway.
The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is a state park on a hilltop in Culver City. The steep Culver City Stairs climb to the top, and the view takes in downtown, Hollywood, the Westside and the ocean.
A road also leads to a visitor center at the top.
Good to know: Climb the stairs from Jefferson Blvd for a workout, or drive up and pay to park.
6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232
Garden terraces with views from the mountains to the sea.
The Getty's terraces and Central Garden look over the Westside, the Pacific and the San Gabriel Mountains. The museum is free; only parking costs.
The cactus garden on the south promontory has the widest view.
Good to know: Check closing time; it varies by day.
1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
A big park with ridge trails and city views.
Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area covers the Baldwin Hills with lawns, a fishing lake and trails to ridge-top lookouts over downtown and the Westside.
It is popular with families on weekends.
Good to know: There is a vehicle entry fee on weekends and holidays.
4100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90056
A Mulholland Drive turnout over the Valley and Universal.
This turnout on Mulholland Drive looks north over the San Fernando Valley and Universal Studios. It is one of the classic stops on a Mulholland drive.
The Jerome C. Daniel Overlook, a little east, faces the Hollywood Bowl and downtown.
Good to know: Park only in the marked turnout; it closes at sunset.
Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068
A close, straight-on view of the Hollywood Sign.
Lake Hollywood Park is a small hillside park beneath Mount Lee with one of the closest views of the Hollywood Sign.
It is a quick stop for a classic photo.
Good to know: Weekday mornings have the best light and easier parking.
3160 Canyon Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068
A clifftop park over the Pacific and the Santa Monica Pier.
Palisades Park runs along the bluffs above the beach on Ocean Avenue, with palm-lined paths and views over the Pacific and the pier.
It is the easiest sunset spot in Santa Monica.
Good to know: Walk from the pier north along Ocean Ave for sunset.
Ocean Ave & Arizona Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90401
A headland with whale-watching views and Malibu sunsets.
Point Dume is a rocky headland in Malibu with a short trail to a lookout over Zuma Beach and the Pacific. Gray whales pass in winter and spring.
The cove below is one of Malibu's prettiest beaches.
Good to know: Parking is limited; check for lot closures before you go.
Cliffside Dr & Birdview Ave, Malibu, CA 90265
Clifftop whale-watching on the Palos Verdes coast.
Point Vicente Interpretive Center sits on the cliffs of Palos Verdes, next to the lighthouse, with views to Catalina. It is one of the best whale-watching spots on land in LA County.
A small museum covers the area's history and whales.
Good to know: Come between December and April for gray whale migration.
31501 Palos Verdes Dr W, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
A quiet hilltop view of downtown and Dodger Stadium.
Angels Point, in Elysian Park just north of downtown, is a hilltop lookout with a close view of the downtown skyline and Dodger Stadium below.
It is a local favorite and rarely crowded.
Good to know: Drive in via Elysian Park Dr; small parking area.
Angels Point Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Griffith Observatory gives the classic view over the whole basin and the Hollywood Sign. The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is the best free 360-degree view, from downtown to the ocean.
Lake Hollywood Park and Griffith Observatory give the clearest views. The Hollywood & Highland center also has a viewing bridge.
Point Dume, Palisades Park in Santa Monica and Griffith Observatory are favorites. The Getty Center is open until early evening on some days.
Yes, for the overlooks. The Universal City Overlook and the Jerome C. Daniel Overlook look over the Valley and the city. Park only in marked turnouts.
Winter and early spring, especially just after rain, bring the clearest air. Summer mornings can be hazy, with marine layer near the coast.