Los Angeles is a sprawling city of beaches, neighbourhoods, entertainment districts and famous attractions. Hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore beyond central Los Angeles, from Hollywood and Beverly Hills to Santa Monica, Malibu and the wider Southern California coast.
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Los Angeles Quick Facts
- State: California
- Country: United States
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
- Driving side: Right
- Main airport: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
- Popular areas: Hollywood, Downtown Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and Venice
Pickup Locations in Los Angeles
Popular Rental Types in Los Angeles
Why Visit Los Angeles?
Los Angeles combines famous landmarks, beaches, entertainment, food and a collection of neighbourhoods that can feel like separate cities. Visitors can explore Hollywood, spend time beside the Pacific in Santa Monica and Venice, visit museums and studios or head into the hills for views across the city. Los Angeles is spread across a very large area, making a rental car particularly useful for travellers planning to explore several parts of the region.
Top Attractions in Los Angeles
Hollywood
Hollywood is one of Los Angeles' best known districts and is home to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, historic theatres and numerous entertainment attractions.
Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory offers views across Los Angeles and towards the Hollywood Sign, as well as astronomy exhibits and access to Griffith Park.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica combines a broad Pacific beach with the famous Santa Monica Pier, shopping, restaurants and easy access to the Southern California coastline.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is known for its beachfront promenade, distinctive local character, street performers and proximity to the canals of Venice.
Getty Center
The Getty Center combines art collections, architecture, gardens and elevated views across Los Angeles.
Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is known for its palm-lined streets, distinctive neighbourhoods and the shops and restaurants around Rodeo Drive.
Getting Around Los Angeles
Los Angeles covers a very large metropolitan area. Public transport includes Metro rail and bus services, but many attractions and neighbourhoods are widely separated. Hiring a car can make it considerably easier to combine destinations such as Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica and coastal areas in the same trip. Traffic can be heavy, so allow plenty of time between destinations and check parking arrangements before setting off.
Why Rent a Car in Los Angeles?
Hiring a car in Los Angeles gives you the flexibility to explore a city that stretches across a large part of Southern California. It can be particularly useful for reaching beaches, neighbourhoods and attractions outside the central areas, as well as for road trips to Malibu, Orange County, Santa Barbara, San Diego and other destinations along the California coast.
Popular Day Trips from Los Angeles
- Malibu — Around 45 minutes to 1 hour from central Los Angeles, depending on traffic
- Disneyland Resort, Anaheim — Around 45 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on traffic
- Santa Barbara — Around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours
- Laguna Beach — Around 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes
- Joshua Tree National Park — Around 2 hours 30 minutes
Airport Information
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the main international airport serving Los Angeles. Car rental companies serving LAX operate from locations away from the passenger terminals, with passengers using designated shuttle services or supplier collection arrangements. Check the instructions provided by your chosen rental company before arrival, as pickup procedures can vary.
Driving in Los Angeles
Vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road in Los Angeles. Traffic can be particularly heavy during weekday commuting periods and on major freeways including the I-405, I-10, US-101 and I-5. Journey times can vary significantly according to traffic, so allow additional time when travelling to the airport or between attractions. Parking rules and charges vary by neighbourhood, and drivers should always check street signs and restrictions before leaving a vehicle.
About Los Angeles
Compare airport and city car rental locations in Los Angeles. Book online securely and compare leading suppliers.
Exploring Los Angeles by Car
Car rental in Los Angeles gives you flexibility to travel between airport, city and surrounding areas without depending entirely on fixed transport schedules. It can be especially useful if you plan to visit multiple destinations during your trip.
Before booking, compare pickup locations, vehicle sizes, fuel policies and supplier terms. Booking online in advance can help you find better availability, especially during busy travel periods.
Car Hire Tips for Los Angeles
- Compare airport and city pickup points before choosing your rental location.
- Check parking rules and local traffic restrictions before driving into central areas.
- Book early during holidays, conferences and peak travel seasons.
- Choose a vehicle size that suits your passengers and luggage.
Related Car Rental Destinations in United States
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth hiring a car in Los Angeles?
A rental car can be very useful in Los Angeles because attractions and neighbourhoods are spread across a large metropolitan area. It is particularly helpful if you plan to visit beaches, attractions outside central Los Angeles or other parts of Southern California.
Can I hire a car at Los Angeles International Airport?
Yes. Numerous car rental companies serve Los Angeles International Airport. Rental facilities are located away from the passenger terminals, so check your supplier's collection and shuttle instructions before arrival.
Do I need a car to get around Los Angeles?
It is possible to use public transport in Los Angeles, but the city covers a very large area. A rental car can provide considerably more flexibility when visiting several different neighbourhoods, beaches and attractions.
Is driving in Los Angeles difficult?
The road network is extensive and traffic can be heavy, particularly during busy commuting periods. Planning journeys in advance and allowing additional travel time can make driving around Los Angeles easier.
Can I drive from Los Angeles to Malibu?
Yes. Malibu is easily reached by road from Los Angeles and is a popular coastal trip for visitors with a rental car. Journey times vary considerably according to your starting point and traffic.
Can I take a road trip from Los Angeles?
Yes. Los Angeles is a popular starting point for California road trips, with destinations including Malibu, Santa Barbara, Orange County, San Diego and desert areas within driving distance.