Los Angeles is easily one of the most Instagrammable and Instagrammed cities in the world. From Santa Monica to Culver City and all the way up and down the Pacific Coast Highway, this Southern California hotspot is peppered with perfect spots for trendy photoshoots.
Get your cameras ready, pick out a cute outfit, and prepare to snap away. Here are 15 of the most Instagrammable places in LA that haven’t been over snapped and aren’t littered with tourists every single day of the week (okay, maybe just a few tourists).
Wayfarers Chapel
For our first Instagrammable spot in Los Angeles, we’re heading a bit outside of the city limits. Wayfarers Chapel, known as the Glass Church, is situated in Rancho Palos Verdes, just south of Los Angeles on your way to Long Beach. It’s a truly stunning sight to see as the architecture is impressive and the glass walls and ceiling allow for ample light for photos. The spot is super romantic, so it’s definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in LA for couples.
Where it’s at: 5755 Palos Verdes Dr S, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Secret Swing
The iconic Bali swing is one of the most Instagrammable places in the world, but LA has its very own special swing, too. To find it, you’ll need to head Downtown and into Elysian Park. The swing itself isn’t too sturdy or regulated at all like the one in Bali is, so be safe when sitting on it. However, the view from Angels Point is so breathtaking that you won’t want to do anything but sit there and take it all in anyway.
Where it’s at: Secret Swing Angels Point (follow this Google Map)
Noguchi Garden
For classic California desert vibes and stunning architectural photos, head on over to Noguchi Garden in Costa Mesa. It’s a photographer’s playground if you’re into shooting angles, shadows, and unique shapes. There are office buildings in the background depending on where you shoot from, providing a nice contrast for the “California Scenario.” Type in 611 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626 into Google Maps to find it.
Where it’s at: 611 Anton Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Bombay Beach Ruins
The dried-up shores of the Salton Sea create an almost eerie desert landscape at the Bombay Beach Ruins, one of the most Instagrammable places in LA if you’re interested in a backdrop that’s unique and creative. We suggest this spot for magazine photoshoots as well as there are numerous spots to choose from when taking photos. From a rotted piano to the iconic Bombay Beach drive-in sign, you’ll have your fair share of spots to choose from.
Where it’s at: Niland, CA (follow this Google Map)
Greystone Mansion
This Tudor Revival mansion is located in the heart of Beverly Hills and is home to stunning, luscious gardens that evoke a sense of Old Hollywood. Entry to the gardens surrounding the estate is free (but check to make sure they’re opening during COVID-19) and you can snap Insta-worthy photos all around the sprawling green estate. You’ll look just like you’re in Tuscany or somewhere in the English countryside.
Where it’s at: 905 Loma Vista Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Micheltorena Stairs
If you’ve ever seen the bright, colorful stairs that personify Rio de Janeiro then you’ll love the Micheltorena Stairs. They’re similar yet have their own unique Los Angeles flair. Here, you’ll find nearly 200 colorful stairs in the heart of Silverlake snuggled between Silverlake Blvd and Winslow Drive. The stairs are painted in pastel colors and perfectly framed by lush green trees. The perfect Instagram photo? We think so.
Where it’s at: 3400 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
Destroyer
Who doesn’t love a good Scandinavian-style shot on their Insta feed? Destroyer is a bright, minimalist cafe in Culver City where you can head for a light breakfast or lunch. Bright sunlight fills the entire space, making it a great spot for those who take lifestyle or food photos for their feed. Plus, the coffee’s pretty great, so you’ll be able to enjoy a quality brew as you shoot in style.
Where it’s at: 3578 Hayden Ave, Culver City, CA 90232
Ascot Hills Park
Runyon Canyon is such old news. Now, it’s all about Ascot Hills Park. This urban retreat is one of the most well-kept secrets in the city and provides sweeping, stunning views of Downtown Los Angeles every hour of the day. It’s a great spot for a hiking photoshoot to upload to your feed, but the views at sunset aren’t to be missed either.
Where it’s at: 4371 Multnomah St, Los Angeles, CA 90032
Élephante
There are more than a few rooftop bars in Los Angeles to explore, but Élephante is one of the best for visitors who are looking for oceanside views and relaxed vibes. This urban beach house is just a stone’s throw away from the water in Santa Monica, serving up sweeping views of swaying palm trees and a nice light ocean breeze. Head inside for impressive architecture and even prettier drinks.
Where it’s at: 1332 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Urban Light
Look through the #LosAngeles on Instagram and you’ll find more than a few photos at this LACMA hotspot. It’s easily one of the most Instagrammable places in LA as the light posts are instantly recognizable and it’s easy to access as an outdoor installation. However, since it’s so popular, we suggest heading there super early in the morning or preparing for a night shoot.
Where it’s at: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
UCLA Janss Steps
UCLA in general is pretty photogenic (not that this writer is biased or anything), but from the top of the Janss Steps on a clear day, you’re able to get a pretty fantastic view of Los Angeles. Head up the steps (and get a little workout in while you do), then turn back towards where you just came from for the view. Or, keep going and take advantage of the stunning play of shadows and light through the architecture at Royce Hall.
Where it’s at: On the UCLA campus (follow this Google Map)
Route 66 Sign
There’s nothing more iconic and “classic California” than the Route 66 sign in Santa Monica (at least if you’re not from around here). The best part about this sign is that it’s totally outdoors, making it safe for social distancing. Head to the Santa Monica Pier and you’ll eventually encounter the sign. We suggest visiting at dusk or dawn for the best light (and least amount of foot traffic).
Where it’s at: 330 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Bloom Mural
Just one of many marvelous murals peppered throughout Los Angeles, Bloom is by far one of the most enchanting in awe-inspiring due to its sheer size. The lilac-colored wall is covered in rich, deep purples, pinks, and blues to create an elegant backdrop for any Insta-worthy photo.
Where it’s at: 298 Rose St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Pink Wall at Paul Smith
Paul Smith’s pink wall is an Instagram icon in Los Angeles. It’s, well...pink. The bright pink wall provides the perfect backdrop for vibrant photos of models, friends, and just about anybody who wants to strike a pose and look fab and fresh. Keep in mind that professional cameras aren’t allowed (and they’re pretty serious about this), so you’ll need to stick to selfies with your phone if you’re not looking to get escorted out of the area.
Where it’s at: 8221 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
Venice Canals
You don’t have to head to Italy to snag a sick view of some canals. California’s home to its very own Venice, and you can snap some super Instagrammable photos there, too. The best part is that it’s close to Abbot Kinney, which is a super trendy area of Venice. Take a few photos at the canals and then head over to explore the trendy boutique shops in Abbot Kinney afterward.
Where it’s at: Venice, CA (follow this Google Map)
Planning a Trip to LA?
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