Having been to LA a few times, there are normally decisions to be made on where and what I do, given that my visits have normally been just a few days each time. As I try to see as much of the USA as I can when I do go stateside. LA is a very busy city and getting around can take time. So if you have to choose between South Bay or the Westside of Los Angeles we give you the lowdown on both.
Which one is better for you, ultimately depends on your personal preferences, lifestyle, and priorities. Both areas have their own unique characteristics and attractions, and what may be “better” for one person may not be the same for another. In this blog post we give a breakdown of some factors to consider when choosing between the South Bay and the Westside.
South bay
The South Bay, a picturesque region of Los Angeles County, embodies the quintessential California beach lifestyle. With its stunning coastline that includes the charming beach cities of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach, the South Bay is a haven for surfers, sunbathers, and outdoor lovers.
Beyond the sandy shores, the area offers a relaxed suburban ambiance, complete with tree-lined streets, family-friendly neighbourhoods, and a welcoming community vibe. Residents and visitors alike can savour the fresh ocean air while indulging in a wide range of water sports, dining at beachfront cafes, or simply strolling along the iconic Strand Bike Path.
The South Bay’s combination of coastal beauty, recreational opportunities, and a laid-back atmosphere makes it a cherished gem within the sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles.
Westside
The Westside of Los Angeles is a dynamic and culturally diverse region that effortlessly blends urban sophistication with coastal charm. Home to iconic neighbourhoods such as Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Venice, this area boasts world-famous attractions like the Santa Monica Pier, Rodeo Drive, and the Getty Center. With its palm-lined streets, upscale shopping districts, and a vibrant culinary scene, the Westside offers a lifestyle marked by luxury and convenience.
Residents and visitors can soak up the sun on pristine beaches, indulge in eclectic cuisine from around the world, and explore an array of cultural and entertainment options, from theatres and museums to bustling nightlife venues. The Westside’s unique blend of cosmopolitan flair and beachfront beauty makes it a sought-after destination for those seeking a quintessential Los Angeles experience.
Here we compare South bay vs Westside to see which area to visit. We look at 4 key areas to help you decide
Beaches
Activities and things to do
Attractions
Restaurants & Nightlife
Beaches
In South bay the main beaches are Manhattan Beach which is known for its very sandy shoreline and pier which is a hot spot for photo opportunities. It is pretty busy when the sun is shining and you can take in shops, cafes and restaurants in its downtown location. Hermosa Beach is adjacent to Manhattan Beach and known for his beach volleyball scene. If you are looking for a family friendly beach then Redondo Beach is the one.
Westside has the world famous Venice Beach which is featured in so many movies it would take me a day to list them, but they include White men can’t jump, The Barbie movie & so many more. Along the Venice Boardwalk you’ll find street performers, quirky shops and places to eat and drink. If you fancy ‘pumping iron’ swing by the iconic Muscle Beach Gym.
Santa Monica Beach is billed as the most famous beach in LA but as above I would say it is Venice Beach. But there is also so much to enjoy and experience here. You have the historical Santa Monica Pier which has an amusement park. There is also a bustling pedestrian promenade known as the Third Street Promenade. The beach is great for sunbathing and swimming.
Winner: Westside
Activities and things to do
South Bay is pretty much beach focused so there are many water based activities to be enjoyed from paddleboarding to jet skiing. You can rent bikes and enjoy the amazing views on the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. There is also the option to enjoy local culture and art by visiting the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center or the Manhattan Beach Art Center. There are also National parks to go hiking including Abalone Cove Shoreline Park, Trump National Golf Club Trails.
In Westside the two top things are based around the pier and Venice beach in general. There is the chance to visit cultural institutions like the Getty Center, the Getty Villa, and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) to explore art, history, and culture. You can relax in beautiful green spaces like the Virginia Avenue Park, Palisades Park. Also join an outdoor Yoga class for something a little different.
Winner: Draw
Attractions
Along with Piers which we have covered, South bay has attractions such as South Coast Botanic Garden which is 87 acres with a variety of plants, gardens and walking trails, you could also catch a seasonal event. The Comedy & Magic Club Located in Hermosa Beach has hosted some famous names in comedy and who doesn’t like to laugh. Del Amo Fashion Center, located in Torrance is one of the biggest in the United States and offers a wide range of shopping and dining options. Finally SEA Lab located in Redondo Beach, SEA Lab is an educational facility that offers hands-on marine science programs and touch tanks, making it a great attraction for families and children.
Westside you have Rodeo Drive In the heart of Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive is known for its luxury shopping and high-end boutiques. It’s a great place for upscale shopping and celebrity spotting. You also have Culver City Arts District, this vibrant neighbourhood is filled with art galleries, studios, and creative spaces. Explore the art scene, dine at trendy restaurants, and enjoy the local culture. The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) boasts a beautiful campus with sculptures, museums, and cultural events which are well worth a visit. Plus the Fowler Museum and the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden.
Winner: Westside
Restaurants & Nightlife
South bay has lots of restaurants and places to drink. For the best restaurants including The Strand House which is fine dining with oceanfront views. FishBar which you can guess from the name focuses on fish dishes with a casual atmosphere. Then finally ‘Love & Salt’ a trendy Italian restaurant offering pizzas and handmade pasta. These are all located in Manhattan Beach.
For South bay nightlife then it’s Hermosa Beach. ‘Abigaile’ is a gastropub with a rooftop bar and craft beers, ideal for a more upscale nightlife experience. The Lighthouse Cafe is a jazz club which often has live music. ‘Baja Sharkeez’ A lively bar with a tropical vibe, offering a wide selection of cocktails and a dance floor for late-night fun, one to finish the night at.
Westside has a few options of where to enjoy food and nightlife, but for the sake of cost and staying in one place, Santa Monica is the place to do both your eating and your drinking. Restaurant wise you should check out Rustic Canyon, a farm to table experience with seasonal ingredients and a wide selection of wines to wash it all down.
‘Cassia’ is a Southeast Asian-inspired restaurant serving dishes like pho, curry, and grilled seafood in a stylish setting. Then finally ‘The Misfit Restaurant + Bar’ a gastropub with a focus on craft cocktails, locally sourced ingredients, and a lively bar scene.
Now let’s talk about nightlife in Santa Monica, you have ‘The Bungalow’ a popular beachside bar with a cosy atmosphere, indoor and outdoor seating, and a wide selection of cocktails. ‘Harvelle’s’ is a historic blues and jazz club with live music performances and a vintage ambiance. Then finish your night at ‘The Room Santa Monica’. This place is a stylish lounge known for its craft cocktails, DJ sets, and a lively late-night crowd.
Winner: Westside
Conclusion – Which is better: South bay or Westside?
Both South bay and Westside have many reasons to visit, but if you have to pick one then it’s Westside all day long, given so many iconic things to see and do with one of the biggest draws being Venice Beach. In an ideal world you can do both and if you are in LA for more than just a 3 or 4 days then you probably can.