So, you’ve got a long layover at LAX, or maybe your flight got delayed. Ugh. But don’t resign yourself to airport purgatory just yet! There’s a surprising number of things to do near LAX to make your time fly by. Whether you’ve got a couple of hours or a whole day, here’s your guide to escaping the terminal and exploring the area.

Embrace the Beach Life: Coastal Escapes Near LAX

One of the biggest draws of Los Angeles is its stunning coastline, and thankfully, you don’t have to venture far from LAX to experience it.

Manhattan Beach: A Classic California Vibe

Manhattan Beach is arguably the closest and most popular beach option near LAX. A quick taxi or rideshare ride will transport you to this quintessential California beach town. Here, you can stroll along the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier, watch surfers tackle the waves, browse the charming shops along Manhattan Avenue, or relax and enjoy a meal at one of the many beachfront cafes and restaurants. The Strand, a paved walkway that runs along the beach, is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

Dockweiler State Beach: Planes, Sand, and Fire Pits

For a more laid-back beach experience, Dockweiler State Beach is a great choice. It’s unique in that it’s directly under the LAX flight path, offering incredible up-close views of planes taking off and landing. While the plane noise is a factor, it’s also a fascinating spectacle for aviation enthusiasts. Dockweiler also boasts a long stretch of sandy beach, fire pits (perfect for evening gatherings, though you’ll need to check regulations), and a convenient bike path.

Exploring the Local Food Scene

Los Angeles is known for its diverse and vibrant food scene, and you don’t have to travel far from LAX to get a taste of it.

In-N-Out Burger: A West Coast Institution

No trip to Southern California is complete without a visit to In-N-Out Burger. Luckily, there’s one conveniently located just a short drive from LAX. This iconic fast-food chain is a must-try for its classic burgers, fries, and milkshakes. Be prepared for a potential line, especially during peak hours, but many consider it a worthwhile wait.

El Segundo: A Mix of Casual and Upscale Dining

The nearby city of El Segundo offers a more diverse range of dining options. Here, you’ll find everything from casual cafes and delis perfect for a quick bite to more upscale restaurants for a more refined dining experience. This provides a great opportunity to explore beyond the typical airport fare.

Shopping Options Near the Airport

If you’re looking to indulge in some retail therapy or need to pick up some last-minute souvenirs, there are several shopping options near LAX.

Manhattan Village: An Outdoor Shopping Experience

Located in Manhattan Beach, Manhattan Village is an open-air shopping mall featuring a variety of stores, from well-known department stores to unique boutiques. It’s a pleasant place to stroll around, browse the shops, and find some special gifts.

Westfield Culver City: A Larger Shopping Destination

A slightly longer drive from LAX (but still easily accessible by rideshare), Westfield Culver City offers a wider selection of stores, including major retailers, a large food court, and even a movie theater. This is a good option if you have more time and are looking for a more comprehensive shopping experience.

Plane Spotting Hotspots

If you’re fascinated by airplanes or simply enjoy watching them take off and land, LAX is a prime location for plane spotting.

Imperial Hill: Panoramic Views of LAX Operations

Imperial Hill provides panoramic views of the entire airport, making it a popular spot for plane spotters to observe takeoffs, landings, and other airport activities. It’s a great place to capture some impressive photos or videos of aircraft.

Dockweiler State Beach: Up-Close and Personal with Aircraft

As mentioned before, Dockweiler State Beach’s location directly under the flight path offers incredibly close-up views of planes as they ascend or descend. This makes it a unique and exciting plane-spotting location.

Getting To and From Your Chosen Destination

Getting around the area near LAX is relatively straightforward, with several transportation options available.

Taxis and Rideshares: Convenient Door-to-Door Service

Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available at LAX and offer a convenient way to get to nearby destinations quickly and easily.

Public Transportation: A Budget-Friendly Option

The Metro Rail Green Line connects LAX to other parts of Los Angeles, but it might not be the most time-efficient option for shorter layovers, as it requires transfers and can be slower than other methods.

Hotel Shuttles: Convenient for Overnight Stays

Many hotels located near LAX offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, which can be a convenient option if you have an overnight layover.

Essential Reminders: Time, Traffic, and Luggage

Before venturing out, keep a few important things in mind:

Always keep a close eye on the time and ensure you have ample time to return to the airport for your connecting flight.
Remember to factor in travel time back to LAX, as well as time for security checks. Los Angeles traffic can be unpredictable, especially during rush hour.
It’s always wise to allow extra time for travel to avoid any last-minute stress.
If you’re traveling with luggage, consider utilizing the airport’s baggage storage facilities to avoid having to carry it around with you during your excursion.

Making the Most of Your LAX Layover

A layover or flight delay at LAX doesn’t have to be a negative experience. With a little planning and this guide, you can transform it into an opportunity to explore the surrounding area and experience a taste of Los Angeles. So, next time you find yourself with extra time at LAX, don’t just stay cooped up in the terminal – venture out and discover what’s nearby! And for a truly seamless and comfortable experience, consider booking our LAX black car service. We can provide convenient transportation to and from your chosen destinations, ensuring you make the most of your time and return to the airport relaxed and ready for your flight.

Fun Things to Do Near LAX Airport