3 Days of Hollywood Glamour, World Cup Soccer & Beach Vibes
This itinerary combines the best of Los Angeles—Hollywood icons, world-class soccer at SoFi Stadium, and iconic California beaches. Day 1 explores Hollywood Walk of Fame and Griffith Observatory sunset. Day 2 is match day at SoFi Stadium with detailed Metro K Line logistics (arrive 2-3 hours early, $5/day unlimited fare capping). Day 3 hits Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach after morning 'June Gloom' fog clears. Budget-conscious travelers can do this for $450-650, while luxury seekers can splurge for $1,800-3,000+.
At a Glance
- Duration
- 3 Days
- Walking Per Day
- 4-6 miles
- Pace Level
- Moderate
- Budget Range
- $450-650 per person (excluding flights) - $1,800-3,000+ per person
- Attractions
- 10-13 major sites (Hollywood, Griffith, SoFi Stadium, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, Getty Center optional)
- Best For
- First-time LA visitors, Soccer fans attending World Cup matches
Best For
- ✓First-time LA visitors
- ✓Soccer fans attending World Cup matches
- ✓Beach and city combo seekers
- ✓Travelers wanting iconic California experience (Hollywood, beaches, sports)
Not For
- ✗Those who hate heat/sun exposure (UV index 9-11)
- ✗People expecting walkable city (LA requires Metro/driving)
- ✗Travelers wanting authentic local culture (this is tourist LA)
- ✗Beach lovers expecting warm water (Pacific is 60-65°F, COLD)
- ✗Those who dislike crowds (Santa Monica Pier, stadium = packed)
Total Budget Breakdown
Budget
$450-650 per person (excluding flights)
Hostels, street food, free attractions, public transit
Moderate
$800-1,100 per person
Mid-range hotels, sit-down meals, paid attractions
Luxury
$1,800-3,000+ per person
4-star hotels, upscale dining, premium experiences
Total Walking
12-15 miles over 3 days (less than Boston due to Metro/driving)
Attractions
10-13 major sites (Hollywood, Griffith, SoFi Stadium, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, Getty Center optional)
Avg Day Length
12-14 hours (Day 2 match day is longest at 14-16 hours)
Difficulty
Moderate (less walking than Boston, but heat/sun and Metro crowds)
Hollywood Icons & Observatory Sunset
Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, Griffith Observatory skyline views
Day Overview
Morning
Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre handprints, Hollywood & Highland Center
Afternoon
Lunch on Hollywood Blvd, transit to Griffith Observatory via DASH shuttle
Evening
Griffith Observatory exploration, sunset over LA skyline (best views in city), telescopes after dark
8:00
AM
Breakfast & Hotel Departure
Hotel or nearby cafe
Fuel up for a big walking day. If staying in Inglewood/LAX, grab breakfast at hotel or In-N-Out Burger. If in Santa Monica, hit local cafe like Blue Plate Taco or Huckleberry Cafe. Load your Metro TAP card ($20 recommended) if you haven't already.
Budget
$8-15
Moderate
$12-25
Luxury
$20-40
Pro Tips (3)
- Coffee culture is strong in LA - local cafes better than Starbucks
- Confirm Metro TAP card loaded with $20 for fare capping ($5/day unlimited)
- Pack sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, hat, water bottle
9:00
AM
Transit to Hollywood
Metro to Hollywood/Highland Station
From Santa Monica: Metro E Line to 7th St/Metro Center → transfer to B Line (Red) to Hollywood/Highland (60 min). From Inglewood/LAX: Metro K Line to Expo/Crenshaw → E Line to 7th St/Metro → B Line to Hollywood/Highland (75 min).
Budget
$1.75 Metro
Moderate
$1.75 Metro
Luxury
$25-40 Uber
Pro Tips (3)
- Metro B Line (Red) runs every 10 min to Hollywood
- Hollywood/Highland Station exits directly onto Walk of Fame
- Download Transit app for real-time train tracking
10:00
AM
Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre
Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood Blvd between Highland & Vine
Walk the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame—2,700+ stars embedded in sidewalks honoring entertainment legends. Visit TCL Chinese Theatre to see handprints/footprints of movie legends in cement forecourt. WARNING: Aggressive street performers will demand tips for photos—politely decline if not interested.
Budget
FREE
Moderate
$0-25 (theatre tour optional)
Luxury
$40-60 (private guide)
Highlights
- •TCL Chinese Theatre handprints (free)
- •Dolby Theatre exterior (Oscars venue)
- •Hollywood & Highland Center (view of Hollywood Sign)
Pro Tips (5)
- Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) least crowded - avoid weekend afternoons
- Download 'Walk of Fame' app to locate specific celebrities
- TCL Chinese Theatre forecourt is FREE to view handprints
- Skip overpriced Hollywood/Highland mall shops - tourist trap
- Aggressive street performers will demand $5-10 for photos - say no thanks
12:00
PM
Lunch on Hollywood Blvd
Hollywood Boulevard area
Budget: In-N-Out Burger ($8-12). Moderate: Musso & Frank Grill ($25-40, Hollywood institution since 1919). Upscale: Yamashiro ($50-80, Japanese with stunning city views).
Budget
$8-15
Moderate
$25-40
Luxury
$50-80
Recommended Options
In-N-Out Burger
Fast Food • 7009 Sunset Blvd
$8-12
California institution - order 'animal style' (grilled onions, special sauce). Double-Double is classic.
Musso & Frank Grill
American Steakhouse • 6667 Hollywood Blvd
$25-40
Hollywood history since 1919. Old-school red booths, bow-tied waiters. Martinis legendary.
Yamashiro
Japanese • 1999 N Sycamore Ave
$50-80
Stunning city views. Reservations recommended. Go for lunch (cheaper than dinner).
Pro Tips (2)
- In-N-Out 'secret menu': Order 'animal style' (grilled onions, special sauce)
- Skip Hollywood/Highland food court - overpriced chains
1:30
PM
Transit to Griffith Observatory
Metro + DASH Observatory Shuttle
Metro B Line south to Vermont/Sunset Station (10 min) → DASH Observatory shuttle bus ($0.50, runs every 20 min) to Griffith Observatory (20 min uphill). Alternative: Uber direct ($15-25, 15 min).
Budget
$0.50 DASH shuttle
Moderate
$0.50 DASH
Luxury
$15-25 Uber
Pro Tips (3)
- DASH Observatory shuttle runs weekends/holidays only
- Weekdays: Uber/Lyft only option ($15-25 from Hollywood)
- Bring jacket - temperature drops 5-10°F at observatory elevation
2:30
PM
Griffith Observatory & Sunset
Griffith Observatory
2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
FREE public observatory with planetarium shows ($7), telescopes, and STUNNING LA skyline views. Explore exhibits on astronomy and space. SUNSET is magical here (6:30-8 PM)—stay for golden hour. FREE telescopes after dark (weather permitting).
Budget
FREE (planetarium $7)
Moderate
$7-15
Luxury
$15-30
Highlights
- •Tesla Coil demonstration (hourly)
- •Rooftop observation decks (best skyline views)
- •FREE telescope viewing after sunset
- •Sunset over LA skyline - bring camera
Pro Tips (5)
- Arrive by 2 PM to explore before sunset crowds
- FREE telescopes available sunset-9:45 PM
- Planetarium shows sell out - buy tickets on arrival
- Bring layers - temperature drops 5-10°F at sunset
- Sunset varies: June ~8 PM, July ~8:15 PM
7:00
PM
Return to Hotel
Transit or Uber back to hotel
DASH shuttle stops ~9 PM. Options: Uber direct to hotel ($20-40) OR Uber to Vermont/Sunset Metro station ($10-15) → Metro to hotel. Your Metro TAP $5/day fare cap covers all rides today.
Budget
$0 Metro (covered by $5/day cap)
Moderate
$10-20 Uber
Luxury
$20-40 Uber
Pro Tips (2)
- Check Transit app: If you've taken 3+ rides today, all rides FREE
- DASH shuttle last run ~9 PM - Uber safer after dark
Day 1 Budget Summary
Budget
$155-242
Self-guided Walk of Fame, DASH shuttle to Observatory, skip paid museums
Moderate
$345-570
Sit-down lunch, planetarium show, Uber when convenient
Luxury
$720-1,180
Private guide, Yamashiro dinner, Uber everywhere
Pro Tips for Day 1
- →Start Hollywood Walk of Fame by 10 AM to beat crowds and heat
- →Download 'Walk of Fame' app to locate specific celebrities' stars
- →DASH Observatory shuttle runs weekends/holidays only - Uber weekdays
- →Arrive Griffith Observatory by 2-3 PM for pre-sunset exploration
- →Sunset varies: June ~8 PM, July ~8:15 PM - check exact time
- →FREE telescopes available after dark (weather permitting)
- →Metro TAP card $5/day fare capping = unlimited rides after 3 trips
- →Bring light jacket - Observatory temperature drops 5-10°F at sunset
Skip the Crowds: Guided Hollywood & Griffith Tour
Want expert commentary and priority access? Join a guided Hollywood tour that includes Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and Griffith Observatory sunset with transportation included. Tours run daily at 9 AM and 2 PM.
Protect Your World Cup Investment
Match tickets are non-refundable. Travel insurance covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost baggage, and missed connections. With average trip costs of $800-2000, $50-100 insurance is worth it. Get covered before something goes wrong.
World Cup Match Day at SoFi Stadium
Metro K Line journey, 70,000-fan atmosphere, international soccer
Day Overview
Morning
Leisurely breakfast, match day prep, pack clear bag with essentials
Afternoon
Metro K Line to SoFi Stadium (arrive 2-3 hours early), security screening, pre-game atmosphere
Evening
WORLD CUP MATCH, post-match Metro return, dinner near hotel
CRITICAL REMINDERS - READ BEFORE THIS DAY
- !Download mobile ticket to Apple/Google Wallet (not screenshot)
- !Pack CLEAR BAG ONLY (12x6x12 max) - strictly enforced
- !Bring sealed water bottles (2-3 per person, save $6-8 each)
- !Leave hotel 2-3 hours before kickoff for Metro + security
- !Metro K Line $5/day fare capping = unlimited rides
- !Stay in seat 10-15 min post-match to avoid worst exit crowds
8:00
AM
Leisurely Breakfast & Match Day Prep
Hotel or nearby cafe
Light breakfast—avoid heavy meals before 3+ hours of standing/cheering. CRITICAL: Download your mobile match ticket to Apple/Google Wallet. Charge phone to 100%. Pack clear bag (12x6x12 max). Bring sealed water bottles (2-3 per person).
Budget
$8-15
Moderate
$12-25
Luxury
$20-40
Pro Tips (4)
- SoFi clear bag policy STRICT - 12x6x12 max, see-through only
- Sealed water bottles allowed - save $6-8 per bottle inside
- Download ticket to Apple/Google Wallet (not screenshot or email)
- Wear team colors or neutral soccer gear
10:00
AM
Pre-Match Free Time
Hotel area
For 5 PM kickoff, you have 3-5 hours before departure. Options: (1) Relax at hotel pool, (2) Quick beach visit if coastal (return by 1 PM), (3) Watch earlier World Cup matches on TV. Avoid activities far from hotel.
Budget
$0
Moderate
$0-30
Luxury
$0-50
Pro Tips (4)
- Save energy for 4+ hours of match excitement
- Charge phone to 100% before leaving
- Eat light lunch 12-1 PM
- Apply sunscreen 30 min before Metro departure
1:30
PM
DEPART FOR SOFI STADIUM
Metro K Line to Downtown Inglewood Station
CRITICAL TIMING: Leave hotel 2.5-3 hours before kickoff. From Santa Monica (75 min Metro): Depart 1:30 PM. From Inglewood/LAX (20 min): Depart 2:30 PM. Metro K Line gets PACKED 2-3 hours before matches—trains every 12-20 min but standing room only.
Budget
$1.75 Metro (toward $5/day cap)
Moderate
$1.75 Metro
Luxury
$15-60 Uber
Pro Tips (4)
- Metro K Line PACKED 2-3 hours before match - expect standing room
- Tap TAP card: After 3 rides ($5.25), all additional rides FREE
- Bring water bottles on Metro - hydrate before stadium
- Download Transit app for real-time K Line tracking
3:00
PM
Arrive Stadium Area & Security Screening
SoFi Stadium
1001 Stadium Dr, Inglewood, CA 90301
Follow crowd from Downtown Inglewood Metro (15 min walk). SoFi security has three checkpoints: bag check, metal detectors, ticket scan. PEAK arrivals 3-4 PM have 45-60 min wait. Once inside, explore stadium—food vendors, team shops, photo ops.
Budget
$0 (security free)
Moderate
$0
Luxury
$0
Pro Tips (6)
- Clear bag (12x6x12 max) ONLY - strictly enforced
- Remove metal objects before detector
- Mobile ticket ready (digital wallet only)
- Photo ID required
- Sealed water bottles allowed (up to 3 per person)
- Be patient - security slow for 70,000 fans
5:00
PM
WORLD CUP MATCH!
SoFi Stadium seats
THIS IS IT. 70,000 fans screaming, flags waving, chants echoing. SoFi's translucent canopy provides shade but sides open—you'll feel California sun. Halftime: Bathroom lines 30+ min—go during 40th-44th minute. Hydrate constantly. Reapply sunscreen at halftime.
Budget
$0 (already have ticket)
Moderate
$0
Luxury
$0
Pro Tips (6)
- Hydrate constantly - bring sealed water bottles
- Reapply sunscreen at halftime (SPF 50+)
- Go to bathroom at 40-44 min mark (beat halftime rush)
- Stand and chant with crowd
- Phone camera for photos, but WATCH with your eyes
- Stay 10-15 min post-match to avoid Metro rush
7:30
PM
Post-Match Exit & Metro Return
Metro K Line from Downtown Inglewood
Stay in seat 10-15 min after final whistle to let crowds thin. Walk to Downtown Inglewood Metro (15 min, follow massive crowd). Metro K Line PACKED post-match—expect 30-45 min wait to board train. Your $5/day Metro fare cap covers return trip.
Budget
$0 (covered by $5/day fare cap)
Moderate
$0
Luxury
$60-150 Uber surge
Pro Tips (4)
- Stay in seat 10-15 min to avoid worst crowds
- Metro K Line cheaper than Uber ($0 vs $60-150 surge)
- Bring snacks/water for Metro wait
- Your TAP card $5/day cap covers return - no extra charge
9:00
PM
Arrive Hotel & Dinner
Hotel area
You're back exhausted and exhilarated. Options: (1) Order room service/delivery, (2) Walk to nearby restaurant, (3) Hotel bar. Most fans are wiped after 8+ hours—light meal and early sleep recommended.
Budget
$10-20
Moderate
$20-40
Luxury
$40-80
Recommended Options
In-N-Out Burger
Fast Food • 9149 S Sepulveda Blvd, Inglewood
$8-12
Open late. Order 'animal style' Double-Double. Drive-thru or walk-in.
Room Service/DoorDash
Delivery • Your hotel
$20-35
Easiest when exhausted. Most hotels have partnerships with delivery apps.
Pro Tips (4)
- Most fans exhausted after 8+ hours - don't force fancy dinner
- Hydrate with water
- Charge phone overnight for beach day tomorrow
- Set alarm for 8-9 AM
Day 2 Budget Summary
Budget
$305-545
Pack breakfast, bring sealed water, eat before stadium, Metro only
Moderate
$615-1,140
Stadium food/drinks, 2-3 beers, post-match Uber if tired
Luxury
$1,330-2,900+
Premium club seats, VIP access, Uber both ways, merchandise
Pro Tips for Day 2
- →Depart hotel 2.5-3 hours before kickoff (security takes 45-60 min)
- →Clear bag policy STRICT - 12x6x12 max, see-through plastic only
- →Sealed water bottles allowed - save $6-8 per bottle inside
- →Metro K Line packed but MUCH cheaper than Uber ($0 vs $60-150)
- →Use bathroom at hotel before leaving (stadium lines 20-30 min)
- →Arrive stadium 90 min before kickoff minimum
- →Go to bathroom at 40-44 min mark (beat halftime rush)
- →Stay in seat 10-15 min post-match to avoid exit chaos
- →Metro return: 30-45 min wait but covered by $5 fare cap
Need Flexibility? Rent a Car for LA Exploration
While Metro works great for match day, LA is a driving city. Rent a car for Day 3 beach exploration or optional Getty Center, Malibu, or Beverly Hills detours. Rates from $40-80/day with free cancellation.
California Beach Day: Santa Monica & Venice
Iconic pier, boardwalk vibes, Pacific Ocean sunsets
Day Overview
Morning
Sleep in (June Gloom fog anyway), leisurely breakfast, transit to Santa Monica
Afternoon
Santa Monica Pier & Pacific Park, beach time after fog clears, lunch at food trucks
Evening
Venice Beach Boardwalk, Muscle Beach, street performers, sunset at beach
8:00
AM
Sleep In & Leisurely Breakfast
Hotel
After yesterday's match day marathon, sleep in until 8-9 AM. Order room service or walk to nearby cafe. NO RUSH today—'June Gloom' coastal fog won't burn off until 12-1 PM anyway. Plan to reach beach by 11 AM-noon when sun breaks through.
Budget
$8-15
Moderate
$12-25
Luxury
$20-40
Pro Tips (5)
- Sleep in - you earned it after match day!
- 'June Gloom' means beach is gray until noon
- Plan beach arrival 11 AM-1 PM when fog burns off
- Pack beach essentials: towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, water
- Bring $40-60 cash for food trucks, pier rides
9:30
AM
Transit to Santa Monica
Metro E Line to Downtown Santa Monica Station
From Inglewood/LAX: Metro K Line to Expo/Crenshaw → E Line toward Santa Monica (45-60 min). Already in Santa Monica? Walk to beach (10-15 min). Your Metro TAP card $5/day fare cap applies. Expect 'June Gloom' fog at coast until noon—it WILL clear.
Budget
$1.75 Metro (toward $5/day cap)
Moderate
$1.75 Metro
Luxury
$30-45 Uber
Pro Tips (5)
- Metro E Line runs every 12-20 min to Santa Monica
- Download Transit app for real-time tracking
- Coastal fog normal until noon - sun breaks through by 1 PM
- Exit Downtown Santa Monica → 10 min walk to pier
- Pack towel, sunscreen SPF 50+, sunglasses, hat
10:30
AM
Santa Monica Pier & Pacific Park
Santa Monica Pier
200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Historic 1909 pier with Pacific Park amusement park. FREE to walk—ride solar-powered Ferris wheel ($10) for ocean views. Arcade games ($1-5), carnival rides ($5-10). 'June Gloom' fog may still linger—pier atmospheric in fog but photos better after noon when sun emerges.
Budget
$0 (free to walk)
Moderate
$10-20 (Ferris wheel, rides)
Luxury
$30-50 (all rides, arcade)
Highlights
- •Solar-powered Ferris wheel (icon of Santa Monica)
- •Pacific Park roller coaster over ocean
- •Route 66 'End of the Trail' sign
- •Street performers and musicians
Pro Tips (6)
- Morning fog creates moody photos - embrace it!
- Ferris wheel: $10 for ocean views, worth it
- Skip overpriced pier restaurants - food trucks better
- Arcade: Bring singles ($1 bills) for games
- Street performers tip $1-5 if you watch
- Restrooms at pier entrance (FREE)
12:30
PM
Beach Time & Lunch
Santa Monica Beach
By now, 'June Gloom' fog should be BURNING OFF—watch gray sky transform into blue sunshine (usually 12-1 PM). Head to Santa Monica Beach. Water temperature: 60-65°F (chilly but tolerable). Lunch: Walk to Leo's Tacos truck (26th & Ocean) for authentic $3-5 tacos.
Budget
$10-20
Moderate
$15-30
Luxury
$40-70
Recommended Options
Leo's Tacos Truck
Food Truck • 26th St & Ocean Ave
$3-5 per taco
Authentic, cheap, locals' favorite. Al pastor and carne asada are best. Cash only.
Blue Plate Taco
Mexican Restaurant • 1515 Ocean Ave
$12-18
Sit-down Mexican with ocean views. Reservations for patio recommended.
The Albright
Seafood • 258 Santa Monica Pier
$25-40
Fresh seafood on pier. Clam chowder and fish tacos popular.
Pro Tips (5)
- Fog usually clears 12-1 PM - best beach time starts now
- Pacific water COLD 60-65°F - most people wade, not swim
- Leo's Tacos truck = best value, locals' secret
- Beach chairs $10-15 rental if you want shade
- Apply sunscreen every 90 min (UV index 9-11)
2:00
PM
Bike The Strand to Venice Beach
Marvin Braude Bike Trail (The Strand)
Rent bikes at Santa Monica Pier ($15-30, 2-4 hours). Ride The Strand bike path south toward Venice Beach (3 miles, flat, ocean views entire way). Stop at Muscle Beach (outdoor gym), Venice Boardwalk (street performers, vendors). Alternative: Walk The Strand (3 miles, 60 min) or take bus ($1.10).
Budget
$15-25 (bike rental)
Moderate
$15-25 (bike rental)
Luxury
$50-100 (e-bike or beach cruiser)
Pro Tips (5)
- Bike rental: Perry's Cafe or Bike Attack ($15-30 for 2-4 hours)
- The Strand = 22-mile paved path along beach (ride any segment)
- Santa Monica to Venice = 3 miles, flat, 20-30 min bike ride
- E-bikes available ($30-50) if you don't want to pedal
- Lock bikes at Venice - explore Boardwalk on foot
4:00
PM
Venice Beach Boardwalk & Muscle Beach
Venice Beach Boardwalk
1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291
Venice Boardwalk is GRITTY, authentic California. Street performers (musicians, acrobats, fortune tellers), tattoo artists, cannabis shops, bohemian vibe. Muscle Beach outdoor gym (FREE to watch bodybuilders, $10 to use equipment). Skate park. Graffiti art walls. Very different from polished Santa Monica.
Budget
$0-20 (free to walk, tips for performers)
Moderate
$20-40 (food, souvenirs)
Luxury
$50-100 (shopping, dining)
Highlights
- •Muscle Beach outdoor gym (FREE to watch)
- •Venice Skate Park (watch skateboarders)
- •Street performers and artists (tip $1-5)
- •Graffiti art walls
- •Venice Sign photo op
Pro Tips (6)
- Venice is GRITTY - embrace the bohemian chaos
- Street performers expect tips $1-5 if you watch/photograph
- Cannabis shops everywhere (legal in CA, 21+)
- Watch your belongings - pickpockets in crowds
- Muscle Beach FREE to watch, $10 to use equipment
- Sunset at Venice Beach ~7:30-8:15 PM = spectacular
6:30
PM
Sunset at Venice Beach
Venice Beach
Stay for sunset over Pacific Ocean (7:30-8:15 PM June/July). Watch sun dip into ocean as Venice Boardwalk street performers finish their acts. Fire pits on beach (if available, first-come). Golden hour photos with Venice Pier in background. Perfect end to California beach day.
Budget
$0 (free)
Moderate
$0
Luxury
$0
Pro Tips (5)
- Sunset time: June ~8 PM, July ~8:15 PM
- Golden hour starts 30 min before sunset
- Venice Pier makes great sunset photo backdrop
- Fire pits first-come (if available)
- Temperature drops to 65-70°F after sunset - bring jacket
8:00
PM
Return to Hotel
Metro or Uber back to hotel
Return bikes to Santa Monica Pier (if rented). Metro E Line from Downtown Santa Monica back to hotel (45-60 min). Alternative: Uber direct from Venice ($25-45). Your Metro TAP $5/day fare cap covers all rides today.
Budget
$1.75 Metro (covered by $5 cap)
Moderate
$10-25 Uber
Luxury
$25-45 Uber
Pro Tips (4)
- Return bikes to rental shop by closing time (usually 8-9 PM)
- Metro runs until midnight
- Uber surge pricing after 8 PM (add 20-30%)
- Pack a light dinner or grab food near hotel
Day 3 Budget Summary
Budget
$170-260
Leo's Tacos, bike rental, skip paid attractions, Metro only
Moderate
$335-550
Sit-down lunch, Ferris wheel, bike rental, Uber when convenient
Luxury
$710-1,180
E-bike rental, upscale dining, Uber everywhere, shopping
Pro Tips for Day 3
- →Sleep in - 'June Gloom' fog until noon anyway
- →Plan beach arrival 11 AM-1 PM when fog clears
- →Leo's Tacos truck (26th & Ocean) = locals' secret, $3-5 tacos
- →Pacific water 60-65°F - chilly but tolerable for wading
- →Bike The Strand = best way to see Santa Monica + Venice (3 miles)
- →Venice is gritty - embrace bohemian chaos
- →Street performers expect tips $1-5
- →Sunset ~7:30-8:15 PM - bring camera and light jacket
Guided Beach Experience: Skip the Stress
Want expert guidance and bike rental included? Join a guided Santa Monica & Venice Beach tour with transportation, bikes, and local insider stories. Tours include stops at Muscle Beach, street performers, and sunset viewing spots.
Complete Packing List
Essentials
- ✓Passport/ID (required for World Cup match entry)
- ✓World Cup match tickets (digital + printed backup)
- ✓Phone charger + portable power bank
- ✓Medications (bring full supply)
- ✓Clear plastic bag for stadium (12x6x12 max)
- ✓Reusable water bottle (sealed allowed at SoFi)
Clothing
- •Lightweight breathable shirts (UV protection)
- •Shorts or light pants
- •Comfortable walking shoes (4-6 miles/day)
- •Sandals or flip-flops for beach
- •Swimsuit (Pacific water 60-65°F, chilly)
- •Light jacket for evenings (65-70°F)
- •Hat or baseball cap (sun protection)
- •Team jersey or colors for match day
Technology
- •Phone with Apple/Google Wallet (match ticket)
- •Portable charger (long match days)
- •Camera (optional - phone works fine)
- •Earbuds for Metro rides
- •Metro TAP card (load $20)
Documents
- •Passport or government ID
- •World Cup tickets (digital + printed)
- •Hotel reservation confirmations
- •Travel insurance card
- •Credit cards + $100-150 cash
Stadium-Specific
- •CLEAR plastic bag (12x6x12 max) - MANDATORY
- •Sealed water bottles (2-3 per person)
- •Sunscreen SPF 50+ (reapply every 2 hours)
- •Sunglasses + hat
- •Light poncho (rain possible)
- •Kids' noise-canceling headphones (if bringing children)
- •Portable phone charger (matches are 2-3 hours)
Don't Bring
- ✗Backpacks or large bags (not allowed at SoFi)
- ✗Umbrellas with metal tips (stadium prohibited)
- ✗Outside food (except kids' snacks)
- ✗Weapons of any kind
- ✗Professional cameras with detachable lenses
- ✗Drones
Need Luggage Storage?
Checking out of your hotel but have a late flight? Store bags at Los Angeles transportation hubs or use Bounce luggage storage network ($5.90/bag/day at 50+ Los Angeles locations). Much cheaper than hotel storage fees ($20-40/bag).
Optional Day 4-5 Extensions
Have extra time? These world-class LA attractions are within 1-2 hours of the city center.
Getty Center
12 miles from Downtown LA
Half day (4-5 hours)
FREE (parking $20)
Metro + Getty shuttle (free)
Stunning hilltop art museum with European paintings, gardens, and panoramic LA views. Architecture by Richard Meier. FREE admission (parking $20). Take Metro to Getty shuttle.
View Details
Highlights:
- •Van Gogh, Monet, Rembrandt collections
- •Central Garden with azalea maze
- •Panoramic LA skyline views
- •Modern architecture
Tips:
- →FREE admission, $20 parking
- →Arrive 10 AM to beat crowds
- →Bring picnic for garden lunch
- →Sunset views 6-8 PM spectacular
Malibu Beaches
30 miles from Downtown LA
Full day (8-10 hours)
$15-30 (beach parking)
Rent car ($40-80/day) or Uber ($60-100 round-trip)
Scenic Pacific Coast Highway drive to celebrity-filled Malibu. Visit Zuma Beach (wide sandy beach), El Matador Beach (sea caves and rock formations), Malibu Pier, Surfrider Beach (surfing mecca).
View Details
Highlights:
- •El Matador Beach sea caves
- •Zuma Beach (2+ miles of sand)
- •Malibu Pier & Surfrider Beach
- •Pacific Coast Highway scenic drive
Tips:
- →Rent car for flexibility ($40-80/day)
- →Beach parking $10-15 per location
- →Water still 60-65°F (chilly)
- →Stop at Neptune's Net for seafood
Disneyland
35 miles south (Anaheim)
Full day (10-12 hours)
$104-179 per person (1-day ticket)
Rent car (45-60 min drive) or Uber ($80-120 round-trip)
The original Disney theme park (opened 1955). Iconic rides: Space Mountain, Matterhorn, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion. California Adventure park next door (additional ticket).
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Highlights:
- •Space Mountain & Matterhorn
- •Pirates of the Caribbean
- •Fireworks & parades
- •Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge
Tips:
- →Buy tickets online ahead ($104-179)
- →Arrive at park opening (8-9 AM)
- →Genie+ ($25) for Lightning Lanes
- →Expect full day (10-12 hours)
Universal Studios Hollywood
10 miles from Downtown LA
Full day (8-10 hours)
$109-149 per person (1-day ticket)
Metro B Line to Universal City Station (free shuttle to park)
Working movie studio with rides based on films. Studio Tour (backlot tram ride), Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World, Simpsons Ride. More movie-focused than Disneyland.
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Highlights:
- •Studio Tour (backlot tram)
- •Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- •Jurassic World ride
- •CityWalk dining & shopping (free)
Tips:
- →Buy tickets online ahead ($109-149)
- →Arrive at park opening (9 AM)
- →Express Pass ($199+) to skip lines
- →CityWalk free to explore (no ticket needed)
Planning Day Trips? Rent a Car
Exploring beyond Los Angeles? Compare prices from Enterprise, Hertz, and Budget at Los Angeles airport or downtown locations. Book early for World Cup dates—rentals sell out fast. Compact cars start at $40-60/day, SUVs $80-120/day. Most credit cards include rental insurance.
Where to Stay in Los Angeles
Los Angeles hotels fill up fast during World Cup. Budget: $80-150/night (hostels, budget chains). Moderate: $200-350/night (Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt). Luxury: $400-700/night (Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton). Book 2-3 months ahead for best rates and availability.
Stay Connected: Get a USA eSIM
Skip expensive roaming fees in Los Angeles, California. eSIMs activate instantly—no SIM card swap needed. Plans: 3GB for $12 (3 days), 10GB for $28 (7 days), unlimited for $42 (30 days). Works on iPhone XS+, Google Pixel 3+, Samsung S20+. Download app, scan QR code, activate at airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stay Connected: Get a USA eSIM
Skip expensive roaming fees. eSIMs activate instantly—no SIM card swap needed. Plans: 3GB for $12 (3 days), 10GB for $28 (7 days), unlimited for $42 (30 days). Works on iPhone XS+, Google Pixel 3+, Samsung S20+. Download app, scan QR code, activate at airport.