Fun Things to do in Los Angeles (From a Local's POV)

Los Angeles is one of those cities where “fun” means a hundred different things depending on the day. You can spend the morning hiking above the city, the afternoon on the beach, and the evening sipping cocktails somewhere unforgettable. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or you’ve lived here long enough to complain about traffic like a native, this guide covers fun things to do in Los Angeles that actually live up to the hype—plus one standout experience you won’t find in most travel guides.

1. 🚤 Magical Tiki – A Floating Tiki Bar Cruise (Yes, Really)

Let’s start with the most unexpected experience in Los Angeles.

Magical Tiki is the only tiki bar boat in LA, cruising the calm waters of Marina del Rey aboard a fully decked-out floating tiki lounge. The boat features a horseshoe-shaped tiki bar, comfortable seating, ocean views in every direction, and a laid-back island vibe that feels worlds away from the city—even though you’re minutes from the beach.

What makes it special isn’t just the boat. Guests enjoy:

• A relaxed harbor cruise with views of mega-yachts, sea lions, and golden-hour sunsets

• Custom tiki cocktail mixers (it’s BYOB, so bring your favorite spirits)

• Great music and a social, open-air atmosphere

• An optional live magic show performed onboard—something you literally cannot experience anywhere else in LA

It’s a favorite for date nights, birthdays, bachelorette parties, and anyone tired of noisy bars or crowded restaurants. If you’re looking for a memorable, conversation-starting experience that still feels effortless and fun, this is it.

2. 🎡 Santa Monica Pier – Classic LA Energy by the Ocean

The Santa Monica Pier is pure Los Angeles nostalgia. The Ferris wheel lights up the coastline, street performers add constant energy, and the ocean breeze makes everything feel lighter. It’s touristy, sure—but there’s a reason people keep coming back.

Locals often pair the pier with:

• A walk or bike ride along the beachfront path

• An early evening drink nearby to catch the sunset

• Casual people-watching that somehow never gets boring

It’s an easy, feel-good way to spend an afternoon or early evening.

3. 🌴 Venice Beach – Where LA’s Weird and Wonderful Collide

Venice Beach is chaotic in the best possible way. You’ll see skateboarders, street musicians, performance artists, bodybuilders, and tourists all sharing the same stretch of sand.

Beyond the famous boardwalk:

• Walk the Venice Canals for a surprisingly peaceful side of the neighborhood

• Grab coffee or lunch on Abbot Kinney for boutique shopping and people-watching

• Catch the sunset from the beach for one of LA’s most colorful skies

Venice is less about checking off landmarks and more about soaking in the atmosphere.

4. 🌄 Griffith Observatory – The Best Views in the City

If you want to understand the scale of Los Angeles, go to Griffith Observatory. The views stretch from downtown to the Pacific on a clear day, and the surrounding hiking trails offer everything from easy walks to more challenging climbs.

Why locals love it:

• Free entry to the observatory

• Some of the best photo ops in LA

• Daytime hikes or romantic nighttime city views

It’s one of those places that reminds you why people fall in love with this city.

5. 🎬 Hollywood Walk of Fame – Iconic, Chaotic, and Still Worth Seeing

Hollywood Boulevard can be overwhelming—but it’s undeniably part of LA’s DNA. Seeing the stars in the sidewalk, snapping a photo with the Chinese Theatre, and witnessing the sheer spectacle of it all is a rite of passage.

Pro tip: Go with low expectations and a sense of humor, and you’ll enjoy it a lot more.

6. 🖼️ The Getty Center – Art, Architecture, and Calm Above the City

Perched high above the Westside, the Getty Center offers a totally different pace. The art is world-class, the gardens are meticulously designed, and the views alone are worth the trip.

Best of all, admission is free—making it one of the best cultural values in the city. It’s perfect for a quiet afternoon or a change of pace from the beach and nightlife.

7. 🌊 Manhattan Beach Pier – A More Relaxed Coastal Vibe

If Venice feels too wild and Santa Monica too busy, Manhattan Beach hits the sweet spot. The pier area is clean, walkable, and lined with great restaurants and bars.

It’s ideal for:

• Sunset walks

• Casual dinners with an ocean view

• Watching surfers and volleyball games

It feels polished without being pretentious.

8. 🍔 In-N-Out Burger – A Local Tradition

Yes, it’s fast food. Yes, the lines can be long. And yes—In-N-Out is still worth it. Order Animal Style, grab a seat outside, and enjoy a quintessential California moment that locals never seem to get tired of.

Why Los Angeles Is So Much Fun

What makes LA special isn’t just the landmarks—it’s the variety. You can have a different kind of “perfect day” every time you’re here. Beachy, artsy, adventurous, indulgent—it’s all on the menu.

And if you want an experience that truly captures the spirit of Los Angeles…

🌺 End Your LA Adventure with Magical Tiki

Sunshine, ocean breezes, tropical drinks, and live magic—all on a floating tiki bar.

If you’re looking for one activity that feels unmistakably LA and completely unforgettable, Magical Tiki should be at the top of your list.

👉 Book your Magical Tiki cruise today and experience Los Angeles from the water.
It’s not just a boat ride—it’s the kind of memory people talk about long after the trip is over. 🌴🍹✨