The 9 Best Hostels in Los Angeles, California

Located about as close as you can get to the golden sands of Venice Beach, the location of Samesun is unbeatable. How many hostels can boast about palm tree-lined views over the Pacific Ocean? When you’re not making new friends at the nightly in-house events or skateboarding along the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk out front, you’ll be in your comfortable room being lulled to sleep by the sound of waves lapping the shore. If you do fancy exploring further afield, the hostel has an on-site reservation agent to book excursions and trips for you – so, gather up your new friends and head out on a day trip to the Hollywood Sign, before retreating to the beach in time for happy hour.

If you’re sick of cramped bunks, then PodShare is for you. As the name suggests, beds are pod-like spaces (you won’t notice your neighbor) – each with a television and reading light. The Downtown location lies in the Arts District, where you can explore breweries, art galleries and thought-provoking street art. Check out up-and-coming talent at Art Share LA – something of an arts collective with exhibitions, residences and classes – and then head to Arts District Brewing Company for a craft beer in its lively warehouse-style setting.

Orange Drive Hostel lies inside a historic 1910 manor steeped in Hollywood history. During the Golden Age, it became a boarding house where stars such as Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth stayed. In its current phase of life, the hostel hosts budget travelers looking for a relaxed environment. It’s located on a quiet street within walking distance of famous sights, including Sunset Boulevard, the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The hostel offers dorm, private and group rooms. A free breakfast (with pancakes and waffles) is included in the stay.

A former motel, Banana Bungalow is ideal for those who want to socialize (or party) during their trip to La La Land, as it organizes free social nights, including karaoke and a pub crawl. Dorms have either six or eight beds and a bath and kitchen; the hostel also has private rooms. Because of the motel-esque layout, there is also on-site parking, and the Hollywood Sign is visible from the courtyard, which has been converted into a hangout area.

Located in the coastal city of Santa Monica, HI Los Angeles is just a block from the beach. The surrounding neighborhood is full of trendy shops and restaurants, and nearby public transit is available for guests to explore the rest of LA. The hostel also organizes daily events and tours that you can sign up for. With more than 260 beds across four floors, HI Los Angeles is a giant, but the behemoth hostel is also eco-friendly, having been awarded Santa Monica Green Business Certification for its sustainability measures.

USA Hostels Hollywood is minutes away from the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre and organizes daily tours and activities, such as a hike to the Hollywood Sign. Plus, there’s a shuttle three times a week that takes guests to the beaches in Santa Monica and Venice. In 2018, USA Hostels installed central air conditioning and remodeled the rooms and bathrooms. Beds in group rooms have privacy panels, a shelf, a bed light and a power outlet. Breakfast is also included in the price.