Planning your trip to Hollywood, California

Visiting Hollywood, California

Since it is a location always spotlighted by media attention, many find it fabulous to finally see Hollywood in person. The local attractions are bigger than life when you can actually walk right up to them! Since the 1920s and 1930s Hollywood has been a major tourist attraction, and much of this entertainment history is reflected in everything we say and do. Who doesn't recognize the Hollywood sign, or who hasn't wished that they too could have a star on the Walk of Fame? Whether you go to Hollywood to see the sights, marvel in the macabre and unusual, or find fame and fortune for yourself, you will never find Hollywood boring in the least! With so much to do and see, this region will keep you busy for quite a long time. When traveling by air to get to Hollywood, you have several choices. The Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, CA is about a 7 mile trip from downtown Hollywood (and who wouldn't want to fly into Bob Hope Airport?). The larger Los Angeles Airport (LAX) is located about 11 miles away, and may have more options for arriving and departing flights. The spirits of the past, the glimmering stars of the present, and the promise of the future keeps us all coming back for more! Hollywood is an icon all its own…enjoy your visit!

Climate in Hollywood, California

The fabulous climate in Southern California is what many people travel from all over to enjoy. Year round temperatures do not vary much and sunny skies are never far away. Hollywood basically only has two seasons; summer and winter. The summer months are warm and dry with temperatures ranging from highs in the mid 70s to low 80s, and lows in the mid 60s. Winter brings more rain, and stronger offshore breezes called the ‘Santa Ana Winds’. Temperatures usually stay in the high 60s and low 70s for the highs, and can get down to the high 40s and 50s for lows. The Los Angeles area is famous for its smog. This thick layer of pollutants combined with fog from the ocean is usually always present, and can be difficult to deal with for those who have breathing problems. Please take this into consideration when traveling to this region.

Hollywood, California Travel Tips

Hollywood contains so many different elevations, and sometimes this can be an issue for those who are not used to it. The combination of the desert, the mountains and the ocean creates such a great atmosphere, but be prepared when dressing and participating in outdoor activities. Always wear comfortable shoes, especially when you are out seeing the sights, or hiking in the mountain and canyon areas. Also drink lots of water if participating in anything outdoors. Dehydration can occur very quickly. Look for signs of dehydration such as dizziness, fatigue, nausea or muscle weakness. Don't let sunburn ruin your vacation. Apply a sunscreen with a high SPF, and reapply it after bathing or swimming. Always check with local information and visitors centers for updated dates and times for scheduled events and for handicap accessibility to certain attractions. Some historic locations are off limits to visitors, check with visitors centers before attempting to gain entry to these places. Please remember that celebrity homes are private property. Be respectful of their privacy, and be informed that trespassing is against the law and will be reported to the police. Hollywood is a safe place to visit for those that are careful, but it's still a good idea to use traveler's checks instead of cash, and not to leave valuables in your car. ATM's and currency exchange is readily accessible throughout the area, and many hotels have concierges to help you make arrangements if needed.