West Hollywood City Guide

The food scene is diverse with strong American and international choices. Vegetarian and vegan options are common. Many places stay open late, especially on Sunset Strip.

Nightlife is vibrant with live music, comedy clubs, lounges, and numerous LGBTQ+ bars mainly on Sunset Strip and Santa Monica Boulevard.

Thriving scene with independent and chain cafes. Focus on quality and ambiance. Specialty coffee is common.

Tipping is expected for most services. 15-20% in restaurants and rideshares is common.

SIM cards are sold at carrier stores like AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Best Buy. eSIMs are common. ID or passport needed for activation.

Generally clean with regular street cleaning and recycling programs.

Some 24/7 pharmacies, convenience stores, and late-night eateries are available, but urgent care centers have limited 24-hour services.

Supermarkets like Ralphs, Pavilions, Whole Foods, and Trader Joe's carry international products. Most open from 7 AM to 10 or 11 PM, including Sundays.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Cash is rarely needed for daily purchases.

ATMs are common at banks, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Out-of-network fees are usually $2.50 to $5.00 per use.

Local schools include West Hollywood Elementary and Fairfax High. International schools are mostly outside West Hollywood. Instruction is in English.

Part of the larger LA area with a growing remote worker community. Many cafes and meetups available.

Parks like West Hollywood Park and Plummer Park provide green areas for relaxation and light exercise.

Popular running spots include West Hollywood Park and Runyon Canyon. Air quality can vary on smoggy days.

Wide range of gyms from high-end to chains with classes and flexible hours.

Public courts at local parks and private clubs available. Some require reservation or membership.

Padel courts are rare but emerging in the greater LA area.

Many studios offer various yoga styles and wellness classes with English-speaking instructors.

Dojos offer Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Boxing and other disciplines with English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts like Big Bear and Snow Valley are about 1.5-2.5 hours away. Ski season runs late fall to early spring.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing near Marina del Rey and Santa Monica with rentals and tours.

Surf spots along the LA coast like Malibu and Venice, 30-60 minutes away. Suitable for beginners and advanced surfers.

Diving around Catalina Island and local beaches. Good marine life and equipment rentals available.

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is nearby with English-speaking staff. Quality care is good but costly without insurance. Many urgent care clinics and 24-hour pharmacies are available.

Tap water meets all federal and state standards and is safe to drink.

There are several parks with playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes. Baby supplies and children's programs are available.

One of the world's most LGBTQ+ friendly cities with strong community support and events like LA Pride.

Very pet-friendly with dog parks, pet supply stores, and many pet-welcoming places.