Popularized by countless Hollywood movies and blockbusters, sun-kissed Los Angeles easily ranks among the US’s most coveted holiday destinations- and for good reason! After all, very few places exude that same vibrancy that permeates throughout LA.
Whether you’re planning on exploring its many attractions or just passing through on a road trip, you’ll be glad to learn that Los Angeles offers an exhaustive array of things to do and see. This is the second-largest city in the United States, so rest assured that you’ll never get bored during your trip!
There is one downside to LA though…it’s expensive. And if you’re not careful, a good chunk of your backpacking budget could be drained here. That is unless, you stay somewhere affordable.
That’s where motels come in. Not only are they quintessentially American, I mean, you won’t find motels of tinsel town quality anywhere else in the world, but they are also incredibly affordable. Motels in Los Angeles are clean, comfy, and often near transport links – perfect if you’re on a road trip!
To help you find the best motels in LA, I’ve put together this list of the best motels in Los Angeles that are suitable for any type of traveler.
So, let’s get started!
In a Hurry? Here’s Where to Stay in Los Angeles for One Night
Room with Fridge and Microwave
Perfect for couples or solo travelers, this quaint motel room features classic home comforts such as a refrigerator and microwave. This property lies close to both LAX and trendy south Downtown LA.
- Crypto.com Arena
- Grammy Museum L.A. Live
- Ski Dazzle
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Staying in a Motel in Los Angeles
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As California’s most glittery city, Los Angeles is often described as the land of dreams and opportunities. There are so many unique places to visit in LA that you really need to allocate a few days here, to at least enjoy the highlights.
That being said, LA is an expensive place and if you are planning a California road trip, then you’ll want to save as much possible as you can to ensure you are able to afford the rising gas prices!
That’s why motels are such a great invention. They are designed to be cheap, comfy and no frills. Which is also perfect for anyone backpacking in LA who need to save a few pennies, and are not too keen on staying at one of LAs many hostels.
However, to ensure you get the best deal and not stay in a place of horror movies (and believe me, there are some gruesome motels too), you’ll want to know what to look for.
What to Look for in Motels in Los Angeles
The first thing to look for in a motel in LA is the location. If you’re looking to stay in Hollywood, you will need to expect to pay a little more than say in the Valleys. The good news is most motels are near main roads and offer parking, so if you have a car, getting around LA won’t be a problem for you. If you’re not on a West Coast road trip, then you’ll need to select a motel near a bus stop.
Travelers who would like to be smack where the action is can also book a centrally located property near popular sites such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and the likes. On the other hand, those who would like a quieter and more laidback environment can check out areas like Marina del Rey Beach, and Burton Chace Park.
Group travelers who wish to book a motel in Los Angeles can usually opt for a single room fitted with multiple beds, which means you can split the cost between you and save a ton! While this is undeniably the most affordable option – since some motels charge per room and not according to the number of guests – bear in mind that you won’t have a lot of personal space. A good alternative would be to opt for connecting rooms.
Some motels even have separate cottages on the premises that can accommodate groups in two or three bedrooms.
On the other hand, solo travelers can go for rooms with single beds to cut back on costs since these tend to be cheaper than double rooms.
Now, while most motels do offer free internet, some may charge you separately for their Wi-Fi services so it’s a good idea to ask about that beforehand. Additionally, you may wish to check if the motel provides free breakfast. If not, be sure to check whether the motel has an on-site restaurant or at the very least, a vending machine, so you can have a snack to tide you over.
Some motels offer some plush amenities, such as swimming pools, restaurants, playgrounds for kids etc, but these tend to have a higher price. If you’re not interested in using the pool, save some money and book a place without one.
When browsing for a motel in Los Angeles, it’s always a good idea to check out sites like Booking.com or Airbnb so you can quickly compare the different prices and amenities. If your flight is landing late at night or in the early hours of the morning, you may wish to opt for a property that has a 24-hour front desk so you can check in anytime.
However, if this sounds like a lot of work for you, don’t sweat, because I have listed the best of the best below.
Room with Fridge and Microwave
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > In-room Fridge
- > Close to LAX
Soothing Room for two
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Spa Bath in Select Rooms
- > Close to National History Museum
Affordable Rooms near the Freeway
- > $
- > 2 Guests
- > Coffee Maker in Rooms
- > Freeway Location
Motel with Multi-Room Cottages
- > $$
- > 4-5 Guests
- > Fridge, Microwave, and Toiletries
- > Proximity to Getty Center
Sand Piper Motel
- > $$
- > 2 Guests
- > Refrigerator and Work Desk
- > 24-Hour Front Desk
Hollywood Inn Express South
- > $$
- > 5-6 Guests
- > Complimentary Toiletries
- > Close to the Walk of Fame
Highland Park Motel
- > $
- > 1 Guest
- > 24-hour Front Desk
- > Close to Bob Hope Airport
Looking for other types of accommodation? Check out our guide to Where to Stay in Los Angeles!
The Top 10 Motels in Los Angeles
Now you know what to expect from a motel in Los Angeles, it’s time to look at the best ones!
Overall Best Value Motel in LA – Room w/ Fridge and Microwave
This motel in Los Angeles offers super-affordable rooms with classic home comforts such as a microwave and refrigerator. Perfect for two guests, this room also lies a mere 15 minutes drive from Los Angeles International Airport. Free Wi-Fi makes it easy for you to connect with loved ones back home or update your social media.
Because it’s close to south Downtown LA, guests will enjoy proximity to plenty of retail and dining options. Additionally, you’ll be close to popular attractions such as The Broad and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
The Absolute Cheapest Motel in Los Angeles – No Frills Room for 2
Commanding a prime location in South LA, the Full Moon Inn is ideal for those backpacking California or for couples who wish to book a cheap motel in Los Angeles. Each room comes with a king-sized bed for two, flat-screen television, and select rooms even boast spa baths- perfect for relaxing after a full day on the road!
With a stay at this property, you can easily catch a game at the LA Memorial Coliseum, located less than seven kilometers away. You’ll also be close to popular sites of interest such as the California Science Center and the National History Museum.
Best Budget Motel in Los Angeles – Affordable Room near the Freeway
Located right off the Santa Monica Freeway, the Eastsider Motel in Los Angeles comfortably sleeps two in its cozy bedrooms. Each room comes with a television and coffee maker so you can wake up to a fresh brew every morning. Central air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi are also provided.
If you’re spending a couple of days in the area, you can always check out popular downtown LA attractions such as the California Science Center or enjoy shows at the Orpheum Theatre and Walt Disney Concert Hall.
This is the ideal place to stay in Los Angeles if you are about to embark on a road trip.
Budget Tip: Dorms in Los Angeles start from $10USD per bed. They’re the cheapest accommodation in the city. Search for hostels in the area!
Best Motel for Groups of Friends – Motel with Multi-Room Cottages
Here’s one that’s bound to please groups of friends! Not only does the Wilshire Motel in Los Angeles lies close to LAX, but it also provides two and three-bedroom cottages that easily accommodate four to five guests. If you would like some personal space, rest assured that the property also features regular rooms to accommodate one to two persons.
With complimentary toiletries, this motel provides microwaves and refrigerators in select rooms, so you don’t have to look for a place to eat every night. This establishment places you close to the popular Sunset Strip.
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View on Osprey View on REIBest Motel for Large Groups – Nite Inn at Universal City
Catch up with friends and enjoy daily complimentary breakfasts with a stay at this comfortable motel in Los Angeles. Boasting Deluxe rooms that easily sleep four or five on two queen beds and one sofa bed, this property also features a 24-hour reception desk- perfect for those late-night flights!
Now, if you’re traveling with a larger group, you can always opt for a connecting suite that accommodates up to seven guests. Since the Studio City Red Line Metro Station lies just a quick walk away, you can enjoy easy access to attractions such as the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Best Motel in Los Angeles near the University – Sand Piper Motel
This motel lies just over three kilometers from the University of Southern California- ideal for parents visiting students! The property’s double rooms feature queen or king beds to accommodate two guests. Select rooms even come with LED televisions with satellite channels, extra-long beds, and refrigerators.
Thanks to the 24-hour front desk, you can check in anytime that you want. Additionally, the Sand Piper Motel offers direct bus services to LAX. If you’re into ice hockey, you’ll be glad to learn that the Staples Center lies just a quick drive from the motel.
Best Motel in Los Angeles for Families – Hollywood Inn Express South
Perfectly suited to families traveling with children, this motel in Los Angeles offers generously-sized rooms with two or three full beds, perfect for five to six guests. Each room comes with free toiletries, a television, and a refrigerator for storing snacks and meals. Guests can also use a common microwave to warm up their food.
Take a dip in the outdoor pool or explore nearby attractions such as the Dodger Stadium and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, located a mere 10 minutes drive away. Additionally, the establishment provides discounted tickets and tours of the iconic Universal Studios.
Best Motel in LA for Solo Travelers – Highland Park Motel
This pet-friendly motel in Los Angeles offers super-affordable rooms with a twin bed that comfortably accommodates a solo traveler. With free Wi-Fi and on-site private parking, this property also features flat-screen televisions with satellite channels and a 24-hour front desk so you can check-in and out anytime. Vending machines are available for your snacks and drinks.
Located less than 10 miles from Bob Hope Airport, Highland Park Motel boasts easy access to some of LA’s most sought-after attractions like the Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign.
Best Motel in Los Angeles for a Weekend – Budget Inn Hollywood
Okay, if you’re looking for an excellent deal both in terms of price and location, this motel in Los Angeles certainly ticks all the boxes! Because of its prime location on Sunset Boulevard, you’ll be able to soak up all the best attractions during your weekend in LA.
Best of all, this property lies just a short drive from the bustling Downtown Area, known for its cheap eats. After exploring the neighborhood, return to the motel to relax in the Queen Room for two. Larger groups can book the Double Room which provides two full beds for four.
Motel in Los Angeles with the Best Pool – Hollywood Downtowner Inn
Whether traveling alone or with your family, you’ll undoubtedly enjoy hours of fun in this motel’s outdoor pool! Nestled in the center of Hollywood, this property lies within walking distance to the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Walk of Fame. You’ll also be close to several beaches and amusement parks.
The Hollywood Downtowner Inn features Deluxe King rooms fitted with extra-large double beds to accommodate two guests. Larger families or groups may wish to book a Double Room that features inner courtyard views and two double beds that sleep four.
Don’t Forget Your Los Angeles Travel Insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Motels in Los Angeles
It’s easy to see why Los Angeles is one of the most popular holiday destinations in the US. After all, there’s something to suit various types of travelers and if you’re judicious about your choice of accommodation, you can easily get by on a limited budget.
Best of all, there are a plethora of motels in Los Angeles so it’s quite easy to choose the one that suits you best.
When planning your trip, you may also wish to consider getting travel insurance to make sure that you’re properly taken care of if anything should go wrong. After all, nothing ruins a vacation quicker than an unexpected incident but thanks to travel insurance, you’ll be able to enjoy your LA break to the fullest without having to worry about anything!
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