Long layovers can feel like torture when you’re stuck inside an airport terminal. However, Los Angeles International Airport offers plenty of exciting adventures just a short bus ride away. Whether you have three hours or eight, these car-free activities will help you stretch your legs, see some sights, and make the most of your unexpected free time in LA.
1. Manhattan Beach Pier stroll + Roundhouse Aquarium
Ocean breezes and sandy shores await at this picturesque coastal destination. The wooden pier stretches far into the Pacific, offering stunning views and a refreshing escape from airport crowds.
At the pier’s end sits the charming Roundhouse Aquarium, featuring interactive touch tanks and fascinating marine life displays. Best of all, admission is completely free, though donations help support their educational programs.
Beach Cities Transit Route 109 connects LAX directly to Manhattan Beach Pier. The journey takes about 30 minutes, making this perfect for layovers of four hours or more when you crave seaside relaxation.
2. Dockweiler State Beach for ocean air (and bike path)
California’s coastal beauty shines brightest at this expansive stretch of golden sand. Dockweiler offers the closest beach access to LAX, where crashing waves drown out airplane noise.
The famous Marvin Braude bike path runs along the shoreline, perfect for leisurely walks even without renting wheels. Wide sandy beaches provide ample space for relaxation, beachcombing, or simply breathing fresh Pacific air.
Metro Bus Route 117 whisks you from LAX/Metro Transit Center directly to the beach. Fire pits are sometimes available for evening layovers, though wildfire concerns occasionally require temporary removal, so check current status before planning beach bonfires.
3. Santa Monica in a straight shot
Big Blue Bus Rapid 3 transforms long layovers into mini Santa Monica vacations. This direct route speeds you from airport chaos to beachside bliss in under an hour.
Downtown Santa Monica buzzes with energy year-round. The iconic pier features carnival rides and street performers, while Third Street Promenade offers outdoor shopping and dining just blocks from pristine beaches.
Plan for layovers of four hours minimum to truly enjoy this coastal playground. The return trip is equally simple, following the same Lincoln Boulevard route back to LAX/Metro Transit Center for stress-free airport re-entry.
4. Watch jumbo jets at the Airplane Landing View Point (by In-N-Out)
Aviation enthusiasts call this small patch of grass pure magic. Massive planes descend just overhead, creating an unforgettable spectacle that makes your heart race.
Located across from the famous In-N-Out burger joint, this legendary spot offers front-row seats to LAX’s busiest runways. Grab a Double-Double and fries, then cross to the tiny park for the ultimate plane-spotting experience.
Getting there is surprisingly simple from any terminal. Take the free LAX shuttle to LAX/Metro Transit Center, then either walk 10-15 minutes or catch a quick bus ride to Sepulveda Boulevard and 92nd Street for aviation thrills.
5. Plane-spotting from Imperial Hill (Clutter’s Park)
Photographers and aviation fans treasure this elevated vantage point overlooking LAX’s southern runways. Clutter’s Park, nicknamed Imperial Hill, delivers panoramic views that capture both departing and arriving aircraft.
Unlike the ground-level Sepulveda spot, this hilltop location provides sweeping perspectives perfect for dramatic photos. Professional aviation photographers frequent this location, sharing tips with curious visitors about timing and aircraft identification.
Local buses from LAX/Metro Transit Center serve Imperial Avenue routes. A short uphill walk brings you to this peaceful park where plane-watching becomes an art form, especially during golden hour lighting.
6. Snap the LAX Theme Building
Architecture buffs recognize this Space Age icon instantly. The futuristic Theme Building, with its distinctive flying saucer design, represents 1960s optimism about air travel and space exploration.
Built in 1961, this mid-century modern masterpiece sits right in LAX’s Central Terminal Area. Its white concrete arches and circular restaurant create perfect Instagram moments between flight connections.
No special transportation needed—just use free terminal shuttles to position yourself for the best angles. Quick photo sessions work well during shorter layovers, while architecture enthusiasts might spend longer appreciating its unique design details and historical significance.
7. Redondo’s Riviera Village window-shop (easy seaside wander)
Charming coastal neighborhoods don’t get much more relaxed than Riviera Village. This walkable district combines small-town charm with ocean proximity, perfect for leisurely exploration during extended layovers.
Tree-lined streets feature boutique shops, cozy cafés, and restaurants serving fresh seafood. Ocean breezes carry the scent of salt air while you browse local businesses and people-watch in this laid-back community.
Stay on Beach Cities Transit Route 109 past Manhattan Beach to reach this hidden gem. The same bus returns directly to LAX/Metro Transit Center, making round-trip logistics completely hassle-free for relaxed coastal wandering.
