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Los Angeles Hotels & Transportation

Complete LA accommodation guide for World Cup 2026. Best neighborhoods (Inglewood, Santa Monica, Long Beach), Metro K Line $5/day unlimited to SoFi Stadium, budget strategies. Book 3-6 months ahead!

Published
•Updated

Los Angeles Essentials at a Glance

Available Hotels
1,200+ hotels
103,000+ total rooms
Hotel Prices
$120-200/night - $150-280/night
per night
Book By
3-6 months in advance recommended (6+ months for USMNT opener)
recommended
Expected Surge
100-150% surge during World Cup (2-3x for USMNT opener and quarterfinal)
price increase
To Stadium
Metro E Line + K Line (Crenshaw) to Downtown Inglewood Station
$1.75 per ride, CAPPED at $5/day (unlimited after 3rd tap) • 45-90 min depending on origin + 15 min walk
Top Choice
Inglewood / LAX Area
best neighborhood
Daily Budget
accommodation + transport
Last Updated
January 8, 2026
Prices and availability checked regularly

Important: Hotels are booking fast. 3-6 months in advance recommended (6+ months for USMNT opener) to avoid 100-150% surge during World Cup (2-3x for USMNT opener and quarterfinal) price surge.

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Where to StayNeighborhoodsTo StadiumAround CityBudget TipsBooking Strategy

Where to Stay: Inglewood vs Beach Cities vs Beverly Hills

Affiliate Disclosure: We use affiliate links to help you find the best hotels. Our recommendations are independent and not influenced by partnerships. Booking links with live pricing coming soon!

Los Angeles has 1,200+ hotels (103,000+ rooms) but prices spike 100-150% during World Cup, with 2-3x surges expected for the USMNT opening match (June 11) and quarterfinal (July 11). The big decision: Stay near SoFi Stadium in Inglewood ($120-200/night, walking distance, modern hotels) OR beach cities like Santa Monica ($200-400/night, iconic California vibes, 75 min Metro to stadium) OR luxury Beverly Hills ($300-600/night, 2-3x surge, 90 min to stadium). Book 3-6 months in advance for best rates.

Hotels

1,200+

Rooms

103,000+

Price Surge

100-150% surge during World Cup (2-3x for USMNT opener and quarterfinal)

Book By

3-6 months in advance recommended (6+ months for USMNT opener)

The Big Decision

Inglewood (stadium access + value) vs Santa Monica (beach experience + 75 min commute) vs Beverly Hills (luxury + 90 min commute)

Neighborhoods Comparison

NeighborhoodRatingPrice RangeTo StadiumBest For
Inglewood / LAX Area
$120-200/night10-20 min walk/drive or Metro K LineBudget travelers, stadium access priority, families with cars, USMNT opener attendees
Santa Monica / Venice Beach
$200-400/night75 min via Metro E + K LinesBeach lovers, first-time LA visitors, extending trip beyond matches
Long Beach
$100-180/night60-75 min via Metro A + C + K LinesBudget-conscious travelers, beach lovers, families
Beverly Hills / West Hollywood
$300-600/night90 min via bus + Metro E + K LinesLuxury travelers, celebrity spotting, high-end shoppers
Culver City / Marina del Rey
$150-280/night10 min drive or 45-60 min Metro E + K LinesMid-budget travelers, foodies, balance seekers

Inglewood / LAX Area

BEST OVERALL for Soccer Fans - Highly Recommended

$120-200/night

Pros

  • ✓Walking distance to SoFi Stadium from many hotels (0.5-3 miles)
  • ✓NEW modern hotels built 2020-2022 for SoFi/Super Bowl (Four Seasons, Hyatt)
  • ✓50% cheaper than Santa Monica, 60-75% cheaper than Beverly Hills
  • ✓3 miles from LAX airport (cheapest Uber/rideshare $10-15)
  • ✓10-20 min to stadium via Metro K Line or walk
  • ✓Many LAX hotels offer FREE event-day shuttles to SoFi (call ahead)
  • ✓Avoids 75-90 min commute from beach cities

Cons

  • ✗Not a traditional tourist area (suburban/commercial vibe, not beach/Hollywood glamour)
  • ✗Limited dining/entertainment outside stadium complex (Hollywood Park has some options)
  • ✗Requires 30-60 min transit/drive to reach LA attractions (beaches, Hollywood)
  • ✗Stick to designated walking paths and shuttle routes after dark

Recommended Hotels

Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club Inglewood
•3902 West Century Boulevard, Inglewood, CA 90303

$400-700/night

per night

  • •CLOSEST luxury hotel to SoFi Stadium (literally next door)
  • •Opened 2023, ultra-modern design
  • •Rooftop pool with stadium views
  • •Multiple restaurants and bars on-site
  • •Valet parking $45/night (walk to stadium, no parking needed)
  • •Spa, fitness center, concierge

Pro Tips

  • BEST hotel for USMNT opener - walk to stadium in 5-10 min
  • Book 6+ months ahead for quarterfinal/USMNT matches (sells out)
  • Request stadium-view room for unique experience
  • Pool area excellent for pre-match relaxation
Expedia
Hyatt Regency LAX
•6225 West Century Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90045

$150-280/night

per night

  • •Modern airport hotel with free LAX shuttle
  • •Often offers FREE event-day shuttle to SoFi (call to confirm)
  • •Rooftop pool and bar
  • •24-hour fitness center
  • •Self-parking $30/night (or take Metro/shuttle to stadium)

Pro Tips

  • BEST VALUE near stadium - free shuttle saves $20-30 rideshare
  • Call hotel 1-2 weeks before match to confirm SoFi shuttle schedule
  • Free LAX shuttle makes airport transfers easy
  • Hyatt loyalty program offers good benefits
Expedia
Courtyard by Marriott LAX/Century Boulevard
•6161 West Centinela Avenue, Culver City, CA 90230

$120-220/night

per night

  • •Budget-friendly option near stadium
  • •Modern rooms with workspace
  • •Pool and fitness center
  • •Free breakfast with some packages
  • •Self-parking $25/night

Pro Tips

  • CHEAPEST Inglewood/LAX option with decent amenities
  • Book 3-4 months ahead for best rates
  • Take Metro K Line to stadium ($5/day unlimited) to avoid parking
  • Good for families on budget
Expedia

Transportation

To Stadium: Walk 5-20 min (closest hotels) OR Metro K Line 10-20 min from Aviation/LAX Station

To Beaches: Metro E Line 45-75 min to Santa Monica, or drive 25-35 min

To Hollywood: Metro E + B Line 60-75 min, or drive 30-45 min

Within Area: Uber/Lyft ($10-20), rental car recommended for exploring LA

Where to Eat

  • •Hollywood Park complex: Multiple restaurants/bars adjacent to stadium
  • •In-N-Out Burger: 1 mile from stadium (iconic California fast food $8-12)
  • •LAX area: Chain restaurants (Chili's, Panera, Cheesecake Factory)
  • •Take Metro/Uber to Venice/Santa Monica for better dining (25-35 min)

Santa Monica / Venice Beach

Excellent for Beach Experience

$200-400/night

Pros

  • ✓ICONIC California beach experience - Santa Monica Pier, Venice Boardwalk
  • ✓Walkable neighborhoods with shopping, dining, entertainment
  • ✓Direct Metro E Line to SoFi (transfer to K Line, 75 min total)
  • ✓Safe, tourist-friendly areas with excellent hotel infrastructure
  • ✓Perfect for combining World Cup with beach vacation
  • ✓Stunning sunsets over Pacific Ocean (after 'June Gloom' burns off)

Cons

  • ✗75-minute Metro commute to SoFi Stadium (leave 3+ hours before kickoff)
  • ✗Expensive - 2nd highest prices after Beverly Hills
  • ✗Hotel parking $25-40/day
  • ✗Summer crowds and tourist traffic
  • ✗'June Gloom' coastal fog until 12-1 PM daily

Recommended Hotels

Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
•101 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401

$350-650/night

per night

  • •Luxury beachfront hotel with ocean views
  • •5 min walk to Santa Monica Pier
  • •Rooftop pool, spa, fitness center
  • •FIG Restaurant (farm-to-table California cuisine)
  • •Valet parking $50/night
  • •10 min walk to Metro E Line (Downtown Santa Monica Station)

Pro Tips

  • Request ocean-view room for stunning Pacific sunsets
  • Walk to Metro E Line - 75 min to SoFi Stadium
  • Perfect for beach + World Cup combo trip
  • Book 4-6 months ahead for World Cup rates
Expedia
Hotel Shangri-La Santa Monica
•1301 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90401

$280-500/night

per night

  • •Boutique Art Deco hotel (1939)
  • •Across from Palisades Park, ocean views
  • •Rooftop bar with Pacific views
  • •5 min walk to Santa Monica Pier
  • •Valet parking $45/night
  • •15 min walk to Metro E Line

Pro Tips

  • Boutique charm vs mega-resort experience
  • Rooftop bar excellent for pre-match drinks
  • Walk to Metro E Line (Downtown Santa Monica) in 15 min
Best Western Plus Gateway Hotel Santa Monica
•1920 Santa Monica Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90404

$200-350/night

per night

  • •BEST VALUE in Santa Monica area
  • •Free breakfast included
  • •Pool and fitness center
  • •Free parking (rare in Santa Monica!)
  • •5 min drive to beach, 10 min walk to Metro E Line

Pro Tips

  • Free parking saves $25-40/day vs luxury hotels
  • Free breakfast saves $15-20 per person
  • 10 min walk to Metro E Line - perfect for stadium access
Expedia

Transportation

To Stadium: Walk 10-15 min to Downtown Santa Monica Station → Metro E Line to Expo/Crenshaw → transfer to K Line → Downtown Inglewood Station → 15 min walk to SoFi. Total: 75 min, $1.75/ride (capped at $5/day)

Within Area: Very walkable - pier, beach, shops all within 1-2 miles. Rent bikes ($15-30/day) for beach path

To Hollywood: Metro E + B Line 60 min, or drive 30-40 min

Where to Eat

  • •Santa Monica Pier: Casual seafood, overpriced but fun atmosphere
  • •3rd Street Promenade: Chain restaurants, Apple Pan burger joint
  • •Main Street Santa Monica: Local cafes, brunch spots
  • •Venice Beach: Gjelina (upscale California), Gjusta (bakery/deli)

Long Beach

Good for Budget + Beach Combo

$100-180/night

Pros

  • ✓CHEAPEST beach option in LA area ($100-180 vs $200-400 Santa Monica)
  • ✓Actual beach access with boardwalk, pier, Queen Mary ship
  • ✓More affordable dining ($10-20 meals vs $20-40 Santa Monica)
  • ✓Direct Metro A Line connection (transfer twice to reach SoFi)
  • ✓Laid-back coastal vibe, less touristy than Santa Monica
  • ✓Good for families on budget

Cons

  • ✗Longest commute to SoFi Stadium (60-75 min, two Metro transfers)
  • ✗Far from Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and major LA attractions (60-90 min)
  • ✗Requires full-day transit planning for match days
  • ✗Less 'iconic California' than Santa Monica (but still nice beach)

Recommended Hotels

The Westin Long Beach
•333 East Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, CA 90802

$140-260/night

per night

  • •Downtown Long Beach waterfront location
  • •Walking distance to Aquarium of the Pacific, Queen Mary
  • •Rooftop pool with ocean views
  • •Multiple restaurants nearby
  • •Valet parking $35/night
  • •5 min walk to Metro A Line (Downtown Long Beach Station)

Pro Tips

  • BEST VALUE for beach + modern amenities
  • Walk to Metro A Line - 60-75 min to SoFi (transfer at Willowbrook/Rosa Parks to C Line, then to K Line)
  • Queen Mary ship and Aquarium excellent for families
  • Book 3-4 months ahead
Expedia
Hotel Maya - a DoubleTree by Hilton
•700 Queensway Drive, Long Beach, CA 90802

$120-220/night

per night

  • •Waterfront hotel with harbor views
  • •Tropical-themed resort feel
  • •Pool, fitness center, on-site restaurant
  • •Free shuttle to downtown Long Beach attractions
  • •Self-parking $25/night

Pro Tips

  • Budget-friendly with resort amenities
  • Free downtown shuttle helps with transit access
  • Good for families - pool and casual vibe
Expedia

Transportation

To Stadium: Walk to Metro A Line (Downtown Long Beach) → transfer at Willowbrook/Rosa Parks to C Line → transfer at Expo/Crenshaw to K Line → Downtown Inglewood. Total: 60-75 min, $5/day unlimited with fare capping

Within Area: Walkable downtown waterfront. Bike rentals for beach path

To L A X: Metro A Line to Aviation/LAX Station, 50-60 min

The Verdict

Long Beach is the budget beach play - pay 40-60% less than Santa Monica for similar beach experience. The 60-75 min Metro commute (two transfers) is manageable but requires early departure on match days. Perfect if you're prioritizing beach vacation over LA attractions, or traveling with kids on budget. Skip if you want easy access to Hollywood/Beverly Hills.

Beverly Hills / West Hollywood

Only if Luxury is Priority

$300-600/night

Pros

  • ✓ICONIC LA glamour - Rodeo Drive, celebrity sightings, luxury shopping
  • ✓World-class restaurants (Spago, Mastro's, The Ivy)
  • ✓Safe, walkable neighborhoods with beautiful tree-lined streets
  • ✓Close to Hollywood attractions (15-20 min drive)
  • ✓Top-tier hotel amenities (spas, Michelin dining, concierge)

Cons

  • ✗MOST EXPENSIVE option - 3-4x cost of Inglewood ($300-600 vs $120-200)
  • ✗90-minute public transit to SoFi (bus transfers + Metro E + K Line)
  • ✗Expect 2-3x surge pricing for USMNT opener and quarterfinal ($600-1,500/night)
  • ✗Expensive hotel parking ($40-60/day)
  • ✗LA traffic makes driving frustrating (25 min drive becomes 60 min with traffic)
  • ✗Far from stadium (15 miles) - not ideal for soccer fans on budget

Recommended Hotels

Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel
•9500 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90212

$600-1,200/night

per night

  • •Iconic luxury hotel (Pretty Woman filming location)
  • •Rodeo Drive location - walk to luxury shopping
  • •Rooftop pool, world-class spa, concierge
  • •THE Blvd restaurant (Wolfgang Puck)
  • •Valet parking $60/night

Pro Tips

  • Pure luxury but 3-4x cost of Inglewood
  • Expect $900-1,500/night for USMNT opener (2-3x surge)
  • Uber to SoFi Stadium $60-100 with surge pricing
  • Only book if luxury > stadium convenience
Expedia
The Beverly Hills Hotel
•9641 Sunset Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

$700-1,400/night

per night

  • •Legendary 'Pink Palace' since 1912
  • •Celebrity hotspot (Polo Lounge restaurant)
  • •Iconic poolside cabanas
  • •12 acres of tropical gardens
  • •Valet parking $65/night

Pro Tips

  • Most iconic LA luxury hotel
  • Expect $1,000-2,000/night for World Cup
  • Polo Lounge breakfast is celebrity-spotting central
  • NOT practical for soccer fans - Inglewood is smarter
Expedia

Transportation

To Stadium: Bus 20/720 to Expo/Crenshaw → transfer to K Line → Downtown Inglewood. Total: 90 min OR Uber $60-100 with surge

Within Area: Walkable on Rodeo Drive. Uber/Lyft recommended for restaurants/nightlife

To Hollywood: 15-20 min drive, 30-45 min bus

The Verdict

Beverly Hills is pure luxury and glamour - perfect if you're combining World Cup with high-end LA experience and budget is no concern. But for soccer fans prioritizing stadium access and value, this is a bad play. You'll pay $300-600/night (2-3x Inglewood) and spend 90 min commuting to SoFi. Only book if staying in the Beverly Wilshire is part of your bucket list.

Culver City / Marina del Rey

Excellent Mid-Tier Option

$150-280/night

Pros

  • ✓Shortest Metro E Line commute to SoFi (45-60 min, one transfer to K Line)
  • ✓Excellent restaurant scene - Culver City is LA's foodie neighborhood
  • ✓Marina del Rey has beach access and harbor views
  • ✓Good value for amenities and location balance ($150-280 vs $200-400 Santa Monica)
  • ✓Easy access to both beach cities AND downtown LA (15-25 min drive each)

Cons

  • ✗Still requires 45-60 min Metro commute to stadium (though shortest of beach areas)
  • ✗Not walkable to major tourist sites (requires transit/driving)
  • ✗Can be expensive during peak season (less than Santa Monica though)
  • ✗Less 'LA glamour' than Beverly Hills or beach icon status of Santa Monica

Recommended Hotels

The Culver Hotel
•9400 Culver Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232

$170-300/night

per night

  • •Historic boutique hotel (1924)
  • •Downtown Culver City location - walk to restaurants
  • •European-style charm with modern amenities
  • •On-site dining and bar
  • •Self-parking $25/night
  • •5 min walk to Metro E Line (Culver City Station)

Pro Tips

  • Best food scene outside downtown LA
  • Walk to Metro E Line - 45-60 min to SoFi
  • Good balance of value + location
  • Book 3-4 months ahead
Expedia
The Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey
•4375 Admiralty Way, Marina del Rey, CA 90292

$280-550/night

per night

  • •Waterfront luxury with harbor views
  • •Rooftop pool and lounge
  • •Spa, fitness center, multiple restaurants
  • •Water taxi to Venice Beach
  • •Valet parking $55/night

Pro Tips

  • Luxury with better value than Beverly Hills
  • 15 min drive to beach or stadium (without traffic)
  • Water taxi to Venice Beach is unique experience
Expedia

Transportation

To Stadium: Metro E Line from Culver City Station → transfer at Expo/Crenshaw to K Line → Downtown Inglewood. Total: 45-60 min, $5/day with fare capping

To Beaches: 10-15 min drive to Venice/Marina beaches

Within Area: Culver City walkable for dining. Marina requires driving

Getting to SoFi Stadium: Metro K Line is Your Best Friend

SoFi Stadium is 11 miles southwest of downtown LA in Inglewood—accessible via Metro K Line (Crenshaw) which opened in 2022 specifically to serve the stadium. This is the BEST transit access of any US World Cup venue. Metro fare capping at $5/day means unlimited rides after your 3rd tap—you'll never pay more than $5 total per day. Compare this to $100-200+ stadium parking or $60-100 Uber surge pricing.

Critical Information

Metro K Line fare capping: $1.75/ride but CAPPED at $5/day. After 3 taps ($5.25 total), ALL additional rides that day are FREE. This is the cheapest World Cup transit system in North America.

Step-by-Step: Metro E Line + K Line (Crenshaw) to Downtown Inglewood Station

1

Download Metro TAP App BEFORE Match DayCritical

Download 'TAP' app (iOS/Android) or buy physical TAP card at any Metro station. Load funds ($20 recommended for full day). Register card to enable fare capping. Without TAP card/app, you can't ride Metro.

2

Plan Your Route Based on Origin

Santa Monica/Venice: E Line (Expo) from Downtown Santa Monica → transfer at Expo/Crenshaw to K Line. Beverly Hills/Hollywood: Bus 20/720 to Expo/Crenshaw → K Line. Inglewood/LAX: Walk, rideshare, or K Line from Aviation/LAX Station. Use Google Maps or Transit app for real-time directions.

3

Board K Line to Downtown Inglewood Station

Look for GREEN 'K Line (Crenshaw)' trains toward Redondo Beach. Trains every 12-20 minutes. Ride is 10-30 min depending on origin. Tap your TAP card on yellow reader when boarding (fare capping applies automatically).

4

Exit Downtown Inglewood Station

Follow signs for 'SoFi Stadium / Hollywood Park.' Exit station and follow crowd—15-minute walk on wide sidewalks to stadium entrance. Stadium may run free shuttle buses on high-attendance days (look for signage).

5

Arrive 2-3 Hours Before KickoffCritical

Security screening takes 45-60 minutes during peak arrivals. Metro K Line gets crowded 2-3 hours before matches. For 5 PM kickoff: Leave hotel 1:30 PM → arrive stadium area 3 PM → clear security by 4 PM → settle in seat 4:30 PM.

6

Return Journey After Match

Follow crowd to Downtown Inglewood Station (15 min walk). Trains run frequently post-match. Expect crowds—allow 30-45 min to board train. Your $5/day fare cap covers return trip (no additional charge after 3rd tap). Last trains run ~midnight.

⚠️ Metro K Line runs until midnight - check last train time on match days

Cost

$1.75 per ride, CAPPED at $5/day (unlimited after 3rd tap)

Duration

45-90 min depending on origin + 15 min walk

Recommended?

YES

Must-Know Tips

  • →Download TAP app and register card night before (enables fare capping)
  • →Load $20 on TAP card for full day of travel
  • →After 3rd tap ($5.25), all rides FREE rest of day
  • →Leave hotel 2.5-3 hours before kickoff for coastal origins
  • →Use Google Maps or Transit app for real-time train tracking
  • →Bring sealed water bottles on train (save $6-8 at stadium)
  • →Wear sunscreen on 15-min stadium walk (no shade)
  • →Post-match: Expect 30-45 min wait to board train (crowds)
Book Metro TAP Official Tickets

Download TAP app and load fare card here

Alternative Transport Options

Uber / Lyft

Not Recommended

Uber/Lyft readily available but expect 2-4x surge pricing on match days. From Santa Monica: $40-80 normal becomes $80-150 with surge. From Inglewood/LAX: $15-30 normal, $30-60 surge. Post-match pickup is chaotic with 30-60 min wait times. Designated rideshare zones require 10-15 min walk from stadium. Only use if you're in a group splitting cost or staying very close to stadium.

Cost

$25-60 normal, $60-120 surge on match days

Duration

15-45 min from most areas (traffic dependent)

View Tips
  • ONLY use from Inglewood/LAX hotels (short trip = lower surge cost)
  • Budget $60-120 each way from beach areas with surge
  • Groups of 3-4: Split $100 Uber = $25pp (vs $5 Metro)
  • Post-match: Walk to pickup zone FAST (first 10 min have shortest waits)
  • Consider Uber TO stadium, Metro back (avoid post-match surge)

Rental Car

Recommended

Rental cars ($40-60/day) are highly recommended for exploring LA beyond the stadium—beaches, Hollywood, theme parks are all 20-60 min apart. But for match days, SKIP driving to SoFi. Parking costs $100-200+ (World Cup pricing based on Super Bowl/Taylor Swift precedent) and post-game exit takes 60-90 minutes (nightmare bottleneck). Park at hotel on match day and take Metro.

Parking

$100-200+ parking at stadium

Duration

15-45 min drive (60-90 min with traffic), 60-90 min parking exit

View Tips
  • RENT CAR for exploring LA, but take Metro to SoFi on match days
  • If you drive to stadium: Arrive 3+ hours early, budget $100-200 parking
  • Post-game exit 60-90 min - bring snacks/drinks and patience
  • I-405 and I-10 freeways are parking lots during rush hour (4-7 PM)
  • Use Google Maps traffic layer to avoid worst times
  • Many hotels offer free parking (LAX area, Long Beach) vs $45/day Santa Monica

Getting Around Los Angeles

LA Metro has expanded significantly with new K Line (opened 2022) providing direct access to SoFi Stadium. Fare capping at $5/day after 3 taps makes it the BEST transit deal in any US World Cup city. However, LA is sprawling (500+ square miles) and car-centric—rental car highly recommended for exploring beaches, Hollywood, and attractions beyond Metro routes. Traffic on I-405 and I-10 is notorious during rush hour (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM). Walking only works within specific neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Venice Beach, or Hollywood Walk of Fame.

LA Metro (Rail & Bus)

6 rail lines (K, E, B, A, D, L) + 170+ bus routes

K Line (Crenshaw) serves SoFi Stadium directly. E Line connects Santa Monica to Downtown. B Line (Red) serves Hollywood/Universal Studios. A Line (Blue) connects Long Beach to Downtown. Metro covers core LA but not all beach cities or suburbs.

Single Ride

$1.75

Day Pass

$5.00 (fare capping after 3 taps)

Week Pass

$18.00

Hours

5:00 AM - 12:00 AM daily (varies by line, some 24-hour)

Pros

  • ✓CHEAPEST transit in any US World Cup city ($5/day fare capping)
  • ✓K Line (Crenshaw) goes DIRECTLY to SoFi Stadium (opened 2022)
  • ✓Automatic fare capping—after 3 taps ($5.25), all rides FREE rest of day
  • ✓E Line connects Santa Monica beaches to Downtown (45 min)
  • ✓B Line (Red) serves Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios
  • ✓New K Line is cleanest and newest line in LA system

Cons

  • ✗Limited coverage—doesn't reach Malibu, Beverly Hills, Getty Center
  • ✗Trains run every 10-20 minutes (less frequent than NYC/Boston)
  • ✗Safety concerns after 10 PM (use rideshare for late-night travel)
  • ✗No direct service to LAX Airport (must take bus connector)
  • ✗Homeless population visible on some trains (more so than other cities)

Pro Tips

  • →Download TAP app and register TAP card to enable fare capping
  • →Load $20 on TAP card for 2-3 days of unlimited travel
  • →After 3 taps ($5.25 total), all additional rides that day are FREE
  • →Download Transit app for real-time train tracking and trip planning
  • →K Line is newest (opened 2022) and cleanest—use for SoFi Stadium
  • →E Line Santa Monica → Downtown → transfer to K Line for SoFi (90 min total)
  • →B Line (Red) for Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, Griffith Observatory area
  • →Use Metro during day, switch to Uber/Lyft after 10 PM for safety

Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

Availability

Excellent - Uber and Lyft everywhere in LA metro area

Average Cost

$15-30 for typical trips (Santa Monica to Downtown $25-35, Hollywood to Downtown $15-20, LAX to Santa Monica $30-40)

Match Day Surge

Expect 2-3x surge pricing during World Cup match days, especially post-match at SoFi Stadium. Pre-book rides or wait 30-45 min for surge to drop.

  • •Santa Monica to Downtown LA: $25-35 (30-45 min with traffic)
  • •Hollywood to Downtown: $15-20 (20-30 min)
  • •LAX Airport to Santa Monica: $30-40 (30-45 min)
  • •LAX Airport to Downtown: $35-50 (40-60 min with traffic)
  • •Use Lyft Shared or Uber Pool to save 30-40% on longer trips
  • •Order rides 10-15 min before you're ready to avoid wait times
  • •Avoid ordering right after World Cup matches at SoFi—wait 30-45 min for surge to drop
  • •Compare Uber vs Lyft pricing (can vary by $5-10 on same route)
  • •Traffic doubles trip times during rush hour (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM)—plan accordingly

Walking

Very Limited - LA is sprawling (500+ square miles). Walking only works within specific neighborhoods, NOT between them.

Walkable Areas:

  • Santa Monica: Pier, Third Street Promenade, Main Street (2-mile radius walkable)
  • Venice Beach: Boardwalk, Abbot Kinney Blvd (1.5-mile walkable strip)
  • Hollywood: Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, Hollywood & Highland (1-mile radius)
  • Beverly Hills: Rodeo Drive shopping district (0.5-mile walkable strip)
  • Downtown LA: Arts District, Little Tokyo, Grand Central Market (1-mile radius walkable)
  • Griffith Park: Observatory area (hiking trails, not city walking)

Challenges:

  • LA is 500+ square miles—neighborhoods are 10-30 min drives apart
  • Extremely car-centric city with limited pedestrian infrastructure
  • Santa Monica to Venice Beach = 3 miles (not walkable despite proximity)
  • Hollywood to Downtown = 10 miles (30-45 min drive, not walkable)
  • Intense California sun year-round—sunscreen and hydration essential
  • Jaywalking is ticketed ($200+ fine)—unlike East Coast cities, use crosswalks
  • Limited shade on sidewalks—plan for sun exposure

Walking only works WITHIN individual neighborhoods (Santa Monica, Venice, Hollywood, Beverly Hills). Use Metro ($1.75-5/day) or rental car to travel BETWEEN neighborhoods. LA is NOT like NYC or Boston—it's designed for cars.

Biking

Bike Share

Metro Bike Share with 200+ stations (Santa Monica, Venice, Downtown LA, Pasadena). Marvin Braude Bike Trail (22-mile beachfront path from Santa Monica to Torrance).

Cost

$5 for 30-min ride, $20 for 24-hour pass, $40 for 30-day pass (includes unlimited 30-min trips)

Safety

4/5 - Beach bike path is excellent and safe. Street biking mixed—some bike lanes but aggressive drivers.

Excellent for beach recreation (22-mile Marvin Braude Bike Trail from Santa Monica to Palos Verdes). Good for exploring Santa Monica, Venice, Manhattan Beach. NOT recommended for cross-city travel—distances too far and traffic too dangerous.

Car Rental

Needed?

Highly recommended if exploring beyond Metro routes (Malibu, Getty Center, Beverly Hills, beach cities, Griffith Observatory). NOT needed if staying only in Santa Monica/Venice and using Metro.

Daily Cost

$40-80 for economy car (rates vary by location—LAX Airport cheapest, Santa Monica/Beverly Hills most expensive)

Parking

$25-45/day at most hotels. Beach city parking $3-5/hour metered. SoFi Stadium parking $95-195 on match days (take Metro K Line instead).

  • •Rent car for flexibility—LA is 500+ square miles, Metro doesn't cover everything
  • •Pick up at LAX Airport for cheapest rates ($40-60/day vs $60-80 in Santa Monica)
  • •Avoid driving during rush hour (7-10 AM, 4-7 PM)—traffic doubles trip times
  • •I-405 (San Diego Freeway) and I-10 (Santa Monica Freeway) are worst traffic corridors
  • •Use Waze or Google Maps traffic layer religiously for routing
  • •Gas prices $4.50-5.50/gallon (higher than US average)
  • •Hotel parking $25-45/day in Santa Monica/Hollywood (free at LAX/Long Beach hotels)
  • •SoFi Stadium parking $95-195 on match days—take Metro K Line instead ($5 fare cap)
  • •Beverly Hills street parking strictly enforced (2-hour limits, $70+ tickets)
  • •Consider NOT renting if staying only in Santa Monica/Venice and using Metro to SoFi

Our Recommendations

For Short Stays (1-3 days)

Metro K Line to SoFi Stadium ($5/day fare capping) + Uber/Lyft for beach city hopping ($15-30/trip). Download TAP app for automatic fare capping.

For Budget Travelers

Metro day pass ($5 fare capping after 3 taps) for all transportation. Walk within neighborhoods (Santa Monica, Venice, Hollywood). Avoid rental car to save $40-80/day + $25-45 parking.

For Maximum Convenience

Rental car for maximum flexibility exploring LA's sprawl ($40-80/day). Take Metro K Line to SoFi Stadium on match days to avoid $95-195 parking. Use Uber/Lyft in Santa Monica/Venice to avoid parking hassles ($15-30/trip).

Budget Tips & Hidden Costs

Money-Saving Strategies

  • Metro fare capping ($5/day unlimited) saves $95-195 vs stadium parking - this is the #1 money saver
  • Download TAP app and register card before trip - enables automatic fare capping
  • Stay in Inglewood/LAX for best value ($120-200/night vs $200-400 Santa Monica, $300-600 Beverly Hills)
  • LAX area hotels offer free SoFi shuttles on event days - call ahead to confirm
  • Long Beach is cheapest beach option ($100-180/night) with 60-75 min Metro access
  • Skip Beverly Hills unless luxury is priority - pay 3-4x more for 90 min stadium commute
  • Taco trucks ($3-5) and casual spots ($10-20) beat sit-down restaurants ($25-50 per person)
  • Many beaches, hikes (Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon), and Getty Center are FREE
  • In-N-Out Burger ($8-12) is California institution and better value than fast food chains
  • Book hotels 3-6 months ahead to avoid 100-150% surge (2-3x for USMNT opener)

Stadium Hidden Costs

ItemExpectedActualHow to Save
Stadium parking$40-60 (normal NFL games)$100-200+ for World Cup (based on Super Bowl/Taylor Swift precedent)Take Metro K Line ($5/day) and save $95-195
Water bottles at stadium$0 if you bring sealed bottles$6-8 inside stadiumBring 2-3 sealed bottles per person (save $18-24)
Food at stadium$12-18 per item$50-80 for family of 4Eat before arriving - In-N-Out Burger near stadium ($8-12 vs $15-20 stadium burger)
Uber surge pricing$30-50 to stadium$60-150 with 2-4x surge on match daysUse Metro fare capping ($5/day unlimited) instead

City Tourist Traps

Hotel parking

Cost: $30-60/night in Los Angeles

Solution: Factor parking into total price or choose hotels with lower/no parking fees in Inglewood/Long Beach

Resort & "destination" fees

Cost: $20-45/night added at checkout

Solution: Check final price with taxes/fees before booking; filter for “no resort fee” where possible

Rideshare everywhere instead of Metro

Cost: $25-60 per ride vs $5/day Metro cap

Airport taxi from LAX

Cost: $60-90 to Santa Monica or Hollywood

Solution: Use Metro (K + E/A Lines) or LAX FlyAway bus instead when possible

SoFi Stadium parking

Cost: $100-200 for World Cup events

Solution: Take Metro K Line to Downtown Inglewood + 15-minute walk/shuttle instead of driving

Theme park food & add‑ons

Cost: $50-80 per person/day in food/lockers/souvenirs

Solution: Eat big breakfast, bring snacks, set a daily souvenir budget

Beachfront restaurants on Santa Monica Pier

Cost: $25-40 per person for mediocre food

Solution: Eat at nearby streets or food trucks off the pier for better value

Smart Booking Strategy for World Cup

Booking Timeline

6months

Start researching neighborhoods. Set price alerts on Google Hotels, Booking.com. USMNT opener hotels (Inglewood) already booking up.

4-5months

BOOK NOW for group stage matches. Rates spike closer to event. Look for free cancellation policies.

3months

Rates 100-150% higher than normal. Limited availability in Inglewood/Santa Monica. USMNT opener hotels sold out.

2months

Only expensive options left ($350-600/night minimum). May need Long Beach or far suburbs.

1month

Slim pickings. Expect $400-800/night for anything decent.

Smart Booking Tips

  • ✓Book 3-6 months in advance (6+ months for USMNT opener and quarterfinal)
  • ✓Inglewood/LAX = BEST value + stadium access (walking distance, 50% cheaper than beach)
  • ✓Look for free cancellation in case travel plans change
  • ✓Compare: Hotel direct, Booking.com, Expedia, Hotels.com
  • ✓Credit card points: Amex, Chase Sapphire can save 30-50%
  • ✓Set Google Hotels price alert for your dates
  • ✓LAX area hotels offer free SoFi shuttles on event days (call ahead)
  • ✓Avoid Beverly Hills unless luxury is priority - pay 3-4x more for 90 min commute
  • ✓Long Beach cheapest beach option ($100-180) but 60-75 min to stadium
  • ✓Santa Monica good for beach + World Cup combo ($200-400, 75 min to stadium)
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