10 Best Hostels in Los Angeles

Hey there my budget travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will check out my 10 best hostels in Los Angeles for some communal living this year. If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles and want to stick to a budget, hostels are a great option.

Not only are they affordable, but many offer a social atmosphere where you can meet other travelers and make new friends and whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, there is a hostel in Los Angeles that can accommodate your needs. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the best hostels LA has to offer!

Map Of Los Angeles’ Best Hostels

Use this map to identify the location of the best hostels in Los Angeles as listed below:

Best Hostels in Los Angeles

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to stay in Los Angeles, there are plenty of great hostels to choose from. Here are some of the top-rated hostels in Los Angeles, based on website rankings, guest reviews and amenities.

1. Orange Drive Hostel

Located in the heart of Hollywood, the Orange Drive Hostel is a popular choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay. The hostel offers a range of private and shared rooms, all of which are clean and well-maintained.

The staff is friendly and helpful, and the hostel is within walking distance of many of Hollywood’s top attractions. Here’s some base information on the hostel:

1. Location and Atmosphere: The hostel is situated in the heart of Hollywood, yet it’s nestled in a quiet neighborhood to provide a perfect balance for guests who want to be close to the action but also enjoy a peaceful environment.
2. Accommodations and Cleanliness: The rooms at Orange Drive Hostel are described as clean and decent, offering good value for money. While the rooms are noted to be small, they are comfortable and well-maintained.
3. Guest Experience and Staff: Guests have praised the hostel for its family-friendly atmosphere and the helpfulness of the staff. The employees are commended for their hospitality and for assisting guests in planning their stay.
4. Proximity to Attractions: The hostel’s location is ideal for those wanting to experience Hollywood Boulevard and is also within excellent walking distance to Runyon Canyon, a popular hiking spot.

The hostel is located at 1764 N Orange Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90028.

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2. Freehand Los Angeles

Although possibly more of a hotel that a hostel, The Freehand Los Angeles is a stylish and modern inn located in downtown LA that offers a range of private and shared rooms, all of which are spacious and well-furnished. The hostel also features a rooftop pool and bar, a restaurant and a coffee shop.

Housed in the historic Commercial Exchange building, the interiors are designed by Roman & Williams, giving the hotel a one-of-a-kind aesthetic appeal. Here are the details:

1. Unique Design and Accommodations: The hotel features a variety of accommodations including suites, premium hotel rooms and shared accommodations.
2. Diverse Dining and Drinking Options:
   • Broken Shaker: Located on the rooftop pool deck, this bar offers handcrafted cocktails and small bites. It’s recognized for its quality, having won the Best American Hotel Bar award and being a James Beard Award finalist.
   • Rudolph’s Bar & Tea: Situated in the hotel lobby, this bar offers a menu centered around tea-infused cocktails, full tea service and light bites. It pays homage to Rudolph Rosenberg, the former owner of the Commercial Exchange Building.
   • The Exchange: This is Freehand LA’s full-service restaurant, which explores the multicultural flavors of urban LA through an Israeli lens. The menu is created by the team behind Bar Lab and chef Alex Chang.
3. Amenities and Services: The hotel provides a range of amenities including a rooftop pool, a specialty coffee bar (Cafe Integral), a shop (Paper8), curated events, Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk and security, multilingual staff, valet parking and daily housekeeping. It’s also within walking distance to local restaurants, bars, markets, and pharmacies.

Freehand Los Angeles is situated at 416 W. 8th St., Los Angeles, CA 90014, placing it in a prime location in downtown LA.

Check out these: Best Hotels in Los Angeles for Families

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3. Samesun Venice Beach

Located just steps from the beach, Samesun Venice Beach is a popular choice for travelers looking for a laid-back and affordable place to stay. The hostel offers a range of private and shared rooms, all of which are clean and comfortable.

The hostel also features a communal kitchen, a lounge area and a rooftop terrace with ocean views making it popular among young travelers and backpackers looking to meet new people and enjoy the Californian beach lifestyle. Some more information is as follows:

1. Location: Situated right on the Venice Beach Boardwalk, this hostel offers easy access to the beach, local shops, restaurants and the lively beachfront culture.
2. Accommodations: Samesun Venice Beach typically offers a range of accommodation options including both private rooms and dormitory-style shared rooms. The rooms are designed to be comfortable and functional, catering to budget travelers.
3. Amenities and Services: The hostel provides amenities like free Wi-Fi, communal kitchen facilities and a common area where guests can socialize. They may also offer activities and tours to help guests explore Venice Beach and surrounding areas.
4. Accessibility: Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring other parts of Los Angeles, with good public transportation links to areas like Santa Monica, Downtown LA and Hollywood.

The hostel can be found at 25 Windward Ave, Venice, CA 90291.

Book your trip to Los Angeles here!

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4. Banana Bungalow West Hollywood

The Banana Bungalow West Hollywood is a popular choice for solo travelers looking for a fun and social atmosphere offering a range of private and shared rooms, all of which are clean and well-maintained.

The hostel also features a communal kitchen, a lounge area and a rooftop terrace with city views and is particularly popular with younger travelers, including solo backpackers and groups of friends, due to its lively atmosphere and affordable accommodation options.

Further details include:

1. Location: Located in West Hollywood, this hostel is in a vibrant area known for its nightlife, shopping and proximity to various Los Angeles attractions. It’s a great spot for those looking to explore the cultural and entertainment offerings of the city.
2. Accommodations: Banana Bungalow West Hollywood offers a mix of private and shared accommodations, catering to a range of budgets and preferences. The rooms and dorms are designed to be comfortable and functional.
3. Amenities and Social Activities: The hostel is known for its social atmosphere, providing amenities like a communal kitchen, lounge areas and outdoor spaces. They may also organize social events and activities, making it easy for guests to meet and interact.
4. Accessibility: Its location in West Hollywood means guests have easy access to public transportation, allowing for convenient exploration of other parts of Los Angeles, including nearby areas like Beverly Hills and Hollywood.

The hostel is located at 603 N Fairfax Ave, West Hollywood, CA 90036

Check out these: Best Things to do in Los Angeles for Free

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5. The Venice Beach Hostel

Located just a few blocks from the beach, the Venice Beach Hostel is a popular choice for travelers looking for a laid-back and affordable place to stay. The hostel offers a range of private and shared rooms, all of which are clean and comfortable.

The hostel is typically geared towards the younger crowd including solo travelers, groups of friends and backpackers who are looking for affordable accommodation and a chance to meet fellow travelers.

1. Location: The hostel is ideally situated in the Venice Beach area, known for its bohemian spirit, vibrant boardwalk and beautiful beach making it perfect for those looking to experience the unique culture and beach lifestyle of the area.
2. Accommodations: The Venice Beach Hostel typically offers a range of accommodation options including dormitory-style shared rooms and possibly private rooms. These accommodations are designed to cater to budget-conscious travelers, especially youth and backpackers.
3. Amenities and Services: The hostel provides basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, communal kitchen facilities and common areas for socializing. They might also offer rental services for bikes or beach equipment, considering the proximity to the beach.
4. Social and Cultural Experience: Hostels in the Venice Beach area are known for their social atmosphere with activities and events to encourage guest interaction and provide a fuller experience of the local culture.
5. Proximity to Attractions: Being in Venice Beach, the hostel is close to various attractions, including the famous Venice Beach Boardwalk, Muscle Beach and numerous shops, cafes and street performers.

Find the hostel at Washington Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292

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6. Surf City Hostel

Located just a few blocks from the beach, the Surf City Hostel is a popular choice for travelers looking for a fun and social atmosphere and offers a range of private and shared rooms, all of which are clean and well-maintained.

The hostel is ideally situated near the beach, offering easy access to the ocean and beach-related activities as well making it particularly appealing to those who are interested in surfing, beach sport, or simply enjoying the seaside ambiance. Details include:

1. Accommodations: The hostel offers a range of accommodation options including shared dormitory rooms and private rooms. These are designed to be budget-friendly and cater to the needs of young travelers and backpackers.
2. Amenities and Services: Basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, communal kitchen facilities and common areas for guests to socialize are provided. The hostel might also offer equipment rentals for beach activities, considering its proximity to the beach.
3. Social Environment: Surf City Hostel offers a lively and social atmosphere, with opportunities for guests to interact, meet new people and participate in hostel-organized activities or events.
4. Proximity to Local Attractions: Being close to the beach, the hostel is likely near various local attractions, including beachfront restaurants, bars and shops, as well as opportunities for water sports and beach activities.
5. Target Audience: The hostel is typically aimed at younger travelers including solo travelers and backpackers who are looking for affordable, social accommodation in a beachfront location.

The hostel can be found at 26 Pier Ave, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254

Check out these: Best Restaurants in Los Angeles

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7. The Steady Hostel

The Steady Hostel is a cozy and comfortable hostel located in the heart of Hollywood. The hostel offers a range of private and shared rooms, all of which are clean and well-maintained and also features a communal kitchen, a lounge area and a rooftop terrace with city views.

The hostel presents a unique opportunity for travelers to immerse themselves in a true Californian experience, blending comfortable accommodations with a deep dive into the local culture and lifestyle of Los Angeles.

Here are the details:

1. Atmosphere and Design: The Steady Hostel is all about creating a light and leisurely side of traveling. It features lush, sun-drenched interiors, cozy green nooks, warm hardwood floors and spaces aglow with golden sunlight, embodying the essence of West Coast living and California dreaming.
2. Location and Neighborhood: Located in the up-and-coming neighborhood of East Hollywood, The Steady is surrounded by a vibrant mix of vintage stores, art studios, eateries and spiritual centers. The hostel is conveniently situated near a Metro Station, making it easy to explore the rest of Los Angeles.
3. Local Experience: The Steady Hostel focuses on providing a Southern California experience that goes beyond typical tourist attractions. They aim to connect guests with the local, cultural and less-traveled sides of LA, from dive bars and vintage architecture to secret shows and diverse neighborhoods.
4. Accommodations: The hostel emphasizes offering fresh beds and comfortable, leisurely spaces for guests to relax and enjoy their stay.
5. Community and Exploration: The Steady Hostel seeks to build a community of artists, creatives, and explorers. They encourage guests to delve into the cultural and unique aspects of Los Angeles, offering personal recommendations for a more authentic experience.

Find this hostel at 4302 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029

Book your trip to Los Angeles here!

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8. Podshare Venice

Podshare Venice is part of the Podshare network, a unique concept in shared living and accommodation, particularly popular in Los Angeles. The venue is a unique and innovative hostel that offers a range of shared spaces including a communal kitchen, a lounge area and a co-working space.

Featuring a range of private and shared sleeping pods, all of which are clean and comfortable, the hostel is a popular choice for digital nomads and budget travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay. Here is some more information:

1. Concept and Design: Podshare offers a unique co-living space with a focus on community and sharing. The design typically includes multiple “pods” or small, personal sleeping areas within a larger shared space. These pods often include a bed, a small storage area and sometimes a personal television or other amenities.
2. Location: Situated in Venice, Podshare Venice is close to the beach and the vibrant Venice Beach Boardwalk, known for its eclectic atmosphere, street performers and bustling activity.
3. Amenities and Services: Podshare locations generally offer shared amenities like Wi-Fi, communal kitchens and lounge areas. They may also provide access to shared computers, laundry facilities and other conveniences as well.
4. Social Environment: One of the key features of Podshare is its community-oriented environment designed to encourage interaction and connection among guests, making it a popular choice for solo travelers and those looking to meet new people.
5. Target Audience: Podshare typically appeals to younger travelers, digital nomads and those seeking an affordable, communal living experience in a prime location.

Find Podshare Venice at 522 Venice Blvd., Venice, CA 90291

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9. HI Los Angeles Santa Monica

HI Los Angeles Santa Monica is a popular choice for travelers looking for a comfortable and affordable place to stay in Santa Monica. The hostel offers a range of private and shared rooms, all of which are clean and well-maintained.

The hostel also features a communal kitchen and lounge area and is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a blend of modern amenities, convenient location and a friendly atmosphere, all within close proximity to some of Santa Monica’s most popular attractions.

Here are the details:

1. Location and Accessibility: Located just blocks from the beach on LA’s trendy West Side, it’s close to the famous Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach and the coastal trail to the South Bay. The hostel is also near cafes, restaurants and the 3rd Street Promenade. Additionally, it’s conveniently located near a light rail train for easy access to downtown LA.
2. Facilities and Amenities:
   • Accommodations: The hostel offers both dormitory-style rooms and private rooms, all equipped with ensuite bathrooms.
   • Guest Kitchen: There’s a fully equipped guest kitchen for storing groceries and preparing meals.
   • Outdoor Courtyard: Guests can sunbathe and relax in the sunny outdoor courtyard.
   • Modern Conveniences: The hostel provides personal power and USB outlets, and air filters in shared spaces.
3. Services and Experience:
   • The staff is known for being super-friendly and helpful in making the most of your stay in Santa Monica.
   • They offer tips on local spots and self-guided walking tours.

Look for the HI Los Angeles Santa Monica at 1436 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA 90401

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10. STAY OPEN Venice Beach

STAY OPEN Venice Beach offers a unique and affordable capsule hotel experience right on the beautiful Venice Beach in California.

It offers a beachfront location with breezy ocean air and eclectic vibes and is designed to facilitate connections among travelers and locals in a one-of-a-kind setting. Here is some more information about the hostel:

1. Accommodations and Amenities:
   • Private, Ventilated Pods: The hostel features state-of-the-art single pods with soft-closure doors and luxurious bedding.
   • Facilities: Amenities include secure lockers and drawers, shared bathrooms, kitchen access, co-working stations, a ROOM office phone booth, air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, a rooftop patio, beach cruisers and beach towels and chairs.
2. Workspace and Social Experience:
   • The hostel provides a dedicated workspace on the mezzanine floor, allowing guests to work in various inspiring spots throughout the property.
   • Guests can enjoy unforgettable sunsets on the rooftop, engage in local activities or relax in cozy communal spaces.
3. Guest Reviews: Guests have praised STAY OPEN Venice Beach for its cleanliness, welcoming atmosphere, affordability, prime location, and the social environment it offers.
4. Nearby Attractions: The hostel is close to several hotspots including The Waterfront Venice, a Californian cuisine restaurant; Little Lunch for coffee and snacks; Townhouse for music, cocktails and comedy; Great White, a cafe and restaurant; Winston House for music lovers and the historic Venice Canals.

STAY OPEN Venice Beach is located at 11 Brooks Avenue, Unit B, Venice, CA 90291.

Amenities and Services at Los Angeles Hostels

When it comes to amenities and services, Los Angeles hostels offer a wide range of options to suit different needs and preferences. Many hostels in Los Angeles have on-site bars and restaurants, which offer a great opportunity to socialize and meet other travelers. For instance, Freehand is a popular hostel that has a restaurant and bar on-site. It also has a gym, making it an ideal place to relax and unwind.

If you’re looking for a hostel with a pool, you can consider staying at STAY OPEN Venice Beach. This hostel has a grand rooftop pool and bar which offers stunning views of the city. It’s also located right on the beach, surrounded by vibrant art and culture.

In addition to pools and bars, many hostels in Los Angeles offer other amenities and services. For example, some hostels have common areas where you can relax and socialize with other travelers. Others have fitness centers, shops, gardens and laundry facilities.

Most hostels in Los Angeles offer air-conditioned accommodation and bed linen. Some also provide towels and complimentary breakfast and if you’re looking for a hostel that hosts parties and events, you can check out Banana Bungalow West Hollywood. This hostel is known for its friendly staff and lively atmosphere.

Book your trip to Los Angeles here!

Tips for Booking Hostels in Los Angeles

When it comes to booking hostels in Los Angeles, there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your hostel experience in LA:

Consider your travel style

Before booking a hostel, consider your travel style. If you’re a backpacker looking to save money, a budget-friendly hostel with shared rooms might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re a couple looking for a more private and luxurious experience, you might want to opt for a private room in a higher-end hostel.

Digital nomads may want to look for a hostel with a co-working space, while solo travelers might prefer a hostel with a social atmosphere.

Check the location

Los Angeles is a sprawling city, so it’s important to check the location of your hostel before booking. Consider the famous attractions you want to visit and make sure your hostel is located nearby. For example, if you want to catch a show at the Microsoft Theater, you might want to look for a hostel in downtown LA.

Read reviews

Reading reviews from other travelers is a great way to get an idea of what to expect from a hostel. Look for reviews that mention the specific things you’re looking for, such as female-only dorms or a party atmosphere. Pay attention to any recurring complaints, such as noisy rooms or hidden fees.

Watch out for fees

Speaking of fees, make sure you read the fine print before booking a hostel. Some hostels may charge extra for things like towels or breakfast, so be sure to factor these costs into your budget. Additionally, some hostels may require a deposit or have strict cancellation policies, so be aware of these details before booking.

FAQs

Conclusion

There you have it, my 10 best hostels to check out in Los Angeles. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences here or if there are any other must stay locations that I need to add.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul