Westside Neighborhoods

The city of Los Angeles is comprised of many neighborhoods – each with its own charm and special features. Here, we’ll explore three areas of the Westside - Brentwood, Pacific Palisades, and Westwood - and see what makes them unique. While close in proximity, they offer different experiences to both residents and visitors.

Brentwood A quiet residential neighborhood, Brentwood is known for its celebrity residents and blocks of beautiful tree-lined streets with exceptional homes. A fairly walkable area (as walkable as one gets in LA), the area is also known for its quaint boutiques and cafes. Brentwood Country Mart is a local shopping center, showcasing restaurants, clothing shops, health and wellness, and home décor stores. Brentwood is also home to the Getty, an art museum with two branches - Getty Villa and Getty Center. After you’ve spent the morning window shopping at Brentwood Country Mart and sampling the treats, head over to the Getty to enjoy some art, architecture and gardens.   

Pacific Palisades Another residential neighborhood, Pacific Palisades calls Santa Monica and the Pacific Ocean neighbors. Some key features of this area include the Will Rogers State Historic Park, the Palisades Village, and, of course, the coast. Located in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Will Rogers State Park includes trails for hiking and horseback riding, areas for picnics, as well as tours of Will Rodgers’ historic ranch house. The Palisades Village is the newest addition to the area – an outdoor entertainment complex that includes retail shops, restaurants, and a movie theater. There are even residences on the grounds, so you can live there, too! And finally, access to the Pacific Ocean and local beaches is what make Pacific Palisades a sought after zipcode.

Westwood A residential and commercial neighborhood, Westwood is comprised of the UCLA campus and the historic Westwood Village. While the majority of those who live, work, study and play here might be students, there is more to do and see than just the beautiful UCLA campus. The Westwood Village is block after block of restaurant, bar, coffeehouse, ice cream shop, clothing retail stores, etc. There is something to suit everyone’s pallet and style. The Village Theater is most notable for hosting big movie premieres on this side of the country. You’ll often see celebs and entertainment types here on the weekends, promoting their latest films. Whether for a quick power lunch, or a leisurely weekend stroll, Westwood is the go-to for students, 9-5-ers, stars and tourists. 

Do you have a favorite neighborhood?