Los Angeles is one of the most eco-friendly major cities in the United States, offering travelers plenty of ways to explore sustainably. Beyond its famous freeways, LA has an impressive network of car-free transportation options, miles of coastal bike trails, a strong plant-based dining scene, and ambitious clean-energy initiatives.
TL;DR
- Los Angeles is one of the most sustainable big-city destinations in the U.S., with strong transit, EV infrastructure and a thriving plant-based food scene.
- Visitors can rely on Metro rail and buses, bikes, e-scooters and EV rentals to explore major neighborhoods and nearby nature with a much lower carbon footprint.
- Eco-friendly hotels across LA use renewable energy, water-saving fixtures, recycled materials and plastic-free amenities to reduce their environmental impact.
- The city’s dining and coffee culture adopts plant-based menus, local organic produce, zero-waste or low-waste practices and incentives for reusable cups.
- Low-impact outdoor activities include hiking, beach days, kayaking, bird-watching and nature walks, guided by Leave No Trace and wildlife-friendly behavior.
- Simple habits like carrying a reusable bottle, saying no to disposables, recycling correctly and choosing local, secondhand or handmade goods keep your trip low-waste.
Related Reads:
- The Traveler’s Ultimate Guide to Los Angeles
- LGBTQ+ Travel Guide to Los Angeles
- Solo Travel Safety and Tips for Los Angeles
Overview
Los Angeles makes sustainable travel surprisingly easy thanks to its expanding green infrastructure and strong focus on healthy, eco-conscious living. Choosing eco-friendly transportation, lodging, dining, and activities can significantly reduce your environmental impact without limiting your experience. The city supports greener choices with an extensive public transit network, miles of bike paths, widespread EV charging stations, and hotels that incorporate recycled materials, solar power, and water-saving systems.
LA is also one of the greenest major cities in the United States. It leads the country in solar energy capacity and is home to tens of thousands of electric vehicles supported by thousands of public chargers. The plant-based food scene is exceptional as well; recent studies rank Los Angeles among the top U.S. cities for vegans and vegetarians, with locals choosing meat-free meals far more often than the national average. Sustainable living isn’t an exception here, it’s part of everyday culture.
This guide focuses on practical ways to experience Los Angeles sustainably. You’ll learn how to get around without relying on a car, where to find eco-friendly hotels, how to choose restaurants with organic or plant-based options, and which outdoor activities allow you to enjoy nature responsibly. The tips throughout this guide are simple to follow and often save money while helping you discover parts of the city many visitors overlook. By the end, you’ll see how easy and enjoyable eco-friendly travel in Los Angeles can be.
Eco-Friendly Transportation in LA
Getting around Los Angeles sustainably is easier than it sounds. The city has invested heavily in public transit, bike infrastructure, and electrified transportation. You can mix and match these options to explore LA’s highlights without relying on a gas-powered car. Here are the top green transportation choices:
Metro Rail & Buses
LA’s Metro system includes both rail lines and buses powered by clean energy. In fact, Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority operates the nation’s largest clean-fuel bus fleet – over 2,400 buses running on renewable natural gas and ultra-low-emission engines. They’re also on track to convert to 100% electric buses by 2030.
The Metro Rail network spans key areas: the E Line (Expo) zips between Downtown LA and Santa Monica, the B/D Line (Red/Purple) connects Downtown to Hollywood and Universal Studios, and other lines reach Pasadena, Long Beach, and more. Using Metro is a terrific low-carbon way to cover long distances. For just a few dollars, you can catch a train from Hollywood to the beach, or a bus to trailheads in the Santa Monica Mountains.
Service is frequent on main routes, and many vehicles are new and air-conditioned. If you’re in central areas like Downtown, Hollywood, Santa Monica, or Pasadena, chances are there’s a Metro stop or bus route near the sights you want to see. Riding transit also immerses you in the local rhythm of the city – it’s an everyday choice for countless Angelenos.
Cycling the City
With sunshine and coastal breezes, Los Angeles is a great place to explore by bike. The region boasts some iconic bike paths. The most famous is the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, a paved seaside path running 22 miles along the coastline from Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades down to Torrance Beach.
This route (often just called The Strand) links Santa Monica, Venice, Marina del Rey, Manhattan Beach and more – a cyclist’s dream with endless ocean views. Another option is the LA River Bike Path, which offers segments of riverside riding (the 7.4-mile Glendale Narrows section near Griffith Park is especially scenic , with murals and greenery along the revitalized Los Angeles River).
Within the city, neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Venice, and Downtown have bike lanes and an expanding network of protected cycle tracks. Many Metro stations offer bike-share rentals or secure bike parking, making it easy to combine biking with transit.
Do keep in mind LA is huge, so biking is ideal for exploring a specific area or doing a dedicated trail rather than cross-city travel. But for those perfect California mornings, nothing beats a leisurely ride on a beach cruiser with the Pacific to one side and palm trees to the other.
E-Scooters and E-Bikes
For short hops, consider renting an electric scooter or e-bike. Companies like Lime and Bird have scooters scattered across many neighborhoods – you’ll see them in places like Santa Monica, Venice, West Hollywood, and Downtown. With a quick scan of an app, you can zip a mile or two to a restaurant or from a Metro stop to your final destination, then park the scooter in a designated area.
It’s a fun, zero-emission way to cover that “last mile.” The same goes for dockless e-bikes (Lyft and Uber’s Jump bikes are in some parts of the city). Always ride these in bike lanes or on the right-hand side of the road, and wear a helmet if you can.
They can really bridge gaps in the transit network – for example, you might take the Metro E Line to Santa Monica and then scooter the last mile to the Pier or your hotel. By combining public transit, cycling, and scooters, you’ll find you can reach most of LA’s popular spots efficiently while staying green.
Electric Car Rentals
If you do need a car for a day trip or to reach more remote areas, consider renting an electric vehicle. Los Angeles is one of the best cities in America for EV drivers, thanks to an extensive charging infrastructure. Major rental agencies at LAX and other locations now offer electric models (like the Nissan Leaf, Tesla Model 3, or Chevy Bolt) – just request or reserve an EV in advance.
There are also specialty services like UFODrive and Turo where you can specifically choose electric cars. Once you’re on the road, you’ll find charging stations all over the metro area. LA has nearly 4,800 public charging ports within a 15km radius , from fast DC chargers along freeways to level 2 chargers in parking garages.
The main networks include EVgo, ChargePoint, Electrify America, and Tesla Superchargers. Many shopping centers and public lots offer some chargers – often with preferred parking spots for EVs. Even a number of hotels provide overnight charging for guests (something to look for when booking if you’ll have an EV). Driving an electric rental means you can enjoy the freedom of a car for explorations like Malibu or Joshua Tree day trips, without the tailpipe emissions.
And in stop-and-go LA traffic, you’ll appreciate the instant torque and regenerative braking of an EV. One tip: download an app like PlugShare or ChargeHub to easily locate charging stations and check availability in real time. With a bit of planning, renting an EV in LA is smooth sailing.
Green Hotels and Responsible Stays
Los Angeles’s commitment to sustainability shines through in its accommodations. Many local hotels have adopted eco-friendly designs and operations, so you can rest easy knowing your lodging aligns with your green values.
When choosing a place to stay, look for hotels with environmental certifications or green practices, and don’t hesitate to ask about their programs. Here are a few standout eco-conscious hotels in LA, plus tips on making any stay more sustainable:
1 Hotel West Hollywood
This luxury hotel on the Sunset Strip is often cited as LA’s most sustainable hotel, and it walks the talk. The design incorporates abundant reclaimed and natural materials – you’ll notice reclaimed wood everywhere, from the lobby’s repurposed fallen-tree reception desk to planters made from 75 tons of local salvaged lumber. Living green walls and potted plants bring nature inside, creating a calming biophilic vibe.
1 Hotel avoids single-use plastics and even provides clean filtered water stations and carafes on each floor so guests can refill reusable bottles instead of using disposable water bottles. Rooms feature organic cotton linens, hemp-blend mattresses, and recycled fiber carpeting. Motion sensors and smart thermostats conserve energy when you’re out.
The hotel is LEED Silver certified and maintains an Energy Star score in the mid-90s, meaning it’s among the most energy-efficient hotels in LA. They even have a fleet of fully electric Audi e-tron house cars to give guests zero-emission rides nearby. Staying here, you’ll experience how sustainability can be seamlessly integrated into a five-star experience – it feels more like a chic natural sanctuary than an “eco hotel.”
The Ambrose Hotel
The Ambrose was one of the first hotels in the U.S. to earn a LEED certification. It achieved a LEED Gold rating , thanks to features like solar panels on the roof, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC, and sustainable building materials. The hotel provides guests with complimentary bicycles to encourage exploring Santa Monica car-free.
They also have EV charging spots in the parking area. Inside, you’ll find convenient water refill stations, recycling bins in rooms, and a focus on locally sourced organic breakfast offerings. The Ambrose proves that a boutique hotel can lead on sustainability while offering a cozy, upscale stay.
Shore Hotel
Located right by the Santa Monica Pier, the Shore Hotel was built from the ground up with eco-friendly features. It used sustainable building materials and was constructed to optimize energy efficiency (like reflective roofing and ample natural light). The hotel’s pool is heated by solar thermal panels on the roof, reducing gas usage.
Guests will notice touches like green-minded bath products in refillable dispensers (to cut down plastic waste) and low-flow water fixtures. The Shore Hotel is certified by Santa Monica’s Green Business Program , meaning it meets strict standards for water and energy savings, pollution prevention, and waste reduction. Even the landscaping is drought-tolerant to save water.
And of course, they offer EV charging in the garage. It’s a stylish oceanfront hotel where sustainability is part of the DNA – you can sip your cocktail by the solar-heated pool knowing the carbon footprint is minimized.
The West Hollywood EDITION
Part of the eco-conscious EDITION chain, this sleek hotel on Sunset Blvd marries luxury with green operations. The West Hollywood EDITION implements comprehensive recycling and waste diversion programs (from guest room recycling bins to food composting behind the scenes).
It was built with energy-efficient systems and uses 100% renewable electricity for its operations. Notably, the hotel features electric car charging stations for guests in its valet parking – perfect if you’re driving an EV. Linens and towels are changed only on request (or every few days) to save water, part of their linen reuse program.
The property is also smoke-free and uses green cleaning products for housekeeping. For guests, it all feels seamless – you get the signature plush EDITION experience, but behind the scenes they’re cutting energy and water use, buying from local sustainable suppliers, and even supporting community environmental initiatives. Many other LA hotels, from big chains to hip boutique inns, have similar programs now.
Sustainable Dining and Coffee Culture
Los Angeles is a foodie paradise that just so happens to be one of the world’s most plant-forward cities. Eating green in LA is a joy – you’ll find everything from high-end vegan dining to organic farm-to-table cafes to zero-waste coffee shops. The ethos is that sustainable, ethical food can also be craveably delicious. Here’s how to savor LA’s dining scene while keeping your environmental impact low (and your taste buds happy):
Plant-Based Dining Icons
Los Angeles has embraced plant-based cuisine like nowhere else. Some of the hottest restaurants in town are entirely vegan or vegetarian – and even carnivores rave about them. For a upscale dinner, Crossroads Kitchen in West Hollywood is a must-visit.
This elegant restaurant (opened by famed vegan chef Tal Ronnen) serves refined Mediterranean-inspired dishes and has been repeatedly voted the best vegan fine-dining spot in the city. Think artichoke “oysters” and decadent pastas – all plant-based, though you’d never miss the meat or dairy. Another beloved spot is Gracias Madre in West Hollywood, which offers Mexican cuisine reimagined vegan-style.
Their menu is seasonal and 100% organic, with creative dishes like jackfruit carnitas tacos and plant-based queso fundido. (Gracias Madre prides itself on using locally sourced, non-GMO ingredients from regional farmers.) For a more casual vibe, Sage Plant Bistro (formerly Sage Vegan Bistro) has multiple locations (Echo Park, Pasadena) and features hearty farm-fresh vegan comfort food – from cauliflower Buffalo wings to mushroom burgers – often sourced from the owners’ regenerative farm.
Los Angeles’s vegan offerings are so diverse that the city has been called “the plant-based capital of the world”. Even traditional restaurants here tend to offer excellent vegetarian/vegan options. The bottom line: eating meatless in LA doesn’t feel like sacrificing; it feels like a culinary adventure. Many diners leave saying they didn’t even notice their meal was vegan because it was that good.
Farm-to-Table & Organic Cafés
LA’s chefs are spoiled by year-round access to amazing California produce, and many build their menus around whatever’s fresh at the farmers market. Some of the best brunch and lunch spots exemplify this farm-to-table philosophy. Sqirl in Silver Lake became a sensation for its inventive breakfast bowls and famous toast topped with house-made jams – all made with seasonal, organic ingredients from local farms.
Over in Venice, Gjelina is a chic hotspot known for wood-fired pizzas and vegetable dishes using produce straight from the Santa Monica Farmers’ Market (Gjelina’s ever-changing menu proudly highlights local farmers; the restaurant has a reputation for serving only what’s in season and at peak flavor ).
In Santa Monica, Huckleberry Bakery & Café is a neighborhood favorite that uses organic flour, farmers’ market veggies, and humanely raised eggs and meats for its breakfast dishes and sandwiches. And don’t forget Forage in Silver Lake – this casual café literally started by “foraging” excess produce from backyard gardeners and local markets to use in their dishes, embodying an ultra-local concept.
Forage today continues its commitment to local, seasonal produce and responsibly sourced ingredients, crafting homestyle dishes that taste as good as they are sustainable. These eateries prove that farm-to-table in Los Angeles can be accessible and casual.
You’ll get to taste the difference – ripe, heirloom tomatoes in your salad or perfectly sweet citrus in your dessert – all while supporting regional farms and reducing the miles your food traveled.
Zero-Waste & Eco-Minded Coffee Shops
LA takes its coffee as seriously as its green juice, and a number of coffee roasters are leading the way in sustainability. Perhaps the most notable is Blue Bottle Coffee, which has multiple locations around LA. Blue Bottle has committed to extremely ambitious waste reduction – as of 2025, they divert 99% of waste from landfill across their cafes. They eliminated single-use plastics and switched to 100% compostable cups, lids, and utensils.
Some Blue Bottle locations (like their Venice cafe) have even tested zero-waste operations where everything is reusable or compostable. They also offer a $1 discount for bringing your own mug , which is one of the best reusable cup incentives around. Another local favorite is Go Get Em Tiger (GGET), an LA-born coffee chain known for its bright, community-centric cafes.
GGET has been proactive about sustainability – for example, they recently switched to offering only dairy or additive-free oat milk (no more almond milk with its heavy water footprint, and no processed ingredients in the alt-milks) to streamline and make their menu more eco-friendly. They focus on direct-trade coffee sourcing and have eliminated a lot of single-use plastics from their operations.
Verve Coffee Roasters, which has locations in the Arts District and West Hollywood, is another standout. Originating from Santa Cruz, Verve carries its sustainability values to LA – the company is a certified B Corp and purchases 100% ethically sourced coffee.
In 2024, Verve launched a partnership introducing innovative clay to-go cups at their LA cafes: these are ultra-thin reusable cups made of natural clay that eventually biodegrade into dust. The idea is to replace disposable coffee cups with something fully compostable (and chic – they’re inspired by 5,000-year-old pottery traditions).
As Verve’s founders put it, they want to “protect the future of coffee” by reducing waste and carbon footprint. Even many mainstream coffee spots in LA will happily fill your reusable tumbler (often with a small discount), and it’s common to see oat milk or other sustainable options as the default. So as you café-hop in search of the perfect almond-macadamia latte or cold brew, know that you can support shops that are doing right by the planet.
Low-Impact Outdoor Activities
One of the joys of visiting Los Angeles is its abundance of outdoor adventures – from mountains to beaches – and with a little mindfulness you can enjoy nature in a way that preserves it for others. The climate here lures everyone outside, so join the locals in hiking, biking, beach-going and more, all with a light footprint. Here are some top outdoor activities and tips to keep them low-impact:
Hiking in the Hills
LA’s hiking opportunities are legendary, from urban park trails to rugged canyon treks – you can always find a dose of nature within a short drive. Popular spots like Griffith Park, Topanga State Park, and the Santa Monica Mountains have trail networks for all skill levels.
When hiking, it’s crucial to follow Leave No Trace principles so these places stay beautiful. Stick to official trails and avoid cutting switchbacks or trampling vegetation. Griffith Park, for instance, has well-marked paths to places like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory; resist the urge to make your own path.
Carry out all your trash (you’d be surprised how even biodegradable orange peels can clutter a trail), and if you see litter, maybe do nature a favor and pick it up. Southern California’s climate is dry, so wildfires are a risk – never smoke or light fires on a trail, and heed any posted warnings. Also, don’t approach or feed wildlife (you might spot mule deer, coyotes, or lizards). Feeding wild animals can make them sick or dependent on people.
Part of the magic of LA’s trails is that you can encounter real wilderness so close to the city – like the oak woodlands of Topanga or the ocean vistas of Malibu’s trails. By hiking respectfully, you ensure these ecosystems remain intact. A good mindset is that you are a guest in the home of the birds, plants, and animals. Take only photos and leave only footprints – on the trail, of course!
Beach Time
LA’s beaches are iconic, and enjoying them can be very low-impact if you follow a few guidelines. First, choose established public beaches where recreation is encouraged (Will Rogers State Beach, Santa Monica Beach, Venice, Manhattan Beach, etc.), rather than clambering into dunes or fenced-off areas, which might be protected habitats.
For example, Will Rogers Beach in Pacific Palisades has great facilities and wide sand for lounging or playing, and no sensitive habitat you might disturb. In contrast, some beaches have sections of dunes or wetlands roped off – these often contain fragile native plants or nesting sites for shorebirds. Respect those signs and give those areas a wide berth.
When sunbathing or picnicking, be sure to pack out everything you brought – nothing should be left behind (trash on beaches often ends up blowing into the ocean). It’s smart to bring a reusable water bottle and snacks in reusable containers to avoid single-use plastics that could become litter.
If you’re feeling active, consider a beach bike ride along the oceanfront bike path or a stroll on the pier – activities that have virtually no environmental impact. And if you go in the water, choose a reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life (look for mineral-based sunscreens without oxybenzone).
Los Angeles County beaches are generally very clean thanks to local efforts (you might even join a beach cleanup if your trip aligns with one). By being mindful of staying in permitted areas and cleaning up after yourself, you’ll keep the beaches pristine. Few things are better than a Pacific Ocean sunset with the knowledge that you’ve treated the coastline kindly.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
A unique way to see LA is from the water. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard in places like Marina del Rey or Long Beach harbors for a low-carbon aquatic adventure. Even more exciting, during summer the LA River offers guided kayaking tours in the Elysian Valley stretch.
Yes, the Los Angeles River – once written off as a concrete ditch – now has sections teeming with greenery and birds, and you can kayak through this urban oasis on a guided eco-tour. These tours emphasize environmental education and often support river conservation efforts.
It’s a wonderful example of how recreation and habitat restoration can go hand in hand. Just remember to never litter or leave anything in the water, and keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter (ducks, herons, fish).
Out on the ocean, you might spot dolphins or seals. Maintain a respectful distance – it’s both the law and the right thing to do. Quietly paddling on the water is a very low-impact activity that offers a fresh perspective on LA’s landscape.
Biking in Nature
We covered city biking, but LA County also has some beautiful recreational bike paths that double as sightseeing tours. The Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail (The Strand) we mentioned is fantastic for fresh ocean air. There’s also the Ballona Creek Bike Path, which starts near Culver City and goes 7 miles out to the sea at Playa del Rey, passing bird-rich wetlands and marshes.
In the San Fernando Valley, the Orange Line Bike Path parallels the Metro Orange busway, lined with native plants – a relaxing ride connecting parks and neighborhoods. When biking in natural areas or parks, stick to designated bike trails and be courteous to any walkers or equestrians you pass.
Cycling produces no emissions and allows you to cover more ground than walking, making it a superb eco-friendly way to explore LA’s outdoor offerings. Plus, you’ll get some exercise – earning that next taco truck visit!
Bird-Watching and Nature Reserves
For a tranquil, low-impact outing, consider visiting one of LA’s small nature reserves or wetlands for bird-watching. The Ballona Wetlands near Playa Vista, for instance, are one of the last remaining saltwater marshes in LA and host egrets, herons, pelicans, and more.
Parts of the wetlands are protected and only accessible via guided tours, but you can glimpse plenty from the perimeter trails. Bring binoculars and view from a distance so as not to disturb the wildlife. Similarly, Malibu Lagoon at Surfrider Beach is a great spot to see migratory birds where Malibu Creek meets the ocean.
There’s a short boardwalk trail and overlooks. Just be sure to stay on paths and platforms, as wetland habitats are easily disturbed by off-trail trampling. Bird-watching is inherently gentle on the environment – your goal is simply to observe and appreciate.
It can be incredibly rewarding in LA, given the diverse ecosystems squeezed into this urban region (you might see hawks in the hills in the morning and sandpipers on the beach in the afternoon). Don’t forget to silence your phone and just listen to the sounds of nature; it’s a nice break from city noise.
Ethical Wildlife and Environmental Considerations
Los Angeles doesn’t have big safari parks or anything, but you’ll likely encounter wildlife during your visit – whether it’s seals on a beach, squirrels in a park, or sea stars in a tide pool. Being a responsible traveler means treating animals and natural areas with respect. Here are a few guidelines for ethical wildlife interaction and overall environmental care in LA:
Don’t Feed Wildlife: It can be tempting to share a snack with that cute squirrel at the park or the birds hovering near your picnic, but feeding wild animals is a big no-no. Human food is unhealthy for them and can cause dependence or aggressive behavior.
In Griffith Park, for example, there are coyotes and even a famous mountain lion – obviously you wouldn’t feed those, but even giving chips to a squirrel or bread to ducks at Echo Park Lake can harm their health and disrupt their natural foraging. Enjoy observing animals from a distance and let them find their own food.
They have plenty of natural food sources (LA’s parks and hills are full of nuts, seeds, and smaller prey for predators). By keeping them wild, you’re doing them a favor.
Respect Marine Life at Tide Pools: Tide pooling is an amazing activity along the LA coast (great spots for it include Abalone Cove in Palos Verdes or Leo Carrillo State Beach up the Malibu coast).
You peer into shallow pools at low tide and see colorful sea anemones, hermit crabs, sea urchins, and maybe even an octopus if you’re lucky. The key rule: look but don’t touch. Tide pool creatures are delicate; handling them or moving rocks around can injure or kill them.
Also, it’s illegal in California to collect shells or rocks from tide pools in marine reserves – those empty shells might become a hermit crab’s next home. So leave everything as you find it. Walk carefully, stepping on bare rock if possible (to avoid crushing unseen snails or other critters). If you pick up trash you see, even better. By treating tide pools like an outdoor aquarium – eyes only, no hands – you ensure they’ll stay full of life for others to enjoy.
Stay Away from Protected Areas: Throughout LA, you might see signs for protected habitats – for example, sections of dunes, roped-off nesting grounds on beaches (especially if the endangered snowy plover is nesting), or fenced restoration projects in parks.
It’s important to obey those signs and not sneak in “just for a quick photo.” These areas are closed for good reason, often to give wildlife a chance to thrive without human disturbance or to let native plants recover.
One example is the California least tern nesting sites on certain beaches – they’re fenced in spring/summer to let these tiny birds lay eggs safely. Another is certain trails in the Santa Monicas that close seasonally for habitat restoration. If you stumble upon a closure, respect it and find an alternative – LA has plenty of open trails and beach sections for you to enjoy freely.
Animal Attractions: Los Angeles has a world-class zoo (the LA Zoo in Griffith Park) and also many opportunities to see animals in more ethical settings. If you decide to visit the zoo or any wildlife center, look for accredited organizations (accreditations by bodies like AZA ensure certain welfare standards).
There are also a few rescue-focused places, like the Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro, where injured seals and sea lions are rehabilitated for release – a visit there supports their work and you can see the animals without an exploitative show.
Avoid any attractions that offer direct contact with wild animals (e.g., roadside stands with photo-op beasts, or any place offering elephant rides – though those are rare in LA proper). A good rule: if an experience seems to put unnatural stress on animals for entertainment, skip it. Instead, support venues that prioritize conservation and education.
Lastly, do your part with simple environmental kindness: save water (LA often has droughts, so take short showers and turn off the tap when brushing teeth), and minimize waste (recycle, use that reusable bag, etc.). LA has made strides in improving air quality and cleaning up its bays, and we all have a role in continuing that progress. By following these ethical and eco-friendly practices, you’ll leave Los Angeles a little better than you found it.
Sustainable Shopping and Local Goods
Travel isn’t just about sightseeing – it’s also about bringing home a piece of the place (or at least doing some fun browsing). In Los Angeles, you can shop in a way that supports local communities and reduces waste. Here’s how to make your retail therapy more sustainable:
Farmers’ Markets
One of the best “shopping” experiences in LA is wandering a weekend farmers’ market. It’s a chance to buy fruit, artisanal foods, or crafts directly from local producers (and it’s an outing in itself, with music and food stands).
The Santa Monica Farmers’ Market (Wednesday and Saturday mornings) is legendary – it draws nearly 200 local farmers and food vendors and has been named among the country’s best. Chefs from across LA come at dawn to pick out produce for their restaurants, and you’ll find an incredible variety of California-grown organic fruits, vegetables, nuts, and flowers.
Sample some sweet Ojai pixie tangerines or fresh-pressed olive oil. Other great markets include the Hollywood Farmers’ Market on Sunday (Hollywood Blvd & Ivar Ave), which is large and lively, and neighborhood markets like Mar Vista (Sunday) or Silver Lake (Saturday), which often feature sustainable goods like handmade soaps, upcycled clothing, and vegan baked treats alongside produce.
By shopping at farmers’ markets, you’re supporting small farms and local makers, cutting down on the transportation footprint of your food, and usually avoiding a lot of packaging. Tip: Bring your own tote bags and produce bags to avoid needing any plastic (most markets in LA enforce a bag ban or charge for bags anyway). It’s common for markets here to be zero waste zones, with composting stations and encouragements to BYO containers.
Thrift Stores & Vintage Finds
Los Angeles is a paradise for vintage and thrift shopping – and buying secondhand is inherently eco-friendly. It keeps clothing and goods out of landfills and reduces demand for new resources.
If you love fashion, head to Melrose Avenue and the surrounding area for a cluster of curated vintage shops. Places like Wasteland, Crossroads Trading, or American Rebel have high-quality vintage and recycled clothing (LA’s stylish folk routinely sell or donate barely-worn designer items, so you can score great finds).
Every Sunday, the Melrose Trading Post flea market pops up at Fairfax High School – vendors sell all manner of used and upcycled goods, from retro band T-shirts to antique jewelry to repurposed furniture. It’s $5 entry supporting the school and a super fun scene.
Over in Silver Lake and Echo Park, you’ll find hip thrift boutiques and the occasional yard sale with mid-century treasures. Don’t miss Jet Rag in Hollywood, which famously has a Sunday dollar sale where piles of clothes go for $1 each – talk about accessible recycling! For a deeper dive, the Rose Bowl Flea Market (Pasadena, second Sunday of each month) is one of the biggest in the U.S., with tons of vintage goods (just arrive early and be ready to hunt).
Buying used not only saves you money, it gives items a second life. And it’s very much on trend – LA’s creative community has embraced thrifted and reworked fashion as a style statement. You’ll leave with something unique that has a story.
Local Artisans and Makers
Want a souvenir that’s not made in a faraway factory? Seek out LA’s local makers. Neighborhoods like Abbot Kinney Blvd in Venice have boutiques showcasing Los Angeles-made products – think organic skincare, handcrafted jewelry, sustainable fashion made from recycled materials, and artwork by local artists.
In the Downtown Arts District, you can find galleries and design shops with locally crafted ceramics, prints, and more. Little Tokyo has shops selling goods by local Japanese-American artisans. Also keep an eye out for pop-up craft fairs or artisan markets, which happen regularly.
These might feature everything from vegan candles to surfboard art made from reclaimed wood. By purchasing directly from makers, you not only get a one-of-a-kind item, but you support the local creative economy and often an eco-friendly production process (many LA artisans use reclaimed or low-impact materials). It’s a feel-good way to bring home a piece of LA’s vibe.
Sustainable Shopping Practices
Los Angeles was one of the early adopters of the plastic bag ban, so by law stores charge 10 cents for paper bags and do not give out single-use plastic bags. Translation: bring your own shopping bag everywhere – grocery stores, clothing stores, even the souvenir shop will appreciate it.
A compact tote in your daypack will save you that dime each time (and more importantly, cut down on waste). Many shops also won’t automatically give you a bag unless you ask, as a way to encourage reduction. If you do need a bag, it will be a recycled paper or thicker reusable plastic one for the fee.
Also, you’ll notice more and more shops in LA opting for minimal packaging or offering refills. For example, some grocery stores have bulk bins for nuts, grains, even soap, where you can fill your own container. If you happen upon a refillery (stores that sell shampoo, detergent, etc. by refill), consider that as an alternative to travel-size plastic bottles. L
astly, when shopping for any big purchases or tours, do a little homework: choose companies with green credentials. There are surf shops selling sustainable surfboards (made from eco resins), outdoor gear stores with upcycled products, and tour operators that donate to environmental causes.
Reducing Waste & Being Mindful on the Go
In a city of nearly 4 million people, small actions add up. Fortunately, LA makes it easy to be low-waste and environmentally conscious as you explore. Here are some simple tips to tread lightly:
Hydrate the Smart Way: Los Angeles has clean, safe tap water, so there’s absolutely no need to buy disposable plastic water bottles (and given the warm climate, you’ll want to stay hydrated). Carry a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout the day.
You’ll find water refill stations or fountains at most major attractions – for instance, LAX Airport, museums like the Getty, theme parks, and shopping centers all have bottle fillers now. Even many hotels, as mentioned, offer filtered water in the lobby or on each floor.
By refilling, you’ll save money and keep plastic out of landfills and the ocean. If you prefer filtered or chilled water, consider picking up a gallon of water (in recyclable packaging) at a grocery store and refilling your bottle from that in your hotel room – still less waste than multiple single-use bottles.
Dine Without the Disposables: Los Angeles’s food scene is very on board with sustainability, and you can join in by avoiding single-use items. When you get takeout or coffee, bring your own cup or container if possible. Many coffee shops welcome reusable mugs – some even give you a hefty discount (Blue Bottle’s $1 off for bringing a cup is a great example ).
For smoothies or boba tea, carrying a reusable straw (perhaps a metal or bamboo one) helps cut down on plastic pollution – a small metal straw takes no space in your bag. At restaurants, feel free to say “no straw, please” if you don’t need one; LA actually has a straws-on-request ordinance, so you often won’t get one unless you ask.
If you have leftovers from a meal, you can try asking the restaurant to pack them in your own container – some places will. It’s these tiny decisions that keep single-use plastics out of the waste stream. The city’s ban on Styrofoam containers in many areas also means you’ll often get paper or bio-based to-go boxes, which is a win.
Use Bins and Recycle Right: As you roam LA, you’ll see that public trash cans often have recycling companions (blue bins). The city’s recycling program is robust – they accept paper, glass, metals, and plastics in the blue bins, and the recycling rate is high, helping divert waste from landfills.
So when you finish that canned cold brew or have a pile of brochures you no longer need, look for a recycling bin to toss them in. In parks and beaches, there are typically recycling containers as well (the county even recycles all those water bottles picked up from beach cleanups, turning them into park benches and such).
If you’re ever unsure, err on the side of recycling – LA’s sorting facilities are advanced and can filter out contamination. By participating in the system, you’re contributing to a city-wide effort (LA aims for zero waste to landfills in the long run, per its Green New Deal). Additionally, consider the waste you generate in the first place – maybe opt for digital tickets over printed ones, or use a notes app for your itinerary instead of printing papers.
Mindful Souvenirs and Toiletries: When it comes to souvenirs, think quality over quantity. A single locally made item (like a piece of art or a vintage find) is more meaningful and sustainable than loads of mass-produced trinkets that might end up forgotten.
As for your personal care while traveling: those little hotel shampoo bottles are convenient, but they generate a lot of plastic waste. If you have room, bring your own reusable travel-size bottles filled with your shampoo and soap from home, or try package-free products like shampoo bars or bar soap (which work great and avoid the need for plastic bottles entirely).
Some eco-conscious hotels now provide bulk dispensers instead of mini bottles – a trend to encourage! Also, Los Angeles has plenty of places to buy eco-friendly toiletries if you need (Whole Foods, co-ops, or shops like Credo Beauty for refillable or low-waste cosmetics). Finally, dispose of any hazardous waste properly: for instance, e-cigarette cartridges or batteries should not go in the trash.
The Takeaway
Los Angeles is a city where sustainable travel fits naturally into daily life. The weather, outdoor culture, and forward-thinking mindset make it easy to choose greener options without sacrificing comfort or fun. Moving around by bike, Metro, or on foot lets you experience the city more closely while helping reduce traffic and pollution. Choosing fresh local food, visiting eco-focused shops, and staying in environmentally conscious hotels all support the city’s growing sustainability efforts.
Small decisions make a noticeable difference in a place this large. Walking short distances, using reusable items, choosing plant-based meals, or supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability all contribute to cleaner air and healthier neighborhoods. These choices also send a message that responsible tourism matters, encouraging more hotels, restaurants, and attractions to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
Traveling sustainably in Los Angeles also enriches your experience. Slower, greener ways of exploring help you notice the murals tucked along side streets, the scent of blooming plants, the sounds of local markets, and the beauty of natural spaces at sunrise or sunset. By choosing options that lighten your footprint, you often gain a deeper connection to the city. When your trip ends and you take in one last California view, you’ll know you contributed to a greener Los Angeles while enjoying a memorable visit.
FAQ
Q1. Is Los Angeles a good destination for sustainable travel?
Yes. LA combines extensive public transit, EV infrastructure, green hotels, plant-forward dining and abundant outdoor spaces, making it surprisingly easy to visit sustainably.
Q2. Can you visit Los Angeles without renting a car?
You can. By using Metro rail and buses, bikes, e-scooters, walking and occasional ride-shares or tours, many visitors comfortably explore key neighborhoods without a car.
Q3. What are the best eco-friendly hotels in Los Angeles?
Standout options include 1 Hotel West Hollywood, The Ambrose Hotel, Shore Hotel and The West Hollywood EDITION, all of which emphasize energy savings, water reduction and low-waste operations.
Q4. How do I use public transit in LA as a visitor?
Buy a reloadable TAP card or use a contactless payment, then ride Metro rail and buses to reach Downtown, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Pasadena and more with clear maps and frequent service on main routes.
Q5. Is tap water in Los Angeles safe to drink?
Yes. LA’s tap water is treated and safe, and using a reusable bottle with tap or filtered water is one of the easiest ways to cut plastic waste while you explore.
Q6. Where can I find plant-based restaurants in Los Angeles?
Neighborhoods like West Hollywood, Silver Lake, Venice, Echo Park and Santa Monica are full of vegan and vegetarian spots, from upscale Crossroads Kitchen to casual Sage Plant Bistro and farm-to-table cafes.
Q7. What low-impact outdoor activities can I do in LA?
You can hike in Griffith Park or the Santa Monica Mountains, bike coastal trails, relax on designated beaches, kayak or paddleboard in harbors or the LA River and go bird-watching in wetlands and lagoons.
Q8. How can I see wildlife responsibly near Los Angeles?
Observe animals from a distance, never feed wildlife, respect tide pool rules and protected areas, and choose accredited zoos, rescue centers or conservation-focused tours instead of hands-on animal attractions.
Q9. Are there eco-friendly shopping options in Los Angeles?
Yes. Farmers’ markets, thrift and vintage shops, flea markets and local maker boutiques let you support small businesses, buy secondhand and choose low-waste, locally produced goods.
Q10. What should I pack for a sustainable trip to Los Angeles?
Bring a reusable water bottle, tote bag, coffee cup, cutlery and straw, along with reef-safe sunscreen, refillable toiletry containers and comfortable shoes for walking, biking and transit.