Tag: LAX

Many new and existing passengers who have an upcoming flight must wonder how long it takes to check in at LAX Airport. Check-in at Los Angeles takes mere 15-20 minutes but it depends on the peak travel season and the footfall at the airport. The check-in counter at LAX closes 45 minutes before departure. However, passengers should arrive at the LAX 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours before for international flights.

In this guide, we will provide you with essential information about when to arrive at LAX Airport to board your flight. 

What Time to Arrive at LAX for International Flights?

Passengers who are flying outside the US must arrive 3 hours before the scheduled departure as this extra time accounts for:

• Longer queues for check-in as international travel scrutinized check-in where documentation verification consumes more time.
• There is a large queue for baggage drop counters as international travelers carry multiple suitcases. 
• Going Custom and Border Protection (CBP).
• Security screening. 

Certain airlines, such as Emirates, Korean Air, and Qatar Airways, ask passengers to arrive even earlier than the recommended time. These airlines may require specific immigration documents and a special check-in process at Los Angeles Airport.

How Early to Arrive at LAX for Domestic Flights?

For domestic flights, you must arrive at LAX 2 hours before scheduled departure to have ample of time for:

• Check-in and obtain a boarding pass.
• If carrying checked luggage, you may witness a long queue at the baggage drop-off area.
• The average LAX security wait time is around 15-20 minutes. You must keep ample of time for hassle-free travel.
• Walking to a boarding gate, which is a considerable distance from the security checkpoint. Expect another 15-20 minutes if you’re taking a walk.  

Please Note: Elderly passengers or passengers who have special requests to be made to board the flight must arrive 2-3 hours before departure. 

Pro Tip: Passengers who are traveling with hand luggage and are pre-registered with TSA PreCheck at LAX can save 1.5 hours at the airport. However, this depends on the travel season, current footfall at LAX, and other airport conditions. 

Factors That Can Affect Check-In Time for International Flights LAX

The amount of time you need at LAX depends on certain factors that may impact your check in time at the Los Angeles International Airport. For instance:

• Trip Type: Passengers have to spend more time at the airport if flying on an international trip. Due to the nature of the trip, it requires scrutinized documentation and additional screening at the airport. During high travel seasons, expect 2-3 hours time for check-in, baggage drop-off, and security process.
• Special Request: Passengers with special requests such as unaccompanied minor travel, wheelchair service, pet travel, and other related services have to complete the check in at the LAX Airport rather than online. In such circumstances, passengers need to complete the boarding process at the LAX airport, thus consuming more time than usual.
• Check-in: Passengers who tend to complete the online check-in save more time compared to passengers who prefer airport check-in. 
• Weekends: Security checkpoints and check-in counters are busier on weekends, especially during early morning and late evenings. 
• PreCheck, CLEAR, and Global Entry: Passengers who are already registered for PreCheck, CLEAR, and Global Entry can expedite their security clearance and save time at LAX Airport.
• Adding Baggage Online: Passengers who purchase the extra baggage online can issue the e-baggage tag and on the day of departure simply submit the baggage at the luggage drop-off area. This way they can avoid a long queue and save time. 

How to Minimize the Check-In Time at LAX?

There are plenty of practices or guidelines you can follow to save ample of time during boarding at the Los Angeles International Airport:

• Prefer Online Check-in: Airport check-in can be time-consuming, especially during high-demand travel seasons. Always go for online check-in, and print your boarding pass in advance to save time at the airport.
• Keep Your Documents Handy: Always keep your booking confirmation, boarding, and other travel documents handy for quick access.
• Be Aware of TSA Guidelines: Always keep in mind the TSA guidelines that help you pack right which will help avoid delays and any last-minute hassles at security checkpoints. 
• Access Map: Go to the airline’s website to access the LAX Terminal map which will help with accurate navigation and help you locate the terminals and amenities ahead of time.

To conclude, arriving at LAX with ample time is essential for a smoother travel experience. Besides, completing online check-in, adhering to the TSA luggage guidelines, and subscribing to TSA PreCheck are other practices that enable faster check-in to help avoid long queues at the airport. By following the guidelines above and factoring in your specific travel circumstances, you can navigate the LAX Airport with ease and confidence. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Have a long layover and are looking for fun things to do near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)? Los Angeles offers a variety of things to do or places to relax and enjoy around LAX Airport.

Besides the common “shopping-eating-drinking” options you can indulge at a spa, take a break, and visit the beautiful Los Angeles beaches, museums, and more.

From beautiful beaches to delicious eateries, shared the top picks below to turn your layover into a getaway. Here are some fun things to do near LAX airport for a memorable travel experience.

List of Things To Do Near Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

The following list has some of the best things to do near LAX that suit various preferences and schedules. These places are listed below:

1. Flight Path Learning Center
2. Manhattan Beach
3. Santa Monica Place
4. In-N-Out Burger
5. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
6. Venice Beach
7. Westchester Golf Course
8. El Segundo
9. Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum
10. Sand Dune Park
11. Dockweiler State Beach
12. Abbot Kinney Boulevard
13. Marina del Rey
14. Getty Museum
15. Explore the history of LA

Read on attentively to find out the best things to do near Los Angeles International Airport (LAX):

1. Flight Path Learning Center (20 minutes)

The Flight Path Museum & Learning Center is located in the LAX Imperial Terminal and is approximately 20 minutes away from LAX. The aviation museum has displays and information about the history of flying, airlines, and LAX. They also have a wonderful collection of model airplanes.

The Flight Path Museum is open on Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. and is free for members. General admission is $5 and $3 for seniors, military personnel, children under the age of 12, and airline/aerospace (badged) employees.

• Distance: 1.9 Miles
• Address: 6661 West Imperial Highway, Los Angeles 90045
• Google Ratings: 4.8

2. Manhattan Beach (10 minutes)

Manhattan Beach Pier, a 10-minute taxi ride from LAX, is one of the best places in California to catch some rays. It is ideal for anyone seeking a relaxing beach experience, stunning sunsets, or exceptional surf conditions.

On the pier, there are also other things to do. The Roundhouse Aquarium is open for you to check out. Besides that, you can rent a cruiser bike and ride along the coast. The cruiser bike costs about $10 an hour.

• Distance: 5.4 Miles
• Address: 699 N The Strand, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States
• Google Rating: 4.5

3. Santa Monica Place (20 minutes)

Santa Monica Place is approximately 20 minutes away from the LAX Airport. It is an open-air shopping destination for those looking for a stylish and enjoyable experience.

You can go to the Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park, one of the area’s most popular amusement parks if you want to have fun while shopping, this is the best place to visit.

It was recently renovated and now has a variety of high-end shops and a dining deck to satisfy visitors.

• Distance: 12 Miles
• Address: 395 Santa Monica Pl, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
• Google Rating: 4.5

4. In-N-Out Burger (10 minutes)

This trendy fast-food restaurant is well-known for its fresh ingredients and juicy burgers, providing a quick and delicious meal before your flight. It is a popular fast-food restaurant at Los Angeles International Airport.

This nearby In-N-Out Burger has an outdoor seating area where you can enjoy a delicious burger with animal fries while watching the jets overhead. Try the In-N-Out Burger, a famous Californian tradition.

• Distance: 2.1 Miles
• Address: 9149 S Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90045, United States
• Google Rating: 4.6

5. Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area (18 minutes)

Look at the family-friendly Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, a hidden gem in the city located 10 miles from LAX Airport. The area offers five miles of hiking trails, a lotus pond, and multiple breathtaking views.

On a long LAX wait time, Kenneth Hahn is a great place for families to spend time outdoors or solo travelers to hike. It’s one of the best places for recreational activities close to LAX Airport.

Open Monday to Friday from 6 AM to 6 PM and on Saturdays and Sundays from 7 AM to 6 PM.

• Distance: 7.3 Miles
• Address:  4100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90056, United States
• Google Rating: 4.7

6. Venice Beach (25 minutes)

If you want to hear the heart of Los Angeles, go to Venice Beach and walk along the famous Venice Boardwalk. It is one of Los Angeles’ most popular tourist destinations and a convenient thing to do near LAX during a layover.

There are street performers, a lively boardwalk, and bright murals that make it a lively place to visit. You can watch people, learn about “alternative” ways of life, or just enjoy the authentic Venice vibe here.

Visitors should go to Venice Beach to see palm readers, tarot card readers, portrait artists, and many other creative people expressing themselves.

• Distance: 6.8 Miles
• Address: Los Angeles, CA, United States
• Google Rating: 4.4

7. Westchester Golf Course (30 minutes)

Los Angeles International Airport is only a 30-minute walk from Westchester Golf Course. The 18-hole, par-64-course golf course can keep you busy all day. It is a night and day golf course that stays open until 10 pm every day.

With 4,364 yards of greens, this course offers a fun and affordably priced round of golf. The driving range is a point of interest that is particularly popular with travelers. You’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful California weather while engaging in one of your favorite activities.

• Distance: 3.5 Miles
• Address: 6900 W Manchester Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90045, United States
• Google Rating: 4.2

8. El Segundo (15 minutes)

El Segundo is a beautiful beachfront destination perfect for a relaxing layover. It’s only about 15 minutes from LAX.  So, you can easily get there and back if you have a short layover. 

In addition to nice shops and restaurants, it has a beautiful main street. Once you’ve done all the shopping you want, end your trip with a craft beer from El Segundo Brewing. It is a popular spot in the area that serves some of the best beers. 

• Distance: 3.4 Miles
• Address: 1 World Way, Los Angeles, CA 90045, United States
• Google Rating: 3.9

9. Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum (20 minutes)

The Automobile Driving Museum, which has 150 cars overall, is only ten minutes from Los Angeles Airport.

Though a longer walk, enthusiasts of vintage cars simply must visit it near LAX.

There is no admission fee, and you can contribute any amount you choose to support the ongoing maintenance of these antique cars.

The Museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm. Travelers can take a free driving lesson with a professional driver on Sunday.

• Distance: 2.1 Miles
• Address: 610 Lairport St, El Segundo, CA 90245, United States
• Google Rating: 4.7

10. Sand Dune Park (25 minutes)

As the name suggests, there are huge dunes in Sand Dune Park. They get up to 100 feet tall in some cases. Visitors to this one-of-a-kind public park can try some adventures to relax after a busy day at the airport or in the city.

Fun things for kids to do include a merry-go-round and a play area is also there. Everything you see is natural because it is a preserved area. Due to visitation times, it is better to make an online reservation in advance.

You can only stay for an hour in the park. At $3.16 per person, the fee is pretty low. So, this park is a good choice if you want to see something natural close to LAX.

• Distance: 4.6 Miles
• Address: 3299 Bell Ave, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States
• Google Rating: 4.6

11. Dockweiler State Beach (18 minutes)

 If you want to see the beach but don’t have much time during your layover, go to Dockweiler State Beach. The beach is only a short drive from the airport.

The three-mile beach is free and has a picnic area, a concession stand, bathrooms, changing rooms, and outdoor showers. The beach boasts numerous activities including fishing, swimming, beach volleyball, and surfing.

Dockweiler is the only beach in LA that lets you have a fire pit. Come hang out here if you can handle the noise of the planes flying above.

• Distance: 3.6 Miles
• Address: 12000 Vista Del Mar, Playa Del Rey, CA 90293, United States
• Google Rating: 4.5

12. Abbot Kinney Boulevard (23 minutes)

 In Venice, Abbot Kinney Boulevard has a lot of different foods and tastes. It has some of LA’s most well-known restaurants.

On Abbot Kinney, you can find unique shops run by local artists and designers that mix modern chic with old-school vintage.

This mile-long walkway enables you to experience Los Angeles’s culture while shopping and eating in beautiful places. Moreover, it has a lot of art galleries, nightclubs, and yoga studios. This Boulevard is a great place to go if you want to do a lot of different things at once.

• Distance: 6.9 Miles
• Address: Abbot Kinney Blvd, Los Angeles, CA, USA
• Google Rating: 4.5

13. Marina del Rey (24 minutes)

Marina del Rey, located close to Los Angeles International Airport, is one of the largest artificial harbors for small boats in the country.

Visitors can take a walk along the marina in the charming Fisherman’s Village. Additionally, visitors can tour the Ballona Wetlands, go biking on the Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail, or arrange to have a picnic and see a movie outside in Burton Chace Park.

You can enjoy the peaceful views of the marina, including boats bobbing in the water and a few seagulls. Every day from 6 AM to 10 PM, you can engage in activities in the park.

• Distance: 7.2 Miles
• Address: California 90292, USA
• Google Rating: 4.5

14. Getty Museum (90 minutes)

The Getty Museum is one of the most well-known places in Los Angeles. The important thing is that this museum is completely free to visit. However, it costs $15 to park.

You need at least 8 hours to see the Getty Museum. It’s not the most convenient thing to do near LAX, but it is on the west side. The bus will take you to the Getty from LAX. Your bus ride will last between 90 and 120 minutes each way.

Beautiful buildings and the gardens are perfect for spending hours wandering around. Up there, it seems like a different world.

• Distance: 14.7 Miles
• Address: The Getty, 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049, United States
• Google Rating: 4.7

15. Explore the History of LA (30 minutes)

The historic Centinela Adobe, also known as La Casa de la Centinela, is close to LAX. It was built in the early 1800s and shows how Los Angeles and Inglewood, CA grew.

This place is also the site of several unique events throughout the year. Travelers can come in between the hours of 2:00 and 4:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and Sunday afternoons. Appointments can be made for large groups of people.

• Distance: 15.1 Miles
• Address: 7634 Midfield Ave, Inglewood, CA 90301, United States
• Google Rating: 4.5

With little planning, you can use those extra hours for an unexpected adventure. The above guide has given you a lot of choices, so you can find something that fits your interests and time frame. Marina del Rey, Sand Dune Park, and Manhattan Beach are the best fun things to do during a layover at LAX.

FAQs