About
While Grand Theft Auto V is a fictional crime epic, its world—Los Santos and Blaine County—is a hyper-detailed recreation of Southern California, from urban sprawl to deserts and coasts. Rockstar Games used satellite imagery, photos, and on-site scouting for 1:1 accuracy in many spots.
This makes Los Angeles and its surroundings the ultimate GTA V pilgrimage destination for fans recreating heists, chases, and vibes.
Updates as of 2026: With GTA 6 out and redefining Vice City, GTA V's map remains a timeless benchmark. Fan pilgrimages surged post-GTA 6 launch for nostalgia. Note: Recent California wildfires (2024-2025) scorched some Blaine County-inspired desert spots—check Cal Fire advisories.
Full Pilgrimage Guide
Curated videos and routes — click a card to watch and plan your trip.
Spotlight Location Guide
Hollywood Sign & Griffith Observatory
Iconic overlook for Los Santos skyline. Real-life inspiration for Vinewood Sign & Galileo Observatory.
Best Time to Visit
Golden hour for panoramic views.
Access
Free entry. Parking limited—use DASH shuttle.
Photography Tips
- • Hike for epic recreations.
- • Griffith Observatory's dome and trails are spot-on.
Santa Monica Pier
Real-Life Inspiration: Del Perro Pier. Most photographed GTA spot—Ferris wheel, roller coaster, ocean boardwalk.
Best Time to Visit
Evenings for lights/fireworks.
Access
Public parking or walk/bike from Venice.
Photography Tips
- • Snap Ferris wheel vs. game shots.
- • Layout and vibe are identical.
Venice Beach
Real-Life Inspiration: Vespucci Beach. Muscle Beach, skate parks, murals, street performers—pure GTA chaos.
Best Time to Visit
Daytime for bustling atmosphere.
Access
Public parking lots available.
Photography Tips
- • Rent skates.
- • Compare Muscle Beach gyms.
Downtown Los Angeles – U.S. Bank Tower
Real-Life Inspiration: Maze Bank Tower. Skyscrapers, freeways, FIB building vibes.
Best Time to Visit
Anytime.
Access
Metro or car.
Photography Tips
- • Stand at Civic Center for skyline match.
- • OUE Skyspace for top views (paid).
Joshua Tree National Park
Real-Life Inspiration: Senora Desert & Blaine County. Rocky outcrops, wind farms, highways—Trevor's turf.
Best Time to Visit
Spring for wildflowers. Avoid summer heat.
Access
National Park entry fee.
Photography Tips
- • Keys View overlook.
- • Bring plenty of water.
Salton Sea
Real-Life Inspiration: Alamo Sea. Post-apocalyptic lake, abandoned resorts—Trevor's stomping grounds.
Best Time to Visit
Cooler months.
Access
Car essential.
Photography Tips
- • Bombay Beach ruins.
- • Experience the "dead sea" air.
Suggested Itineraries
Los Santos City Core
EasyDay 1: Downtown LA & Griffith Observatory. Day 2: Venice Beach, Santa Monica Pier & LAX. Day 3: Beverly Hills & Hollywood Blvd.
Transportation
Car or Uber/Lyft recommended.
Locations
- • Downtown LA
- • Hollywood
- • Santa Monica
- • Venice Beach
- • LAX
Blaine County Desert Loop
ModerateAdd-on to LA trip. Drive to Joshua Tree NP (overnight), then explore Salton Sea. Return via I-10.
Transportation
Car rental essential.
Locations
- • Joshua Tree
- • Salton Sea
Full San Andreas Epic
ModerateThe ultimate tour. LA City -> Palm Springs/Mt San Jacinto -> Central Coast (Morro Bay) -> Vandenberg viewpoints -> Return.
Transportation
Convertible rental recommended for full vibes.
Locations
- • Los Angeles
- • Palm Springs
- • Central Coast
- • Vandenberg
Tips & Etiquette
Best Base
Los Angeles—fly into LAX for LSIA start.
Photo Ops
Santa Monica Pier, Griffith, Rodeo—golden hour/dusk for game-like lighting.
Content Ideas
TikTok "GTA V vs Real Life" overlays; YouTube drives.
Safety
Deserts 100°F+ (spring/fall best); bases restricted. Monitor wildfire alerts.
Budget
National Parks Pass ($80); free city spots. Guided tours ~$100.
Apps
Google Earth for map compares; AllTrails for hikes.