Los Angeles International Airport serves over 75 million passengers annually, making it the second-busiest airport in the United States. With that kind of volume, you'd expect plenty of lounge options to escape the chaos—and you'd be right. LAX houses more than 20 lounges across its terminals, but here's the catch: not all lounges are created equal, and accessing them can be more complicated than booking award flights during peak season.
Whether you're flying internationally through the Tom Bradley International Terminal or catching a domestic connection, knowing which lounges offer the best value for your situation can transform a stressful travel day into a productive, relaxing experience. After extensive research and visits to LAX's top lounges, we've ranked every option to help you make the smartest choice for your next trip.
Quick Answer for LAX Lounge Access
Best overall lounge: Qantas First Lounge (oneworld Emerald status or first-class ticket required) Best for credit card access: American Express Centurion Lounge (Amex Platinum cardholders) Best for Priority Pass: Very limited options—Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse (with $35 fee) or Gameway gaming lounge Most accessible: Delta Sky Club (Delta flights + premium travel cards) Coming soon: Chase Sapphire Lounge (Tom Bradley International Terminal, 2025)
LAX Terminal Layout and Lounge Strategy
Before diving into specific lounges, understanding LAX's layout is crucial for your lounge strategy. The airport consists of Terminals 1-8 plus the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT), all arranged in a horseshoe shape. Here's what you need to know:
Connected Terminals: Terminals 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8 are connected airside via walkways, allowing you to freely move between them to access different lounges. This connectivity is your secret weapon for lounge hopping.
TBIT Access: The Tom Bradley International Terminal connects to Terminal 4, making it accessible from the main domestic terminals. However, the walk can take 15-20 minutes depending on your starting point.
Security Considerations: If you're departing from Terminals 1, 2, or 3, you'll need to exit security and re-clear at another terminal to access lounges in the connected terminals—factor this into your timing.
Premium Tier Lounges (Exceptional Experience)
1. Qantas First Lounge - The Gold Standard
Location: Tom Bradley International Terminal, Level 5 Access: oneworld Emerald status, Qantas/oneworld first-class tickets, Qantas Platinum status Hours: Daily, varies with flight schedules
The Qantas First Lounge consistently ranks among the best airport lounges in North America, and for good reason. This Marc Newson-designed space feels more like an upscale restaurant than an airport lounge.
What Makes It Special:
- À la carte dining with restaurant-quality meals
- Premium cocktails crafted by professional bartenders
- Spacious seating with excellent tarmac views
- Dedicated shower suites with LaGaia amenities
- Consistently excellent service
The Reality Check: Access is extremely limited. Unless you're flying Qantas first class, have oneworld Emerald status, or are connecting from an international oneworld first-class flight, you're out of luck. No day passes are available.
Who Should Go: oneworld elite flyers and first-class passengers who want the absolute best lounge experience at LAX.
2. United Polaris Lounge - Business Class Excellence
Location: Terminal 7 Access: United Polaris business/first class, Star Alliance business/first on long-haul flights Hours: Daily, 6:30 AM - 10:30 PM
United's Polaris Lounge represents everything done right in business-class lounge design. It's smaller than typical Polaris locations but maintains the high standards of the network.
Standout Features:
- À la carte dining room with table service
- Six shower suites with Saks Fifth Avenue amenities
- Two private nap rooms with day beds
- Premium bar with craft cocktails
- Consistently uncrowded due to limited access
Strategic Considerations: Located in Terminal 7, it's a 20-minute walk from TBIT where most international flights depart. Factor this into your timing, especially for tight connections.
Who Should Go: Star Alliance business/first-class passengers who prioritize dining quality and aren't deterred by the walk from TBIT.
3. American Express Centurion Lounge - Credit Card Premium
Location: Tom Bradley International Terminal, Level 2 Access: Amex Platinum/Centurion cardholders and authorized users Hours: Daily, 6 AM - 10 PM
The Amex Platinum card opens the door to LAX's most accessible premium lounge experience. While not quite reaching the heights of Qantas or United, it delivers solid value for cardholders.
Key Amenities:
- Two shower suites (often available without long waits)
- Spa services (treatments available for additional fee)
- Quiet room for relaxation
- Decent food selection with rotating menu
- Strategic location near security checkpoint
Guest Policy: Centurion cardholders can bring two guests free; Platinum cardholders pay $50 per guest over 18, $30 for guests 2-17.
Who Should Go: Amex Platinum cardholders and families who want premium amenities without airline restrictions.
Excellent Airline Lounges
4. American Airlines Flagship Lounge
Location: Terminal 4, near Gate 40 Access: AA first/business class on qualifying routes, Executive Platinum statusHours: Daily, 4:30 AM - 1 AM
American's Flagship Lounge at LAX represents the carrier's premium lounge concept, offering a more upscale experience than typical Admirals Clubs.
Notable Features:
- Flagship First Dining (temporarily closed)
- Premium spirits and wines
- Shower facilities
- Spacious seating areas
- Enhanced food selection
Access Reality: Requires premium cabin travel or top-tier elite status. Day passes cost $59 per person when available.
5. Delta Sky Club (Multiple Locations)
Location: Terminal 2 (Mezzanine Level), Terminal 3 (with outdoor Sky Deck) Access: Delta One/business class, Sky Club membership, select Amex cards, SkyMiles elite status Hours: Vary by location
Delta operates two Sky Clubs at LAX, with the Terminal 3 location featuring the unique outdoor Sky Deck—a rarity in airport lounges.
Terminal 3 Sky Deck Highlights:
- Year-round outdoor terrace
- California-inspired food options
- Full bar service
- Excellent people-watching
Access Strategy: Delta SkyMiles Reserve cardholders get unlimited access when flying Delta, while Amex Platinum cardholders receive 10 annual visits (upgradeable through spending).
Good Value Options
6. Star Alliance Lounge
Location: Tom Bradley International Terminal, Level 6 Access: Star Alliance Gold status, Star Alliance business/first class Hours: Daily, varies with flight schedules
The Star Alliance Lounge serves as the network's flagship facility at LAX, offering both indoor and outdoor terrace seating.
Solid Amenities:
- Indoor and outdoor dining areas
- International cuisine options
- Separate first-class section
- Business center facilities
When to Choose: Star Alliance Gold members departing from TBIT who want to avoid the walk to United Polaris.
7. Air France Lounge
Location: Tom Bradley International Terminal Access: Air France/KLM business/first class, SkyTeam elite status Hours: Daily, varies with departures
This beautifully appointed lounge focuses on French hospitality and cuisine.
French Touches:
- Made-to-order French classics
- Premium wine selection
- Elegant design
- Consistently clean facilities
8. Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse
Location: Tom Bradley International Terminal Access: Virgin Atlantic Upper Class, Flying Club Gold status, eligible Delta One passengers Priority Pass: Available with $35 surcharge
Virgin's Clubhouse brings Hollywood glamour to LAX with its cinema-inspired design and wellness amenities.
Unique Features:
- Zen Den wellness room
- Striking vintage cinema decor
- Extensive California-inspired menu
- Cocktail program
Priority Pass Reality: While technically accessible to Priority Pass members, the $35 surcharge makes it less attractive than other options.
Limited but Useful Options
Alaska Lounge
Location: Terminal 6, Mezzanine Level near Gate 64 Access: Alaska MVP status, Alaska Visa cardholders, day passes ($50) Hours: Daily, 5 AM - 9 PM
One of the few lounges at LAX that sells day passes to any passenger regardless of airline.
Day Pass Access: $50 per person, available based on capacity
Basic Amenities:
- Light snacks and beverages
- Comfortable seating
- Free WiFi
- Not ideal for sleeping
Priority Pass Reality Check at LAX
Here's the hard truth about Priority Pass at LAX: your options are extremely limited compared to other major airports. Priority Pass cardholders have access to just a few non-traditional options:
Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse: Requires $35 surcharge per visit Gameway Gaming Lounge: One hour of gaming at stations in Terminals 3 and 6 Be Relax Spa: Massage chairs and basic spa services
Priority Pass Strategy: If you have Capital One Venture X or another Premium Priority Pass card, consider using the Gameway for entertainment or paying the Virgin Atlantic surcharge if you value a true lounge experience.
Credit Card Lounge Access Strategies
The Premium Travel Card Approach
For travelers seeking lounge access at LAX, your credit card strategy needs to account for the airport's limited Priority Pass options:
Capital One Cards: The Capital One Venture X includes Priority Pass access, which gets you into Gameway gaming lounges and Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse (with $35 fee). While not ideal, it's one of the more accessible premium travel cards for occasional lounge access.
The Amex Platinum Approach
The Amex Platinum card provides the most straightforward premium lounge access at LAX:
- Centurion Lounge (always accessible)
- Delta Sky Club (10 annual visits when flying Delta)
- Priority Pass enrollment (limited options at LAX)
The Chase Strategy
Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders get Priority Pass access plus the upcoming Chase Sapphire Lounge in TBIT (opening 2025).
Current Options:
- Priority Pass access (limited at LAX)
- Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge (when flying Star Alliance)
Coming Soon: The 9,234-square-foot Chase Sapphire Lounge near Gate 148 in TBIT will significantly improve options for Chase cardholders.
Airline-Specific Cards
Consider airline-specific cards for consistent lounge access:
- Delta Reserve card for Sky Club access
- United Club card for United Club access
- AA Executive card for Admirals Club access
Day Pass Options and Pricing
Most LAX lounges don't offer day passes, but here are your options:
Available Day Passes:
- Alaska Lounge: $50 per person (any airline)
- Admirals Club: $59 per person (American passengers only)
- Centurion Lounge: Guest fees for cardholders ($30-$50)
No Day Pass Available:
- Qantas First Lounge
- United Polaris Lounge
- Most airline lounges
Terminal-by-Terminal Lounge Guide
Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT)
- Qantas First Lounge (Level 5)
- American Express Centurion Lounge (Level 2)
- Star Alliance Lounge (Level 6)
- Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse
- Air France Lounge
- Emirates Lounge
- Korean Air Lounge
- Los Angeles International Lounge
Terminal 2
- Delta Sky Club (Mezzanine Level)
- USO Center
Terminal 3
- Delta Sky Club (with outdoor Sky Deck)
- Gameway Gaming Lounge
Terminal 4
- American Airlines Flagship Lounge
- American Airlines Admirals Club
Terminal 6
- Alaska Lounge
- Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge
- Gameway Gaming Lounge
Terminal 7
- United Polaris Lounge
- United Club
Terminal 8
- United Club
Lounge Hopping Strategy
LAX's connected terminal design allows for strategic lounge hopping if you have multiple access options:
Premium Route: Start at Qantas First (if accessible) → United Polaris (20-minute walk) → Centurion Lounge Chase Strategy: Use Priority Pass at Gameway → Move to upcoming Chase Sapphire Lounge Delta Focus: Terminal 2 Sky Club → Terminal 3 Sky Club with outdoor deck
Timing Considerations: Allow 15-30 minutes between terminals, depending on your mobility and the crowds. Don't attempt lounge hopping with tight connections.
What's Coming: Future of LAX Lounges
Chase Sapphire Lounge (2025)
The upcoming Chase Sapphire Lounge in TBIT will significantly improve options for Chase cardholders:
Expected Features:
- 9,234 square feet accommodating 150 guests
- Direct tarmac views
- À la carte dining
- Premium bar service
- Family-friendly amenities
Access: Chase Sapphire Reserve, J.P. Morgan Reserve, and Ritz-Carlton cardholders plus two guests
LAX Modernization Impact
LAX's ongoing $30 billion modernization may bring additional lounge spaces and improved connectivity between terminals, potentially changing the lounge landscape significantly.
Maximizing Your LAX Lounge Experience
Before You Go
- Check Terminal Connections: Verify your departure terminal and plan your lounge route accordingly
- Time Allowances: Factor 20-30 minutes for walks between non-connected terminals
- Access Requirements: Confirm your specific access requirements and guest policies
- Peak Hours: Avoid lounges during typical rush periods (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM)
During Your Visit
- Arrive Early: Popular lounges may have waitlists during peak times
- Explore Amenities: Many lounges offer services beyond food and drinks
- Check Flight Status: Monitor departures, especially for connections
- Respect Time Limits: Some lounges enforce three-hour limits
Credit Card Optimization
Consider your travel patterns when choosing cards for lounge access:
- Frequent LAX travelers: Amex Platinum offers the most consistent access
- Occasional visitors: Day passes might be more cost-effective than annual fees
- Family travelers: Factor guest policies into your card choice
Common LAX Lounge Mistakes to Avoid
Terminal Confusion: Don't assume all terminals are connected—Terminals 1, 2, and 3 require security re-screening to reach other areas.
Timing Underestimation: The walk from TBIT to Terminal 7 (United Polaris) takes 20+ minutes—don't attempt this with tight connections.
Priority Pass Expectations: Unlike other airports, LAX has very limited true Priority Pass lounge options.
Guest Policy Misunderstanding: Each lounge has different guest policies—verify before bringing companions.
Access Assumption: Don't assume business class tickets guarantee lounge access—check specific airline and route requirements.
The Bottom Line
LAX's lounge scene reflects the airport's status as a major international gateway, with some exceptional options and some notable gaps. The Qantas First Lounge stands in a class by itself, while the Centurion Lounge offers the most accessible premium experience for credit cardholders.
Your best strategy depends on your travel patterns and cards:
- Premium elite flyers: Target Qantas First or United Polaris for the best experience
- Credit card users: Amex Platinum provides the most consistent value
- Occasional travelers: Consider day passes at Alaska Lounge or Admirals Club
- Future planning: The upcoming Chase Sapphire Lounge will significantly improve options for Chase cardholders
The key to LAX lounge success is matching your access method to your travel style and timing your visits to avoid the worst crowds. While the options aren't as extensive as airports like JFK or DFW, the premium lounges at LAX deliver experiences that can transform your travel day from stressful to sublime.
Remember that LAX is constantly evolving, with new lounges planned and existing facilities being renovated. Check current access requirements and operating hours before your trip, as these details can change with little notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I access multiple lounges in one visit to LAX? A: Yes, if you have appropriate access and the terminals are connected. Allow extra time for walking between locations.
Q: Are there any free lounges at LAX? A: No traditional free lounges exist, but some credit cards provide complimentary access to premium lounges.
Q: What's the best lounge for families at LAX? A: The Centurion Lounge offers family-friendly amenities and reasonable guest policies for Amex Platinum cardholders.
Q: Can I sleep in LAX lounges? A: Most lounges discourage sleeping, though some offer quiet areas. The Alaska Lounge specifically notes it's not suitable for sleeping.
Q: How early can I access lounges before my flight? A: Most lounges allow access within 3 hours of departure, though policies vary by location.
Q: Are shower facilities widely available? A: Only premium lounges like Qantas First, United Polaris, and Centurion offer shower facilities.
