For fans of high-octane procedural dramas, the question of how many seasons of NCIS Los Angeles there are is often the starting point for a deep dive into one of the most successful spin-offs in television history. Spanning an impressive 14 seasons and 323 episodes, the series became a staple of the United States television landscape. However, for the seasoned traveler, the show represents much more than just a crime drama; it serves as a sprawling, sun-drenched travelogue of California.
From the glitzy streets of Beverly Hills to the rugged coastline of Malibu, the show utilized its namesake city as a primary character. Whether you are a fan looking to relive your favorite moments or a traveler seeking to explore the diverse geography of Southern California, understanding the locations featured across those 14 seasons offers a unique lens through which to view the City of Angels.
Understanding the Legacy of NCIS: Los Angeles Over 14 Seasons
When NCIS: Los Angeles premiered in 2009, it introduced a lighter, more action-oriented aesthetic than its predecessor. Over the course of 14 seasons, the team led by G. Callen and Sam Hanna navigated the complex geopolitical landscape of the modern world, but they always returned to their home base in Los Angeles. The show’s longevity allowed it to capture the evolution of the city itself, documenting changes in the skyline and the revitalization of various neighborhoods.
The End of an Era in the City of Angels
The conclusion of the 14th season in 2023 marked the end of an era for fans and for the local film industry. Throughout its run, the production was headquartered at Paramount Pictures in Hollywood. This historic studio lot is a landmark in its own right, offering tours that allow visitors to see the “New York Street” and other backlot sets that frequently doubled for international locations when the team traveled abroad—or at least appeared to.
For many viewers, the show’s end prompted a desire to visit the real-world locations that defined the series. If you were to embark on a tour based on the 14 seasons, you would find yourself traversing the entirety of Los Angeles County, from the ports of Long Beach to the peaks of the San Gabriel Mountains.
Why the Setting of California Defined the Show
Unlike many shows that use a “tax-incentive double” like Vancouver or Atlanta to represent other cities, NCIS: Los Angeles was deeply rooted in its actual filming location. The light of Southern California is distinctive, and the show leaned into the “Blue Skies” aesthetic. This choice turned the series into a 14-year-long advertisement for California tourism. The producers frequently utilized the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop, emphasizing the state’s natural beauty and the active lifestyle of its residents.
Exploring the Iconic Coastal Landmarks Featured Throughout the Series
One of the most recognizable aspects of the show is its frequent use of the coastline. Over 14 seasons, the characters were often seen conducting surveillance or engaging in foot chases along the famous beaches of Los Angeles. These locations are not just set dressings; they are some of the most visited tourist attractions in the United States.
The Santa Monica Pier and Coastal Backdrops
The Santa Monica Pier is perhaps the most iconic landmark featured in the series. With its world-famous Ferris wheel and historic carousel, the pier has appeared in numerous episodes. Travelers visiting Santa Monica can walk the same wooden planks as the characters, enjoying the views of the Pacific Park amusement area. The nearby Santa Monica State Beach provides the perfect setting for a sunset stroll, mirroring the many “end-of-episode” scenes where the team reflects on their latest mission.
Venice Beach: The Gritty and Eclectic Heart of the Action
Just south of the pier lies Venice Beach, a location that perfectly captured the “boots on the ground” feel of the show’s undercover operations. The Venice Boardwalk, with its street performers, muscle beach, and eclectic shops, offered a vibrant and chaotic energy that the directors loved to exploit. For a true fan experience, a visit to the Venice Canals offers a quieter, more scenic look at the neighborhood, showcasing the architectural diversity that makes Los Angeles so visually appealing.
Marina del Rey and Nautical Missions
Given the naval connection of the NCIS agents, Marina del Rey featured prominently throughout the 14 seasons. As the world’s largest man-made small-craft harbor, it provided the perfect setting for episodes involving boat chases or luxury yacht investigations. Visitors to Marina del Rey can rent paddleboards or take harbor cruises to see the waterfront from the agents’ perspective.
Downtown Los Angeles and the Urban Jungle
While the beaches provided the “cool” factor, Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) provided the grit and the architectural grandeur. Over 14 seasons, the show’s cinematography highlighted the contrast between historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers.
Union Station: A Gateway to History
Union Station in Los Angeles is often called the “Last of the Great Railway Stations.” Its Mission Revival and Art Deco architecture made it a frequent choice for high-stakes meetings or pursuit scenes. For a traveler, Union Station is more than a filming location; it is a functioning transit hub and a masterpiece of 20th-century design. Walking through the grand waiting room feels like stepping back into the Golden Age of Hollywood.
The Bradbury Building and Unique Architecture
Fans of the show may recognize the intricate ironwork and “birdcage” elevators of the Bradbury Building. Located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, this building is the oldest commercial structure in the central city. It has a long history in cinema, and NCIS: Los Angeles used its unique interior to represent various high-security offices or mysterious meeting spots.
Nearby, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry, represents the modern side of the city. Its stainless steel curves have shimmered in the background of many driving shots along Grand Avenue, symbolizing the sophisticated, forward-thinking nature of the characters’ world.
Beyond the City: International Missions and California Doubles
Across 14 seasons, the NCIS team traveled to destinations like Mexico, Russia, and the Middle East. However, most of these “international” scenes were actually filmed within a short drive of Los Angeles. This “Hollywood Magic” relies on the incredible geographic diversity of California.
Recreating the World in Ventura County
The arid landscapes of Santa Clarita and the rugged terrain of Ventura County often doubled for foreign deserts or mountainous regions. Locations like Vasuquez Rocks Natural Area Park are famous for their prehistoric rock formations, which have appeared in everything from Star Trek to NCIS: Los Angeles. For an outdoor enthusiast, these parks offer incredible hiking and a chance to see where the team’s most dangerous away-missions were staged.
The Glamour of Malibu and Pacific Coast Highway
When the script called for a luxury villa or a scenic coastal drive, the production headed north to Malibu. The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is one of the most famous driving routes in the United States. Driving a convertible along the cliffs of Point Dume allows travelers to experience the same breathtaking vistas that were a staple of the show’s 14 seasons. Point Dume itself, with its iconic bluff and beach, has served as a backdrop for numerous dramatic finales.
Planning Your NCIS-Inspired Trip to Los Angeles
If the 14 seasons of the show have inspired you to visit the United States, there are several ways to make your trip more engaging. Beyond just visiting filming sites, you can immerse yourself in the culture of Los Angeles that the show celebrated.
Best Times to Visit for Television Fans
Los Angeles is a year-round destination, but for those hoping to catch a glimpse of the television industry in action, visiting during the traditional filming season (September through May) is ideal. While NCIS: Los Angeles has wrapped, many other shows continue to film at Culver City studios or on location in Pasadena.
The weather in Southern California is most pleasant in the spring and fall. A visit to the Griffith Observatory during these months offers clear views of the Hollywood Sign and the entire Los Angeles Basin, a view that was frequently used as an establishing shot throughout the series.
Navigating Hollywood and Surrounding Neighborhoods
To truly appreciate the scope of the city seen in the 14 seasons, renting a car is a necessity. Start your journey at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and head toward the coast. Explore Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach to see the quieter side of the South Bay.
For a taste of the show’s high-stakes lifestyle, spend an afternoon on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. While the agents were usually there on official business, you can enjoy the luxury shopping and world-class dining. End your day with a visit to the Hollywood Bowl or a walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, connecting with the entertainment history that made NCIS: Los Angeles possible.
In conclusion, while the question of how many seasons of NCIS Los Angeles is easily answered—14 seasons of action, character development, and intrigue—the legacy of the show lives on through the vibrant city it showcased. For the traveler, Los Angeles remains a destination of endless variety, where every corner tells a story and every landmark feels familiar thanks to over a decade of television history. Whether you are exploring the San Fernando Valley or taking a ferry to Catalina Island, the spirit of the show and the beauty of California are always within reach.
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