Los Angeles is a hot spot for incredible hotels—from modern to vintage, elegant to laidback. Here is our list of the best hotels that are worth a visit when you’re in need of an escape.
PHOTO COURTESY OF 1 HOTEL WEST HOLLYWOOD
FOR THE SUSTAINABILITY SAVANT:
Here, the city meets sustainability—lauded as one of the most energy-efficient hotels in L.A., from its smart irrigation system to the 100% organic on-site garden, plus all-around wellness from the holistic Bamford Wellness Spa and facial workouts at FaceGym. 1 Hotel West Hollywood is also an elevated spot for dining and drinking. Check out the sustainably sourced farm-to-table 1 Kitchen restaurant, the airy indoor-outdoor Juniper and the shabby chic Harriet’s Rooftop bar for drinks with a view.
FOR A MODERN-MEETS-RETRO RECESS:
At this five-star hotel right off the Sunset Strip, guests can escape to a peaceful respite in Ian Schrager-detailed rooms before heading to an oasis of serenity within The Forbes Five Star Spa. Dining is a must at the hotel's lush Ardor restaurant, where diners are seated among greenery to enjoy hyper-local cuisine by acclaimed chef Fraiser. At least one dance is in order at the on-site club, Sunset, decorated in disco balls and 70’s charm.
PHOTO BY VANESSA TIERNEY
FOR THE ROYAL TREATMENT:
Step into elegant Peninsula Beverly Hills to discover 195 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites, complete with world-class amenities like dining at The Belvedere or traditional afternoon tea in The Living room—plus indulgent spa treatments at The Peninsula Spa and easy access to Rodeo Drive’s legendary shopping. This intimate and charming yet urban resort in the heart of Beverly Hills offers a haven of luxury within the city.
PHOTO COURTESY OF FAIRMONT CENTURY PLAZA
FOR A SOPHISTICATED CITY STAYCATION:
The iconic Fairmont Century Plaza hotel stands out in West L.A. thanks to its prime location minutes from the glittering city’s most famous destinations. Guests can enjoy versatility with multiple dining and drinking venues, a 14,000-square-foot spa, Christophe Privé Salon hairstyling, DJ sets at the bar and a rooftop pool—all within its midcentury walls.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SANTA MONICA PROPER HOTEL
FOR DESIGN INSPIRATION:
Welcome to a looser kind of luxury, one in which interior designer Kelly Wearstler is taking the lead. Santa Monica Proper, one of Santa Monica’s first luxury lifestyle hotels, boasts 271 rooms—all of which optimize the area’s ocean breezes and natural aesthetic. Giving way to organic tones and textures, the interior design draws from the local coastline. This location is in the heart of the city, where you’ll be walking distance from the beach, local cafes and restaurants, farmers markets and boutique shopping. Santa Monica Proper knows that settling for less just wouldn’t be Proper.
PHOTO COURTESY OF PENDRY WEST HOLLYWOOD
FOR SUNSET STRIP ACCESSIBILITY:
West Hollywood: home to the bold, glamorous and sophisticated, and we’ve got the perfect stay giving all three. Pendry West Hollywood embodies the area surrounding it, as it lies in the heart of L.A.’s vibrant nightlife, dining and music scenes. 149 guest rooms inspired by ocean waves and classic Southern California skies set the scene for your luxurious stay. Dine at one of Wolfgang Puck’s on-site restaurants, dip into the nightlife, enjoy a wellness retreat or reside in one of the limited collections of only 40 luxury homes at Pendry Residences West Hollywood across the way.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SURFRIDER MALIBU
FOR A SURF-INSPIRED STAY:
A 20-room boutique beach house, The Surfrider Malibu lies on the Pacific Coast Highway, across the street from the famed Surfrider Beach. Originally built in 1953 and inspired by Malibu surf culture, this oceanside oasis is a homey place to unwind. Fill your days with the insider expertise of the Surfrider’s Guide to Malibu, a “little blue book” given to guests and filled with local vendors. Enjoy nights under the stars by the fire pit at the Roof Deck Bar & Restaurant fire pit, serving organic local cuisine to guests only. Wellness menus and picnics are available, and guests can use complimentary surfboards, paddleboards, beach umbrellas and more.
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PHOTO COURTESY OF HOTEL BEL-AIR
FOR A PEACEFUL RESPITE:
Situated on 12 acres of tropical gardens lies a legendary estate untouched by the hustle and bustle of city life. At Hotel Bel-Air, a stillness awaits you amid the birdsong, lake and lush greenery. The hotel offers a relaxed residential environment, mixing in silken luxury touches and keeping in mind a fresh edge of celebrity attitude. Whether you’re dining at The Restaurant at Hotel Bel-Air, relaxing in the spa or catching a glimpse of the majestic swans, this spot will surely give you the secret paradise stay you’ve been waiting for.
FOR A LUXE SANTA MONICA ESCAPE:
In its over 100 years, this oceanside Santa Monica hotel, beloved for its breezy elegance, has hosted notables from Marilyn Monroe to the Beatles. Set on a sprawling 5 acres, Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows is located near the Santa Monica Pier. Stay in one of 297 luxurious guest rooms—including 31 beach bungalows—and enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at FIG Restaurant, pampering at Exhale Spa and relaxation at Miramar Beach Club.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUNSET TOWER HOTEL
FOR CLASSIC L.A. ELEGANCE:
Established in 1929, Sunset Tower Hotel is giving the classic Los Angeles glamour you’ve always dreamed of. With dusty pink tones, soft cream and brown accents, and specialty wallpaper created by famous fashion illustrator Donald Robertson, the scenes of hotel life will have you hooked from the Sunset Blvd. sign all the way to a martini in the Tower Bar—where you’re sure to spot some stars.
FOR UPSCALE GLAMOUR:
The first thing that comes to mind when imagining upscale glamour in the heart of Beverly Hills is The Beverly Hills Hotel. Known as “the” spot for Hollywood’s brightest lights, the hotel is home to the iconic signage—a sight which you’ll see as you’re greeted like a movie star stepping onto the signature red carpet and entering the grand lobby. Here, the timeless experience and seamless service will only be one of many treats awaiting your arrival.
PHOTO COURTESY OF SHUTTERS ON THE BEACH
FOR A FAMILY-FRIENDLY BEACHSIDE STAY:
Let us set the scene for you: Family-friendly, beachside and luxurious. Shutters on the Beach resort is parting the curtains to reveal your seaside haven—with quaint cottages reminiscent of Cape Cod, shuttered doors that open to a breezy balcony and sunny terrace and guest rooms that offer a private experience awash in cool blues and greens. Begin and end your day at 1 Pico, and, in the meantime, ask the beach concierge to arrange any number of outdoor excursions, such as surfboarding and bike riding.
FOR A QUICK ESCAPE FROM L.A. PROPER:
Looking for a quick escape from the Los Angeles hustle? Head to Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, where a spacious bungalow, casita or villa awaits. The resort offers a truly immersive experience with luxurious amenities, sensational dining options, award-winning golf, boutiques, four swimming pools and opportunities for excursions on land and at sea.
FOR UBER-PLUSH ACCOMMODATIONS:
An icon in the heart of Los Angeles, the Four Season Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is known for its buzzing, power-dining energy and luxurious accommodations. After dropping a dime or two on Rodeo Drive, retreat to your one-of-a-kind suite where relaxation and wellness are at your fingertips. Dine at Culina Ristorante or indulge in a treatment at the world-class spa before light bites, libation and live entertainment at The Lounge.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NOBU RYOKAN MALIBU
FOR A ROMANTIC GETAWAY:
Sitting just inches away from the Pacific Ocean lies Nobu Ryokan Malibu, otherwise known as the ideal romantic getaway. The intimate 16-room stay is “a triumph of architectural carpentry and subdued hospitality,” as it features teak soaking tubs, peaceful outdoor patios, indoor-outdoor fireplaces, curated artwork and natural tones. This adult-oriented retreat pays homage to traditional Japanese Ryokan while combining minimalism with the elegant flair of California’s coast. From the moment you step foot onto the private oasis, you’ll be treated to a host of luxurious amenities, all while enjoying timeless views of the Pacific Ocean.
FOR A BEACH RETREAT:
This serene boutique hotel is set on a strip of coastline nicknamed “Billionaire’s Beach.” At Malibu Beach Inn, wake up to the sounds of ocean waves in one of 47 coastal-inspired guest rooms and indulge in rejuvenating treatments at CURE Daily Spa or local fare from the seaside terrace at Carbon Beach Club restaurant. If you’re looking to head down just for the day, try the hotel’s “Drive and Dine” package with the usage of an exclusive car rental and entrance to the Carbon Beach Club. When staying at the Malibu Beach Inn, book a “Bubbles, Blowout and Botox” for specialty beauty treatments and more.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WALDORF ASTORIA BEVERLY HILLS
FOR ENDLESS VIEWS IN AN ELEGANT SETTING:
What is it like to live the good life? At Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, you’ll start to get an idea. Built on a foundation of endless views in an elegant Beverly Hills setting, Waldorf Astoria is bringing the luxury experience to you. Lounge by the rooftop pool deck, take in panoramic views of the city from a private cabana or relax and order room service in a spacious suite. From the rejuvenating La Prairie Spa to the Lobby Lounge, you’ll be wanting to make this stay a regular.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE MAYBOURNE BEVERLY HILLS
FOR BEVERLY HILLS WALKABILITY:
Promising a warm welcome and cool spirit, The Maybourne Beverly Hills is blending its signature service with the contemporary luxury of Beverly Hills. Find serenity at the mineral pool, venture to The Terrace for an alfresco breakfast, lunch and dinner, or unwind in suites serving as a sanctuary surrounded by Hollywood history and culture. For dinner, book reservations at the all-new Dante Beverly Hills—infused with “Big Apple” spirit and serving Mediterranean dishes in a pastel-colored setting. Perfectly placed at the city’s most exclusive address, this hotel is the ideal location for stepping out onto Rodeo Drive because, for us, it’s all about walkability.
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