by Eric Hrubant
When people say they’re going to LA for the weekend, they’re likely not going to downtown Los Angeles (not that there’s anything wrong if they did!), but likely escaping to the prominent destinations of Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Santa Monica, or one of the other great seaside getaways. The hotels and resorts in these areas do so many things exceptionally, such as provide high end amenities and white glove service, create bespoke experiences and promise privacy.
While many of us, me included, don’t need to worry so much with the privacy issues (I’m not famous…yet!), we can all benefit from the level of service found at several of my go-to hotel options in these areas. I admit that I could probably write an entire book if I included all of my favorite hotels and resorts, and why I love them, but I’ll just highlight five for now. You can always reach out to me or my team to learn more about my others preferred options. (Special note: Malibu deserves its own post! Now that we have a CIRE Travel office in Kennebunkport, Maine, Malibu is next on my list!)
Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel
When it comes to iconic Beverly Hills, it just doesn’t get any more iconic than this beautiful hotel. Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel is a legendary hotel that has crafted her “golden girl” reputation over many years since opening in 1928. As soon as you pull into the driveway, and walk through the door, you’ll experience this world for yourself where the spirit of service comes from the heart – they are truly craftsmen and women. An afternoon at the pool here is simply an epic experience (be sure to inquire about their famous sangria), but don’t forget to carve out some time for a visit to THEBlvd, which is their amazing restaurant with a seasonal menu that will blow you away while you enjoy looking out over Rodeo Avenue. We all deserve a little Pretty Woman moment when in Beverly Hills!
Inspired by the glamorous surroundings, the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills has made a big impact on the local hotel scene since it opened several years ago. Located adjacent to The Beverly Hilton on the corner of Wilshire and Santa Monica boulevards in Beverly Hills, everything about this hotel epitomizes the pampered and comfortable ease of the finest Californian lifestyle. I think you’ll love it. All the rooms and suites here give you a lot of space, high ceilings and have that modern, light and bright feel to them. That said, if you get lucky and find the Villa Suite with Oversized Terrace is available, book it! Also be sure to make your way up to The Rooftop by JG for out-of-this-world views and food that will certainly wow you – after all, Jean-Georges never disappoints!
Kimpton La Peer Hotel
Just steps from the intersection of Melrose Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard, the Kimpton La Peer Hotel thrives in the heart of West Hollywood’s Design District. The neighborhood’s eclectic blend of art, architecture and fashion are reflected throughout this design-centric hotel that evokes the best of these unique surroundings. There is so much to love about this hideaway from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood. Beyond the pool that absolutely screams West Hollywood in every way (every good way), they also offer several customized amenities you can only get at a boutique hotel like this. Two examples are their bath amenity when they provide customized bath rituals in your guestroom, and also their cocktail service that provides guests with a private speakeasy complete with the classics and other premium options. This is boutique luxury in its finest form, and I know you’ll adore the creative street food and innovative cocktails at Tokyo Nights, so don’t forget to add that to your to-do list!
On the corner of West Sunset Boulevard and North Doheny Drive, where West Hollywood meets Beverly Hills, you will find this breathtaking hotel that has been creating a lot of buzz since it opened. There are a lot of options when it comes to rooms here with standard rooms (or at least ‘standard’ for EDITION), suites, penthouses and even 20 luxury residences if you decide you never want to leave. When it comes to these elevated standard rooms, be sure to inquire about my absolute favorite option for the style and views, the Loft Terrace rooms. The Spa at The West Hollywood EDITION is the first luxury destination in Los Angeles to weave together wellness, mindfulness and beauty from within, through treatments and experiences that embrace healthy lifestyles and ecological well-being. What does this mean, exactly? In short, every element of your body and soul will leave the spa feeling rejuvenated!
Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel
Where prime Santa Monica location is considered, there’s no place like Loews. This Southern California oasis serves up an intoxicating blend of sun, sand and surf, with all the iconic attractions of the stunning destination just outside your room. It’s all about location when it comes to this property, so being only steps away from the beach, the famous Muscle Beach and an endless number of fantastic eateries that are signature Santa Monica. The Oceanfront Fire Pit Suites are ideal for a weekend beach getaway with room to move around, and the fire pit that completes the ultimate Santa Monica travel experience. If you are loving the fire pit theme, you can continue the adventure to Blue Streak for light bites and cocktails among their 13 campfire-inspired oceanfront fire pits.
If you need help planning the ultimate Los Angeles vacation, reach out to me and my team at CIRE. We love LA!
Coming soon… My perfect weekend in Malibu. Cheers!
CIRE Travel is a full-service travel agency headquartered in New York, NY. Our expert team supports clients across the country and around the world.
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