In the heart of summer, travel season is in full swing. For some, this also means the busiest time of year. Sunny Los Angeles promises a relaxing and indulgent getaway, where everyone's invited to soak up some vitamin D and get in the "treat yourself" mood. It's time to kick off the pumps and slip into some pool-side flip flops for vacay mode. We're sharing eight of the most stunning locations for the perfect LA summer vacation.
The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a five-star paradise and the perfect destination for a relaxing and rejuvenating vacay. Named one of the top 10 in the world by SpaFinder, the hotel's 4,600 square-foot spa underwent a total renovation. Jet lag is no match for the Pink Himalayan Salt Dry Saunas. The salt crystal wall is activated by heat and supports the release of serotonin, which not only is great after a long flight, but is also thought to have a positive effect on memory and mood. Other additions include the Private Hair and Makeup Studio, Dedicated Outdoor Pool Spa Cabana, an Upgraded Serenity Lounge and exclusive product lines and treatments from Subtle Energies and MBR Medicinal Beauty Research.
The iconic Beverly Hilton has reimagined their lavish weekend brunch. A new barbecue menu featuring New York steak strips and buffalo chicken wings can be enjoyed along with the adjoining Aqua Star Pool. On weekday nights, CIRCA 55 offers themed cuisine and beverages like Viva La Spritz, an Italian-inspired spritz with bruschetta, and Bubbles & Seafood, a sparkling wine that comes with a complementary seafood tower. With new and exciting pairings every night, there is always a tasty adventure waiting.
In 1929, stars like Joan Crawford gathered at the Mayfair Hotel for the first ever Oscars after party. The following year, British Novelist Raymond Chandler was inspired to write "I'll Be Waiting", a mysterious short story set in a hotel, while living at the Mayfair. Chalked full of character and a time capsule of the past, the Mayfair is a must-see for history lovers.
Built in 1926, the Westlake art deco hotel was recently given a modern redesign and renovation. The update was led by Gulla Jónsdóttir, an Icelandic interior designer and architect, and Kelly "RISK" Graval, the Artist-in-Residence responsible for the multi-million-dollar art collection displayed through each floor. Their celebrated restaurant, Eve, is introducing an updated menu to emphasize the cultural diversity of Los Angeles. At the end of summer 2019, the hotel will open an all-new rooftop pool and fitness center.
For a more private, intimate stay, Oceana; Santa Monica, CA offers a luxurious beachside escape. The new ocean hideaway hotel is conveniently located away from the buzzy Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade for a quiet, remote-feeling paradise. Santa Monica's only all-suite hotel holds 70 residential-style suites designed by Busta Studio's Anna Busta from New York City. Famed Santa Monica Chef Raphael Lunetta oversees the hotel's Californian inspired ocean-view bar and restaurant. Wellness offerings include a fitness center with Peloton Personal Trainers for an unmatched cycling experience, available Personal Nutrition and Wellness consultations, beach yoga, customized spa treatments, and more.
The Hollywood Roosevelt, legendary boutique hotel established in 1927, has been the go-to spot for its faithful A-Lister guests year after year. Guests can dip into the million-dollar work of art that is the Hollywood Roosevelt's David Hockney pool. Hockney, considered one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, originally completed the pool's mural in 1988. The famous blue brush strokes were recently restored by professional art conservators to aid in the eternalization of the masterpiece. The historic hotel is offering new services to make it an even more coveted destination for summer. The new Massage Garden by the Tropicana pool offers specialized treatments in an intimate leafy environment.
A breezy beachside haven, Shutters on the Beach is the West Coast embodiment of classic Cape Cod cottages. The Santa Monica beach hotel is endowed with shuttered doors and sweeping balconies, and Michael S. Smith's designs give each room a personal beach house feel. Rosé Beach Bar opened this year for its second pop-up at the oceanfront sanctuary. The bar offers a posh selection of bites and refreshments like caviar and oysters and a wealth of rosé choices. The hotel recently debuted a weekly evening cocktail mixer, MIXX Wednesdays. Every Wednesday from 6pm to 9pm in the Living Room, Shutters' renowned mixologist prepares top-quality concoctions from a new customized menu, different every week. The night entails Chef David Almany's premium appetizers, live music and firelight after an oceanic sunset.
Hotel Casa del Mar was built as an exclusive 1920s beach club and still embodies a timeless Mediterranean charm. The lobby's original high ceilings and large, romantic windows designed by Michael Smith still greet today's guests upon arrival. The Sea Wellness Spa is now offering new CBD spa treatments like the "Deep Indulgence Massage" which incorporates the therapeutic oil to further relieve and relax muscles. Every week night the lobby holds an array of live musical performances including everything from jazz to flamenco. Every night from 5pm to 7pm the hotel's modern American seafood restaurant, Catch, hosts a sushi happy hour accompanied by live music and a picturesque ocean view.
The westdrift Manhattan Beach is the ultimate retreat for the active and adventurous. The newly renovated Manhattan Beach hotel offers a dog-friendly 9-hole golf course, a fitness center inspired by CrossFit complete with kettle bells, resistance bands and trampolines, and events like Street Food Cinema movie screenings with accompanying food trucks. Westdrift Manhattan Beach's design is a blend of East Coast class and coastal California cool and laid-back vibes. After a long days' work or travel, it's the perfect place to chill and unwind.
