Luxury hotel in LA area
Jan 21st, 2014, 06:01 AM
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Luxury hotel in LA area
We are traveling to LA for the first time and Are looking to book a luxury hotel for our stay. I know nothing about the landscape of LA- Beverly Hills, West Holloywood, etc and the proximity of these things. I imagine we will be doing some shopping, definitely some great dining and also some studio tours. Maybe a one day trip to Anaheim for our daughter. Looking at the traveler photos of all the top places- the Wilshire, the Montage, the Beverly Hills hotel , none of them look spectacular. Any advice out there from those who have been as to best area to stay and best hotel for luxury? Thank you!
Jan 21st, 2014, 06:47 AM
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Luxury is somewhat relative and means different things to different people - which can include service, the quality of the in house restaurant, snob appeal, amenities, whatnot.
You might consider staying in LA/Beverly Hills for a couple of days - and then finish at something like the Ritz Carlton -dramatically perched above the beach in Laguna, Orange County - which is luxury on the beach for sure.
You might consider staying in LA/Beverly Hills for a couple of days - and then finish at something like the Ritz Carlton -dramatically perched above the beach in Laguna, Orange County - which is luxury on the beach for sure.
Jan 21st, 2014, 07:26 AM
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The luxury hotel at the top of most "Best of..." lists in Beverly Hills is the Peninsula:
http://www.peninsula.com/Beverly_Hills/en/default.aspx
The in-house restaurant, the Belvedere, is also well-regarded.
The Beverly Hills Hotel is a grand old dame in LA hotel history. One stays there for the history, the Paul R. Williams architectural touches (he performed some light renovations in the 1940s) and the old-school atmosphere of the Polo Lounge. The bartenders are attentive, friendly and expert in their mixology (great martinis!). The clientèle are well-heeled in general (when my husband and I went there for drinks at the beginning of an LA Date Night, we both felt like country come to town), but their celebrity is more often of times past. If A-Listers show up there, it tends to be more ironically than not. Still, c'mon-- I'd stay at the Beverly Hills Hotel happily in a minute.
Another luxury property you might consider, despite it being a bit outside of Beverly Hills, is the Hotel Bel-Air:
http://www.dorchestercollection.com/.../hotel-bel-air
The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, which tomsd mentions, is lovely. Its luxury is understated, the setting is unmatched (breathtakingly beautiful)... but it's over an hour from the LA sites you are interested in seeing, down in Dana Point:
http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Proper...el/Default.htm
Other remote but fantabulous resorts are the Terranea in Palos Verdes and the Montage in south Laguna Beach:
http://www.terranea.com/
http://www.montagelagunabeach.com/
Again, over an hour to get to LA proper (Palos Verdes is in LA County, but a bit by itself on a peninsula), but worth the drive.
The Miramar in Santa Monica is another "understated elegance" luxury property; it gets year-round tourist trade and a healthy business-traveler book of business (several large investment management and consulting firms, including mine, have headquarters within a few blocks of the Miramar). It's another property with a storied history (regular guests included Greta Garbo and Marilyn Monroe) and a superb onsite restaurant (Fig, a Zagat favorite).
There are many options, but what constitutes "luxury" in your book? Spa-like surroundings? Superior, 24/7 service? Celebrity sighting possibilities? Glitz and glitter? Give us a bit more to work with, please.
http://www.peninsula.com/Beverly_Hills/en/default.aspx
The in-house restaurant, the Belvedere, is also well-regarded.
The Beverly Hills Hotel is a grand old dame in LA hotel history. One stays there for the history, the Paul R. Williams architectural touches (he performed some light renovations in the 1940s) and the old-school atmosphere of the Polo Lounge. The bartenders are attentive, friendly and expert in their mixology (great martinis!). The clientèle are well-heeled in general (when my husband and I went there for drinks at the beginning of an LA Date Night, we both felt like country come to town), but their celebrity is more often of times past. If A-Listers show up there, it tends to be more ironically than not. Still, c'mon-- I'd stay at the Beverly Hills Hotel happily in a minute.
Another luxury property you might consider, despite it being a bit outside of Beverly Hills, is the Hotel Bel-Air:
http://www.dorchestercollection.com/.../hotel-bel-air
The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, which tomsd mentions, is lovely. Its luxury is understated, the setting is unmatched (breathtakingly beautiful)... but it's over an hour from the LA sites you are interested in seeing, down in Dana Point:
http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Proper...el/Default.htm
Other remote but fantabulous resorts are the Terranea in Palos Verdes and the Montage in south Laguna Beach:
http://www.terranea.com/
http://www.montagelagunabeach.com/
Again, over an hour to get to LA proper (Palos Verdes is in LA County, but a bit by itself on a peninsula), but worth the drive.
The Miramar in Santa Monica is another "understated elegance" luxury property; it gets year-round tourist trade and a healthy business-traveler book of business (several large investment management and consulting firms, including mine, have headquarters within a few blocks of the Miramar). It's another property with a storied history (regular guests included Greta Garbo and Marilyn Monroe) and a superb onsite restaurant (Fig, a Zagat favorite).
There are many options, but what constitutes "luxury" in your book? Spa-like surroundings? Superior, 24/7 service? Celebrity sighting possibilities? Glitz and glitter? Give us a bit more to work with, please.
Jan 21st, 2014, 07:27 AM
#5
Some people looking for a luxury experience prefer the Hotel Bel-Air because of it's more out-of-the-way location, among other reasons. If you don't mind driving to get everywhere, as opposed to say the Beverly Wilshire which is in town, it might be the place.
http://www.dorchestercollection.com/...FTJp7AodUlIAXA
http://www.dorchestercollection.com/...FTJp7AodUlIAXA
Jan 21st, 2014, 07:27 AM
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Jan 21st, 2014, 08:21 AM
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I would look at Casa del Mar in Santa Monica, or Shutters, its sister property next door. Both are on the beachfront. I like Le Merigot, but it is not as luxurious as Casa del Mar.
http://www.hotelcasadelmar.com/santa-monica-hotel
http://www.hotelcasadelmar.com/santa-monica-hotel
Jan 21st, 2014, 11:20 AM
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The OP asked for input on luxury hotels in the LA Metro area. We have dutifully listed notable luxury hotels.
No one hotel is going to be simultaneously convenient to the studio tours AND to Disneyland, let alone a luxury property. That is a given. They're all in different cities-- hell, Disneyland's in a whole different county! However, I'm going to say something that may shock and surprise some people, so grab on to something sturdy:
People who specifically request suggestions for luxury hotels in the LA Metro area probably aren't particularly concerned that they can't crawl to the studio tours and/or Disneyland from the front door of the luxury hotel.
I know-- weird.
True, the OP can help us all by telling us how long they will be spending in our fair metropolis. Then we can suggest itineraries, other things to do, etc.
emcash, a lot of these tongue-in-cheek posts reflect the hard reality of the LA metropolitan area: It's huge (larger than many countries) and spread-out. No one hotel will be close to everything you will want to see. Therefore, more than many other destinations, LA requires a bit of logistical planning and strategy. If you can list some specific interests of you and your family, we can suggest some points of particular value.
No one hotel is going to be simultaneously convenient to the studio tours AND to Disneyland, let alone a luxury property. That is a given. They're all in different cities-- hell, Disneyland's in a whole different county! However, I'm going to say something that may shock and surprise some people, so grab on to something sturdy:
People who specifically request suggestions for luxury hotels in the LA Metro area probably aren't particularly concerned that they can't crawl to the studio tours and/or Disneyland from the front door of the luxury hotel.
I know-- weird.
True, the OP can help us all by telling us how long they will be spending in our fair metropolis. Then we can suggest itineraries, other things to do, etc.
emcash, a lot of these tongue-in-cheek posts reflect the hard reality of the LA metropolitan area: It's huge (larger than many countries) and spread-out. No one hotel will be close to everything you will want to see. Therefore, more than many other destinations, LA requires a bit of logistical planning and strategy. If you can list some specific interests of you and your family, we can suggest some points of particular value.
Jan 21st, 2014, 11:33 AM
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You need a rent car no matter where you stay in the LA area. Santa Monica is convenient and not a bad commute to anywhere in the area ( even at rush hr it is about 20 min to downtown-- the 10 is NOT the 405!!!!) and it beats the heck out of staying anywhere else in the area for restaurants, walking, and shopping.
Jan 21st, 2014, 04:22 PM
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Thanks all- even the tongue in cheek remarks. I understand that nothing is going to be at my doorstep (other than rodeo drive maybe…) . We will be staying in LA for a week. I know we will have to drive a lot of places, but I would like to be somewhere somewhat central. I know anaheim will be a drive of course. I know the studios will be a drive. What about the great restaurants in the LA area- any great hotels where we might not have to drive every night to go to a spectacular dinner?
The bel air looks absolutely stunning, but i feel (and maybe i'm wrong?) that if i stay there i will be guaranteed to be close to nothing. I think if the Bel-aire was in beverly hills, my decision would be made. As far as my definition of luxury- I would prefer rooms that are well appointed, not tired and old, with amenities. Nice furnishings, large bathrooms, newer tvs. Excellent service, but not stuffy. A spa definitely. I don't want anything too genteel or old fashioned, though the st. regis in NYC is one of my very favorite hotels. I would love a stunning pool area. Star sightings would be a great plus but not number one requirement. As for the suggestions of a place down by the beach, we are going in april, so i just think that would be money not well spent- since it will be too cold for the beach.
I have been to Laguna and stayed at the Ritz for work once and frankly, was underwhelmed. I thought the Montage and the St regis in Laguna far superior.
The bel air looks absolutely stunning, but i feel (and maybe i'm wrong?) that if i stay there i will be guaranteed to be close to nothing. I think if the Bel-aire was in beverly hills, my decision would be made. As far as my definition of luxury- I would prefer rooms that are well appointed, not tired and old, with amenities. Nice furnishings, large bathrooms, newer tvs. Excellent service, but not stuffy. A spa definitely. I don't want anything too genteel or old fashioned, though the st. regis in NYC is one of my very favorite hotels. I would love a stunning pool area. Star sightings would be a great plus but not number one requirement. As for the suggestions of a place down by the beach, we are going in april, so i just think that would be money not well spent- since it will be too cold for the beach.
I have been to Laguna and stayed at the Ritz for work once and frankly, was underwhelmed. I thought the Montage and the St regis in Laguna far superior.
Jan 21st, 2014, 04:46 PM
#14
It probably won't be too cold for the beach, just too cold to go in the water. And yes the Bel Air Hotel is set in a residential area without anything within walking distance.
If you want to look out at Rodeo Drive...consider the Regent Beverly Wilshire.
If you want to look out at Rodeo Drive...consider the Regent Beverly Wilshire.
Jan 21st, 2014, 06:45 PM
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Many Ritz Hotels are underwhelming! Go to leading hotels of the world www.lhw.com and scope out any listings they might have in the area of Fairmaont..Then join their loyality clubs..Enjoy the perks!! Also try www.slh.com
Jan 21st, 2014, 07:31 PM
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A few thoughts...other than Shutters and Hotel Bel-Air (both of which I would have recommended)...
The Peninsula has the benefit of quiet luxury, great black-out curtains, lovely afternoon tea and walking distance to shopping (and across from my favorite hair salon - Beverly Hills Color Bar). The Montage has Bouchon and Mastro's nearby. I've been for tea (also lovely) but haven't stayed at the hotel (though I have enjoyed other Montage properties). Speaking of the Montage, the one in Laguna Beach is supposed to be wonderful. Another option in Beverly Hills is the Four Seasons. It is closer to shopping on Robertson and The Ivy and A.O.C..
If you are looking for a hipper hotel experience try the Chateau Marmont or something on Sunset or the Standard downtown (rooftop pool, ping pong). Not being all that hip myself I can't give a personal recommendation. Downtown dining is pretty hot at the moment. Lots to explore downtown...Disney Music Hall, Union Station, architecture, museums, Union Station and LA Live.
One sometimes overlooked location - The Huntington in Pasadena (great spa, dining at The Royce, tea and gardens). Lots to do in Pasadena - Old Town (shopping, dining, Gold Class movie theater and Pasadena Playhouse), The Huntington Art Museum, Gardens and Library, the Arboretum, Norton Simon museum. Close to valley Studios (Universal, WB, Tonight Show, and Disney) and downtown but further from BH and ocean. May be a little too "genteel or old fashioned" but I like it and surprisingly good rates sometimes.
But, as one poster mentioned, LA is kinda spread out and you end up driving pretty much everywhere. So pick a place close to where you want to spend some time and then drive to the rest.
The Peninsula has the benefit of quiet luxury, great black-out curtains, lovely afternoon tea and walking distance to shopping (and across from my favorite hair salon - Beverly Hills Color Bar). The Montage has Bouchon and Mastro's nearby. I've been for tea (also lovely) but haven't stayed at the hotel (though I have enjoyed other Montage properties). Speaking of the Montage, the one in Laguna Beach is supposed to be wonderful. Another option in Beverly Hills is the Four Seasons. It is closer to shopping on Robertson and The Ivy and A.O.C..
If you are looking for a hipper hotel experience try the Chateau Marmont or something on Sunset or the Standard downtown (rooftop pool, ping pong). Not being all that hip myself I can't give a personal recommendation. Downtown dining is pretty hot at the moment. Lots to explore downtown...Disney Music Hall, Union Station, architecture, museums, Union Station and LA Live.
One sometimes overlooked location - The Huntington in Pasadena (great spa, dining at The Royce, tea and gardens). Lots to do in Pasadena - Old Town (shopping, dining, Gold Class movie theater and Pasadena Playhouse), The Huntington Art Museum, Gardens and Library, the Arboretum, Norton Simon museum. Close to valley Studios (Universal, WB, Tonight Show, and Disney) and downtown but further from BH and ocean. May be a little too "genteel or old fashioned" but I like it and surprisingly good rates sometimes.
But, as one poster mentioned, LA is kinda spread out and you end up driving pretty much everywhere. So pick a place close to where you want to spend some time and then drive to the rest.
Jan 22nd, 2014, 01:55 AM
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Methinks some posters might be making too much of how far away from everything the Bel Air Hotel is. Just down Sunset - about what - 3 miles - and you are at the Beverly Hills Hotel - maybe 7 minutes without traffic.
One advantage of Bel Air itself is that you are closer to the 405 freeway (and the fabulous Getty Museum) - not to mention the college atmosphere of UCLA/good/hip restaurants - and can also zip down the 405 to Disneyland from there.
One advantage of Bel Air itself is that you are closer to the 405 freeway (and the fabulous Getty Museum) - not to mention the college atmosphere of UCLA/good/hip restaurants - and can also zip down the 405 to Disneyland from there.
