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Hotels Overview

Los Angeles being the town of excess, there's no shortage of decadent palaces in which to rest your head. But whether you're going high style or budget, make sure to consider location when selecting your hotel. Planning to hit the beach? Give some thought to Santa Monica. Want to stay out late and enjoy L.A.'s legendary nightlife? Stay in West Hollywood or the Hollywood Boulevard area. For upscale and posh, you can't do better than Beverly Hills. In Pasadena you can enjoy the charm of Old Town and some of the best public gardens in the area. The downtown area, though gaining ground in the tourist department, is still frequented mostly by conventioneers and business travelers. The one thing that's hard to find: a small bed-and-breakfast. The rare standout B&Bs tend to be in Santa Monica, Hollywood, and Pasadena.

With so many lodging selections, Los Angeles hoteliers need to keep up with the Hiltons (so to speak). Virtually all in the $$$ and $$$$ categories have high-speed Internet access in guest rooms and business centers. Some, such as Shutters in Santa Monica and the Regent Beverly Wilshire, have wireless Internet access throughout the property and even poolside. Trendy hotels are also plumping up their outdoor offerings, with tricked-out cabanas and al fresco massages.