When in LA for leisure, I usually stay at the Hotel Bel-Air or the Ritz Carlton Huntington (in Pasadena). I'm interested in hearing about your favorite upscale hotels in LA and what endears them to you. Planning a December weekend but the Bel-Air is booked, sigh, and I'm feeling like trying something new . . . .

Thanks!
Kat

The Hotel Casa Del Mar in Santa Monica is very nice.

Also in Santa Monica is Shutters on the Beach which is just about perfect if you want to be on the west side. I also love the RC Huntington. Will be rather dreary on the beach---warmer in Pasadena.

The Peninsula is our favorite for large and very well appointed rooms, marble baths with big tubs and separate showers, a rooftop pool and spa, a great lobby bar and great service. The location is terrific as it's in Beverly Hills and easily walkable to Neimans, Saks and the boutiques in the area as well as some very good restaurants.The beds are wonderful with Frette linens. We enjoy the bar for cocktails, The Living Room for afternoon tea and The Belvedere for outdoor lunch or breakfast.

I do agree the Bel Air is very special with exquisite grounds. It's very romantic and very upscale.

The Four Seasons is also lovely but not walkable to anything. Same with L'Hermitage. Big attitude at the bar at The Four Seasons.

I've heard that the new St. Regis is lovely but I haven't been there and am not crazy about the location.

Kat has been back from vacation for over 3 years.

Duh! I didn't notice...she likely won't care by now!!! I need to look at those dates!

If you want to luxuriate by the beach and be close to the touristy 3rd. Street Promenade, Casa Del Mar. It's a beautiful hotel with a great lobby.
If you want a "homey" warm atmosphere in Beverly Hills, the Penninsula, hands down.
P.S. Their tuna salad sandwich w/ fries is excellent!