Exploring Los Angeles: A Guide to the City's Premier Accommodations
Los Angeles, a sprawling metropolis often referred to as a "city-state" due to its more than 100 distinct neighborhoods, presents a rich tapestry of accommodation options. From historically significant and much-revered establishments such as The Beverly Hills Hotel and Chateau Marmont, to serene coastal retreats like Regent Santa Monica Beach and The Surfrider in Malibu, and the vibrant, modern spots along the Sunset Strip, the sheer volume and variety of hotels can be overwhelming. To truly grasp the essence of this diverse city, visitors are encouraged to thoughtfully plan their stays across different locales. This curated guide from British Vogue showcases some of the most distinguished hotels in Los Angeles, designed to help travelers make informed choices and immerse themselves in the city's unique charm, whether it's enjoying Koreatown's culinary scene, engaging in beachside activities in Malibu, or experiencing West Hollywood's energetic nightlife.
Nestled in the tranquil foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains, northwest of Beverly Hills, Hotel Bel-Air offers an unparalleled sanctuary. Esteemed by those in the know, this luxurious retreat is enveloped by lush tropical flora, featuring cascading water features, three resident swans, and a perpetually flowing lake. The ambiance evokes a sense of restorative seclusion, making it a favored haven for those seeking discretion and peace. Despite its popularity, guests often note a rare sense of privacy, a quality highly valued by many prominent figures.
Accommodations at Hotel Bel-Air are exceptionally spacious and meticulously appointed. Our particular suite boasted its own private pool, three bathrooms, and a highly advanced toilet system. The design aesthetic is a sophisticated fusion of Spanish villa charm and classic Hollywood glamour, characterized by low-slung pink bungalows and elegant, cream-toned interiors. The culinary experience at "The Restaurant" is a highlight, with exquisite dishes such as black burgundy truffle linguine and Bluefin tuna tartare. Their signature "Stone Canyon Smoked Sour" cocktail perfectly balances citrusy sweetness with a musky umami, often prompting a second order. A visit to the hotel's steam room, with its starry ceiling, aromatic essential oils, and chilled face towels, is also highly recommended for a truly indulgent experience.
The Sunset Strip, a legendary locale once synonymous with rock 'n' roll icons and vibrant nightlife, now hosts a collection of premier hotels. Among these, The Sun Rose West Hollywood, formerly known as The Pendry, stands out as a top choice. In contrast to some of LA's more traditional hotels, The Sun Rose exudes a youthful and chic, yet undeniably luxurious, atmosphere. Its interiors are characterized by deep blue hues, subtle leopard print accents, and an impressive array of amenities including a dedicated music venue, a bowling alley, and a lavish spa. The spa, in particular, offers exceptional treatments, with a massage from head masseuse Malia being a standout experience. This hotel is ideal for those seeking to be at the heart of the action while also having a serene private space for relaxation.
The rooftop restaurant, Merois, helmed by Wolfgang Puck, is an absolute must-visit. While many claim Soho House West Hollywood offers the best city views, Merois provides an equally breathtaking panorama, where the Hollywood lights glitter like scattered jewels at night. The menu features fresh and thoughtfully crafted Asian fusion cuisine, such as vibrant Kung Pao cauliflower and sizzling whole fish with a pineapple glaze. These dishes are perfectly complemented by cucumber-basil margaritas, which, despite their refreshing, health-drink-like taste, pack a potent punch of El Tesoro Blanco tequila, making them a great preventative measure against hangovers. My stay here was exceptionally enjoyable, ranking it among the most lively and engaging hotel experiences I've had.
A compilation of Los Angeles' finest hotels would be incomplete without the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel. This storied establishment is so fundamental to the area that the city of Beverly Hills itself grew up around the hotel, a fact underscored by historical photographs from 1912 depicting the building amidst undeveloped land. Over the decades, it has hosted a myriad of legendary figures, from Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe—whose namesake bungalow remains a popular attraction—to Yoko Ono, John Lennon, Judy Garland, and Cary Grant. Indeed, it might be more expedient to list those who haven't graced its halls than those who have.
Beyond its rich historical narrative, which I find endlessly captivating, The Beverly Hills Hotel offers a truly decadent escape. Guests can enjoy peaceful bungalows nestled amidst water-soaked palms, or relax by the shimmering outdoor pool, savoring parmesan fries and indulging in Hollywood-themed literature. A visit to the hotel's renowned Polo Lounge is essential. By day, it's the perfect spot for sunnyside-up eggs and fresh juices under dappled sunlight; by night, it transforms into a prime location for people-watching with a martini in hand. It is, for compelling reasons, a beloved Los Angeles destination for many.
For those seeking a welcoming "home away from home," Soho House Holloway stands out as an exceptional choice. While officially a four-star establishment, it effortlessly delivers a five-star experience. Regular patrons of Soho House's global locations will recognize the familiar delights of Cowshed and Skin toiletries, vintage-inspired furnishings, and rich, cozy fabrics that infuse the rooms with a comforting yet luxurious ambiance. The menu, too, offers a comforting blend of familiar favorites like English breakfast alongside buttermilk pancakes and huevos rancheros.
However, Soho House Holloway is far from a cookie-cutter experience; it beautifully captures a distinct California cool, reflecting the local vibe. This is evident in the art adorning the walls, the charming courtyard dining spaces shaded by low-lying trees, the neutral color palettes, and the geometric patterns that define its aesthetic. Its location is also prime, especially for those who enjoy exploring West Hollywood's vibrant streets in the evening. Just steps away are local institutions like the dive bar Barney's Beanery and Hugo's Restaurant, an LA staple celebrated for its exceptional spaghetti. Furthermore, the rooms are remarkably quiet, and the beds are designed for ultimate comfort, ensuring a perfectly restful night after an evening out in WeHo.
At 1 Hotel West Hollywood, sustainability is the core philosophy. Walls adorned with living moss and front desks crafted from substantial pieces of fallen tree trunk exemplify this commitment. Yet, a stay at 1 Hotel is anything but rustic; it is an experience of pure luxury, offering hazy panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline and industrial-chic concrete ceilings that evoke the atmosphere of an art gallery. Wellness is also a significant focus here. I frequently enjoyed deliveries of "fungi power broth"—infused with ingredients like lion's mane, cordyceps, and Chinese herbs—and an "All Day Energy" smoothie blend, promising enhanced stamina and cognitive function, directly to my room.
While I didn't personally have the opportunity to experience it, the hotel boasts a highly acclaimed Bamford Wellness Spa. This spa offers a range of treatments, including an "Infrared Crystal Therapy Sauna," a "B Silent Ritual," and a "Sound Wave Power Nap." Essentially, for those traveling to Los Angeles with the intention of unwinding, rejuvenating, and revitalizing in an environmentally conscious manner, 1 Hotel West Hollywood provides an ideal setting.
For those whose perception of "LA" is confined to Hollywood, Venice, and Beverly Hills, a visit to the Arts District in Downtown can feel like stepping into a completely different urban landscape. Downtown, however, is a hub of excitement, featuring historic music venues, art galleries, independent clubs, and a diverse array of neighborhood restaurants. Soho Warehouse, housed in a seven-story former warehouse dating back to 1916—hence its name—captures this dynamic energy. It seamlessly blends street art and exposed brick walls with the familiar, cozy sophistication characteristic of the Soho House brand.
Enthusiasts of Iranian cuisine will be delighted to learn that Berenjak, the award-winning restaurant celebrated for its casual, authentic Tehrani dishes, opened its first public U.S. location at Soho Warehouse in September of this year. Even if you're not in Los Angeles, a trip to their Borough establishment in London is highly recommended for a taste of their exquisitely flavorful offerings.