There’s no shortage of exceptional accommodations in Los Angeles, the epicenter of glamor and showbiz. This city offers a diverse array of luxurious hotels, ranging from the opulent to the avant-garde, the chic to the uniquely designed. Some establishments are deeply intertwined with Los Angeles’ rich history, having been the lodging of choice for legendary film icons. Meanwhile, newer properties are rejuvenating the downtown landscape with their cutting-edge amenities, rooftop sanctuaries, and high-end guest suites. Whether you’re in town to explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame or you simply want to relax on the golden sands of Santa Monica, your lodging options are abundant. Whether you opt for a hotel close to the glitz of Rodeo Drive, the eclectic charm of Venice Beach, the recreational allure of the Santa Monica Pier, or the vibrant neighborhood of West Hollywood, any of these 11 distinguished Los Angeles hotels will undoubtedly elevate your stay.
Hotel Bel-Air
Situated like a regal gem within the rolling hills of Bel-Air, this venerable hotel has been a sanctuary since its inception in 1946. Spanning 12 acres of verdant surroundings, Hotel Bel-Air serves as a tranquil haven, offering a rare peacefulness that is seldom encountered in the Hollywood hustle. Guests can opt for a standard room, an elegant suite, or one of the distinctive signature suites, each radiating an air of sophistication and opulence.
One suite deserving of special mention is the Grace Kelly Suite, christened after the Hollywood icon who spent the night here upon winning her Best Actress Oscar in 1955. Tailored to reflect her flawless taste, this suite boasts a private plunge pool and patio, a sumptuous bathroom with underfloor heating in fine limestone, and a luxurious bed enveloped in premium Egyptian cotton linens. When it comes to high-end accommodations, a sojourn at Hotel Bel-Air unquestionably raises the standard.
Santa Monica Proper
When you plan a Californian escape, proximity to the beach is often a high priority, and many downtown LA hotels fall short in this aspect. However, the five-star Santa Monica Proper Hotel bucks the trend by situating you just a stone’s throw away from the pristine beach and the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Located on the sun-soaked Wilshire Boulevard—a historic artery of Los Angeles, famously captured in scenes featuring Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman”—this elite hotel boasts 267 meticulously designed guest rooms. Each comes equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, room-darkening shades, Apple TV, expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as balconies and verdant garden terraces.
What sets this hotel apart is its extraordinary rooftop pool and the renowned Surya Spa. The heated outdoor swimming area is perfect for families and is surrounded by comfortably shaded lounge chairs, complete with plush towels, sunblock, aloe vera gel, and an array of seasonal refreshments. The on-site Surya Spa collaborates with the esteemed Ayurvedic expert, chef, and herbalist Martha Soffe to provide an extensive array of holistic treatments. These range from rejuvenating massages and calming sound baths to transformative energy healing sessions and immersive multi-day wellness retreats.
The Hoxton
Nestled in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, this four-star establishment masterfully blends the laid-back ambiance of California’s beaches with the city’s distinct Hollywood allure. The Hoxton’s guest rooms are designed in a Beaux Arts fashion, featuring understated color schemes, handcrafted Mexican-inspired tiles, bespoke ceramics, and expansive windows that flood the spaces with natural light.
Strategically located with panoramic views over the bustling Broadway Boulevard, this hotel is a gastronome’s dream come true, courtesy of its rooftop dining venue. Cabra Restaurant and Bar, helmed by Stephanie Izard—the first female victor of Bravo’s Top Chef—serves an exquisite array of Peruvian delicacies, making the Hoxton a prime locale for both culinary and aesthetic indulgence.
Pendry West Hollywood
Situated at the epicenter of Los Angeles’ iconic Sunset Strip, where the worlds of music, cinema, and culture collide, the Pendry West Hollywood stands as a luxurious five-star haven. The guest accommodations are the epitome of sophistication, adorned with blue and gold hues and offering sweeping vistas of the Hollywood Hills and the adjacent West Hollywood locale.
Yet, what truly sets Pendry West Hollywood apart is its vibrant nightlife scene, a diverse offering that ranges from a bowling alley to a live music venue and The Britley Social Club. In a city where exclusivity is currency, this members-only enclave elevates the concept, granting privileged access to a myriad of amenities—from the rooftop swimming pool and well-equipped fitness center to a pampering spa, eclectic dining options, and various entertainment hubs within the property. And while the idea of a private social club may initially seem opulent, it’s worth noting that hotel guests are automatically extended the indulgence of enjoying The Britley’s amenities, enabling them to fully immerate themselves in a Hollywood glitterati experience.
The West Hollywood Edition
Strategically positioned at the intersection of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills, the West Hollywood Edition on Sunset Boulevard offers a welcoming haven for both you and your four-legged companion. As a part of Marriott’s renowned line-up, this four-star property comes replete with expected amenities such as a fitness center, an al fresco swimming pool, a dedicated spa, and versatile meeting spaces.
However, what sets this hotel apart is its commitment to sustainable luxury, partnering with ethical fashion brands to influence various facets of the guest experience—from eco-conscious poolside accessories to spa products formulated from botanical extracts. When you’re not out exploring the Hollywood Hills with your furry friend, unwind at The Roof. This elevated venue boasts an impressive selection of mezcals and tequilas, all served against the backdrop of sparkling panoramas of downtown Los Angeles.
Conrad LA
When it comes to luxury accommodations in Hollywood, the five-star Conrad LA is an unparalleled choice. Situated in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, this architectural masterpiece was designed by the esteemed Frank Gehry. With its daring design evoking a whimsically stacked set of gift boxes reaching skyward, the 25-story hotel provides captivating views of notable landmarks like the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the diverse neighborhoods of downtown LA—Little Tokyo, Little Bangladesh, Koreatown, and Chinatown among them.
The interior design of its 300-plus rooms embraces a minimalist aesthetic, enhanced by the warmth of wooden textures and a subdued color scheme. But the true pièce de résistance of staying at Conrad LA is the culinary experience. The in-house San Laurel restaurant is curated by the legendary chef Jose Andres, a globally recognized figure for his culinary prowess and humanitarian contributions. Specializing in Spanish cuisine, San Laurel sources ingredients from Southern California to create delectable tapas, all served in a space bathed in sunlight. (If a Spanish adventure intrigues you, you may also want to explore this guide to the most captivating destinations in Spain for first-time visitors.)
Four Seasons Los Angeles
Located in the heart of Beverly Hills, one of Hollywood’s most storied neighborhoods, the Four Seasons Los Angeles offers an unparalleled luxury experience. Its prime location places you within a leisurely stroll of the ultra-chic Rodeo Drive, home to an array of high-end designer boutiques, and just a short drive from iconic attractions like the Hollywood sign and Universal Studios Hollywood.
What distinguishes the Four Seasons Los Angeles is its tailored approach to accommodating diverse travel needs. Business professionals will appreciate complimentary Wi-Fi, a dedicated business center, meeting facilities, in-room iPads, and a premium car transfer service. For families, a proactive concierge is on hand to secure child-friendly dining options or coordinate babysitting services. Couples, meanwhile, can indulge in a lavish spa replete with soothing treatments, luxurious poolside cabanas, and a romantic lounge featuring weekly live performances and an extensive selection of wines.
For those desiring a truly cinematic stay, consider reserving the Doheny Experience, an exclusive package available to guests booked into the hotel’s top-tier suites. This elite offering streamlines your travel logistics, covering everything from airport shuttle service from LAX to parking arrangements. Added privileges within the Doheny Experience include the service of a personal attendant, a private movie screening room—befitting your stay in Hollywood—and even custom-embroidered robes and slippers to elevate your sense of personalized luxury.
Oceana Santa Monica
Nestled along the shoreline, Oceana Santa Monica distinguishes itself as a unique boutique establishment—one of the few to grace this list with an oceanfront location. Designed to evoke the ambiance of a private beachside residence, the Oceana provides direct access to the sands of Santa Monica Beach and the waves of the Pacific Ocean.
Exclusivity is the hallmark of this tailored hotel, offering only suites that epitomize the essence of Southern Californian opulence. Each luxurious suite is outfitted with expansive bedrooms, spa-inspired bathrooms, and living spaces furnished with cutting-edge technology, including complimentary Wi-Fi. Yet the lavishness extends beyond mere amenities; it’s the meticulous attention to detail that truly sets the Oceana apart. Think handwoven Nepalese rugs, sumptuous Loro Piana bedding, and art installations curated from local Los Angeles talent.
The Oceana offers a plethora of curated services and activities to elevate your stay. Whether you require an airport shuttle service to LAX, aspire to catch some waves with a surfing lesson, or seek relaxation through beach yoga and guided nature walks, the hotel has you covered. Fitness aficionados can take advantage of Peloton classes, while those preferring leisure can relish in beachside butler service.
Epicurean delights await you at the on-site Sandpiper restaurant, promising a five-star gastronomic journey. For more casual fare, the Veranda offers an al fresco dining experience adjacent to the pool. As the sun dips below the horizon, make your way to the Sunset Terrace, where cocktails are expertly crafted and served alongside sweeping vistas of the ocean.
1 Hotel West Hollywood
Perched at the foothills of the iconic Hollywood Hills, this hotel provides panoramic vistas that stretch from downtown Los Angeles to the Santa Monica horizon. Each room is a testament to elegant design, adorned with floor-to-ceiling windows that unveil expansive scenes of Hollywood and its undulating landscapes. The hotel’s design sensibilities echo the natural environment, incorporating elements such as verdant foliage, marble-adorned bathrooms, and earthy hues to conjure a seamless blend of luxury and natural harmony.
The outdoor swimming pool is a visual feast, bordered by pristine white chaise lounges, all oriented to provide guests with unobstructed views of the City of Angels. The hotel’s culinary offerings are equally impressive, embracing a farm-to-table philosophy that showcases California’s rich agricultural bounty. Each on-site dining establishment delights in crafting menus that celebrate locally-sourced ingredients.
But the hotel takes its commitment to local produce a step further. 1 Hotel West Hollywood elevates the farm-to-table concept by featuring a daily farmers’ market right within its lobby. At this charming farm stand, guests can select from an array of seasonal fruits and vegetables for their personal enjoyment—a quaint yet innovative touch that elevates the guest experience.
Sunset Tower
We’ve reserved the crème de la crème of Hollywood’s illustrious hotels for our finale. Often referred to as the “Grand Dame” of Los Angeles, the five-star Sunset Tower has been a cornerstone of Hollywood’s rich history since its original construction in 1929. Standing alongside the iconic nightclubs of the 1930s and 1940s, this landmark edifice has welcomed a who’s who of Hollywood legends, from Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor to Frank Sinatra.
A comprehensive renovation in the early 21st century rejuvenated this time-honored Hollywood sanctuary, infusing contemporary luxury without compromising its vintage charm. Guest rooms epitomize sophistication, where no detail is too small in the quest to provide a VIP experience. Beds swathed in sumptuous Egyptian linens are juxtaposed with expansive windows and curated artwork. Modern amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, flatscreen TVs, and gratis Lavazza coffee complete the picture.
While the entire establishment resonates with Art Deco allure, it is the rooftop pool area that most vividly captures the spirit of bygone Hollywood opulence. Vintage-inspired loungers, adorned with retro stripes, are shaded by elegantly ruffled umbrellas in soft hues of white and beige. They face a mesmerizing pool, which itself overlooks panoramic city vistas. This idyllic setting invites guests to bask in the sun and relish an al fresco meal, all while treading in the aquatic footsteps of Hollywood’s eternal luminaries.