Best Hotels For A Valentine's Day Getaway Weekend
(credit: Shutters On The Beach)
Valentine's Day in Los Angeles means more than a candlelit dinner or a stay at a cozy inn. With sunshine most likely in the cards come February 14, the special day might and should involve a stay somewhere lively and unique, especially if you're really looking to bond with your main squeeze. Lounging poolside is a definite possibility, while a stunning room is mandatory. So, if you have been thinking about getting away for a night or two, we're making it easy on you and suggesting nearby hotels that promote the perfect balance of spontaneity, relaxation and romance.
Shutters on the Beach
1 Pico Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 458-0030
www.shuttersonthebeach.com
For the perfect romantic getaway that isn't too far, this renowned hotel is well worth the splurge. Sitting right on Santa Monica Beach and located just a short stroll from the pier, the Hamptons-esque property is almost as breathtaking as the sunsets and sweeping ocean views you'll find each day here. Get ready to feel pampered in a casual California way of course from the moment you arrive. Choose to hibernate in your quaint breezy room or engage in one of the many romance-ready activities including bike riding along the beach path, shopping on Main Street, tanning by the pool, dining at the hotel's One Pico restaurant or drinking cocktails in The Living Room lounge's indoor-outdoor domain. One thing's for sure: you won't want to leave when it's time to check out.
The Garland
4222 Vineland Ave.
North Hollywood, CA 91602
(800) 238-3759
www.thegarland.com
A refined, rustic and retro-inspired boutique property in North Hollywood (really?), this stylish hotel looks like it's right out of Santa Barbara thanks to some gorgeous sprawling grounds. Plus, it comes with the added perk of being a complimentary trolley ride away from Universal Studios and Universal City Walk. But if you're not in the mood for love and an excursion and wish to stay on-property the whole time, there is plenty to do. Try partaking in an Urban Walk (a glimpse of the actual Brady Bunch house is included), a yoga lesson or a dip in the tree-shaded pool followed by an artisanal cocktail at The Bar.
Culver Hotel
9400 Culver Blvd.
Culver City, CA 90232
(310) 558-9400
www.culverhotel.com
Located in the heart of Downtown Culver City, this metropolitan stunner oozes historic charm. If its character you want with the addition of amazing nearby restaurants and shops, then book a room here, stat! Once owned by John Wayne, the 46-room, ʼ20s-inspired hotel impresses with its elegant accommodations and highly romantic dining and "sipping" options. At the hotel, The Crystal dining room finished with marble floors and gargantuan chandeliers is a must, as is the Grand Lobby for tea time by day and jazz by night. The Velvet cocktail Lounge is perfect for a fun, posh Prohibition-era evening as well. Get ready to feel like you've stepped back in time.
Palihouse Santa Monica
1001 3rd St.
Santa Monica, CA 90403
(310) 394-1279
www.palihousesantamonica.com
Another boutique beauty, this quaint Moorish-style "lodge" really brings the luxury and the location. The landmark building is just a few blocks from the beach and a piece of perfection for anyone looking for a relaxing, intimate stay with the Paligroup's signature rustic-modern décor and whimsical wallpapered rooms. Start your day with coffee and a croissant at the café downstairs, then explore the stunning residential neighborhood by foot or bike, and finish with an in-room couple's massage and a fine suggestion of where to walk dinner. Malibu is also just a short drive away too. The perfect place for a pretend European getaway? We think so. Palihouse also has its sister hotel in West Hollywood if you wan't a getaway closer to the action.
Sunset Tower Hotel
8358 Sunset Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(323) 654-7100
www.sunsettowerhotel.com
Perched above West Hollywood on "the" Sunset Strip, this art-deco favorite is encased in impeccable style thanks to owner and legendary hotelier Jeff Klein. The views are heavenly and the atmosphere very lavish old-Hollywood. During the day a pool awaits, and at night, the dimly-lit Tower Bar entices with a fireplace, polished waiters and a diverse European-influenced menu. Overall, this is the perfect destination to really get the chemistry going because after dinner you can retire to an inviting retro-chic room with floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly showcase the sparkling cityscape.
The Rose Hotel
15 Rose Ave.
Venice, CA 90291
(310) 450-3474
www.therosehotelvenice.com
Epitomizing Venice Beach's laid-back luxury with apartment-style rooms and suites, a juice bar, resident surf instructor (duh) and masseuse, this boutique beachside find is quite frankly a hip and health-conscious couple's dream come true. Fashion photographer Glen Luchford opened the inviting hotel just last summer with hopes of attracting his artistic friends and other guests looking for a comfy but convenient retreat to unwind in. He accomplished just that with his pristine, minimalistic bed and breakfast-like creation. And because it's within walking distance to Abbot Kinney's coveted restaurants and shops, any visitor can be on foot the whole time and soak up the unassuming romance that this part of Los Angeles has really started to offer.