Stressed out and looking for an escape? Hey, I get it. Between adjusting to a post-Covid world, sitting in traffic, and, well…, life, an escape may be the perfect remedy to help you blow off steam and recharge your mood. We say leave your home and head on a weekend getaway. Let hotel housekeeping worry about making the bed, and let room service do the cooking for YOU! You just sit back and relax; you earned it! So pack your bags and get in the car because I’ve put together a list of some of my favorite hotels from DTLA, to the desert, to the beach, to Vegas, perfect for a weekend escape from Los Angeles. And with Labor Day around the corner, you may want to take full advantage and treat yourself for the holiday.
Greater Los Angeles, CA (Staycation Anyone…?)
Fairmont Century Plaza
The Summer is almost over, and the Fairmont Century Plaza wants you to make the best of it with the Adventure Awaits Package. Located in the heart of Century City, the Fairmont has re-emerged from a 2.5 billion dollar renovation to offer a one-of-a-kind luxury experience. From now through 12/31, when you book a 2-night stay, you will receive a 15% discount on your booking. As an added perk, relish a $50 Food & Beverage credit to savor the delights of their award-winning dining options. The hotel is also welcoming Taylor Swift’s 6-night run in Los Angeles with the Singer Songwriter Superstar Package: The Eras Tour. Book a suite and enjoy 15% off any of spa treatment! Allow the Fairmont Century Plaza to make your end of Summer seamless. Please contact the hotel directly for package rates and availability. 2025 Ave. of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA, 90067; 310.424.3030
The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood
Lights. Camera. Action! Located in the heart of Hollywood sits The Godfrey Hotel Hollywood. This new property draws inspiration from old Hollywood and features 220 guestrooms, casual fine dining restaurant ALK, a vibrant lobby scene, and the expansive 12,000 sq. Ft. rooftop pool, bar, and restaurant, I|O Rooftop. We love I|O for its unparalleled city views, tasty menu of light bites, and fresh sushi. The Godfrey is walking distance from the Hollywood Walk of Fame and some of Hollywood’s hottest bars, restaurants, and music venues. And we can’t forget to mention the hotel is close to the popular celebrity hiking spot Runyon Canyon. Whether you choose to relax by the pool or step out onto the bustling Hollywood streets, the Godfrey encourages you to “discover your element.” Just in time for Labor Day weekend, book your staycation for a minimum of 3 nights this weekend and receive up to a 20% discount + a $15 dining credit! Please contact the hotel directly for rates and availability. 1400 Cahuenga Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90028; 323.762.1000 Photo Credit: The Godfrey Hollywood
Hotel Casa del Mar
Casa del Mar, Santa Monica’s luxury hotel by the sea, welcomes you to “unwind in style.” The seaside sanctuary combines Mediterranean décor with a beachy Santa Monica vibe. Take advantage of the beautiful beach and let the concierge arrange activities like bike riding, surfing, or boogie boarding. If you travel with children, learn aspects of surfing with kids. No staycation would be complete without delicious food. With the cool Santa Monica breeze as a backdrop, dine al fresco at the newly opened Patio del Mar. The seafood-driven bistro is delicious, and in case you get a tad chilly outside, the restaurant provides heat lamps and comfy blankets. Make sure to order the Farmers Market Strawberries. You can thank me later. Please contact the hotel directly for rates and availability. 1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica, CA 90405; 310.581.5533
Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa
The Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa welcomes you to an oceanfront oasis, complete with a coastal chic aesthetic and deluxe accommodations. Close out the Summer with a relaxing stay filled with end of Summer activities for you and the kiddos. By day relax in the newly-refurbished poolside cabanas, or treat yourself to a day at Pacific Waters Spa. The kids will enjoy the Mermaid Magic swimming lessons and Water Slides. At night, get cozy with the Summer Concert Series music, or throw your bathing suits back on and hit the Slyder’s Pool for fog machines, lasers, and music at the Cosmic Water Slides. Please contact the hotel directly for rates and availability. 21500 E. Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648; 714.698.1234
Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel
Have you been to the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel – the premier beachfront haven “where the coast meets the city?” This hotel is ideal for a weekend getaway, situated just a hop, skip, and jump from iconic Santa Monica attractions. Close out the Summer with Mermaid Academy Saturdays for the kids, Seaside Cinema Saturday evenings, Beats and Brunch Sundays, and daily pool and game room fun. The hotel is also offering a special Labor Day Escape (good thru 9/6). Say farewell to Summer with a two-night stay, $100 daily hotel credit, waived resort fees, complimentary valet parking, access to amenities like poolside BBQ, Seaside Cinema Movies, complimentary shuttle service into the city and beach cruiser rental, complimentary Wi-Fi, and welcome drink upon arrival. Please contact the hotel directly for package rates and availability. 1700 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, California, 90401; 310.458.6700
The Peninsula Beverly Hills
Looking for the ultimate home-away-from-home staycation? Look no further because the esteemed Peninsula Beverly Hills has everything you need to relax and escape into 5-star luxury. The Peninsula is offering a fabulous package designed to renew and refresh. The Beverly Hills Dreaming Package ($1,020+) includes
- Daily $100 Hotel Credit to be used towards dining or pool cabanas (maximum $300 credit per stay)
- “Peninsula Time” – flexible check-in and check-out times that work for you
- Complimentary overnight valet parking for one vehicle
- Delicious Daily Continental Breakfast for two guests (up to $70 in value)
- Luxurious BMW vehicle to use during your visit (for suite bookings only with a valid driver’s license)
Please contact the hotel directly for package details, room rates, and availability. 9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90212; 310.551.2888
The Portofino Hotel & Marina
Craving a beach vacation? The Portofino Hotel & Marina has just what you need. Nestled in the Redondo Beach peninsula in the South Bay, the hotel recently underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation with upgraded 161 guest rooms, baths, and luxury suites. If adventure is what you seek, this hotel is for you! Rent a complimentary beach cruiser and hop on the 27-mile-long bike path, or partake in the dockside activity center’s kayaks, paddle boarding, scuba, deep sea fishing, or boat charters. For those who seek relaxation, sit back and get comfy in the heated Jacuzzi, enjoy beer tastings or cocktail-making classes, or dine at the acclaimed restaurant, BALEEN Kitchen. Labor Day getaway, anyone…? Please contact the hotel directly for rates and availability. 260 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277; 310.421.4195
Shutters on the Beach
You can’t mention Santa Monica Beach without saying the iconic Shutters On the Beach. Santa Monica’s premier beachfront hotel is perfect for a beachy weekend getaway. Just steps away from the sand, the luxury beach hideaway boasts 347 luxurious guestrooms, including 21 suites, 13 cozy fire pits, an outdoor pool deck, lavish spa treatments at One Spa, and Funky Divas and Dudes Kids Camp. Shutters has mastered the art of dining, and guests can choose to eat with a beachside view at signature restaurants 1 Pico or Coast, or indulge in the ultimate al fresco dining experience with a romantic beachside picnic. The Beachside Bliss ($500+) picnic package includes coastal chic pillows to sit on, a small table, and an umbrella for the sun. The menu features delicious bites such as Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps, Mediterranean Platters, Charcuterie with Cheese, Mini Lobster Rolls, and more. Please contact the hotel directly for rates and availability. 1 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405; 310.458.0030
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills invites you to “Be Our Guest and live the French Way!” Inspired by local culture and tradition, and the French “art de vivre,” the Sofitel offers a unique, one-of-a-kind luxury experience. From amazing art exhibits, to lavish holiday celebrations and events, to jazz and salsa nights at lounge Riviera 31, to fine dining at Estérel, Sofitel has it all. Across from the famed Beverly Center, the upscale hotel offers guests 295 rooms on ten floors, including 28 elegant and spacious suites, with pet-friendly rooms. It’s All Possible with Accor Live Limitless. Through 9/7, be the star of your own red carpet staycation with the It’s All Possible package. With this special deal, you can create your own magic with up to 20% off your stay. And, as an added bonus, members of ALL (Accor Live Limitless) can earn 2X Reward points when you register and book by 9/7. Please contact the hotel directly for package details, room rates, and availability. 8555 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90048; 310.278.5444
Terranea
Get out of L.A. and head to Terranea, the “ultimate luxurious oceanfront getaway.” Located only an hour from L.A. sits this Mediterranean-inspired hidden gem on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. The property is perched on 102 gorgeous and lush acres and features 270-degree views of the Pacific Ocean, including a view of Catalina Island. Guests have their share of luxurious amenities, including first-class dining, award-winning golf, four swimming pools, and boutiques. If you’re ready to embark on a journey of luxury and tranquility, Terranea is for you. Please contact the resort directly for rates and availability.100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes , CA 90275; 310.494.7891
Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills
The Waldorf is a name synonymous with luxury and elegance. The Beverly Hills five-star hotel is ideal for those who want an unforgettable experience with top-of-the-line accommodations. Each room and suite was designed with comfort in mind, from the warm, rich colors to the floor-to-ceiling windows. Elevate your stay with an in-suite culinary experience from bespoke. For those seeking to get away for the upcoming Labor Day weekend, the Waldorf is offering two last-minute retreats! Package 1 ($750, Friday 9/2 and Saturday 9/3) includes a 60-minute massage at La Prairie + all-day locker room access, all-day pool access, and dinner for 2 at Jean Georges Beverly Hills. Package 2 ($650, Sunday, 9/4, and Monday, 9/5) features a 60-minute massage at La Prairie, all-day pool access, and lunch for 2 poolside. Please contact the hotel directly for rates and availability and email LAXWA.SPA@waldorfastoria.com for the Labor Day packages. 9850 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210; 310.860.6666
The Wayfarer DTLA
DTLA is the home to urban oasis, The Wayfarer. This boutique hotel combines old Hollywood glamour with a chic, modern, artsy flair. Enjoy the quaint lobby café and mini library, or reserve the private kitchen for a cooking class or private dinner. The property features 156 private rooms and suites with plush beds and rainfall showers. For dining and drinks, you must visit underground speakeasy Lilly Rose and the sexy rooftop lounge. “More than a hotel in DTLA, the Wayfarer is a new way to experience the city.” Located in the center of historic Downtown L.A., guests will have no shortage of attractions with nearby L.A. Live and the historic Staples Center. Please contact the hotel directly for rates and availability. Click here for a full review of the Wayfarer. 813 Flower St, Los Angeles, CA 90017; 213.285.4400
La Quinta, CA (approx. 135 miles from L.A.)
La Quinta Resort & Club
Founded in 1926 and once a famous getaway for old Hollywood icons like Greta Garbo and Frank Capra, La Quinta Resort & Club is the perfect “desert oasis for relaxation and renewal.” Whether relaxing by yourself, embarking on a romantic weekend getaway, or spending time with friends, La Quinta has 41 pools, a world-class spa, multiple dining venues, and poolside food & beverage service, making it a premier staycation destination. I went to a bachelorette party here, and it was FABULOUS! We luxuriated by the pools, ate yummy food, drank libations, and were treated like queens at the world-class spa. It’s also perfect for bachelor parties. La Quinta is ideal for unwinding with golf or tennis, from its award-winning golf courses to its 21 championship-caliber tennis courts and 8 pickleball courts. For an over-the-top luxury stay, groups can book the “Jetset to La Quinta” package, which includes preferred private jet flights on Sun Air Jets, room upgrades, daily breakfast at Twenty6, and more! Please contact the resort directly for package rates and availability. 49-499 Eisenhower Drive, La Quinta, CA 92253; 760.564.4111
Ojai, CA (approx. 75 miles from L.A.)
Ojai Valley Inn
Ojai is known as one of the most peaceful places on Earth. Between the mountains, orchards, and fresh air, it’s the perfect place to reset and recharge. Situated amongst this tranquil haven is the Ojai Valley Inn, a luxury resort that “combines the region’s unspoiled spirituality with 21st-century modern luxury.” Voted by Condé Nast Traveler Magazine as one of the Top 100 Hotels in the World and one of the Best Hotels in the World by Travel + Leisure, the Ojai Valley Inn offers the ultimate wellness retreat. For the active guests, the Inn offers morning hikes, poolside yoga classes, private Pilates sessions, and an iconic 18-hole and championship-caliber golf course. For the relaxation expert, lounge by the pool or treat yourself to a day at the newly renovated world-class Spa Ojai. Feed your hunger at the Inn’s world-class culinary destinations, including fresh made-to-order pressed juices, light and health-conscious fare, and refreshing smoothies at the Spa Café. Guests can also book the newly refreshed Casa Elar private villa, Spa penthouse suites, or spacious rooms and suites. Please contact the resort directly for rates and availability. 905 Country Club Rd, Ojai, CA 93023; 855.697.8780
Palm Desert/Palm Springs, CA (approx. 113 from L.A.)
hotel ZOSO
First, I want to say that Palm Springs is one of my favorite weekend getaways from Los Angeles, and the newly renovated hotel ZOSO is hands down my favorite place to stay. Located in the heart of Downtown Palm Springs and surrounded by local shops, galleries, restaurants, and other iconic Palm Springs landmarks, hotel ZOSO is “Your oasis within an oasis.” The hotel has 162 lush rooms with patios or balconies, a delightful new food and beverage program with tasty bites and creative cocktails, and cozy lounge areas. Guests who stay at the hotel don’t have to worry about hopping in a rideshare and waiting in long lines for clubs or lounges. They can stay on-site and dance the night away at Pretty Faces Nightclub or have drinks in the lounge while playing trivia or Karaoke. Perhaps my favorite aspect of Hotel ZOSO is the lively pool scene, voted one of the best pool bars in the Desert. Bottom line, hotel ZOSO is your Palm Springs getaway for couples, friends, families, and those attending Coachella and Stagecoach who would rather stay in a nice hotel than roughing it in a tent. Please contact the hotel directly for rates and availability. 150 S. Indian Canyon Dr., Palm Springs, CA 92262; 760.325.9676
JW Marriott Desert Springs
Iconic desert resort JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa welcomes you to “experience the beauty of the desert.” It’s home to superb service, reimagined hotel rooms and suites, outdoor pools, decadent restaurants, a plethora of activities from golf, mini golf, and tennis to bird feeding, newly-debuted Entertainment Zone (the largest resort arcade in California), and the JW Herb Garden (sustainable and rooted in mindfulness, perfect for meditation and relaxing during daily nature walks). What sets this resort apart from others is the Spa at Desert Springs. The extensive new treatment menu includes Desert Journey – a one-of-a-kind 90-minute head-to-toe experience that utilizes all-natural desert ingredients – and the FDA-approved Pro Collagen Red Light Therapy Facial. JW is a short drive from downtown Palm Springs, Coachella Valley Music Festival, and events in Indian Wells, California. Please contact the resort directly for rates and availability. 74-855 Country Club Dr., Palm Desert, CA 92260; 888.538.9459
Santa Barbara, CA (approx. 88 miles from L.A.)
Hotel Virginia
Take a weekend trip to beautiful Santa Barbara, and stay at the newly opened Hotel Virginia Tapestry Collection by Hilton. Designated by the city as a local landmark, Hotel Virginia has undergone an extensive remodel and rebrand. The property combines Spanish architecture with a California coastal lifestyle, and features 61 well-appointed guest rooms and suites and on-site eatery Brisa Café + Bar. Conveniently located less than a mile from many popular Santa Barbara attractions, including wine tasting experiences and gorgeous West Beach, Hotel Virginia is ideal for the beach vacationer who wants to relax with a glass of vino, while taking in a breathtaking sunset. Please contact the hotel directly for rates and availability. 17 W. Haley Street, Santa Barbara, California 93101-3428; 805.963.9757
Las Vegas, NV (approx. 277 miles from L.A.)
The LINQ
When traveling to Vegas, or as I like to refer to it, adult Disneyland, two words are vital for deciding my hotel: location and dining. I’m all about ease. For me, the LINQ covers my criteria while also being at a reasonable rate. Located in the heart of the strip, the 4-star LINQ is so centrally located that you can virtually blink and you’re already at some of the hottest clubs, parties, restaurants, and events in Vegas. I mean, you can literally cut through the hotel and neighboring property, and you’re at Drai’s After Hours without even stepping outside. Even CVS is a nearby walk. And trust me, this comes in handy if you need some last-minute fashion tape – yes, I’ve been there before. My favorite thing about the LINQ is, without a doubt, Hash House A Go Go. Known for its over-the-top comfort food with a twist, Hash House is my Vegas spot for fuel. You’re in Vegas, and if you’re like me, you’ll be drinking, so you need a good base. Hash House is this and more! But for all you low-carb people, I get it, you want to fit into your cute club dress. I swear by the Caesar Salad; add salmon. The LINQ also has stylish rooms, a futuristic casino, the LINQ Promenade’s 550-foot-tall High Roller Observation Wheel, retail shops, and every dining option imaginable. This is a great place to escape to for the holiday weekend. Just saying… Please contact the resort directly for rates and availability. 3535 S. Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109; 800.634.6441
The Cosmopolitan
Luxury is the name of the game at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, and that’s exactly what your stay will entail. For 10 years, the upscale Cosmopolitan has been wowing guests with lavish luxury accommodations, top-of-the-line service, views of the famous Las Vegas fountain, fine dining options like Scarpetta, and two of my favorite clubs in Vegas, the Marquee Day Club, and Marquee Night Club. “A luxury resort in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip,” the Cosmo tends to be a place where you can spot the A-list celebrity. Jay-Z and Beyoncé, Gwyneth Paltrow, John Mayer, Jennifer Lopez, and Florence Welch have all been known to stay here. So basically, if you’re seeking the ultimate in Vegas luxury and want the chance to see the occasional celebrity, the Cosmo is the place for you. Please contact the resort directly for rates and availability. 3708 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Las Vegas, NV 89109; 702.698.7000
And a Special Honorable Mention To ….
New Travel Co., One California Day, Offers One-Day Surprise Road Trip Itineraries from Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco
This may be one of the coolest things I’ve heard in a long time. There’s a new Los Angeles- based travel company that offers one-day SURPRISE road trip itineraries departing from Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. One California Day’s mystery day-trip experiences are revealed on the actual day of travel, making for an accessible and exciting day of Californian discovery. According to founder Trina Hendry, “One California Day encourages Californians and visitors to escape the city and explore the Golden State’s beauty one memorable day at a time.” $80+
Safe Travels!
