Los Angeles

Los Angeles: Hotel reviews

Corey Carter

Shangri-la-LA (Photo Shangri-La Santa Monica)

Our Insider gives you the best unbiased info on hotels in and around Los Angeles.

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

The Roosevelt offers great star sighting either at in-house bar Teddy's, its happening Hollywood pool scene, or the historic lobby that steps out onto the epicentre of all things Tinseltown.

You know you're in Venice when the in-house bar is called "High" and the restaurant "Hash". This is the only place to stay in Venice. Super-funky decor and vibe, but with the perks of a boutique chain hotel. Have a drink on the roof even if you don't stay here.

Hotel Shangri-La

After a huge renovation, this historic Santa Monica hotel is back in action, with a hip pool, a to-die-for rooftop bar for guests to mingle with cool locals and a fresh restaurant menu. Great location on the bluff in Santa Monica and steps from the 3rd Street Promenade and brand new Santa Monica Place mall.

Standard Downtown

If you insist on staying in downtown LA, this is the place to be. Ultra-modern decor, a DJ at the pool, and the central location make this the coolest place in an otherwise lame part of Los Angeles.

Fairmont Miramar

Care more about service and attention to detail than being on the scene? The Fairmont Miramar is a beautiful historic property in Santa Monica, steps away from the beach, shopping, and dining. Its restaurant, FIG, has a great menu and the whole place is thoroughly kid-friendly.

Chamberlain West Hollywood

Hidden on a residential street in WeHo, yet blocks from the action of Sunset, this hotel feels like home. You are in the middle of all the action, but would never know it.

Bayside Hotel

This Santa Monica property is a freshly renovated motel steps from the beach. If you need a place for a longer stay, some of the rooms have fully equipped kitchens. This is a great moderate-priced option for families or couples.

Hostelling International Santa Monica

Granted it's been a while since my backpacking days, but I really don't remember any hostels being meticulously clean, having free wireless, and on-site laundry facilities. Oh, and basically the perfect location. There should be one of these in every city.

Hotel Menage, Anaheim

Not technically in Los Angeles, but If you are spending a night at Disneyland or Knott's Berry Farm, this hotel is about as good as it gets in Anaheim. The interior is fresh, the pool is bright and sunny and they have a great menu of small bites for eating lunch poolside. Recommended for families.

Thompson Beverly Hills

I love the view from the rooftop. There is an edgy feel to the rooms with dark walls and furnishings and the hotel restaurant, Bond Street, is a cool dinner spot.

More about Hotels:

Topics:

Hotels Los Angeles United States California