by Greg Harris
9 Tips for Booking Luxury Vacation Rentals
Booking a luxury vacation rental is about more than finding a breathtaking property. It’s about setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. From location to amenities, guest reviews to fine print, there are myriad considerations any traveler should weigh prior to booking a premium stay. Keep reading as we dive into 9 pro tips to help make a luxury rental live up to its billing!
1. Choose a Location for Your Mood
There is no shortage of vacation destinations throughout the Southwest and Southern California. Decide which vibe suits your fancy. Malibu and Laguna Beach are perfect for those seeking a coastal atmosphere. Palm Springs and San Diego are ideal for those craving a chic urban ambiance. If world-class golf and sun-soaked relaxation is the flavor of the day, consider Scottsdale.
2. Know Which Amenities You Will Use
(Photo Courtesy of HÓZHÓ Estate on Pinnacle Peak)
A luxury estate will come with many amenities not found in retail hotels. That is a good thing. A very good thing. For example, the best luxury vacation rental Scottsdale has to offer will feature resort-style backyards with every water feature imaginable. Other rentals may have dream kitchens. Or club-level fitness centers. Or all of the above.
Know which amenities your group prioritizes. There will be a property to suit your needs. While it would be a shame to feel like something is missing, there is no need to pay a premium for amenities that won’t be utilized during your stay.
3. Define Your Version of Exclusivity
Exclusivity means different things to different people. For some, it may be access to quiet communities nestled off the beaten path. For others, it may be unmatched proximity to Scottsdale restaurants and golf courses. Nail down exactly what it is that makes you feel special before booking your luxury property.
4. Book Through a Reputable Platform
Some rentals stay off of standard platforms to avoid listing fees. While booking directly with the property may offer some advantages to you and the host alike, perform your due diligence prior to paying a deposit. Make sure that the listing is verified. Check on the level of guest support provided before, during, and after your stay. There are specialized platforms (Airbnb Luxe, LLIVO, Plum Guide, etc.) that are experienced in catering to the unique needs of luxury travelers.
5. Weigh Reviews Carefully
In the internet era, we are only as good as our online rating. This can be both good and bad for travelers. The most stunning photographs and mouth-watering amenities should be taken with a grain of salt if guest reviews are consistently lukewarm. Conversely, check to see if there is any outlier feedback that is unfairly nitpicky. Monitor host response to guest reviews. This will help you measure how attentive they are to guest concerns.
6. Check Local Laws and HOA Restrictions
Some places in Southern California impose restrictions on short-term rentals. This may impact factors such as parking, maximum occupancy, and curfews. A reputable booking platform should make all of these restrictions crystal clear. However, it is always a great idea to confirm with your host if you are planning the rental for any type of party or large get-together.
7. Consider What the Property Offers Beyond the Walls
The best luxury estate providers understand that the down time in the itinerary can make or break a vacation. Running errands and handling logistical tasks can take much of the fun out of what should be a relaxing getaway. Therefore, check into the Luxury Concierge Services offered by your rental. High-end properties will partner with grocery delivery, chauffeured transportation, and in-home spa services for next-level convenience during your stay.
8. Decide on Peak or Non-Peak Travel
Peak or non-peak? It’s an important question when deciding on travel times. The peak season in Southern California and the Southwest is usually November through April. This is when people from colder regions plan their warm-weather escapes. While prices will be higher and availability limited, some travelers may appreciate being in a more bustling atmosphere. Non-peak seasons will result in lower prices and more elbow room. However, the temperatures will be a bit hotter in the Southwest, especially at the height of day.
9. Read the Fine Print
Luxury rentals often have some expectations not found in standard accommodations. Larger deposits. More detailed house rules. Stricter cancellation policies. Make sure you understand all of this fine print prior to booking. If you are the person planning the getaway for a large group, being stuck with the bill can lead to a major falling out with friends and family if you have to be the one asking for more money to cover cost oversights.
Cover All Bases When Booking a Luxury Vacation Rental
In addition to a high-end property, booking a luxury vacation rental is about curating a premium travel experience that aligns with your goals. From arriving at the perfect location to understanding all contractual fine print, consider the pro tips listed above for the best luxury rental experience possible. For more of the latest Southern California lifestyle trends, explore the content at SoCal Magazine for ideas and inspiration!
About the Author
I’m Greg Harris, a retired writer now living the good life in Jacksonville, Florida. I launched my career and raised my family in Arizona, a place that still holds a special place in my heart. Over the years, I wrote about lifestyle, travel, and the everyday details that give life its texture and meaning. These days, I split my time between fishing, golfing, and soaking up the slower rhythm of retirement. While I’m no longer writing full-time, I still enjoy sharing stories and reflections whenever the mood strikes.
by Randy Dunbar
…and, if airports, luggage, passports, and in-flight meals have no appeal, there is always domestic travel.
It’s a short flight — just about an hour and twenty minutes — and even better, you can depart from the easygoing Bob Hope (Burbank) Airport. Soon enough, you find yourself descending into the beauty of the Sonoran Desert, where wildflowers, cactus blossoms, and vibrant greenery flourish beneath the wide, endless sky. Iconic Saguaro cacti are silhouettes along the horizon. From there, it’s a short drive to the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort.
Opened in 1986 as part of the famed Gainey Ranch development — once a thriving Arabian horse ranch — the resort has recently emerged from a spectacular $115 million renovation. The grounds are lush, a paradise of tall, swaying palms and endless golden light. There’s an immediate sense of calm and quiet luxury that settles over you as soon as you arrive.
Wandering the expansive grounds, you notice playful stretches of astroturf where children laugh and run freely. Beyond that, a sprawling pool complex beckons, complete with private cabanas and even a white-sand beach area — a perfect playground for young adventurers.
The Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort blends Sonoran Desert serenity with the polish of a high-end resort. It’s big, bold, and unashamedly resort-y—but in all the right ways. Think palm-lined pools, open skies, and just enough Southwestern flair to remind you you’re not in Florida.
The Setting
Located in the upscale Gainey Ranch neighborhood, the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort puts you in one of Scottsdale’s most desirable pockets. It’s quiet, green, and ringed by mountain views. You’re about 10 minutes from Old Town Scottsdale—close enough for a dinner out, far enough to escape the traffic and tourists.
The resort itself sits on 27 acres of manicured desert landscaping. with a large canvas agaunst a blue sky. Yes, it’s a little theatrical. But it works.
Rooms
The rooms are comfortable and clean, with great views. Expect classic Southwestern tones—earthy palettes, wood accents, and big windows. Many rooms come with patios or balconies, and mountain or pool views. If you can, go for a room that faces Camelback Mountain at sunset—it’s worth it.
Pools & Play
This is where the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort flexes: ten pools, including an adult-only area, a sandy beach for kids, a 3-story waterslide, and hot tubs tucked under palms. The pool scene is chill during the week and more lively on weekends.
The property also includes a 27-hole golf course next door, a full-service spa, tennis courts, and daily activities like yoga, Native American storytelling, and desert wildlife presentations. There’s plenty to do, but the resort doesn’t shove it in your face.
The Spa
Spa Avania is located within the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Gainey Ranch (now rebranded as Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa) AZ Spa Girls Arizona Spa GuideHyatt.
-
The spa’s design is inspired by nature and ancient traditions, blending Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influences with the tranquility of the Sonoran Desert. Its sprawling setting across 2.7 acres includes indoor and outdoor treatment rooms, gardens, meditation areas, and water features such as a lotus pond.
Spa Avania Offers a luxurious wellness environment featuring:
-
A state-of-the-art fitness center and yoga/movement studio
-
A French Celtic mineral pool (~16,290 gallons) plus hot and cold plunge pools
-
Steam rooms, saunas, whirlpools, indoor/outdoor storm showers, and a lily pond for serene lounging
-
Salon services, a boutique, a meditation space, and a couples’ suite
The spa specializes in:
-
Massages, facials, and body treatments, including Vichy water immersion therapies
-
Hair & nail services: hair treatments, styling, manicures, pedicures, and updos
-
Additional offerings like airbrush tanning, body wraps, and a salt room for relaxation
Food & Drink
The Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa offers a diverse array of dining options that reflect the resort’s transformation and culinary innovation. Under the guidance of celebrity chef Richard Blais, the resort has introduced six new dining concepts, each bringing a unique flavor to the Scottsdale dining scene.
La Zozzona
A sophisticated Italian-American restaurant offering handmade pasta, wood-fired steaks, and seafood dishes. The menu features flavors inspired by Rome, Florence, and Tuscany, complemented by an extensive wine list. The elegant setting includes private dining options for special occasions.
Tiki Taka
A vibrant fusion of Japanese sushi and Spanish tapas, Tiki Taka combines traditional flavors with a modern twist. The menu includes inventive small plates and signature cocktails, set in a lively atmosphere with an outdoor patio. Hyatt
Mesa Centrale
An American grill showcasing Southwest flavors, offering a variety of dishes from breakfast to dinner. Guests can enjoy wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, and an epic buffet, all while taking in stunning views of the McDowell Mountains.Experience Scottsdale+1
Grand Vista Lounge
A stylish lobby bar serving a curated selection of cocktails and light bites. The lounge offers a refined atmosphere, perfect for pre-dinner drinks or casual gatherings.
H2Oasis
A poolside eatery offering island-inspired tacos with global flavors from the South Pacific, Polynesia, Hawaii, and the Caribbean. The casual setting provides a relaxed dining experience by the water.Phoenix New Times
Poolside Grill
A family-friendly poolside spot serving classic American fare such as burgers, fries, and chicken tenders. Ideal for a quick and satisfying meal while enjoying the resort’s amenities.
These dining establishments are part of the resort’s extensive renovation, which also includes updates to guest rooms, the spa, fitness center, and other public areas. Whether you’re seeking fine dining or casual fare, the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort & Spa offers a diverse range of culinary options to enhance your stay.
Who It’s For
This isn’t the spot for minimalist luxury or urban edge. It’s for families, couples, and conference-goers who want an easy, sun-drenched escape with everything in one place. You’ll see kids in the pool, golfers on the course, and couples at the spa—all coexisting comfortably.
Why Here?
The Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort delivers a classic, full-service Arizona resort experience. It’s polished without being pretentious, relaxed without being dull. If you want to enjoy the desert without roughing it—and still have enough amenities to keep you busy for days—it’s a strong choice.
Fear of Flying : a sidebar
If you’ve ever heard the expression “fear of flying,” I had it. Elevators with windows? No thanks. Mountain ridges? I’ll admire them from afar. Edges at the Grand Canyon? Step back, please. Airplanes? I eventually forced myself to take the ride—whether I liked it or not—but helicopters? That was another story.
So when the idea of a short day trip from the resort to H5 Helicopters was announced, I boldly declared, “I’ll go… but I’m not getting on a helicopter.”
H5 turned out to be unexpectedly captivating. One side of the hangar held a gleaming line of exotic, perfectly preserved cars. On the other sat what looked like a giant toy—a polished helicopter, every inch sparkling under the lights. I peeked inside. Buttons, levers, switches—enough to make my palms sweat.
As our small group prepared to board, fear and indecision swirled into one strange, uncomfortable brew. That’s when Mitch Kelldorf, the owner and pilot, stepped in. We’d chatted earlier in the office, where my eyes had landed on a book on his desk—Beatles Gear by Andy Babiuk. Mitch noticed and said, “Take it, it’s yours. I know the author; I can get another.”
I was delighted with the gift—but then came the moment of truth. The helicopter was ready. My inner voice whispered, Have fun, guys. See you soon. But Mitch pulled me aside: “Look, I’m gonna take you up—if you don’t like it, I’ll bring you right down. OK?”
There was something in his tone—steady, confident—that bypassed my hesitation. Minutes later, I was in the back seat, feeling the lift as we rose straight from the ground. And just like that, the fear evaporated. In its place was pure, unfiltered thrill. I was soaring through the mountain corridors of the Southwest, the landscape rushing beneath me.
That moment, and the many like it, is why I love to travel. To experience something new—from food in another country to sunsets on unfamiliar shores, to sitting with strangers and sharing the moment. I’m thankful to Mitch for how he handled it. His quiet confidence made me feel safe. And, of course, he likes the Beatles.
by Randy Dunbar
Santa Monica turns 150 this year, and if you think that just means cake and fireworks, think again. This city isn’t just a pretty stretch of coastline—it’s a cultural engine, a political stage, a surfer’s dream, and one of California’s most enduring icons. It’s fashionable, it’s our Riviera, complete with an iconic pier, a gateway to legendary costal communities, and glamor.
Founded in 1875, Santa Monica began as a rail-connected beach escape for Angelenos and evolved into a complex urban village that blends beauty with substance. What started as a simple bayside resort became a magnet for visionaries, rebels, dreamers, and creators. Over the decades, it’s been everything from a silent film backdrop to a counterculture stronghold to a hub for green innovation and forward-thinking urban planning.
Santa Monica has always punched above its weight. In the 1920s and ’30s, it was where aviation giants like Douglas Aircraft helped usher in the modern aerospace era. In the postwar years, it became a sun-soaked haven for writers and artists seeking both inspiration and escape. In the 1960s and ’70s, it stood at the intersection of surf, skate, and protest culture. Today, it continues to blend high design and beachside simplicity, boutique commerce and street musicians, progressive politics and laid-back living.
It’s also become a symbol—whether that’s the final stop on Route 66 or the shimmering arch of the Santa Monica Pier in a thousand film scenes. Santa Monica’s streets have hosted Olympic athletes, world leaders, punk bands, TikTok stars, and just about every kind of person in between.
Culturally, the city has an outsized influence. It was a cradle for California skateboarding and home to artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Ed Ruscha at turning points in their careers. It has long been a battleground for progressive policies on climate, housing, and mobility. It’s one of the first cities to adopt a Climate Action & Adaptation Plan aiming for carbon neutrality. The local farmers market has inspired top chefs across the country. Even its urban design—think walkable neighborhoods, open beach access, integrated transit—has been studied as a model for livable cities worldwide.
And yet, Santa Monica hasn’t lost its charm. You can still sit on a bench in Palisades Park and hear the waves crash while watching a yoga class warm up, a wedding shoot unfold, or a guy with a parrot on his shoulder walk by like it’s no big deal. You can grab a coffee on Montana Avenue, catch an avant-garde play downtown, or ride a beach cruiser from Main Street to the Pier without checking your phone once.
So this year, don’t just think of Santa Monica as another pretty beach town. Think of it as a living story—150 years deep and still being written.
Santa Monica Pier at Sunset
That iconic Ferris wheel glowing above the Pacific—whether it’s framed by silhouettes or reflected in low tide pools, it’s a classic shot. Pacific Park lights up at dusk and brings energy into the night. Open year-round, with rides, food stands, and street performers.
More info: Visit the official Pier website for hours, upcoming events, and planning tips.
Fogo de Chão
When Fogo de Chão set its sights on Santa Monica, it wasn’t just about adding another restaurant to its growing portfolio — it was about planting roots in one of the most iconic coastal cities in California. The vision was clear: combine the brand’s deep Brazilian culinary traditions with the energy and allure of the Southern California coast. That vision materialized at 1551 Ocean Avenue, a premium oceanfront space that once housed Del Frisco’s Grille, directly across from the Santa Monica Pier.
In early 2024, the company secured the location and began transforming it into something more than a restaurant. What emerged over the following year was a 7,000+ square foot destination designed to reflect both Fogo’s evolution and the character of Santa Monica itself. The architecture embraced open spaces and natural light, featuring warm woods, neutral tones, and coastal-modern details. A signature element of the new space was the covered, glass-enclosed patio overlooking the ocean — a spot that would quickly become one of the most sought-after seats in the city.
At the heart of the restaurant, the open churrasco grill served as both a kitchen and a stage. Diners could watch the gaucho chefs in action, tending to the flames and carving skewers of picanha, ribeye, and lamb chops with practiced precision. The Market Table offered vibrant, seasonal produce and traditional Brazilian sides like feijoada and farofa, while the Bar Fogo area provided a more casual experience, with cocktails, small plates, and a bustling happy hour scene.
Fogo de Chão opened its Santa Monica doors in April 2025. The launch was marked not just by the usual press and fanfare, but by a deliberate connection to the community. A portion of first-week proceeds was donated to support food access in West LA, reflecting the company’s broader mission of hospitality with purpose. More than 100 local employees came on board, led by a general manager who brought years of experience from other Southern California Fogo locations.
The restaurant quickly drew both locals and tourists, captivated by its blend of spectacle, flavor, and setting. From lunch hours filled with beachgoers to romantic dinners under the sunset-lit patio, the Santa Monica location became a flagship for Fogo’s West Coast ambitions. It wasn’t just a place to eat — it became a culinary showcase, a celebration of Brazilian culture, and a welcoming space with panoramic views of the Pacific. As Fogo continued to expand nationally and internationally, the Santa Monica restaurant stood as a proud example of what the brand could be at its very best: rooted in tradition, refined in design, and elevated by the rhythm of its surroundings.
.
Version 1.0.0
In the golden age of American amusement parks, the Southern California coast became a battleground for attention. In 1958, a bold contender emerged: Pacific Ocean Park, or simply POP. Built on the site of the aging Ocean Park Pier in Santa Monica, POP was a joint venture between CBS television and Santa Anita Park, born from a desire to rival Disneyland, which had opened just three years earlier and captivated the nation.
From its opening day on July 28, 1958, POP was a sensation. With a theme combining space-age futurism and deep-sea fantasy, it offered an experience unlike any other. Guests entered through a glittering “Ocean Boulevard,” passed through a sea-creature-filled tunnel, and emerged onto a boardwalk packed with rides, games, and attractions that leaned into an aquatic dreamscape.
Among the highlights was the “Sea Serpent Roller Coaster”, which raced over the ocean on a twisting track suspended above the waves. The “Flying Dutchman” soared riders over the surf. The “Neptune’s Kingdom” dark ride took guests on a slow, mysterious journey through glowing, underwater realms. And towering over everything stood the “Ocean Skyway,” a gondola lift that gave panoramic views of Santa Monica Bay as it whisked visitors from one end of the park to the other.
Unlike Disneyland’s tightly controlled fantasy worlds, POP retained a gritty, carnival atmosphere—an intentional choice to retain the excitement of classic seaside amusement while embracing modern design and storytelling. It featured themed restaurants, live dolphin shows, and stunt performances. The park was also deeply tied to the emerging TV culture of the late 1950s and early ’60s, with CBS using it as a promotional platform and even filming shows on-site.
For a few years, POP was a smash hit. In its first summer, it drew over a million visitors. But trouble soon followed. Disneyland was constantly reinvesting in expansion and refinement, while POP faced logistical and political challenges. The park straddled both Santa Monica and Venice, and disputes between the cities, as well as rising maintenance costs for the aging pier infrastructure, began to weigh heavily.
By the mid-1960s, POP was in decline. Its ocean-side location made maintenance difficult and costly; salty sea air eroded machinery, and storm damage was frequent. Attendance fell sharply as Disneyland expanded and new competitors like Universal Studios opened nearby. By 1967, CBS had pulled out entirely, and the park limped through a few more seasons under different management before finally closing for good on October 6, 1967.
The remnants of the park stood abandoned for years, a haunting shell of what once was. Locals and surfers explored the decaying rides and skeletal pier structures, and POP became a kind of post-apocalyptic playground for those in the know. Fires, storms, and neglect gradually erased most physical traces. By the early 1970s, what remained of the pier was demolished, leaving only fragments of pilings visible from the beach at low tide.
Despite its short life, Pacific Ocean Park left a lasting impression on Southern California culture. It inspired stories, photographs, music, and nostalgia that still echo today. Some still refer to that stretch of beach as “POP Pier,” and the faded glamour of the park lives on in the memories of those who rode its roller coasters out over the sea.
Palisades Park
Running along Ocean Avenue, this clifftop park offers unbeatable views, art deco benches, and shady spots for reading or reflecting. A local’s favorite for walking, jogging, or just taking a breather.
South Beach / Bay Street Surf Spot
Forget Venice. If you’re into surfing—or just watching—this is where local wave riders hang. Mornings are mellow, the surf culture is real, and there’s always parking if you know when to go (hint: before 9 a.m.).
The Carousel on the Santa Monica Pier
It all began in the early 1900s with Charles I. D. Looff, a Danish-American master carver who crafted the very first carousel at Coney Island in 1876. After finding success on the East Coast, he moved west around 1910, bringing his vision of amusement park grandeur to California. In 1916, together with his son Arthur, Looff purchased beachfront land at Santa Monica and constructed a Pleasure Pier adjacent to the municipal pier. At its heart stood the majestic Looff Hippodrome, purpose-built to house one of his lavish carousels in a striking California‑Byzantine‑Moorish style structure.
The Hippodrome opened its doors on June 12, 1916, drawing crowds eager to ride its hand-carved merry-go-round. Looff’s original carousel remained there until 1939, when it was sold and replaced in 1947 by a new Philadelphia Toboggan Company Carousel built in 1922, relocated from Venice Pier. Today’s carousel boasts 44 wooden horses, two sleighs, and one goat—each restored and beautifully hand-painted by 1990.
Through the mid-century years, the pier changed hands and the original carousel survived even as other rides vanished. By the 1970s, there were proposals to demolish the structure to make way for redevelopment—but a robust local movement, led by preservation advocates like Save Santa Monica Bay, prevailed and the city gained ownership of the Pier in 1974.
Despite damage from powerful winter storms in the 1980s, restoration efforts launched in 1983, led by the Pier Restoration Corporation. Between 1977 and 1984, both the Hippodrome exterior and the carousel underwent extensive renovation. In 1987, the building was formally recognized as a National Historic Landmark and added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Over a century later, the Looff Hippodrome survives as one of only two intact amusement‑pier carousel buildings remaining on the West Coast. It has appeared in iconic films—most famously in The Sting (1973)—and continues to delight visitors as part of Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier.
by Catherine Huynh
Summer in Southern California might not come with dramatic seasonal shifts, but it brings its own rhythm — longer days, warmer nights, and a reason to soak up everything the region has to offer. For West Coast Editor of Secret LA, Cat Huynh, summer is about leaning into the energy of the season: more time outdoors, spontaneous escapes, and spaces that celebrate nature, creativity, and connection. SoCal Mag invited Cat to give us the low-down on all her fav secret spots; discover her list below:
Vroman’s Bookstore in Pasadena
As the oldest independent bookstore in SoCal, they have two levels of books, thoughtful gifts like stationery and local trinkets, and lots of cozy corners to check out. Outside, there’s a sprawling magazine stand, and inside, they also have a tucked-away wine bar that serves literary-themed cocktails, wine flights, and local beers. They even have live music sometimes. It’s a great spot for a solo day or a low-key catch-up with a friend.
Why it’s on the list: The ultimate indoor-outdoor spot for getting some sun or cooling down in summer — books, wine, and conversation.
https://vromansbookstore.com/
Arroz & Fun
Arroz & Fun is a local spot that serves Chinese and Salvadoran brunch, and really good coffee. I love their iced El Morro latte, which is made with cold brew and topped with a specialized cream top. They serve Cipota Coffee, a Los Angeles-based, Salvadoran woman-owned brand that sources its beans directly from El Salvador and roasts them locally in LA. It’s a great drink worth trying this summer, especially during Latin Heritage Month.
Why it’s on the list: A unique cultural mashup with flavors perfect for the season.
https://www.arrozandfun.com/
South Coast Botanic Garden
As someone who works in media, it’s nice to go outside and touch grass once in a while (or at least look at it and be outside). South Coast Botanic Garden is especially beautiful in the summer, with seasonal events in full swing. Just a short drive from L.A. and one of the gardens tucked in the South Bay, it feels like a getaway from the city without going too far. You can bring a blanket for a picnic and take a look at unique art from local creatives throughout the gardens. Whether you’re walking solo, with friends, family, or your dog, the Garden feels like a summer essential, and a good place to slow down and take a breath. (Also, there’s free parking!)
Why it’s on the list: SoCal’s most underrated foliage + beer + dogs = unmatched vibes. South Coast Botanic Garden
Brain Dead Studios
What was once a silent movie theater in the 1940s is now an indie movie theater and cultural gathering hub for L.A.’s creatives. Brain Dead Studios regularly hosts special screenings, like seasonal horror lineups, music video nights, art installations, and collaborations with studios like A24. It feels like a gathering space for film lovers, artists, and anyone looking to watch something niche, good, or just plain unexpected.
Why it’s on the list: A cozy movie night is peak summer, and Brain Dead never misses. https://studios.wearebraindead.com/
chripell@evolware.org
Mount Wilson Observatory
Mount Wilson Observatory is worth the drive for the views and setting alone, as it’s tucked above the city. It’s home to some of the largest telescopes in the world that’s open to the public, and also has great seasonal programming, like their Talks & Telescopes series starting in August that pairs lectures with actual stargazing through their telescopes.
Why it’s on the list: A mountain escape where you can take in the views and learn about our skies and stars. https://www.mtwilson.edu/
The Japanese Garden (Suihō‑en) – Van Nuys
Tucked into the Sepulveda Basin beside a water reclamation plant, this 6.5‑acre oasis is a masterpiece of balance and serenity. Designed by Dr. Koichi Kawana and opened in 1984, it beautifully blends three distinct styles: a dry Zen garden (karesansui) with symbolic stone arrangements; a strolling “wet” garden filled with waterfalls, lakes, bridges, and lanterns; and an authentic teahouse adjacent to a peaceful tea garden
Why it made the list: Japanese maples, wisteria, azaleas, and black pines take on stunning tones, reflected in serene waters, with no admission fee and weekly docent tours. A little Zen amidst the chaos. https://thejapanesegarden.com/
Springs Aerial Tramway
The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes you from the desert floor up to Mt. San Jacinto State Park in just 10 minutes, riding in the world’s largest rotating tram car. At the top (8,516 feet!), you’ll find over 50 miles of hiking trails, observation decks, a natural history museum, and a bar and restaurant. Enjoy the beautiful ride up, the cooler air in the tram, and the sweeping views of the California desert below.
Why it’s on the list: One ride, two seasons — desert below, alpine above. https://pstramway.com/
Malibu Country Mart
Between the views and ocean breeze, driving through and to Malibu in the summer is a simple pleasure. Malibu Country Mart is a great outdoor shopping mall to stop at, with a mix of local, indie boutiques, sculptures, outdoor dining spots, a few picnic areas, and a playground. It’s perfect for relaxed people-watching, browsing local shops, and taking in the weather outside – and it’s right next to the Malibu Pier!
Why it’s on the list: It’s a scenic stop that offers local charm, a Malibu backdrop, and the occasional celebrity spotting. https://malibucountrymart.com/
The Huntington Gardens & Library
Where nature, culture and community collide, you can never truly know any of these spots as they continue to blossom, bloom, fade and regenerate over the seasons.
This is also the perfect place to watch the seasons change and immerse yourself in art.
Why it’s on the list: Cultural immersion meets nature in the heart of L.A. https://www.huntington.org/
Remainders in Pasadena
Remainders is part thrift store, part craft supply spot, and geared toward artists, educators, and anyone looking to get creative on a budget. They divert over 10,000 pounds of waste from landfills every month by giving new life to donated materials, from fabric and paper to frames and vintage odds and ends. I’ve found an embossing kit, vintage bracelet making sets, and more – You never know what you’ll find, which makes it perfect for a DIY day.
Why it’s on the list: A treasure trove for crafters and makers, and a feel-good way to shop sustainably this season.
Backstage Culver City
Backstage is one of Culver City’s oldest bars, and it’s one of the most fun places to belt out your feelings via song in L.A. Right across from Sony Studios, it’s long been a go-to for production folks and locals (and the occasional celebrity). The crowd is welcoming, and the performances are everything from Aerosmith to Charli XCX. Their TikTok account even features some award-worthy performances from regulars.
Why it’s on the list: A historic Culver City bar with divey charm, welcoming crowds, and always-great karaoke. https://backstageculvercity.com/
Honorable Mentions
- Marine Room, San Diego: Dine as dramatic waves crash against the glass. A sensory overload in the best way.
- Wayfarers Chapel, Rancho Palos Verdes: An architectural marvel with sweeping ocean views — it’s like a glass cathedral in the woods.
- Day Top to Sunny Jim Sea Cave or Solvang: Combine quirky cave exploration with Danish pastries and boutique shopping.
- Hot Springs: Check out Deep Creek Hot Springs or Tecopa Hot Springs — perfect for when the temps dip but the sun still shines. Always stay safe and check official sites prior to bathing.
- Cabin Escapes in Big Bear or Idyllwild: Summer is peak time for a woodsy weekend getaway — think flannel, fire pits, and foliage.
Cat Huynh is the Managing Editor at SMN overseeing editorial teams across the West Coast, from Los Angeles to Seattle. She helps shape and share guides on what to do, where to go, and what to know across the coast – whether that means making sense of what’s happening in local neighborhoods, spotlighting local businesses and hidden gems, or sharing rare film screenings, can’t-miss concerts, and the occasional hyperlocal meme. Cat proudly graduated from Indiana University with a degree in Journalism and Communication & Culture. Since then, she’s worked across entertainment, healthcare, media, and social impact, contributing to projects recognized with honors like CLIOs, a WEBBY, and an Emmy. Her career has included producing digital content for healthcare systems and nonprofits across Southern California, leading creative campaigns for global clients at an award-winning culture agency, and helping to produce a live presidential forum in 2020. Like anyone else working in media, she’s usually got a caffeinated drink in one hand. On a good day, her grandma’s dog, Tofu, is in the other. When she’s not deep-diving through the internet, Cat is flipping through CDs at a thrift shop, catching a live show, or appreciating reality TV as both entertainment and an opportunity to study human nature. Recently, she’s gotten back into crafting (and yes, she was once an Etsy best seller).
https://secretlosangeles.com/
by Randy Dunbar
L Los Angeles International Airport is in the midst of its most dramatic transformation since the Jet Age. Once defined by traffic snarls and dated concourses, LAX is now emerging as something else entirely—a multi-billion-dollar gateway designed for ease, elegance, and experience. At the heart of this renewal is architecture, both old and new. The iconic Theme Building still stands like a sci-fi relic from 1961, its white, swooping arches an unmistakable symbol of mid-century optimism. Once home to a futuristic revolving restaurant, the structure now awaits a new purpose. While closed to the public, it looms with potential, and whispers suggest it may soon be repurposed for dining, events, or even an adjacent boutique hotel. Elsewhere across the sprawling campus, the future is arriving gate by gate. New concourses stretch out like minimalist glass cathedrals—bright, efficient, and lined with interactive signage. Solar-shaded facades keep heat at bay, while landscaped plazas soften the airport’s once-concrete image. These aren’t just terminals—they’re civic spaces, designed to reflect the city they serve. Dining has seen a significant evolution. Gone are the uninspired fast-food counters of travel’s past. In their place are local brands, chef-driven menus, and even the introduction of ghost kitchens, allowing passengers to order meals from a wider range of restaurants throughout the airport. It’s part of a growing effort to turn LAX into a taste-driven experience as much as a transportation hub. Even the seating areas, with their soft leather banquettes and power-equipped communal tables, feel more like hotel lounges than holding pens. But the biggest change might be what’s happening beneath it all. Below the taxiing jets and rental car garages, a new electric train line is gliding into place. The Automated People Mover—set to open soon—is an elevated, driverless system that connects all terminals with offsite parking, the consolidated rental car facility, and the regional Metro line. For the first time, visitors will be able to arrive in Los Angeles and access the city without ever stepping into a car. It’s a vision of frictionless travel, long promised, finally realized. As LAX readies itself for the 2028 Olympics, the changes aren’t just cosmetic. They speak to a broader redefinition of the airport’s role in Los Angeles life: not just a way in or out, but a cultural threshold—one that’s being reimagined with purpose, polish, and a deep nod to LA’s architectural heritage. The Jet Age never truly ended here. It’s just been upgraded.
“The People Mover is a game-changer. For the first time, a visitor can step off a plane and be on the Metro in minutes—without a car, without chaos.” — Urban transit advocate, MoveLA
What’s Cooking at 30,000 Feet?
Terminal 1: Trejo’s Tacos, Urth Caffé (Coming soon) Terminal 2: Built-to-order ghost kitchens with app-based ordering Terminal 6: Top Chef–curated pizza, Peet’s Coffee Tom Bradley (TBIT): ink.sack, Petrossian Champagne Bar, Border Grill Highlights: – Local brands featured: A focus on SoCal favorites elevates airport dining – Tech meets taste: Order from your phone, pick up at your gate – Design-forward spaces: No more plastic trays and fluorescent lighting
The Automated People Mover – By the Numbers
Track Length: 2.25 miles (elevated guideway) Stations: 6 total (3 inside LAX, 3 outside) Operating Speed: ~47 mph Capacity: 10,000 passengers per hour Frequency: Every 2–3 minutes Fully Electric: Yes – zero emissions Opens: Expected 2024 Connects To: Metro C Line + Consolidated Rental Car Center (ConRAC) – Design-forward spaces: No more plastic trays and fluorescent lighting
The Automated People Mover – By the Numbers
– MSC South Concourse: Opens 2025, adds 8 new gates – Terminal 9 + Concourse 0: Massive expansion east of Sepulveda – Theme Building Revival: Still unannounced—but a top priority – Olympics 2028 Prep: LAX’s total makeover aims for global debut
Out of This World: The Legacy of LAX’s Iconic Theme Building
In the mid-20th century, as jet travel promised to shrink the world and catapult humanity into a new era, Los Angeles International Airport aimed to embody that optimism in concrete and steel. Rising like a spaceship on launch, the Theme Building, completed in 1961, was both a symbol of the future and a love letter to a city infatuated with speed, glamour, and style.
Perched in the heart of LAX, the Theme Building is more than just an architectural oddity—it’s a testament to the space-age dreams of postwar America. Its sleek white arches and suspended central pod look like something straight out of a 1960s sci-fi movie, which makes sense: it was built during a time when Americans were equally captivated by air travel and outer space.
But behind its futuristic façade is a story of collaboration, adaptation, and vision.
The Minds Behind the Marvel
The original vision for LAX’s redevelopment was bold: a central terminal topped with a glass dome, surrounded by satellite boarding areas connected by underground tunnels. The design was ambitious—too ambitious, it turned out, for the airport’s budget and timeline. As plans were scaled back, one element remained too striking to scrap: the central theme structure.
The design that became the Theme Building was the work of a veritable dream team of architects:
-
William Pereira and Charles Luckman, whose firm conceived the overall plan for the new LAX. Pereira would go on to design the Transamerica Pyramid in San Francisco and several major campuses in California.
-
Welton Becket, whose architectural fingerprints are all over Los Angeles, including the Music Center and the Capitol Records Building, helped execute the final design.
-
And Paul R. Williams, a pioneering Black architect revered for his residential work with Hollywood’s elite, contributed key refinements that helped give the Theme Building its distinctive style.
What emerged from this collaboration was a 135-foot-high flying saucer-like structure supported by two massive concrete parabolic arches. These arches, which appear to effortlessly hold the hovering restaurant pod, are in fact separate from the pod and serve as an illusion of suspension—a structural and aesthetic sleight of hand that still amazes visitors today.
From Rotating Restaurant to Cultural Icon
Inside the Theme Building, travelers once dined at Encounter Restaurant, a retro-futuristic dining spot that opened in 1997 after a major renovation. Though the restaurant closed in 2013, it left behind memories of martinis under spaceship ceilings and panoramic views of departing flights.
For years, the building’s observation deck offered one of the best public views of the LAX runways and the Hollywood Hills beyond. Closed after 9/11 for security concerns, it reopened after extensive retrofitting and seismic upgrades, reinforcing the structure while preserving its original flair.
Designated, Respected, and Reinvented
In 1993, the city of Los Angeles officially designated the Theme Building a Historic-Cultural Monument. Since then, its presence has become more nostalgic than functional—a beacon of LAX’s Jet Age glamour amidst today’s sprawling, security-driven terminals.
Yet, despite the changes to the airport around it, the Theme Building endures. It’s appeared in films, inspired countless photographers, and remains one of the most recognized architectural statements in all of Southern California.
It’s not just a building. It’s a time capsule.
And it’s still standing, quietly defying gravity and reminding travelers—just before takeoff—that L.A. has always had its eyes on the sky.
LAX Traveler Resources & Services
Official Airport Website
-
LAX Website: https://www.flylax.com
Get terminal maps, flight status, parking info, security wait times, and more.
Flight & Terminal Info
Transportation & Parking
Public Transit Connections
Dining & Shopping
Lounges & VIP Services
Wi-Fi & Tech
Health, Wellness & Accessibility
by Contributor
One thing is for certain, the Southland has pools, lots of pools, public pools for everyone. Here is a list of the best local places to take a dip.
City of Los Angeles – Year‑Round Pools
Top‑Rated Public Pools
Other Standout Pools in L.A.
Beyond L.A. County
by Randy Dunbar
Soundbath: is a meditative experience where participants are “bathed” in sound waves produced by various instruments, like gongs, chimes, bells, drums, bowls or voices.
Unlike a concert, it’s not about rhythm or melody—it’s more about vibration and resonance. You usually lie down or sit comfortably while the practitioner plays the instruments, guiding you into a relaxed, often trance-like state.
The Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo is a luxurious retreat nestled in the lush landscapes of Guanacaste, Costa Rica. This 28-acre resort seamlessly blends modern design with the natural beauty of its surroundings, offering guests an immersive experience in the heart of the rainforest.
Summer approaches, and the idea of vacationing begins to take hold. Americans, in general, take 7–10 days off each year for international travel, and Mexico tops the list of favored destinations. Many Americans enjoy the concept of “bleisure” (where business and leisure are mixed), and it is growing in popularity.
Another trend gaining ground is experiential travel, where immersive experiences (e.g., food tours, adventure travel) are favored over traditional sightseeing.
From Los Angeles, Costa Rica is a five- to six-hour flight that passes over Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Costa Rica is a small country with no winter but many volcanoes. It is unique in that it has two coastlines—the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. Remarkably, the country runs on more than 99% renewable energy, mainly from hydropower, wind, and solar sources.
It is a happy country. Its slogan is Pura Vida!, which means “pure life” and is used as a greeting, farewell, or expression of gratitude and positivity.
Nestled in the lush northwestern region is Andaz Peninsula Papagayo, a stunning 1,400-acre luxury eco-destination in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica. It is known for its pristine beaches, lush tropical forests, and world-class resorts. To get there, it’s best to fly into Liberia and drive along Highway 21 to the peninsula.
To be clear, this is a luxury destination with sweeping tropical forests, stunning views of Culebra Bay and the Pacific Ocean, and the occasional sighting of howler monkeys.
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo is one of the resorts on the peninsula. It is a resort with heart—sustainability is a major focus. Experiential activities abound, such as Papagayo Explorers, who provide epic eco-adventures with an expert team of naturalist guides.
On our first day, we headed to the beach and took part in coral planting, a unique team-building activity. Coral reefs are not just beautiful and colorful underwater gardens—they are essential habitats for marine life. However, they are under threat from climate change, pollution, and overfishing.
We are here to do our part.
A group of nine, we are tasked with taking recently uprooted coral, cleaning it, and adding it to an artificial reef. Once done, it’s back to the deep—hopefully to grow and thrive.
That night, a special dinner was prepared for us at the adjoining Four Seasons Resort. It’s a short drive. We arrive at sunset. Dinner will be held outside in the Nemare dining garden, but first, a mixologist gives us a lesson on how to pair herbs with drinks and invites us to “get creative.” Dinner is Latin America Asado, a live-fire culinary pop-up event. Cooking is Chef Enrique “Kike” Retana with Executive Chef Emiliano Rabia. That night, on the lawn, there is a stunning display of stars above.
The next day, we join our tour guide, Néstor Zeledón, for a cultural road trip. Along the way, we explore the Nicoya Peninsula, one of Costa Rica’s Blue Zones—regions known for longevity and happiness. Our journey takes us through villages and farmlands, offering a firsthand look at local life.
Our first stop is along the Río Tempisque, an 89-mile river that originates in the foothills of the Orosi Volcano in the northwest and flows southeast into the estuary at the northern end of the Nicoya Gulf. It is heavily silted with sand and gravel—sand that is surprisingly valuable. Men in boats dive for it, then bring it to waiting ox carts that carry it up hills to be deposited. It’s a rare look into a fascinating, archaic process. Along the way, we visit a local woman in Santa Cruz who creates papier-mâché puppets.
We are greeted by dancing puppets and introduced to a local group of young musicians.
Our next stop is a traditional Costa Rican coffee farm, where we gain a deeper understanding of one of the country’s most beloved exports. Coffee is an integral part of Costa Rican culture and daily life. We are welcomed by the rich aroma of freshly roasted beans and invited to see the process from bean to cup.
Our guide explains how Costa Rica’s unique climate and volcanic soil create ideal conditions for growing high-quality Arabica coffee. We learn about the meticulous hand-picking process, the drying and roasting techniques, and the importance of sustainable coffee farming.
We then sit for a coffee-tasting session, sampling different roasts and brewing methods—from traditional chorreador drip coffee to espresso-style brews. The flavors are vibrant, with notes of citrus, chocolate, and honey. As we sip, we hear stories of generations of farmers who have dedicated their lives to cultivating coffee.
After a day of adventure, it’s time to visit the Onda Spa at Andaz. Guests are welcomed with a refreshing herbal drink and a cool towel infused with essential oils. The spa’s treehouse-style treatment rooms offer stunning ocean and jungle views, creating a peaceful and immersive natural environment. But first, the masseur hands you a flower, which you carry to a bridge. There, you are asked to let your troubles go—and so they do—as the flower is dropped into a small pool with dozens of other lotus blossoms.
The word vacation comes from the Latin word vacātiō, meaning freedom, exemption, or being free from something—especially from duty or work.
Those vacation days allow us to enter a new world, taste unfamiliar foods, and experience different cultures in new and exciting ways.
Costa Rica and the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo are exactly that—a new and vibrant place to vacation.
Written and Photographed by Randy Dunbar
by Dennis Richardson
As we approach Lunar New Year, Downtown Disney is gearing up for a variety of ways to celebrate the occasion – as well as other reasons to visit the district with its new openings. With a new lineup of culinary attractions, this destination has all the more reason to stop by and celebrate the season.
A Grand Opening
On January 23, the grand opening of
Parkside Market took place. Parkside Market introduces Downtown Disney’s newest diverse food hall featuring four unique restaurants: GG’s Chicken Shop, Seoul Sister, Sip & Sonder, & Vista Parkside Market. The energetic event kicked off with opening remarks from Jason Smith, Vice President of Hotel Operations & Downtown Disney, and Andy Lansing, CEO of Levy Restaurants.
“To say that we’re excited to be here today might be the understatement of a lifetime,” said Lansing. “Today is a culmination of several years of work with Disney and all of our partners, and it’s remarkable for all of us to see it come to life.”
All photos credit of Maya Myers Photography.
Lansing introduced the three restaurant partners: Amanda-Jane and Shanita from Sip & Sonder, Chef Lee from GG’s Chicken Shop, and Chef Kelly from Seoul Sister. To welcome guests into the Parkside Market space, Mickey and Minnie Mouse then made their grand entrance, bringing their signature charm to the stage. Each key personality of Parkside Market joined together for an official ribbon cutting as confetti cannons erupted and music began, celebrating the official addition of Parkside Market to the Downtown Disney District.
Guests then perused Parkside Market, enjoying passed bites and beverages from each concept, chatting with the founders, and taking in views from Vista’s scenic rooftop patio.
On the Horizon: Black History Month & Lunar New Year
Just in time for Black History Month,
Sip & Sonder at Parkside Market, the proud
Black women-owned coffee shop, is joining Disneyland Resort’s
Celebrate Soulfully event all February, spotlighting
Black heritage with their signature
Nod to Nicaud coffee drink.
If you’re in need of a coffee fix, Sip & Sonder’s Nod to Nicaud features a signature cold brew with chicory and cane sugar. This inspiring spin on a delicious classic pays tribute to Rose Nicaud, a trailblazing entrepreneur and one of New Orleans’ first women of color vendors, whose legacy shaped the city’s coffee culture.
This significant celebration will overlap with the Downtown Disney District’s current Lunar New Year festivities, which can be enjoyed at Parkside Market’s scenic rooftop bar,
Vista Parkside Market.
For Lunar New Year at Vista, guests can look forward tocelebrating the Year of the Snake with the Serpentine Sour—a bold gin cocktail with yuzu juice, egg white, bitters, and an artistic foam topper. This special and limited time offer is now through February 16, only at Parkside Market’s rooftop bar, Vista Parkside Market, with incredible views of the Downtown Disney District.
by Dennis Richardson
(For a video tour of Grand Hyatt Indian Wells and an interview with Chef Angelo Sosa, watch here and here.)
At the end of 2024, Grand Hyatt Indian Wells kicked off their official up-brand with a grand re-opening party, complete with self-guided tours for invitees, a glitzy party, and vibrant performances and meals. The celebration saw decadent highlights of the property’s two signature restaurants led by celebrity chef Angelo Sosa, a showcase of their spacious and brand new villas & penthouse views, and ideal usage of the plentiful and massive spaces available for any occasion. In typical Hyatt fashion, this event included small businesses who helped add some flair to the evening, amping up the party even more!
All photos courtesy of Grand Hyatt Indian Wells.
Hyatt Hotels Corporation and Trinity Investments are proud to announce the completed planned rebranding of Hyatt Regency Indian Wells Resort & Spa to Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas. The rebrand was timed to the culmination of a $64 million property-wide renovation and ushers in a new era of luxury for the iconic desert resort with redesigned guestrooms and luxury villas, an expanded lobby experience, elevated accommodations, refreshed meeting and event spaces, two new dining concepts and a reimagined pool complex with extended cabana offerings. A resort steeped in Indian Wells’ tennis history, the property is also a short drive away from the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, which plays host to the BNP Paribas Open, the first of nine ATP Masters 1000 tournaments each year.
“Grand Hyatt hotels showcase bold and vibrant design and architecture, creating captivating destinations within a destination. The newly renovated and rebranded Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas will introduce guests and members to an elevated level of hospitality,” said Susan Santiago, President, U.S. and Canada, Hyatt. “Located in a key destination for leisure and business travelers looking to experience the best of Coachella Valley, the refreshed resort will help guests celebrate magnificent moments and create memorable experiences throughout their stay.”
Elevated Guestrooms, Suites and Villas
Grand Hyatt Indian Wells’ refreshed design, overseen by the renowned Southern California firm, IndiDesign, will reflect the serene beauty of its locale and offer an upscale resort experience. Inspired by the dramatic geography and date farms that surround the property, Grand Hyatt Indian Wells’ new look and feel combines a neutral color palette and tasteful wood accents with mid-century modern design elements. The property’s newly enhanced 531 accommodations, including 39 spacious suites have completed renovations, while 43 one- and two-bedroom private villas, are set to debut by November 2024.
Grand Hyatt Indian Wells will provide large guestrooms, with 550 square feet of luxurious living space. Guests can choose from various configurations, including one king bed, two king beds, rooms with full-sized bunkbeds, and more. Each room features a multi-functional living space, a spa-inspired bathroom, and a private patio or balcony. The resort’s newly renovated suites also offer spacious accommodations designed for families and groups. These suites include a separate living area with a sleeper sofa, a wet bar with a full-size refrigerator and microwave, and dual private balconies offering breathtaking views of the golf course, pool, resort grounds and surrounding mountain backdrop. Suites on the ground floor feature patios, offering convenient pool access.
As the premier offering at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells, the resort’s luxury villas will be transformed to seamlessly blend into the desert locale with sophisticated interiors that layer artisanal details like natural tones and muted hues with new landscaping to provide an intimate sense of place. Hand-crafted furniture will be mixed with modern decor and artistic lighting fixtures to bring character into each living space. Grand Hyatt Indian Wells’ new villas will offer an array of exclusive features and premium amenities for guests, including a private backyard with a hot tub, plunge pool or firepit, kitchenette with refrigerators, access to an adults only spa, and golf cart escorts around the property. Guests will also have access to an exclusive arrival experience and dedicated villa concierge to provide effortless service throughout their stay.
Inventive Dining Concepts
Aheads of its grand opening this fall, the property will offer a late summer preview introducing two new restaurant concepts – Tía Carmen and Carmocha – in collaboration with the acclaimed Chef Angelo Sosa. Renowned for his bold cooking, Chef Sosa brings over 25 years of experience that has taken him from three-star kitchens in Europe and beyond. A protege of Jean-Georges Vongerichten, Chef Sosa has worked with some of the industry’s most renowned restaurateurs, including Alain Ducasse, Stephen Starr and Masaharu Morimoto. He has opened several restaurants in New York City, San Diego, and most recently Phoenix, with Kembara, as well as the first location of Tía Carmen. Like the original location, Tía Carmen at Grand Hyatt Indian Wells will pay homage to Chef Sosa’s aunt (tía) Carmen, and celebrate the local landscape, farmers and community of the Southwest reflecting a mix of tradition and modernity, this time with modern Californian flair.
Carmocha is a new concept that reimagines global small plates from the perspective of Angelo’s tía Carmen if she had traveled around the world and came back from her journeys to put her own spin on some of the dazzling array of international flavors she experienced. For a casual dining option, the resort also enhanced its lobby marketplace, providing several all-day culinary offerings for either grab-and-go or sit-down settings with a coffee bar and selection of teas, sandwiches, and treats as well as wine, beer and more.
Destination-Driven Pool Experience
The anchor of the resort guest journey is its popular pool experience, and the new Grand Hyatt Indian Wells will unveil enhancements to the spacious outdoor recreation area with expanded cabanas fit for large groups and families, as well as new dining options including a food truck, Palmadoro’s, serving pizza and signature Italian bites, and a refreshed café, offering poolside favorites. Grand Hyatt Indian Wells’ pool experience also features the largest waterpark in the Greater Palm Springs desert, HyTides, which includes nine expansive pools, a set of 30-foot high (150-feet in length) dueling waterslides, a 450-foot lazy river and family-friendly favorites, such as an expansive splash pad.
Grand Gatherings
A top destination for events in Greater Palm Springs, Grand Hyatt Indian Wells will offer 88,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor function space. Recently revitalized ballroom, meeting rooms and boardrooms will give way to terraces and lawns with breathtaking views, ideal for weddings, special events and corporate retreats. With offerings that are nothing short of grand, the resort’s renovated Mezzanine level includes meeting and events space, allowing guests to create memorable gatherings for any moment or milestone.
Unparalleled Wellbeing Offerings
As a hospitality company focused on care, Hyatt takes pride in setting a new standard of wellbeing for travel, making sure every touch point is crafted to support all facets of wellbeing. Therefore, the property will introduce new programming and offerings to care for guests.
For a relaxing wellbeing retreat, the 30,000-square-foot Agua Serena Spa will unveil new enhancements this Fall. The property also recently collaborated with Kalologie MedSpa to open their newest location on property in Indian Wells. Situated adjacent to Agua Serena Spa, the new facility includes four private treatment rooms and an IV lounge with a variety of renewing services, including IV hydration therapy, B12 energy boosts, and more.
Grand Hyatt Indian Wells will also offer tennis and pickleball courts and two adjacent world-class golf courses. The resort is a short drive from the Palm Springs International Airport, placing guests just minutes from the best shopping, culture, and entertainment offerings in the Coachella Valley area.
About Grand Hyatt
Around the world, Grand Hyatt hotels bring travel dreams to life by celebrating the iconic in small details and magnificent moments. Located at the crossroads of local culture and global business within major gateway cities and resort destinations, each Grand Hyatt hotel is uniquely designed to be a captivating destination within a destination. Grand Hyatt hotels deliver welcoming and elevated service, first-class accommodations, and an abundance of options within a multicultural backdrop of dramatic architecture and bold and vibrant design. Grand Hyatt hotels boast inventive restaurants, luxury spas, fitness centres, and business and meeting facilities. For additional information or to make a reservation, please visit grandhyatt.com. Follow @GrandHyatt on Facebook and Instagram, and tag photos with #GrandHyatt.
by Dennis Richardson
Earlier this year, we featured Hyatt Regency Irvine and showcased the property’s $55 million transformation, then most recently we followed up on the completion of the renovation. The opening of Warehouse 72, the pool and cabanas, lawn, pavilion, and Regency Club have set the stage for a staycation destination that is complete with all that guests could need.
These new additions have propelled Hyatt Regency Irvine into a powerful position, and now the hotel is taking on seasonal celebrations to really immerse guests during their getaways. To learn more about the overall experience, rooms & suites, amenities and features, check out our initial coverage here. To read about the completion of the newest amenities and features, click here.
All Photos Credit of Kimberley Motos
Throughout Summer and Fall, Hyatt Regency Irvine took to throwing special events centered around different events, like the Super Bowl, 2024 Olympics, and Halloween. These events often took place in the fairly recently opened additions outside of the hotel, taking advantage of the large spaces at the pool, fire pits, and lawn & pavilion.
Now, the hotel is upping the ante by bringing the holiday cheer into the suites!
Available as a bookable package, the Holiday Magic Suite is fully outfitted with Christmas lights, wreaths, an in-suite Christmas tree, cozy plaid blankets and other seasonal decor to create a warm, festive atmosphere. The suite, spacious enough for families and groups, includes a large living room and kitchen, a primary bedroom, a bunkbed room, two bathrooms and a private balcony.
To make the experience extra memorable, guests will also receive a cookie welcome amenity, perfect for a “Night Before Christmas” celebration ahead of Santa’s anticipated arrival on Christmas morning. To complete the experience, Holiday Magic Suite guests will enjoy a complimentary one-hour private S’mores experience at Hyatt Regency Irvine’s outdoor firepit and patio. How’s that for getting into holiday cheer?
Package Dates are available from December 1, 2024 – January 6, 2025 and pricing starts at $459 and up.
To book this holiday deal, use Special Offer Code:
HS24 when booking a stay or use the following
link and click “Book” at the top right corner.
Reservation is subject to availability.
by Dennis Richardson
Cowritten by Anthony Stafford
(Watch a video tour, here.)
Rated #1 by Thrillist (and rightfully so!), California is home to an often overlooked city where natural AC blows nearly year-round, an expansive shoreline and the sound of crashing waves are within earshot, and laidback seaside town vibes are endless. That city, left out of many destination conversations, is Oxnard. Sure, there are vineyards and farmlands not too far away, and many people from the area don’t have a ton of praise for the place. However Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach – part of Curio Collection by Hilton – as unfamiliar as it may sound to some, is looking to turn a new page for Oxnard’s future, reputation, and reception in the world.
Courtesy of Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
The Golden State is no stranger to stellar resorts and hotels with plentiful views consisting of deserts, mountains, and the Pacific Ocean, but it is rare to come across an all-suite resort right on the beach. And when it comes to activities– whether in the urban sprawl of endless energy or nestled in the valley of a rural town– travelers rest assure. Zachari Dunes checks both the boxes for a unique seaside, extended vacation feel, and access to everything outdoors (and indoors!) that California is known for.
A sister property to The Pierside in Santa Monica, Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach is about an hour north of Los Angeles and just south of Santa Barbara. The resort underwent a renovation and rebranding, turning a new leaf for itself and the local community. Incredibly, Zachari Dunes captures the very essence of an adults-only resort, yet successfully caters to children with its plentiful amenities and dining offerings. During our weekend visit, we met with Zachari Dunes’ Director of Marketing, Ali Fedrau, who provided a guided tour. She gave us deep insight into the area’s and resort’s history, newest amenities and offerings, its geological significance, and why Oxnard deserves to be included in travel destination conversations moving forward.
Amenities, Activities, Accolades, and Accommodations
After its October 2022 debut, this coastal resort offers a true taste of the California lifestyle, blending spacious accommodations, gourmet dining, and immersive adventures from the beach to the mountains. The resort features 250 expansive suites – most with ocean views – a grand beachfront lobby, and modern public spaces. And space – or rather a lack of it – is one thing you will never complain about no matter where you are on the property!
Photo courtesy of Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach
Surprisingly, Zachari Dunes is Southern California’s only all-suite oceanfront resort. It offers guests a luxurious blend of comfort and coastal charm, with more than 600 square feet of living space, and view options ranging from oceanfront and beach views to garden and pool views. Accommodations vary from one king or two queen suites, featuring a separate bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, a living area with a sofa bed, a dining space, wet bar, and a second bathroom. Most suites also offer outdoor balconies or patios, ideal for taking in the stunning surroundings or sunbathing with a little privacy. For larger groups, the presidential suites can host up to six guests, boasting two bedrooms, spacious living areas, and ample outdoor space, all thoughtfully designed to mirror the beauty of the Pacific Ocean. During our visit, we learned that even during the busy season, the resort is never uncomfortably cramped – and that’s all thanks to the amount of space Zachari Dunes allows visitors to throughout the resort.
Beyond its stunning suites, Zachari Dunes offers relaxation and adventure in various forms. Tropical pathways that wind through the resort’s central courtyard plaza snake their way to the beach where there is virtually endless space to play, run, or just soak up sun. Active guests can enjoy the fitness center, tennis and basketball courts, or take advantage of the spa, Float Mandalay Beach, where rejuvenating treatments like sea stone massages and hydrating coconut milk rituals take place. For adventure seekers, Henry’s Sundries and Gear Rental provides everything from bikes and surfboards to hoverboards and GoPros, ensuring guests can fully experience the resort’s nine-acre coastal paradise however they choose. In addition to all of this, the resort is the closest in the state with access to the channel islands, making for incredibly unique escapades that you don’t have to travel much further for. On top of expeditions to the islands, sometimes it’s nice to watch them in the distance. Every inch of the property sits photogenically on display, making weddings, birthdays, business meetings, and the like that much more memorable.
Guests can enjoy the heated pool, massive hot tub, cabanas, and fire pits, as well as locally inspired dining options, including the Ox & Ocean signature restaurant, Sugar Beats, the outdoor airstream for quick bites, and DIVE offers a sports bar and gaming lounge mashup. Plus, if you’re the type that needs a bit of scheduling for motivation, the resort has a weekly calendar of activities, including yoga, beach volleyball, scavenger hunts, sand sculptures, movies, and so much more. Additional amenities include a gear rental shop for almost every imaginable outdoor activity, the luxury Float Mandalay Beach spa, and versatile event spaces for meetings and gatherings. Notably, Zachari Dunes was recognized by USA Today’s “Readers’ Choice Awards 2024” as the “#1 Best New Hotel in the U.S.,” and even more recently in the “Top 10 Resorts in Southern California” by Condé Nast.
The Joy in Dining (and Playing) at the Dunes
In celebration of these accomplishments, the resort recently launched a new dining club membership, “Dining at the Dunes.” This membership offers exclusive deals on its sustainable and locally-sourced seasonal cuisine, as well as discounts and offers on other amenities and experiences. For a $229 annual fee, the membership benefits include:
- 15% off regularly priced food and beverage at Ox & Ocean, Sugar Beats and DIVE, excluding specialty dinners
- 15% off nightly best available suite rates
- Four (4) single day pool access passes per membership
- 15% off private pool cabana rental rates
- 15% off spa services an on-site Float Luxury Spa Mandalay Beach
The entrance to signature restaurant Ox and Ocean.
Ox and Ocean offers an elevated dining experience that seamlessly brings together land and sea. Its spaces transition from indoors to outdoors, and we were even treated to live music during the summer nights. Under the leadership of Director of Food & Beverage and level three Sommelier Ricardo Cubias, the menu highlights the wide ranging and diverse bounty of California.
Ox and Ocean’s menu features local produce and seafood sourced directly from Oxnard’s plains and coast. The cuisine celebrates American, Hispanic, and Asian influences, adding playful twists to classic dishes, and standouts include beer-battered fish tacos with chipotle aioli, a Mission-style burrito, and more inventive offerings like delicata squash with kale pesto and turmeric yogurt. In tribute to Oxnard’s famous strawberry season, the dessert menu includes an incredibly delicious signature strawberry hand pie, made with locally sourced berries, McConnell’s vanilla bean ice cream, and dulce de leche. The restaurant’s expansive indoor-outdoor bar complements the dining experience with a thoughtfully curated selection of craft cocktails, local beers, and regional wines.
For a more casual, yet quintessentially Californian experience, Sugar Beats, the resort’s outdoor Airstream trailer, serves locally roasted coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and fresh pastries in the morning to fuel the day’s adventures. Afternoons are dedicated to the venue morphing into a seafood shack, offering beachside vibes with local beers, canned wines, cocktails, adult popsicles, fresh-caught seafood, and even classic kid favorites. Guests can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while sampling California-inspired handheld dishes.
The DIVE lounge provides an ideal space for those seeking either entertainment or relaxation. The lounge features a fully stocked game room with a pool table, shuffleboard, and vintage arcade games, along with comfortable seating and multiple televisions broadcasting live sports. Guests can also enjoy craft cocktails, making DIVE a lively gathering spot for friendly competition and unwinding in style. Plentiful seating means there are likely many fun and eventful occasions in store for families to connect in meaningful and engaging ways. A great place for socializing and decorated beautifully, we wanted to spend even more time at DIVE just for the atmosphere alone.
A New Chapter in History
Stepping foot onto this spectacular property immediately transports guests to a time and place from long ago, with glimpses of the past. From the property’s architecture with its grand bell tower, to the story-telling photos on display in the lobby, Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach has a story to share with anyone willing to listen or look.
The history of the region is deeply woven into the lifestyle, design, and aesthetics of Zachari Dunes, including the origin of its name. The resort pays homage to Henry Oxnard, who was a prominent sugar mogul from the early 1900s. Oxnard, who had ambitious plans to cultivate and process sugar beets along California’s Central Coast, intended to name the settlement after the Greek word for sugar, “Zachari.” In recognition of his vision, the resort adopts this name, honoring the area’s rich agricultural heritage and its connection to the sugar industry.
Just as time has given way to the very dunes along Mandalay Beach and the property’s transformation over the years, a long legacy has now connected to a new and modern vision. The resort will continue its marathon of page turning to traverse an endless journey of change. While a place can undergo a massive renovation, the completion date of that work is merely a checkpoint along the path toward an even brighter future and continued improvements. Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach speaks up for a city that has remained overlooked for far too long, and its team has taken all the right steps to modernize, recalibrate, and refocus on what so many have missed out on.
Oxnard is one of California’s hidden gems, and with Zachari Dunes’ recent accolades, it’s only a matter of time until the city receives the attention it’s due. Travelers from near and far are discovering Zachari Dunes’ natural beauty, whimsical charm, and endless potential as a key destination worth exploring. Its incredible land and sea options at Ox and Ocean, Sugar Beats, and DIVE provide a familiarity that we all look for, yet a uniqueness that can’t be found just anywhere. The resort’s surplus of space garners feelings of luxury, exclusivity, and privacy in California’s only all-suite oceanfront property. And a world of activities and exploration that only California is famous for await, tucked away at Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach.
Learn more and book your stay here. Follow Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach on Instagram here. For a roundup of all events taking place through December, read on.
Bonus: Scheduled Events for the End of The Year
Along with the weekly calendar activities, here are the special events guests can look forward to participating in from October through December:
October 7th – October 13th: Wine & Dine Week
A week-long celebration of wine pairings and gourmet dishes, this event takes place at Ox and Ocean. Highlights will include wines from Napa Valley and Sonoma county, with specially crafted wine pairing menus each evening.
Every Thursday in October: Paella Night (5 pm – 9 pm)
Join Ox and Ocean every Thursday evening in October for a special Paella Night. Enjoy a variety of delicious paella dishes prepared with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. This weekly event will offer guests a taste of authentic Spanish cuisine in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. Let me know if there are any additional details or adjustments needed!
October 31st: Halloween Party (7 pm – 11 pm)
Bring yourself and your kids in costume to receive a 15% discount on your food bill (not including alcohol). Guests can expect specially themed cocktails and appetizers at Ox and Ocean with live music and entertainment.
Every Saturday in October: Pumpkin Carving Contest @ Sugar Beats (10 am – 12 pm)
Festive, interactive, and perfect for families and friends, join the Zachari Dunes team at Sugar Beats every Saturday morning in October for a fun pumpkin carving contest. Guests can show off their creative skills and compete for a chance to win exciting prizes. Everyone is invited to enjoy breakfast and lunch while participating in the contest.
November 10th: Fall Harvest Dinner (6 pm – 9 pm)
Guests can visit Ox and Ocean for a special dinner menu featuring seasonal ingredients and dishes, including a three-course meal with optional wine pairings. Reservations are required for the Fall Harvest Dinner.
November 28th: Thanksgiving Feast (1 pm – 5 pm)
Guests can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings, taking place in The Plaza. The menu includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. With reservations required, this Thanksgiving feast can’t be missed!
November 28th – December 31: Hot Chocolate Nights
Enjoy a cozy Hot Chocolate Night in the Zachari Dunes lobby starting on Thanksgiving and continuing until December 31st. Savor a variety of gourmet hot chocolate flavors and toppings in a festive atmosphere. Available from 6 pm – 8 pm.
December 7th: Free Holiday Wine Tasting (4 pm – 6 pm)
The event will allow guests to sample a selection of festive wines perfect for the holiday season. The selection features wines from California and beyond, taking place at Ox and Ocean.
December 14th: Gingerbread House Workshop (2 pm – 4 pm)
This fun, family-friendly event will let guests decorate their own gingerbread houses, with all supplies and festive treats included! Taking place at the Zachari Dunes Plaza, this event requires reservations and is sure to be a festive cherry on top that everyone can enjoy creating (and eating)!
December 24th: Christmas Eve Dinner (6 pm – 9 pm)
Guests are invited to Celebrate Christmas Eve with a special gourmet dinner at Ox and Ocean. This dinner features a multi-course menu with holiday favorites. Reservations are required.
December 31st New Year’s Eve Gala (8 pm – 1 am)
Ring in the New Year with a grand gala event! Guests are invited to the Zachari Dunes Plaza for a lavish dinner, live music, and a midnight champagne toast to kick off 2025. Reservations are required for this exciting evening event that can’t be missed.
by Dennis Richardson
Cowritten by Anthony C. Stafford
When most travelers visit Southern California, and especially the LA area, it’s easy to assume all the things they want to see and do: beaches, food, and the countless famous landmarks, sights, and activities that the region is known for. And more often than not, a hotel that’s situated where most of these things and the “typical LA” experience are is where these travelers will end up.
The Pierside Hotel happens to be that hotel, located in Historic Santa Monica—right next to the pier—and it’s the ultimate destination for travelers from near or afar. Its history and artful influence on the area, alongside the neighboring iconic buildings, make it a memorable experience, complete with ocean views, beach walks, parks, shopping, museums, and some of the finest dining LA has to offer. On top of that, no experience is complete without the people who call Santa Monica home, making for interesting interactions and showing you what life is like as a local. The Pierside Hotel is outstanding in all of these areas, from its devoted team to its prime location, and it couldn’t be a better place to stay for the ultimate LA experience.
Courtesy: The Pierside Hotel
We were welcomed by the hotel’s team for a weekend stay. We experienced all that they had to offer and, of course, live like locals, taking in the nearby sights, activities, and delectable cuisine.
Laidback Oceanside Hospitality
Anchored at the corner of historic Ocean Avenue and Colorado Avenue, The Pierside embraces bespoke designs that welcome seaside-style lounging and beach-y themes, decorated with plentiful seating, a fireplace, and an aesthetic surf shop. Just opened in January 2023, The Pierside Hotel is one of the newest hotels on Ocean Avenue in 11 years, and it delivers one of the coziest experiences while just steps from the Santa Monica Pier. Boasting 132 guest rooms and suites, coastal views, and a bright, lively lobby, guests are spoiled with some of the finest amenities and features, including an elevated pool experience with food and beverage service, full-service gear rental (surfboards, bikes, and more), a state-of-the-art 24/7 fitness center, and the incredible Surfing Fox signature restaurant with its expansive outdoor patio.
The Pierside pronounces its iconic status as beach-side passersby and guests take in a custom mural commissioned by renowned contemporary artist Shepard Fairey, his largest installation in the area to date. The artwork covers the entire ocean-facing side of the hotel and represents the people of Santa Monica, further echoing an authentic connection to the very best of the city. The Pierside features various local partnerships with small businesses and artists, further showing a devotion to the community. These include Yada Yoga wellness services, Santa Monica Picnic Co. for custom, enchanting beachside picnics, and Santa Monica Surf School.
Upon entering, the hotel’s team is incredibly kind, going above and beyond to ensure their guests’ stays are pleasant, and even offering recommendations for all the things they can do and see in the area or across the city.
Like Visiting a Beach Home
While the guest rooms at The Pierside Hotel are on the cozy side, they feature fusion seating that doubles as a couch or lounge (and a bed! ), making for the perfect place to take in the scenic landscapes, ocean views, people watch, or simply snooze during your down time. Laidback coastal living is the theme, and it flows seamlessly from the lobby and into the suites.
Accommodations include partial coastal views, with configurations ranging from king rooms featuring a queen-size sofa sleeper to rooms with two queen beds. Multi-functional, stylish furnishings that incorporate woven, nautical-like materials and floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the vibrant scenery of Santa Monica, while design elements include accented wallpaper in designated closet areas, plush Boca Terry bathrobes, and bath amenities by Sachajuan. The Coastal and Park View Suites offer additional luxury with oversized showers, dual vanities, Helsinki Bluetooth speakers, and eco-friendly wool throws by The Tartan Blanket Co.
The guest rooms are stocked with some of the latest and greatest industry-standard amenities and features, like multi-dial shower heads, bright lighting, and plentiful natural light. An added bonus is a stack of postcards available for guests to deliver at the front desk so that they can be mailed off free of charge. Send those “Wish you were here!” notes off to friends and family!
Given the location and its history, it’s also fitting that the rooms are on the smaller side when compared to newer hotels, and every square inch of each space is used with intention. Even still, we found plentiful outlets for device charging and more than enough space for luggage, sprawling out and lounging around.
But who will really spend all their time locked away in the guest room when there’s so much out there to see and do!?
A Classic LA Experience
It can’t be understated just how perfect the Pierside Hotel’s location is, mere steps from the Santa Monica Pier, famous for its vendors, ferris wheel, and carnival aesthetic. The historic Ocean Avenue area brings plentiful sun, a cool ocean breeze, endless crowds, attractions, entertainment, and shopping within walkable distance. Not to mention the endless comparisons amongst gamers to the visuals in the “Grand Theft Auto V” video game, notoriously designed to represent the region. For adventurers, a drive up PCH is always scenic, while Griffith Observatory, LA Live, and even the Getty Museum are minutes away.
If you’re not too keen on dealing with traffic, just steps away from the hotel is Santa Monica Place, an outdoor shopping center located next to the Third Street Promenade. Some of the finest stores and dining can be found in these areas, including Louis Vuitton, Coach, Vinfast, Nike, Uniqlo, True Food Kitchen, The Cheesecake Factory, and more, with additional stores and restaurants on the way. Beloved Din Tai Fung is coming soon to Santa Monica Place, which is sure to be a hit with travelers and locals alike.
There’s no shortage of options when it comes to where to eat, with the spectacular Mon Ami just around the corner from the hotel. The Mediterranean restaurant is tucked away in its own closed off perimeter, past other restaurants, but its neon heart logo can’t be missed. Mexican, Italian, seafood, and even fast food are within the vicinity, and if you’re taking a drive into Brentwood or Beverly Hills, consider stopping by Parakeet Café for some of California’s finest whole, ethically sourced, globally and culturally inspired foods and coffee beans.
For those looking for a slower pace, there are even museums at Santa Monica Place, like Cayton Children’s Museum, Arte Museum (coming soon), and Sci-Fi World across the street. The bottom line is that you don’t have to go too far to find the best that the city has to offer.
After those long days of exploration and activity—or even before—the Surfing Fox is always there to give you an astonishingly incredible meal.
Asian-Latin American Fusion
The Surfing Fox deserves every opportunity for hotel guests and locals to come in to dine, and even more so to connect with its team members, who play an integral role in making the experience a stellar one. On top of its excellent service, Surfing Fox dishes up some of the most exquisite meals to be found in hotel-restaurant duos. Passing on the uptight and exclusive luxury appeal most other hotel signature restaurants opt for, The Surfing Fox instead flows with an appropriate yet elevated, chill ocean-front dining style. The restaurant lives up to its name with plentiful sunlight during the day, open-air seating with high tables and booths, a patio with fireplaces to combat those chilly evening breezes, and beachside-style decor that flows seamlessly into the hotel’s lobby.
Upon being seated, guests are welcomed to choose from a range of signature cocktails, dubbed “Foxtails,” and other beverages. Some of their featured flavors include Passion Fruit, Thai Basil, Prickly Pear, Banana, and Yuzu, while wines and beers are also available to choose from. The menu’s breakfast, brunch, and dinner dishes feature coastal Californian cuisine with an Asian-Latin American-infused flair that blows tastebuds away. The vibrant meals are bold with flavor as the restaurant chefs lean into alluring, subtle, and striking pairings that were made for one another.
Our visit included the following highlights:
- Hot Chicken Sandwich with spicy Furikake Fries
- Portuguese bun, koji brined, Oaxacan spices, cabbage slaw
- Grilled Hangar Steak
- crispy sweet potatoes, Japanese chimichurri, cured egg yolk
- Lobster Roll
- brioche bun, lobster, miso aioli, crispy shallots, fries
- Crispy Sweet Potatoes
- ponzu, charred onion aioli, togarashi
- Ceviche
- hamachi, mandarin-coconut leche de tigre, fresno chile, red onion, charred orange
- Guacamole
- onion, cilantro, serrano, tortilla chips
- Michelada Mussels
- beer steamed, tomato confit, tajin, grilled sourdough
- Cripy Brussels Sprouts
- and Desserts
- Cookies and Ice Cream
- chocolate chip cookies, vanilla bean ice cream
- Matcha Crème Brûlée (vegan)
- oat milk, matcha, coconut cream
- Champurrado Pot De Cream
- Mexican chocolate, whipped cream, cocoa nibs
There simply aren’t enough good things that we could say about any of the dishes we tried. Portions are outstanding, and flavors dance throughout each dish harmoniously, with the potential for leftovers. It’s quite possible that guests will likely feel a strong urge to come back to Surfing Fox multiple times to take advantage of the menu’s many options or to revisit their favorites from initial dining experiences. As locals, we can’t wait to come back, but not just for the food. For us, it’s the devoted team that puts the cherry on top of our time at The Surfing Fox.
An All-Star Team to Remember
When it comes to the impact and connection of The Pierside Hotel‘s and The Surfing Fox’s teams, their kindness and knowledge can’t be overstated.
Receptionist Daniel, who checked us in, gave us a warm welcome while answering our questions about the hotel and the historic area, along with the Director of Rooms, Chris Smith. And somehow, receptionist Peyton Mentaberry raised the bar even higher, giving us insight into his time at the hotel and delivering a plethora of nearby recommendations to us and other guests, including Griffith Observatory, how to see The Hollywood Sign, local parks, his favorite dishes at The Surfing Fox, nearby restaurants, and so much more. Peyton actively explores all of the things that make Los Angeles an incredible city full of life and could not be recommended more for guests coming in blind and in need of recommendations across a spectrum of categories.
The team at the Surfing Fox continued to raise the bar of excellence, as Sam, Marea, Isaac Munoz, and Gabriel Ruiz went above and beyond, recommending their favorite dishes and best pairings between them, giving us some background about the restaurant, and simply having incredibly fun and entertaining personalities. Isaac outshines Gabriel when making latte art, but they’re filled with love all the same, while Sam and Marea make you feel like family with their menu secrets and flavorful insights.
So often, we reminisce on all the things that make vacations and hotel stays great, but the people who are responsible for making those times so memorable are often forgotten. The Pierside Hotel and the Surfing Fox have a combined team of some of the best people you’ll meet, so we recommend talking to them, getting to know them, and even making a new friend.
Its easy access to world-class shopping, upscale nightlife, a renowned dining scene, abundant entertainment options, and unique outdoor and cultural experiences make The Pierside Hotel and its signature The Surfing Fox restaurant destinations for locals and travelers alike. As guests are enveloped in the hotel’s seaside flow, they are prepared for the laidback LA lifestyle, seeing some of the very best that the city has to offer, whether within walkable or drivable distance. From the team members who offer great insight into the hotel, its signature restaurant, and key attractions to the countless activities and landmarks for guests to get lost exploring, The Pierside Hotel is a hospitality lighthouse, beckoning to travelers near and far that it is best suited to deliver the incomparable and irresistible LA experience that so many fall in love with. It is the one place where experiences, people, food, and coastal living come together in a way that no other can offer.
Book your stay this summer.
