Start the morning off right by taking in the breathtaking hills from your room at the Chateau Marmont, the most LA of all hotels. Head downstairs for breakfast in the courtyard, where you’ll probably spot a celeb or two talking potential projects with execs. LA is all about chilling, so stay a while and read the paper while your benedict settles.
On Sunset, you’re located at the foot of the hills, ideal for getting in a hike at Runyon Canyon, the famed playground for Angelinos. Honestly, don’t expect a great workout— it’s an easy hike, but the views from the top are choice. If you want more of a challenge and can spare more time, try the Griffith Park trail instead, and take your camera. You’ll hike right past the Hollywood sign.
Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, it’s time to grab lunch at The Ivy, the lunch spot of LA. Afterward, pop into some Robertson Blvd shops such as Kitson and Chanel. Ready for more views? Awesome. It’s time to hit LACMA.
West Hollywood has so many great restaurants, it’s hard to commit to just one dinner spot if you only have a few days. I suggest starting with a steak at Craig’s, then when it gets later, grabbing dessert at the hottest of hot spots: The Nice Guy. And don’t forget that one of the coolest pm lounges happens to be the very spot where you had breakfast this morning.
Day 2
We’re so over this part of town. Time to move west down Sunset. When you arrive at the ultra photogenic, exclusive Beverly Hills Hotel, drop off your bags with the front desk and head straight to The Polo Lounge for breakfast. This chic, sceney courtyard restaurant boasts great food and major Liz Taylor vibes (she honeymooned here like a million times). By the time all the pink, green and adorable bellboy costumes have calmed you, the stores on Rodeo Drive will be open, so ask the house car to drop you off at Dior (I say this because Dior is at the foot of Rodeo, so you’ll drive down the full street taking it in before getting out of the car). From here, it’s up to you, your tastes and your budget, but for most people, window shopping is enough.
When all that shopping has worked up an appetite, grab lunch at my favorite people-watching restaurant, Il Pasta, or afternoon tea outside at Blvd in the Beverly Wilshire Hotel (i.e. Pretty Woman Hotel. The red dress is only display in the lobby). The sun in LA rarely comes out in the morning, but by afternoon it’s almost always a perfect day, so after lunch, head back to the hotel to enjoy some pool time.
I hope you didn’t spoil your appetite eating Nacho’s at the pool because we’re going to two spots again tonight. First up, Spago, because you have to try the little ravioli things. Then, Catch, the uber-hotspot where you can take in even more views from the seafood spot's gorgeous rooftop tables.
Day 3
Rise and shine! We’re going all the way west today. Have your breakfast on the deck of the gorgeous Shutters on the Beach, where it is literally impossible not to be relaxed. Enjoy the morning at this picturesque Santa Monica beachfront hotel before taking off for the bohemian district of Venice. Take to the boardwalk on bike, then Abbot Kinney on foot, where you absolutely must stop for lunch at Gjelina. And whether you choose to do so in Venice or back in Santa Monica, put your toes in the water. But just your toes. The Pacific is freezing all year round.
When your playtime is over, head back to the hotel, make yourself all pretty, and drive up the PCH to Nobu Malibu during what we in Lalaland know as magic hour. We’ve saved the best view for last, because with the hills to your right and the ocean to your left, Pacific Coast Highway boasts the most beautiful and transporting sight in LA. When you arrive at Nobu, arguably one of the best restaurants in the world, prepare for some of the best sushi you’ve ever had (ask about the secret menu) and take your time eating it. Tonight isn’t about the excitement and glamour of LaLaLand. It’s about soaking in the last sunset in a place that isn’t a just a city— LA is truly it’s own world.
Photos shot in Malibu by myself | Wearing dress by Black Halo
Gorgeous photos! You look like a California dream!
ReplyDeleteThanks, darling girl! x
DeleteI love how you recommend switching hotels. Switching hotels can make it possible to experience a city in different ways on one trip. It may seem like unnecessary work, but you want to see all sides of LA-- hot West Hollywood, luxurious Beverly Hills, dreamy laid-back Santa Monica. I'm with you on this!
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely! The little extra effort is worth it in cities where different areas take on different vibes!
DeleteThis is perfect! Literally the perfect three days in LA!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Sweets! x
DeleteThe three quintessential LA hotels! Between the three, you get the full picture of LA. Because there is absolutely no need to see Hollywood, downtown or whatever is east of there.
ReplyDeleteHaha it's true! West side is the ONLY side!
DeleteSo funny about the "little ravioli things." I don't know what that dish is called but it is the best thing I've ever eaten!
ReplyDeleteThey're at E Baldi and Georgio Baldi too! (Though I don't know what they're called there either)
DeleteLove the idea of moving further west every day. This is the perfect three days whether you live here or are visiting! In LA, locals are always hanging out at the hotels!
ReplyDelete