Hotel Oceana -- Santa Monica

It was only a matter of time before the adorable Fifties-vintage Oceana became a hot commodity again. With its mid-century modernist good looks, and its setting on Ocean Avenue, looking out over Santa Monica State Beach, the hotel was, as the saying goes, born on third base. Now, after a 30-million-dollar makeover, it’s home: to its considerable personality it adds a healthy dose of contemporary style, and upgrades its comforts until they’re squarely in the luxury category.

All 70 of Oceana’s suites come with high-end touches like Frette linens, Loro Piana bedding, and Bottega Veneta bath products. Every suite is subtly different in layout — some come with picture-window views of the Pacific, others with balconies, pull-out sofas, or kitchens. Handmade Nepalese rugs mingle with works by local artists, and the already-luxe experience is elevated by service that’s informal but first-rate.

Something similar could be said of the Dining Room restaurant, where chef Raphael Lunetta serves locally sourced California coastal cuisine in a colorful indoor-outdoor space. And while it’s an apartment-style hotel rather than a resort, Oceana’s got more than its fair share of diversions, from the courtyard pool to a session with a personal trainer or a yoga class on the beach.

How to get there:
Oceana Hotel is a 20-minute drive from Los Angeles International Airport. Valet parking is available for $39 USD per night.