Shutters on the Beach

Located right on the beach, and with views over Santa Monica pier, Shutters feels very much like a grand private residence. It seems to blend old and new with ease, juxtaposing dark wood floors and old leather sofas with light, whitewashed rooms using sand and sea colors to give you that beach house informality.

The rooms all have private balconies or patios, some with superb sea views. You can let the ocean in by opening your beach-white shutters and stepping out onto your balcony. The room comes equipped with a suitable range of luxuries; flat screen TVs with movies on demand, iPod docs and rain showers.
There are two restaurants; One Pico, overlooking the sea, offers locally sourced fish and spit-roasted meats complete with an on site sommelier. Coast is a more informal offering, a great place to head for lunch, or a drink in the evening on the enclosed outdoor patio where heated floors keep you warm. The Lobby Lounge also offers light snacks and cocktails.

There is a lovely outdoor pool with views over the ocean, complete with sun loungers and cabanas. The spa is superb and run by Ole Henriksen (who pampers the A List Hollywood crowd) and also contains an expansive Fitness Center. The hotel can arrange all you need for a day out, such as bikes for rent for the family, to a beach pack which ranges from suntan lotion to an umbrella and beach chairs.

As well as having the beach on your doorstop, there are plenty of opportunities to shop on nearby Montana Avenue. For those thinking of a shopping splurge, head to Beverley Hills’ Rodeo Drive. The Farmers Market in Santa Monica is a great little excursion, as too a visit to Hollywood.