In short… Shutters on the Beach is laid-back California luxury on the beach, with considered European touches.
The surroundings… Shutters sits just off the beach in Santa Monica’s buzzy downtown, surrounded by street artists, musicians and joggers. Plenty of restaurants, galleries and shops are just a couple of blocks away, making it an ideal spot for exploring LA—or escaping from it.
The vibe… Shutters feels like the private family residence you’ve always wished you had. The lobby is cozy, with warm wood accents, big sofas and fireplaces—complemented by some great California art, including pieces from Alex Katz and Hockey’s California series. As you walk through to the front of the hotel, the atmosphere shifts to white wood, pale sand and beachfront views. It feels like a chic, well-traveled European’s interpretation of what laid-back American beachfront luxury should be—which isn’t totally surprising given that the GM, Christophe Baraton, is a charming and extremely experienced Frenchman with a background at Ritz Carlton, Waldorf Astoria and Delano.
The rooms… have details like dark hardwood floors, excellent beds, a well stocked and considered bar (and mini bar), white shuttered windows, and spacious bathrooms. Private terraces add to the appeal, and the suites naturally offer the best views. The coveted rooms at the front of the hotel are just one floor above the beach.
The wellness… The spa is small but perfectly formed. While it isn’t the main attraction, with the beach right outside it would be crazy not to rent a bike or join their complimentary morning yoga classes.
The food & drink… One Pico is the flagship restaurant, offering a selection of cocktails, fine wines, and classic SoCal cooking. The focus is on ingredients, sourced both locally and from farther afield, and the dishes feel refreshingly uncomplicated for upscale Californian cuisine. Don’t overlook Coast, especially for breakfast—it has a family-friendly diner feel and served the best breakfast we had in the U.S. this summer. The Brioche French toast stuffed with Mascarpone cream, caramel sea salt, and blueberries was to die for (possibly literally). And the pizza oven by the pool is a joy to behold after a few laps in the famous Shutters pool.
Extra tip goes to… The concierges Jonathan and Bernardo are absolutely at the top of their game. Same day Dodgers tickets? No problem.
Be sure to… Check out the gift shop. It has a thoughtful edit with everything from Hunza G bikinis to Super Goop sunscreen—and a cool collection of vintage inspired Shutters T-shirts and totes.
Parting words… When can we move in?
Date of stay… August 2024
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