Los Angeles Hotels

Housed in a former 1920s Renaissance Revival beach club, this Art Deco stunner is a real dream of a resort hotel, equal in every respect to its sister resort, Shutters, located across the street . Which one you prefer depends on your personal sense of style. While Shutters is outfitted like a chic East Coast beach house, this impeccable, U-shape villalike structure radiates period glamour. The building's shape awards ocean views to most of the guest rooms; unfortunately, windows don't open more than an inch or two (which gives Shutters, whose rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and balconies, a slight advantage). You're unlikely to be too disappointed, thanks to the gorgeous, summery, European-inspired decor in golds and sea-grass hues, plus abundant luxuries that include sumptuously dressed beds and big Italian marble bathrooms with extra-large whirlpool tubs and separate showers. Rooms are laid out for relaxation, not business, so travelers with work on their minds should stay elsewhere.

Downstairs you'll find a big, elegant living room with ocean views, a stylish lounge, and the Catch Restaurant, which has earned justifiable kudos (and more than a few celebrity fans) for its beautiful setting, great service, and finest seasonal seafood. The hotel's spa is one of L.A.'s finest (and most expensive), featuring the exclusive product line of Dr. Howard Murad, one of the country's foremost authorities on skin care.

Facilities: Oceanfront restaurant; lobby lounge for cocktails and light fare; cafe for daytime dining; heated outdoor Roman-style pool; plunge pool; state-of-the-art health club w/spa services; Jacuzzi overlooking Santa Monica Beach; 24-hr. concierge; business center; 24-hr. room service; laundry service; dry cleaning.

- Frommer's