This laidback beachside hotel offers rooms and suites that accommodate vacations of all lengths—whether your trip spans two nights or two months, you’ll find kitchenettes, laundry service and other homey amenities in streamlined, comfortable digs.
Towering over its newer neighbors, AIR Venice on the Beach’s prim gray-trimmed façade betrays its past—originally constructed in the early 20th century, the historical building is a throwback to a different, less tech-industry- fueled era for the neighborhood. This isn’t to say that AIR is outdated. Inside, the hotel is pleasantly modern, decked out in a soothing palette of blues and grays complimented by dark wood furniture and featuring contemporary amenities like keyless entry, free wifi and flat screen TVs in every room. The rooms themselves are designed to suit extended stays as well as short stints; the most modest digs come with a microwave, while larger suites boast fully stocked kitchenettes. All rooms include access to laundry facilities and the fitness center at nearby Gold’s gym, as well as bicycle rentals and a weekend concierge. While “residential hotel” often evokes dreary highway-side stays for business travelers, AIR’s hip, lively location ensures that even the most jam-packed work itinerary will be able to accommodate a little fun, too. If you’re looking for a space that feels like home in all the right ways without sacrificing the perks of a hotel stay, AIR is your spot.
Location: The Venice Beach boardwalk is a mecca for weirdos of all stripes—a short beachside stroll lets you take in bodybuilders, crystal healers, street performers, and an intimidating number of head shops. AIR’s seaside location is ideal for languid days at the beach, while nearby Abbot Kinney and Main Street are crowded with upscale shops, dining and entertainment, all within walking distance.
Nearby:
Rose Café: This neighborhood mainstay slings fresh California cuisine with a comfort food twist—think hearth roasted brioche French toast with whipped creme fraiche for brunch, butternut squash tortellini for dinner and a formidable cocktail menu to wash it all down.
Venice Canals: Venice is naturally named for the famed aquatic Italian city, and visitors may be surprised to discover that the neighborhood has its own set of canals. On an afternoon stroll, you’ll take in rows of ducklings, lush foliage and well-appointed beach cottages.
Abbot Kinney: Don’t pass up an opportunity to explore Abbot Kinney, a posh boulevard of designer shopping and buzzy new restaurants. If your stay falls on the first Friday of the month, Abbot Kinney turns into a mile-long block party complete with art, music, and some of L.A.’s finest food trucks.
The Del Monte Speakeasy: Originally established in 1915, the former basement speakeasy has updated its cocktail menu, but its nightly events are a nod to the past: with jazz, vaudeville and crooners, the Del Monte makes for a romantic and original date night.
Good for: Business travelers are the travelers most likely to take advantage of residential hotels; AIR’s extended stay options are cool enough to appeal to business people who want to make the most of their trip outside work hours.
Amenities: Free wifi, laundry (self service), concierge (weekends only)
Time Out tip: When booking, aim for a room with full ocean views—while all suites offer some views of the Pacific, the full panoramic experience at sunset is a vacation-making spectacle.