5 marina-side hotels in SoCal that are perfect for boat lovers

Nestled between the King Harbor Marina and a streetside stretch of the Stand, the luxury boutique Shade Hotel Redondo Beach is great for those who just want to soak up the marina and ocean views. Take them in from the hotel’s Sea Level restaurant while digging into coastal cuisine or from the Aqua rooftop pool. The best and most relaxing view in the house, however, will be out on the balcony of one of the hotel’s suites which are equipped with private soaking tubs.

Fun fact: Marina del Rey is one of the largest man-made marinas in the world and it’s right here in our own backyard. One way to take advantage of it it: Book a staycation at the Jamaica Bay Inn. It’s a very easy, no-fuss spot to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. You’ll find nearby watersport rentals, a heated pool with marina views and alfresco dining at the aptly named Beachside Restaurant & Bar. We also recommend taking one of the hotel’s beach cruisers out for a spin.

If five-star resorts are more your speed, definitely check out the Ritz-Carlton, Marina del Rey. In addition to the usual plush amenities you’d enjoy at a Ritz-Carlton, the hotel can also arrange a private yacht adventure for you or a dinner cruise complete with a welcome glass of champagne. When you’re not on the water, you can relax and enjoy the marina views from your room, chill out by the saltwater pool or savor a farm-to-table meal at the hotel’s Cast & Plow restaurant.

Originally opened in 1962, the Portofino Hotel & Marina is right by the King Harbor Marina in Redondo Beach. It has a nautical, laid-back vibe that’s great for those who want to spend time by or in the water. Guests can rent deep sea fishing equipment, take surf or scuba lessons, or go sailing and kayaking and spot sea lions, dolphins and pelicans along the way. Pro tip: The oceanside guest rooms on the top floors have private balconies with sweeping water views perfect for breathing in the cool ocean breeze and watching the boats float by.

Technically, the Kona Kai Resort & Spa isn’t in Los Angeles: It’s located on Shelter Island in San Diego. But its luxe amenities and wealth of water activities definitely makes it worth the two-hour drive. You can get a work out in with a stand-up paddle boarding session, rent a speedboat or a sailboat, ride jet skis, go kayaking and see aquatic wildlife up close, or go on a family-friendly pedal boat. The newly expanded resort also features suites with prime marina views, an adults-only pool and bar right by the water, and a private beach with bonfire pits perfect for making s’mores and watching the sunset after a day out on the water.