Blocks from the Sunset Strip, this luxe Spanish-style villa offers a lush refuge to rock stars (and guests who want to feel like rock stars) with tranquil gardens, fine dining and celeb-endorsed spa treatments.
Mere blocks from the Sunset strip, the Sunset Marquis Hotel is a lush refuge that doesn’t lose any of Hollywood’s rocker appeal. Artists like Joan Jett, the Who, and the Doors have graced the hotel’s sea-shell toned hallways and downed Sunset 75s in the low-slung leather couches at Bar 1200. (The hotel happens to house Nightbird Recording Studios, which draws top musicians nationwide.) Despite a guest list of famous ne’er do wells, the grounds themselves are surprisingly quiet. After a night on the strip, guests can recoup at one of the Marquis’ two pools, or take a stroll along the palm-shaded gardens. SPA, the in-house European-style treatment center, offers self-care with manis, aromatherapy massages and body polishes with Cali-centric products from the likes of Guinot and Chanel. If the treatments weren’t upscale enough, consider the facilities: private showers and lounge areas for each guest, and massage beds designed by Porsche.
Location: West Hollywood is one of L.A.’s most historical gay and lesbian neighborhoods, though its clubby vibes are now open to partiers of all kinds. The Strip itself can be equal parts glitzy and hokey, while the homes surrounding the hotel have a mellower, neighborhood-y vibe.
Nearby:
The Comedy Store: With three stages and stand-up every night of the week, you’re guaranteed at least a few laughs at L.A.’s most famous comedy club.
Saddle Ranch Chop House: The Sunset Strip steakhouse boasts a mechanical bull, fire pits for DIY s’mores and a surprisingly good cut of meat. It can get tourist-heavy, but the level of cheese remains charming late into the night.
The Roxy: This historic Sunset Strip music venue boasts a small crowd capacity for intimate shows from a wide range of acts; the programming is overseen by the same bookers who handle Coachella, so you know you’re in for quality tunes.
Sushi Park: This locals-only sushi house proudly denounces takeout, tempura and all rolls in favor of classic sashimi and nigiri. Opt for the omakase—yes, it’s pricey, but sushi happens to be one of those you-get- what-you- pay-for cuisines, and Sushi Park’s is exquisitely crafted.
Good for: Party animals will certainly find something to do along the strip, but the Marquis itself is ideal for a low-key luxurious lovers’ weekend. Playing off its patently sexy rock n’ roll ambience, the Marquis offers couples packages that include near-cheesy romantic accoutrements like rose petals, chocolate covered strawberries and a rainfall shower for two.
Amenities: Pool, room service, free wifi, minibar, restaurant, bar, concierge, spa
Time Out tip: For $3,000 a year, a select few locals (15, to be exact) can score unfettered access to the Marquis pool. That’s 365 days of sunning, swimming, and star-sighting, plus access to events, wine and liquor tastings, and complimentary Sunday brunch.