A famed Pasadena landmark since 1907, this hotel captures the grace and elegance of classic Southern California. A marble-topped registration area is staffed by employees who address all guests by name. Traditional oil portraits hang over formal chairs and tables, lending the lobby a royal vestibule ambience. Elegantly sparse hallways lead to dining areas, spa, and guestrooms.

This Beverly Hills hotel is a tranquil haven for well-heeled, privacy-seeking travelers who require top-notch accommodations and tech-savvy services. Its location is a favorite with discriminating entertainment industry guests.

What to expect: Near the busy international airport and within several miles of many corporate offices, the Renaissance Montura exudes a stylish, sanctified air. Contemporary architecture, lovely public spaces, and attentive service appeal to businesspeople, guests attending on-site events, and vacationers desiring to be near the beach. Smoking is not permitted.

Amenity highlights: Complimentary airport shuttles run around the clock. California cuisine and wines are highlighted in 96th Street Bistro, which serves Starbucks coffee in the morning and cocktails in the evening. An outdoor pool and spa tub are open year-round. Separate women’s and men’s saunas, cardio machines with individual TV monitors, and free weights are provided in the complimentary hotel club. A self-serve business center is available 24 hours.

Insider tip: At the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier, six miles from the hotel, is Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium that displays brilliantly colored local marine life. On display are ray and baby shark tanks, as well as exhibits about habitat, sharks, tidepools, and living reefs. Admission is complimentary, but small donations are appreciated.

Located in a quiet neighborhood, the Chamberlain West Hollywood draws guests seeking privacy yet easy access (steps away) to the non-stop activity of Sunset Strip and Santa Monica Boulevard. Water-inspired hues of teal and aqua create a tranquil environment throughout the hotel.

Philippe Starck designed this Sunset Strip hotel to resemble a beach house, with white, billowy curtains, polished wood floors, and modern white and stainless-steel furnishings. A mile from Beverly Center and eight miles from downtown Los Angeles, Mondrian West Hollywood attracts entertainment-industry employees and leisure travelers.

Occupying a historic, 18-floor building with Art Deco façade, this hotel stands on a quiet residential street two blocks from the wide expanse of Santa Monica Beach. The large lobby has marble-tiled floors accented with retro-style shag rugs. Seating areas offer contemporary furniture in white leather and natural woods. Guests appreciate the Huntley’s stylish ambience, well-appointed rooms, and proximity to shopping, restaurants, entertainment, offices, and the beach.

The shining glass- and marble-accented lobby, with its cascading water wall and elegant lounge, is filled with business travelers and studio executives.