Photography provided by Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills
The esteemed hospitality group’s first West Coast foray, the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills combines the brand’s storied sophistication with easy-going California cool. Since its opening in 2017, the posh property has quickly become a favorite among discerning globetrotters and locals alike (yes, including celebrities), thanks to its opulent amenities such as its luxe La Prairie Spa and the resplendent Rooftop Beverly Hills — the ultimate social venue in town. Fittingly, the hotel has received pretty much every award in existence, including Forbes five-star honors, a Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award, a Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award, and many others. Simply put, it’s the swankiest stay in town, but without any pretension. That’s a winning combination in our book.
Setting
Located at the corner of Wilshire and Santa Monica boulevards, the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills sits in the hottest locale of its namesake city. It’s sandwiched between the uber exclusive Los Angeles Country Club and the picturesque Beverly Gardens Park, which boasts nearly two miles of rose, cacti and specialty gardens, art sculptures, and of course the selfie-ready Beverly Hills Sign. The five-star hotel is also mere minutes from the Golden Triangle, a fashionista’s dream with high-end shopping galore along Rodeo Drive as well as top-notch dining and browse-worthy art galleries. Even with this prime location, the property manages to feel secluded; it’s a sumptuous sanctuary that puts you right in the lap of luxury.
Vibe
The Waldorf Astoria is the epitome of quiet luxury — a feeling many brands try to embody but few nail like this. The striking art deco structure was designed and built by Perkins&Will and Gensler to hark back to Hollywood’s golden age. From the moment you walk into the bright, light-filled lobby, you’re enveloped in understated elegance, as expertly envisioned by acclaimed French interior designer Pierre-Yves Rochon. His famed firm infused a European flair that feels at once timeless and contemporary. This is the California good life.
Claim to Fame
Yes, this is a favorite hangout for celebrities, but it’s because of the hotel team’s discretion — meaning paparazzi moments and leaked videos are a rarity. That said, the plush property has become an Emmys and Golden Globes pre- and after-party hot spot, with notables like Drake, Angelina Jolie and Kevin Costner attending celebratory soirees in recent years. And there are always famous folks and high-power industry insiders grabbing drinks and gabbing up on the Rooftop (though, in true Waldorf Astoria fashion, we can’t name names).
Amenities
The spa, the KEVIN B Salon, the boutique shops, the fitness center, the rooftop pool — what’s not to love here? Pretty much everything you want is within reach, and if it’s not already available onsite, your personal concierge (assigned to you upon arrival) will make it happen. The rooftop, in particular, is a wellness haven, with its heated pool, cold plunge, infrared sauna and cabanas complete with wellness treatments. Plus there are fun excursions available to you, like embarking on a coastal yacht voyage, hitting the road in a bespoke luxury car or having an all-out American Girl weekend. Whatever your heart desires can be made a reality here.
The Rooms
The hotel’s easy refinement continues from the public spaces into the 170 oversize guest rooms, including 51 suites. Elegant elements abound, from the grand Italian marble entryways to the state-of-the-art Crestron smart home systems to the floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies looking out on panoramic views. Bathrooms, meanwhile, feature two basins, a deep soaking tub and a separate shower primed for some in-room pampering. The Penthouse Suites are unrivaled in their opulence, boasting expansive square footage — up to 3,215 in the Presidential Penthouse — and designated areas for entertaining, living and lounging.
The Spa
If you weren’t feeling relaxed enough already, a trip to La Prairie Spa — which also earned five stars from Forbes — will guarantee it. The storied Swiss brand is known the world over for its nourishing offerings, including massages, facials, nail services and treatments specially designed to get you red-carpet ready. Each of the four body work treatments is aptly named after its intended results: reset, balance, nurture and uplift. We recommend the uplift, a rejuvenating ritual that leaves you feeling ready to face the world.
Dining
The star of the show here is undoubtedly the Rooftop, where fashionable foodies can explore a menu marrying Eastern and Western influences. Of particular note are can’t-miss items like the tuna crispy rice (with caviar, obviously), grilled octopus and black pepper beef stir-fry. The hotel also features culinary delights at Espelette, in the Lobby Lounge and of course in the comfort of your own guest room. Breakfast at Espelette is stellar, with specialties like a pancake, smoked salmon and caviar dish served up in an inspiring space. Come afternoon, the bar and lounge at Espelette offers artfully crafted cocktails and light dinner options. The highlight in the Lobby Lounge, meanwhile, is the weekend Afternoon High Tea, which combines European tradition with California sensibilities — just like the posh property itself.
