Hotels in Los Angeles

From super deluxe to homespun homestays: LA's hotels suit all tastes

Hotels in Los Angeles The 'O' hotel, Los Angeles - © Sarah Hadley/Time Out
By Will Fulford-Jones and Allison Milionis

Los Angeles hotels have blossomed in recent times. During the last few years, a slew of new accommodation has opened in the city, the majority at the high end of the market. At the same time, a number of existing hotels have embarked on redesigns and renovations in a bid to keep pace with their shiny new rivals. However, despite this activity, one problem remains: there's a profound lack of decent affordable accommodation.

When deciding on a hotel, you'll first need to decide on a location. Where you choose to stay will greatly affect your time here, and how much you pay. Even basic hotels can charge a premium if they're near the beach; conversely, a room in a business-friendly downtown property can be had for a song on weekends. Assuming a similar standard of service, one basic rule holds true: the closer to the Pacific, the pricier the room.

LA's history might be short, but a number of hotels make great play of their own past. The Beverly Hills Hotel & Bungalows, the Hotel Bel-Air and the Chateau Marmont all tap into their Hollywood heritage in a variety of ways, while the Millennium Biltmore prides itself on its old-money feel.

Standing in stylish opposition to them is a new breed of fashion-friendly operations, seen in the Viceroy and the Shade. Some hotels, such as the Hollywood Roosevelt and the Avalon, have a foot in both camps, simultaneously trading off past and present. On the other end of the scale are the chains that dot the region, providing characterless but reliable lodgings.

Booking & prices

Room rates vary wildly, both from hotel to hotel and within a single property: public holidays, big conventions and awards shows are just three events that affect rates.

Hidden extras are the real killer. Quoted room rates will exclude a gasp-inducing 14 per cent room tax. While parking is free in a few hotels, most charge heavily for the privilege: you can expect to pay $25-$30 in many properties. So, a double room with a quoted rate of $300 will probably set you back $375 with tax and parking: a 25 per cent mark-up.

When making a reservation, first call the hotel or, better still, go to the hotel's website: many properties offer internet-only specials that can shave as much as $50 from the rates. Always check cancellation policies: many hotels won't charge you if you cancel more than 24 hours ahead, but you might not be eligible for a refund if you book through an outside website.

Our listings

Our hotel prices reflect changes in rates, according to major events. The rates listed are for double rooms. We list a selection of services for each hotel, from pools (all are outdoors unless stated) to entertainment (all hotels have in-room TVs unless stated). California law requires all hotels to provide non-smoking rooms and facilities for disabled visitors.

While every effort and care has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this guide, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for any errors it may contain. Before you go out of your way, we strongly advise you to phone ahead and check the particulars.

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