Shutters on the Beach

Amid the urban buzz of Los Angeles, nestled on the sun-drenched shores of Santa Monica, lies an oasis of tranquility and elegance—Shutters on the Beach. More than just a five-star hotel, Shutters is a coastal sanctuary, a destination in its own right where the timeless charm of a Cape Cod beach house meets the upscale polish of modern California luxury. Just steps from the Pacific Ocean, this iconic retreat offers sweeping ocean views, world-class service, and a warm, breezy atmosphere that invites guests to unwind and soak in the rhythm of the sea.

From the moment it comes into view, Shutters on the Beach evokes a sense of nostalgic charm. Its whitewashed wooden façade, shuttered windows, and private balconies echo the architecture of classic East Coast beach homes, reinterpreted through a refined Californian lens. The interiors are the work of acclaimed designer Michael S. Smith, known for his work at the White House under President Barack Obama. Every room is a testament to sophisticated taste—wood furnishings, original artworks, and a soft, beach-inspired color palette create a setting that is both serene and deeply personal.

The hotel features 198 spacious rooms and suites, each designed to offer the ultimate in comfort and relaxation. Sunlight pours through large windows, while private balconies offer views of the Santa Monica cityscape or the sparkling ocean waves. Luxurious Italian Frette linens, goose-down pillows, and spa-like bathrooms with deep soaking tubs elevate the experience to a new level of indulgence. Plush robes and premium bath amenities add another layer of opulence.

For guests seeking the pinnacle of luxury, the oceanfront suites provide unobstructed sunset views, fireplaces, expansive seating areas, and fully stocked minibars featuring some of the best wines from California vineyards. It's no surprise that Shutters often plays host to A-list celebrities, high-profile executives, and discerning global travelers looking for a taste of beachside glamour.

No stay at Shutters on the Beach is complete without savoring its exquisite culinary offerings. The hotel’s three dining venues present thoughtfully curated menus that highlight local ingredients elevated by world-class culinary artistry.

1 Pico, the signature restaurant, offers contemporary Californian fare with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame postcard-worthy ocean views. Dishes like grilled lobster, tuna tartare, prime steak, and organic salads are crafted with precision and flair. The space is sophisticated yet unpretentious—ideal for romantic dinners, client meetings, or celebratory evenings.

For a more relaxed vibe, Coast Beach Café and Bar serves up gourmet sandwiches, artisan burgers, and refreshing cocktails, perfect for enjoying while watching the sunset over the ocean. The beach-facing terrace is a guest favorite. Meanwhile, The Living Room offers a cozy lounge experience with live music, curated wine selections, and an array of teas—an inviting spot to unwind after a day of exploring the city.

Beyond its luxurious accommodations and fine dining, Shutters on the Beach distinguishes itself with a broad array of premium amenities. The 24-hour fitness center is outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment and boasts sweeping views of the beach, making workouts a pleasure. The outdoor heated pool, surrounded by plush loungers and serviced by attentive staff, offers the perfect place to bask in the California sun.

The hotel’s ONE Spa delivers a truly transformative wellness experience. Guests can indulge in aromatherapy massages, organic facials, and personalized wellness treatments, all using high-end natural products from brands like Tata Harper and Omorovicza. Recognized as one of the premier spas in Los Angeles, ONE Spa offers both tranquility and tailored luxury.

Shutters also provides complimentary bicycles, perfect for a ride along the iconic Santa Monica Pier or the eclectic streets of Venice Beach. Business travelers are equally catered to, with high-tech meeting rooms, full secretarial services, and a dedicated concierge team. From 24-hour valet parking to personalized concierge services, every detail is thoughtfully considered to ensure a seamless, unforgettable stay.

Location is everything, and Shutters delivers in spades. Perched on Ocean Avenue, the hotel is a short walk from Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade, and Palisades Park. The surrounding area buzzes with activity, offering everything from high-end boutiques and art galleries to Michelin-starred restaurants and beachfront attractions.

Santa Monica Beach itself is one of the most iconic in the United States—its wide stretch of golden sand, gentle waves, and year-round sunshine provide the perfect playground. Guests can enjoy beach volleyball, paddleboarding, jogging trails, and other outdoor activities right at their doorstep. Shutters provides that rare blend of a coastal resort feel with all the conveniences of city living.

Luxury and environmental responsibility go hand in hand at Shutters on the Beach. The hotel embraces a broad range of sustainable practices, including water recycling systems, renewable energy initiatives, and a zero single-use plastic policy. Its restaurants prioritize local sourcing, partnering with sustainable farmers and fishers to ensure freshness and eco-consciousness.

Shutters also works closely with local organizations to support community outreach and environmental education programs, reflecting a strong commitment to social responsibility. It’s a model of how a luxury property can uphold the values of sustainability without compromising on quality or comfort.

Shutters on the Beach is no stranger to acclaim. Regularly featured in top rankings by Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure, the hotel is celebrated for its luxurious offerings, dedicated service, and stunning setting. Guest reviews on TripAdvisor, Booking.com, and other platforms consistently praise the plush bedding, impeccable hospitality, and breathtaking ocean vistas.

Many guests describe their stays as “like being at home, only better”—a testament to the hotel’s unique ability to combine warmth, luxury, and personalized service. Whether it’s a honeymoon, a family vacation, or a high-end business trip, Shutters offers an experience that is both deeply relaxing and impressively refined.

Shutters on the Beach is far more than just a place to sleep—it’s a celebration of California’s sun-soaked elegance, of coastal living elevated to its most luxurious form. In a world where many hotels are chasing trends and standardization, Shutters remains grounded in timeless style and heartfelt service.

Here, guests don’t just check in; they immerse themselves in a lifestyle—one that offers the comfort of home, the luxury of a resort, and the unmatched beauty of the Pacific Ocean. For those seeking a destination that combines natural splendor, world-class amenities, and personal touches that make all the difference, Shutters on the Beach stands as an enduring icon of West Coast hospitality at its finest.