For in-the-know locals (including celeb patrons), Shutters is a frequent destination. It is Santa Monica’s most beloved spot for everything from seaside brunches and cocktails to poolside basking, especially was styled by Obama White House designer, Michael S. Smith.
As you enter the lobby, you’re embraced by sea air and a nautical vibe; you’ll see cozy spaces near fireplaces and art from California greats like David Hockney and Claes Oldenburg.
At One Pico, below lofted ceilings decorated with antique boat hulls and art nouveau lanterns casting warm light, sample chef Michael Reardon’s new seasonally driven menu — upscale, but never stuffy.
As celebrity-spa guru Ole Henriksen is steering the ship, ONE the Spa is a treat for out-of-towners for a taste of L.A.’s excessive spa services. Make like a local and get a Moon Glow facial and a cucumber-rich Nature Baby signature body treatment. Afterward, soak up some sun at the pool.
As you enter the lobby, you’re embraced by sea air and a nautical vibe; you’ll see cozy spaces near fireplaces and art from California greats like David Hockney and Claes Oldenburg.
At One Pico, below lofted ceilings decorated with antique boat hulls and art nouveau lanterns casting warm light, sample chef Michael Reardon’s new seasonally driven menu — upscale, but never stuffy.
As celebrity-spa guru Ole Henriksen is steering the ship, ONE the Spa is a treat for out-of-towners for a taste of L.A.’s excessive spa services. Make like a local and get a Moon Glow facial and a cucumber-rich Nature Baby signature body treatment. Afterward, soak up some sun at the pool.
Our Inspector's Highlights
- Just as the name suggests, the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Shutters on the Beach is positioned right on the shores of the Pacific Ocean in sunny Santa Monica.
- The hotel is just steps away from the historic Santa Monica Pier, great shopping, restaurants and a beachfront path that’s perfect for getting in a little exercise, whether you’re into jogging or rollerblading.
- After an afternoon out enjoying the area attractions, retreat back to your casual-yet-elegant Four-Star hotel for a massage in the hotel’s ONE spa — or simply chill out on a deck chair with a frosty libation while soaking in the beautiful scenery.
- Can you imagine a giant living room where movie producers, writers and hotel guests hang out all day? It happens at the lobby lounge: a fun place to have a cocktail and listen to the live music on most nights.
Things to Know
- Coast Restaurant hosts a lively happy hour Monday through Thursday from 4 to 7 p.m. It boasts discounted fish tacos, and oysters, as well as $4 beers, $6 glasses of wine and $7 specialty cocktails like the Agua Fresca (Herradura Blanco Tequila, St. Germain liqueur, fresh cucumber and grapefruit).
- After hours, grab a seat by the fireplace at the Living Room and catch a little live entertainment to go along with your Skinny Margarita or Starfish Mojito. Enjoy the Wednesday Boîte with DJ Dinari, or live jazz music almost every night of the week.
- If you’re looking for a place to hang out in-between sets, snag a spot on the heated porch — the closest you’ll get to the ocean without actually getting in it.
The Rooms
- Guest rooms at Shutters on the Beach have a very residential, homey style with whimsical touches. Built-in shelving units are filled with a variety of books and knickknacks, (for example, ours included a yoyo, which was a fun touch).
- The wood furniture is traditional and classic, and the cool light blue and warm brown accent colors fit the relaxed beach setting.
- Rooms have crown molding, thick area rugs, contemporary artwork and mahogany floors throughout. Photos of the ocean fit the beach setting. Beds are super high and comfy, and shutters open up between the bathroom and living area.
- Rooms also have narrow balconies so you can take in the ocean view. Tip: Be sure to book a room that faces the beach.
The Restaurants
- Boasting sweeping views of the beach and a cozy fireplace to provide warmth on cool nights, One Pico is the perfect spot for a meal anytime of the day. Share various small plates like flatbread of goat cheese before diving into entrées such as ahi tuna with baby leeks and mushrooms or American Kobe beef with arugula and crispy potatoes.
- Sunday brunch brings à la carte selections ranging from tuna tartare to chicken hash, which you might enjoy with a mimosa, Bloody Mary, or one of the other potent eye-openers offered on the “It’s Five O’clock Somewhere” drink menu.
- Coast serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch and a happy hour menu Monday through Thursday. The food ranges from small bites like freshly prepared ceviche and fish tacos to steak frites and a classic hamburger.
- The Living Room is a lively gathering place that serves light bites (think lamb meatballs, grilled octopus, lobster roll sliders), afternoon tea and evening cocktails such as the My Grandmother’s Lemonade, a feisty mix of Ketel One vodka, lemonade and rosemary.
Getting There
1 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, California 90405
TEL310-458-0030
TEL310-458-0030
NEARBY AIRPORT(S)
LAX (18-28 min)
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