Picture Los Angeles, a place where movie stars and stilettos reign supreme. While that can be true, this week's escape will show you that there's more to this city than what meets the camera's eye.
Get away to Redondo Beach for two nights in a marina ($269) or ocean room ($339) at the The Portofino Hotel and Yacht Club, and you'll enjoy a picture-perfect stay — sans paparazzi.
You'll also get a $25 credit for breakfast, wireless Internet access, and self or valet parking.
The custom bathroom and elegant king or two double beds featured in each room, plus a view from your private patio of the bobbing boats on the water, will leave a lasting impression.
The A-list treatment continues over breakfast at the on-site Baleen. Indulge in a Revolution frittata, made with duck confit, mushrooms, Parmesan, and truffle oil, or keep it light with seasonal fruit and granola.
But stay cool — there's no need to make an acceptance speech. As the Los Angeles Times assures us, "Portofino, though sparkly from its multimillion-dollar improvements, still feels casual."
Wave to adoring fans on a leisurely bike ride, courtesy of The Portofino's complimentary two-hour rental (based on availability). Sightsee at the Redondo Beach Pier, and then glide past the volleyball games as you ride along the strand — this sidewalk is perfect for cruising. Once your wheels take you to downtown Hermosa Beach, go for tapas at Mediterraneo.
The smell of the ocean will rival that of your breakfast as you sit on the outdoor patio at Uncle Bill's Pancake House in nearby Manhattan Beach. Pick up a book at Pages to read by the shore, or swim in the Pacific Ocean for the rest of the afternoon.
Once you've escaped to this side of LA, you'll really feel like you've made it — consider this escape the final casting call.
Escape kit
- A two-night stay for two in a marina ($269) or ocean room ($339)
- $25 breakfast credit at Baleen
- Wireless internet
- Self or valet parking
For details and to reserve your stay, visit LivingSocial Escapes.
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