Hollywood's Beach House: Sun-Drenched Luxury at Shutters on the Beach, Santa Monica

When planning a luxe mother-daughter getaway to LA, Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica exceeded our expectations in every way. For her first trip to LA, with stars in her eyes, my 16-year-old daughter experienced moments that made her feel like a true Hollywood star. Here’s why this iconic hotel should be at the top of your California travel list:

Perfect beachfront location

Shutters sits directly on the golden sands of Santa Monica Beach, offering unmatched convenience. We loved strolling just minutes to the iconic Santa Monica Pier and exploring nearby attractions like Third Street Promenade and Venice Beach. Located approximately nine miles (20 minutes by car) from LAX, it’s incredibly accessible for travelers. The hotel also offers bike rentals, allowing you to ride along the beach path and explore surrounding areas with ease.

Effortless elegance & coastal charm

From the moment we arrived, we felt enveloped in coastal luxury. The hotel’s design evokes East Coast-meets-West-Coast charm, with classic clapboard exteriors, dark hardwood floors, crisp white beadboard detailing, and beautiful built-in furnishings. It’s like staying at a stylish Cape Cod retreat, but with the refreshing California breeze. My daughter was particularly thrilled by the luxurious soaking tub, instantly deciding she had to re-create Julia Roberts’ iconic bath scene from Pretty Woman—complete with singing Prince!

In each room, East Coast charm blends perfectly with California breezes.

The amazing bathtub made you feel like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman.

Relaxation redefined at the pool deck

The expansive pool deck is an inviting oasis, where my daughter and I spent wonderful afternoons laughing, chatting, and finally finishing that book I’d been meaning to read. With numerous cozy spaces to lounge and soak up the California sun, the stunning sunset views over the Pacific Ocean made these moments even more memorable. The attentive and prompt service elevated the relaxing atmosphere.

The expansive pool deck offered plenty of space for my daughter and me to unwind, sunbathe, read, and share laughs.

Impeccable, personalized service

From check-in to check-out, the service at Shutters was exceptional. The front desk staff remembered my daughter’s favorite drink and would often surprise her with one as she passed through the lobby. This personal touch made us feel genuinely cared for and enhanced the feeling that we were living our own movie.

Exceptional dining & people-watching

Dining at One Pico, Shutters’ beachfront restaurant, was a highlight of our stay. The lobster roll was unforgettable, but the people-watching on the patio was almost as delicious. We felt truly immersed in the vibrant fabric of SoCal life, watching locals skateboard, bike, and stroll past—sometimes even accompanied by live music performances.

My daughter enjoying people-watching along the beach at One Pico

“Hollywood’s Beach House”

Shutters on the Beach has earned the nickname “Hollywood’s Beach House” due to frequent celebrity sightings. Past guests include Brad Pitt, Eva Longoria, Zac Efron, Julia Roberts, Christian Bale, and Jennifer Aniston. Its popularity with Hollywood’s elite, along with sightings of Ben Affleck, Angelina Jolie, Megan Fox, Dave Chappelle, and Tim Robbins, adds to its allure as a favored gathering spot for the entertainment industry.

Our stay at Shutters was everything we hoped for—my daughter felt like a star, and I enjoyed a much-needed escape from everyday stress. The bed was so cozy and perfect, I never wanted to leave.

Shutters at the Beach was the perfect luxe getaway to celebrate my daughter's sweet 16.

Quick facts

• Distance to LAX: Approximately nine miles (20-minute drive)

• Number of rooms: 198

• Opened: 1993

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Santa Monica page.