Affordable Luxury at Avalon Hotel in Beverly Hills, CA

The historic Avalon Hotel is smack in the middle of the bustling city of Beverly Hills, yet tucked away in a pretty neighborhood. It’s so hidden, I didn’t see it right away under the giant birds-of paradise. I drove in for two nights to work and play. I love the ocean air Beverly Hills receives, which makes the plants bloom profusely. I was on a mission to capture the hidden beauty of the area via its parks and neighborhoods, while luxuriating in the Hollywood-era mid-century architecture of the hotel.

Outside the hotel

As I checked in, I immediately felt welcomed by the staff. You can tell they really love working there. I had a site visit with Maria Shekhovtsova, Director of Sales & Events, the next day, and I booked the room in the Fora portal. I wanted to feel and see the perks my clients would receive. I was not disappointed. I was upgraded to a larger double deluxe room in the Olympic building, which is where the lobby, pool, and Viviane restaurant are located.

Lobby

Deluxe king room

Upon arriving in my room, I received wine and cookies as a welcome gift. As I entered, I felt the relaxation of the seafoam greens and marble throughout the room. The room was spacious, too, with a desk and lounging corner. I loved the old crank windows in the building, and I’d greet the day facing them, inhaling the cool, sweet breeze of the city. My favorite amenity was the fluffy robe and high-end body products in one of the cleanest bathrooms I have experienced.

Room with a view of Canon Blvd

Standard bathroom

The next morning, I rose early and enjoyed my in-room, complimentary Nespresso machine, but I wanted to experience more, so I went downstairs to take advantage of the free coffee and tea bar. I sat outside, in between the Avalon’s buildings, taking advantage of the sun’s rays and the neighborhood’s charm. Later, I had breakfast with the sales director, and she showed me the three buildings on the property.

Each of the three buildings has their own unique vibe to accommodate your needs, whether you are passing through or need a longer artist’s retreat. The penthouse wellness center has a sauna and cold-plunge pool with plenty of room on the deck to teach yoga or celebrate with a cocktail party. This space needs to be booked to experience. There is also a board room to hold your classes and meetings. Overall, I love the small boutique feel of the hotel—and its exclusivity. There are many types of rooms to accommodate your needs, including rooms with patios and larger rooms with kitchens for a longer stay. Maria was so friendly and accommodating, making sure to show me different types of rooms. She is really great at her job, and I can tell she runs the show.

The pool

Rooftop wellness center (aka penthoue)

On Friday evening, there was live music while I dined at Viviane Restaurant. I really enjoyed its fresh fare and creative cuisine. I had a lovely kale salad, mushroom-truffle flatbread, and the roasted chicken with creamy polenta and spinach. I sat and people-watched by the pool as a birthday party commenced on the other side. They were served appetizers and had their own cocktail bar. I found it to be a very relaxing and welcoming environment despite its high-end zip code.

Live entertainment

The next morning, I went on a vintage home and garden tour created by myself. I visited the Witch's House (Spadena), Greystone Mansion & Gardens, and Will Rogers Memorial Gardens. What impressed me most about the city were the roses—mostly white. Being so close to downtown Los Angeles, I opted to drive to the La Brea Tar Pits on my way home. There are over 200 museums in the city.

In conclusion, the Avalon is a great place to bring people together or for the solo traveler looking for an adventure off the beaten path! I’m definitely coming back and recommending this hotel to my clients.

When I book clients here, they get a free room upgrade, a $50 dining credit, a welcome gift, early check-in/late check-out, a complimentary upgrade, and a room with all the amenities, like a fluffy bathrobe and a Nespresso machine. Booking with an advisor like me definitely has its advantages.

Note: There is a $63 per night parking fee with 24-hour valet. There is a $40 amenity fee per room. Room service is served by Viviane Restaurant until 10 pm. You must reserve the penthouse to experience the rooftop sauna, and cold-plunge pool with views! Check with sales for half-day rentals. There is live music every Wednesday and Friday, and Wine Wednesdays with 50 percent off bottles.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Beverly Hills page.