Sunset Strip Hotels

Sunset Marquis

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:19:21 +0200

Aug 17th, 2007 @ 8am

The Sunset Marquis is an all-suite hotel (unless you're the type of big spender who ponies up for a villa), and the service and style are commensurate with the high price tag. Many of the spacious suites open onto the pool via glass doors, and though the pool itself is a little shabby (though the grounds are getting a makeover), the attentive wait staff will promptly get you too drunk to notice. But the nicest thing about this hotel is the clever leverage of its hillside location: less than a five-minute walk from Sunset, it's still far enough off the main drag to be peaceful and quiet.

Bel Age

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:19:21 +0200

Aug 17th, 2007 @ 8am

The monolith that is the Bel Age is getting more than a little bit worn out--in every way--but the upside is that large and reasonably well-appointed rooms (with private balconies!) can be had for some of the lowest prices on Sunset. The piano bar on the roof opens onto a picturesque garden with fantastic views of the mountains and city, and the staff is helpful and friendly. The rooms could use an update, but if you're not too fussy about that sort of thing, you'll feel like you got a good bargain.

The Grafton on Sunset

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:19:21 +0200

Aug 17th, 2007 @ 8am

A cute little boutique hotel crammed right into the heart of the action on the Strip, the Grafton offers comfortable rooms, a lovely pool, a hip restaurant and its own little bar, Boa Lounge. The service is great and the prices are moderate, though with moderate prices come wild twentysomethings. Early-to-bed-early-to-risers had best look elsewhere.

Mondrian

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:19:21 +0200

Aug 17th, 2007 @ 8am

The good news is, the Mondrian has Sky Bar. The bad news is, everything else about it pretty much sucks. The much-hyped décor is essentially all-white Ikea; more comfortable accommodations can be had elsewhere for half the price. The worst is the service--which is lackluster to begin with--before you realize you'll be forced to pay extra for such amenities as ice, offered at Motel 6 and other fine establishments for free. But it has Sky Bar! Sky Bar! Sky Bar! Okay, we'll stop.

Hyatt West Hollywood

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:19:21 +0200

Aug 17th, 2007 @ 8am

Currently experiencing a major, much-needed renovation, the Riot House has devolved into an ordinary hotel trading on its prime location and former destination status for '70s rock bands. If you're used to luxurious accommodations, this isn't the place for you, but the staff is friendly and prone to offering upgrades, most of the rooms have great views, and there's a rooftop pool.

Best Western Sunset Plaza

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:19:21 +0200

Aug 17th, 2007 @ 8am

Its chain status makes this pretty hotel one of the cheapest places to stay on Sunset. Admittedly, that's not saying much, but we figured it was worth mentioning. Big rooms, a nice pool area and marble bathrooms make for an unexpectedly luxurious feel, and $10 a day for parking is the best bargain for miles, at hotels or otherwise. We'd warn you against taking a room overlooking the street, but you know that already.

Sunset Tower

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:19:21 +0200

Aug 17th, 2007 @ 8am

Sunset Tower is a displaced chunk of old Hollywood, and it brings a touch of dignity to its frenetic neighborhood. Comfortable beds and Kiehl's toiletries keep patrons happy overnight, while a fantastic pool, fashionable restaurant and intimate bar offer plenty to do the rest of the time. There are beautiful views from just about every room, and if you've managed to time your visit properly (there are still a few smog-free days in late November) you might actually be able to enjoy them.

The Standard Hollywood

Tue, 21 Aug 2007 11:19:21 +0200

Aug 17th, 2007 @ 8am

The Standard's reign as hottest hotel on the Strip is long over, but there's still plenty to recommend it to the traveler in search of that quintessential LA experience, including slinky, modern décor, a pool/cocktail bar, and a hot girl lounging in an aquarium behind the front desk. Nice. Between the thin walls and the generally raucous clientèle, there can be a lot of noise, but if you wanted to sleep you wouldn't be staying on Sunset anyway.