There are no better places that capture the sophisticated and buzzy Zeitgeist of sun and sand California in 2016 than The Living Room at Shutters On The Beach and the lobby bar at Casa del Mar, Santa Monica’s top two hotels. Shutters’ Living Room is the ultimate and best seat in town. You will not see a more attractive crowd meeting friends for a drink, relaxing and reading the paper, or just enjoying the view.

Those in the know treat these places like home. And why not? The Living Room is like your very own beach house with a drop-dead view of the Pacific Ocean, the most comfortable couches, two fireplaces, an incredible art collection and live entertainment nearly every evening. Idle on with early morning coffee, light meals, afternoon tea, or a relaxing happy hour in Santa Monica. Casual meetings, first dates and night caps. It all happens here and the staff is razor sharp. Plus a heated Lobby Terrace takes you even closer to the ocean. Two restaurants of quality, 1 Pico for refined dining and the more casual Coast, are just steps away at Shutters.

Casa Del Mar’s bar and lobby sizzles with energy and is packed nightly with all the best people lounging in the alcoves, snuggling in a deep soft sofa or chatting at the bar. There is usually a singer on hand belting out some jazz songs. Service is impeccable. Those in the know head for Catch, Casa’s fantastic seafood restaurant. In short, both hotels are paradise on the Pacific. And if the inspiration is there to spend the night, you will not find prettier, sunnier, and better equipped rooms and suites anywhere. Check out http://www.shuttersonthebeach.com and http://www.hotelcasadelmar.com.