Regent Santa Monica Beach: A luxurious new era begins
The Regent Santa Monica Beach has officially opened its doors, marking a significant milestone in luxury hospitality. This new establishment is not just a hotel; it represents a fresh vision for coastal elegance, blending Mediterranean influences with modern comfort. With its grand arches and spacious rooms, the Regent aims to redefine the luxury experience in Santa Monica.
Transforming the Santa Monica Experience
Unlike its predecessor, the Regent Santa Monica Beach has made a bold move by reducing its room count from 350 to just 167. Each room now boasts a minimum of 720 square feet, providing guests with an unparalleled sense of space and comfort. This commitment to spaciousness is a rarity in the bustling Santa Monica area, where real estate is often at a premium.
Chantell Walsh, the visionary behind the hotel’s design, emphasizes the importance of creating a unique atmosphere. “We didn’t want to just do another oceanfront hotel that was blue. It needed to be something unique and bespoke,” she explains. The result is a stunning blend of clean lines and plush comfort, reminiscent of stepping onto a luxurious yacht in the Mediterranean.
Culinary Excellence at Orla
Dining at the Regent Santa Monica Beach is an experience in itself. The hotel’s restaurant, Orla, is helmed by James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Mina. During the grand opening celebration, guests were treated to a culinary feast featuring lobster rolls, caviar, and a fresh hamachi bar. The ambiance was further enhanced by an immersive performance from William Close and the Earth Harp collective, creating a multisensory dining experience.
As the evening unfolded, guests enjoyed a menu that included fresh crab, rack of lamb, and roasted fall vegetables, all while being entertained by dancers performing on the lawn overlooking the ocean. This blend of fine dining and entertainment sets a new standard for hotel experiences in Santa Monica.
Personalized Luxury and Wellness
The Regent Santa Monica Beach is dedicated to providing personalized service through its Regent Experience Manager program. General Manager Younes Atallah explains, “Once a guest makes a reservation, their booking is taken over by a Regent Experience Manager, and they basically own it from that point until the guest gets home.” This level of attention ensures that every detail, from airport transfers to curated beachside picnics, is meticulously handled.
Additionally, the hotel features the Guerlain Wellness Spa, a sanctuary designed for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can also visit Sweet July, a lifestyle café by Ayesha Curry, which focuses on promoting products from businesses owned by women of color. This commitment to community and wellness further enhances the luxurious experience at Regent Santa Monica Beach.
As the opening night concluded, guests were left with thoughtful gifts, including custom Regent slippers, and the soothing sounds of the Pacific Ocean. The Regent Santa Monica Beach is not just a place to stay; it is a destination that promises a unique blend of luxury, comfort, and unforgettable experiences.