After a prominent hiatus of three decades, the Regent hotel brand has reestablished its foothold in the Americas, marking a significant milestone with the inauguration of the Regent Santa Monica Beach in Southern California. Originating in 1970, Regent was once synonymous with luxury in the U.S. hospitality sector, particularly with its iconic Regent Beverly Wilshire. However, a strategic rebranding led to its transition to a Four Seasons hotel in 1992, leaving an absence that luxury travelers have felt for years.
Nestled close to the famed Santa Monica Pier, the Regent Santa Monica Beach boasts an impressive suite of accommodations, with its 167 guest rooms starting at a generous 720 square feet. Such spaciousness captures California’s ethos of relaxation and comfort, ensuring guests have an unwinding environment complemented by upscale amenities. Each room reflects a blend of modern sophistication and traditional elements, catering to the discerning traveler seeking an exceptional stay.
A major highlight of the Regent Santa Monica Beach is its four distinctive dining options, which elevate the culinary experience to new heights. The Mediterranean-inspired Orla and its adjoining Orla Bar—conceptualized by the celebrated James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Mina—are designed to transport guests on a sensory journey through exquisite flavors. Meanwhile, patrons looking for a more relaxed fare can enjoy the Sweet July Cafe, derived from entrepreneur Ayesha Curry’s lifestyle and culinary brand, which offers health-conscious and comforting selections. For those seeking a vibrant outdoor ambiance, the Azure Bar provides a getaway with crafted cocktails and refined poolside cuisine, ensuring a memorable dining experience under the Southern California sun.
Beyond dining, the Regent Santa Monica Beach presents a plethora of amenities designed to pamper its guests. The property features a stunning pool area offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, elevating the casual experience of relaxation to one of scenic luxury. The 10,000-square-foot Guerlain Wellness Spa promises rejuvenation and a cacophony of treatments aimed at holistic wellness, making it a sanctuary for guests. Additionally, a modern fitness center caters to active patrons, while the expansive event spaces—including a grand ballroom of 6,100 square feet—position the hotel as an ideal locale for both leisure and business gatherings.
Pricing and Outlook
With rates commencing at $1,100 per night, the Regent Santa Monica Beach targets high-end clientele looking for exclusive experiences. As it reunites with the luxury market, this hotel signals not only the rebirth of a cherished brand in the Americas but also IHG Hotels & Resorts’ commitment to premium hospitality since acquiring Regent in 2018. As the brand expands beyond its new Southern Californian base, only time will tell if it can regain the beloved status it once held.
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