The Only Boutique Hotel in Manhattan Beach

The Shade hotel is located on the corner of 12th st and Valley Dr, and next to all of the best shops and restaurants Manhattan Beach has to offer. You can walk straight down to the pier to watch the sunset and then pop into Love & Salt for dinner before grabbing ice cream at a Creamery before heading back up to your hotel for bed. In the morning, you can snag the beach cruisers and head down to the strand and bike over to Martha's for brunch. Truly, it's central to everything.

The staff at The Shade hotel has always been so welcoming, whether it's helping guests get an early check-in or ensuring you have a fresh chocolate chip cookie to take with you for a nightcap. They are incredibly friendly and always super attentive to any needs.

The rooms, while previously a bit dated, have undergone (or are the in the process of undergoing) a massive facelift to help make them feel lighter, brighter and more modern. Most rooms offer either a spa or freestanding tub and a small balcony; I suggest opening the door and letting the ocean breeze in. It's my favorite way to chill and read a book, with the pool being a close second.

Zinc@Shade has a great outdoor seating set up, offering good people watching in the shopping center, but also shade (ironic?!) on sunny days. They oftentimes have great live music and cocktail specials as well.

If you want to be in the South Bay, The Shade Manhattan Beach is truly the only place I'd recommend. It's a great spot for couples as all of the ingredients for a perfect date night exist within walking distance, but they are also truly kind and accommodating for families as well.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Manhattan Beach, California. In need of further inspiration? Check out Souvenir Advisors' guide, Exploring Los Angeles, California.