Hotel Bel-Air

What sets the Bel-Air apart is its sense of sanctuary; despite the property’s relatively large size (12 acres), the warm staff, the cozy Spanish Mission-style architecture, and old-world gestures like complimentary tea service create an intimate ambience here. The 91 uniquely decorated rooms all have luxurious, understated touches like Alicante marble tiles and Pratesi linens; many of its 39 suites include fireplaces. Those with private patios are tucked behind walls covered with cascading bougainvillea, flowering shrubs, and giant California oaks. Lunching on lobster salad and La Grande Dame on the Bel-Air terrace, while gazing over the swan pond and pretending not to notice the Oscar winner at the next table, is a decades-old L.A. pleasure.

Tip: If you’re keen to see the Olsen twins, forget about it; celebs who require the attention of gawkers and paparazzi know to head elsewhere.

Room to Book: The 835-square-foot Grace Kelly Suite, with its floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking a private garden patio, outdoor Jacuzzi, and burbling fountain.