Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our Disclosure Policy for details.
Manhattan Beach, California, is a stunning coastal destination that offers the perfect mix of laid-back beach vibes and luxury experiences. For couples seeking a romantic beach getaway, this gem in Los Angeles' South Bay region offers upscale accommodations, fine dining, wellness retreats, and outdoor activities that are ideal for creating lasting memories. In this guide, we’ll explore the best luxury experiences in Manhattan Beach, including where to stay, what to do, and how to make the most of your trip.
Why Manhattan Beach?
Manhattan Beach is known for its pristine shores, chic boutique hotels, world-class dining, and vibrant atmosphere. It’s the ultimate destination for couples looking to escape their daily grind and enjoy time by the ocean while indulging in luxury. The charm of Manhattan Beach lies in its perfect blend of high-end experiences and the relaxed, beach-town lifestyle, making it an ideal spot for a romantic getaway.
Table of Contents:
Where to Stay: Manhattan Beach’s Best Luxury Hotels
Located just a few blocks from the beach, the Shade Hotel offers an upscale yet intimate experience, perfect for couples. This boutique hotel is renowned for its modern design, luxurious amenities, and exceptional service. Each room is designed with romance in mind, featuring mood lighting, private balconies, and spa tubs.
The hotel’s rooftop Skydeck is a must-visit, offering breathtaking ocean views and cozy cabanas where you and your partner can unwind with a cocktail. The hotel's proximity to the beach makes it easy to enjoy a beach day or stroll along the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier.
Amenities to Enjoy:
- Rooftop bar and lounge with ocean views
- Complimentary beach cruisers for exploring the area
- In-room spa services for couples
- Luxurious soaking tubs in each room
Westdrift Manhattan Beach, Autograph Collection (Part of the Marriott Collection)
If you prefer a more resort-like atmosphere, Westdrift offers a blend of luxury and leisure. Situated within a private golf course, this hotel combines coastal elegance with Southern California charm. Its spacious rooms, many of which feature private balconies, offer sweeping views of the golf course or the city.
For couples who enjoy being active, the hotel provides a variety of recreational options, including access to the nine-hole golf course, outdoor pool, and beach access just a short drive away.
Amenities to Enjoy:
- On-site golf course and lessons for couples
- Heated outdoor pool with private cabanas
- Fitness center with Peloton bikes
- Stylish dining options at the hotel’s on-site restaurant, JUTE
What to Do: Romantic Activities for Couples in Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach offers a wealth of activities that are perfect for couples, from relaxing on the beach to more adventurous outdoor experiences. Whether you’re seeking wellness-focused activities, dining with a view, or simply strolling through town hand-in-hand, here are some of the top things to do during your stay.
1. Relax on Manhattan Beach’s expansive shoreline is one of the most pristine beaches in Southern California, and it’s the ideal spot to relax with your partner. Whether you want to soak up the sun, go for a dip in the Pacific, or take a romantic sunset walk along the shore, the beach is a central part of any getaway to Manhattan Beach.
For couples who enjoy being active, consider renting surfboards or paddleboards from local surf shops to hit the waves together. The beach also offers volleyball courts if you’re looking for a fun, friendly game before winding down for the evening.
2. Manhattan Beach Pier
No trip to Manhattan Beach is complete without a visit to the iconic Manhattan Beach Pier. This historical landmark extends over the Pacific Ocean, offering stunning views of the coastline, especially during sunset. Couples can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the pier while taking in the salty ocean breeze and panoramic views.
At the end of the pier, visit the Roundhouse Aquarium, a free attraction that features marine life native to the Southern California coast. It’s a lovely spot for couples who enjoy learning about ocean conservation while getting up close to sea creatures like starfish and sea urchins.
3. Couples Spa Day at Trilogy Spa
For ultimate relaxation, head to Trilogy Spa in downtown Manhattan Beach for a luxurious couples spa day. This upscale wellness retreat offers everything from couples’ massages to facials and body treatments. Their signature services are designed to melt away stress, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Consider booking their Couples Retreat package, which includes a massage, private hot tub soak, and champagne to complete your day of pampering. Afterward, you can walk just a few blocks to the beach to enjoy a sunset or grab dinner at a nearby restaurant.
4. Yoga on the Beach
Start your morning with a wellness-focused activity like yoga on the beach. Manhattan Beach offers various classes right on the sand, allowing you and your partner to unwind and connect with nature. The fresh ocean air and the sound of the waves create the perfect ambiance for a peaceful yoga session, setting a relaxing tone for the rest of your day.
If you’re staying at one of the local hotels like The Shade or Westdrift, ask about their partnership with local wellness studios, which often provide complimentary or discounted classes for guests.
5. Explore the Strand
The Strand is a scenic beachfront path that stretches for miles along the coast, perfect for a romantic walk or bike ride. Rent a pair of beach cruisers and ride along this famous stretch of coastline, enjoying the ocean views and the beautiful beachfront homes that line the path.
For couples who prefer a more relaxed experience, walking The Strand at sunset is a must. You can also stop at one of the many beachfront cafes or bars along the way to grab a drink and take in the scenery.
6. Shop the Boutiques on Manhattan Beach
Shopping at Manhattan Beach’s boutiques is a luxurious experience that offers a unique blend of high-end fashion, coastal chic, and artisanal finds. Couples can stroll through the charming downtown area, where they’ll discover a variety of upscale shops that cater to every taste—from designer clothing and accessories to handcrafted home goods.
The boutiques reflect the laid-back yet sophisticated vibe of the area, offering curated selections from local and international designers. Whether you’re looking for beachwear, elegant evening attire, or one-of-a-kind jewelry, Manhattan Beach’s shopping scene is the perfect place to indulge in some retail therapy while soaking in the ocean breeze.
When it's time for dinner: Fine Dining
Manhattan Beach is home to some of the best fine dining restaurants in Southern California, many of which offer breathtaking ocean views. For a romantic dinner with your partner, consider booking a table at one of these upscale spots:
- The Strand House: This oceanfront restaurant offers a menu of modern American cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The floor-to-ceiling windows provide panoramic views of the beach, making it the perfect spot for a sunset dinner.
- Fishing with Dynamite: If you and your partner are seafood lovers, this cozy but upscale restaurant is a must-visit. Their menu features fresh, locally sourced seafood, and their oysters are some of the best in the area.
- The Arthur J: For a more intimate dining experience, head to The Arthur J, a modern steakhouse that offers a chic ambiance and an exceptional wine list. It’s an ideal choice for a romantic night out.
How to Maximize Your Trip with Points and Miles
For couples who want to indulge in a luxury getaway without breaking the bank, using points and miles is an excellent way to make the most of your stay in Manhattan Beach. Here are some tips to help you maximize your travel rewards:
1. Use Points for Hotel Stays
Westdrift Manhattan Beach, is part of Marriott Bonvoy, so members can use their point redemption options to book their stay at Westdrift, I've seen nights for as low 30,000 points..
2. Airline Miles for Flights
If you’re flying into Los Angeles, consider using airline miles to cover the cost of your flight. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is just a short drive from Manhattan Beach (maybe 20 minutes, depending on traffic), and many airlines offer routes from major cities across the U.S.
3. Credit Card Perks for Dining and Activities
Certain travel credit cards offer bonus points for dining and entertainment, so be sure to use your card when enjoying fine dining or booking spa services in Manhattan Beach. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or the American Express Platinum offer enhanced rewards for these categories, helping you accumulate more points for future travel.
4. Lounge Access at LAX
If you’re flying out of LAX in economy, you are pretty limited on lounge access, unless you have an airline specific credit card (and are flying on that airline, i.e., delta). If you have the AMEX Platinum you can head to the Centurion Lounge in the international terminal B - Tom Bradley. Currently there is no Chase or Capital One Lounges AND no Priority Pass Lounge options. There are some Lounges that offer day passes, but those are limited based on occupancy.
If you do want to take advantage of the Centurion Lounge on your way out, you can easily head to your terminal through the underground passage, so no need to exit and go through TSA a second time! Since the International Terminal B is located in the middle of LAX, you can easily get to even the furthest terminals in 20-25 minutes max. And who doesn't need a walk before getting on a plane to sit for multiple hours.
Conclusion
Manhattan Beach is an ideal destination for couples seeking a luxury beach getaway. With a couple options for upscale hotels, fine dining, wellness activities, and beautiful beaches, it offers the perfect mix of relaxation and romance. By using points and miles to book your trip, you can enjoy all the luxuries Manhattan Beach has to offer while staying within your budget. Whether you’re lounging by the beach, enjoying a couples’ spa day, or dining with an ocean view, your romantic getaway to Manhattan Beach will be one to remember.
Comments