Although it may be sweltering in several areas of the Southwest, Redondo Beach is not (thank goodness). Shade at the Marina is a perfect weekend or week-long beach destination with plenty to see and do in a refreshing and breezy atmosphere. See why we love this chic hotel, and why we’re pretty sure you will too.

Shade at the Beach musts:

• Book a balcony room with a soaking tub overlooking the marina
• Take a ride on The Strand using one of the hotel’s beach cruisers (a lock is provided for stops in town)
• Have lunch outside on the Sea Level patio next to the marina

An easy drive from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)

The trek from LAX to Shade at the Marina is a quick 15- to 20-minute Uber or Lyft drive. If you’re directionally challenged (like me), ask an airport attendant how to get from your terminal to the rideshare pickup. 

Step into a beach-centric boutique hotel experience

Shade at the Marina blends upscale accommodations with a cozy boutique atmosphere, and we’re here for it. It boasts the amenities of a larger luxury property while maintaining the intimate feel of boutique offerings, with a total of 54 guestrooms. Upon arrival, the friendly front desk staff will offer a complimentary frozen adult beverage and ice-cold water. 

Room optimization: Naptime and post-beach considerations

The guestrooms at Shade are spacious, modern and well-suited to those of us who enjoy an afternoon nap. Before taking a snooze on a pillowy, Tempur-Pedic bed, be sure to enjoy the amazing soaking tubs in balcony rooms, perfect for post-beach sand removal or a sunset soak. 

Let me tell you — the marina views are spectacular, with sailboats aligned throughout the docks and occasional callouts from sea lions (from a distance). We were also told by a passerby on the marina dock that octopuses are regularly spotted (future goal!). For an even more luxe experience, the property offers penthouse suites.

On-property offerings and amenities

One of our favorite experiences from our time at Shade was biking along the beach. The property allows two-hour use of their beach-cruisers (complete with front baskets for backpacks, phones, etc.). Guests can cruise all along The Strand, connecting Redondo, Hermosa and Manhattan Beaches. 

The front desk and concierge can also hook beachgoers up with a beach umbrella and beach chairs — the beachfront is a short walk, so carrying them isn’t too cumbersome. 

To fully admire Redondo’s breathtaking sunsets, there is AQUA. This rooftop lounge includes a soak pool and bar. On select days, DJ Shibuya spins beats and rooftop yoga flows every Sunday at 9 a.m.

Sea Level marina-view dining

For breakfast, lunch and dinner, there’s Sea Level. Directly across the hotel lobby — a few steps away — this marina-side restaurant has a breakfast bar in the morning (think sausage, eggs, fruit, oatmeal). Lunch and dinner menu items all have a taste of the sea, such as Lobster Mac and Cheese and Fish ‘n Chips (one of our favorites), salads, pasta dishes and more. 

The outside patio is ideal for a breezy evening accompanied by a signature cocktail or Zero Proof beverage (try the Spicy Guava Mockarita).

Where to go and what to do during your stay

Earlier, we mentioned The Strand, “the connector of beaches.” This bike and pedestrian path runs along Redondo, Hermosa and Manhattan beaches. The ocean views are pristine and honestly, compared with other SoCal beaches I’ve been to, these three are not as congested — at least in late June/early July. 

Each beach has a distinct “personality,” with the beauty and quaintness of Hermosa as our favorite. 

While on foot or bicycle, there are lots of easy-access tributaries off The Strand leading to local restaurants and shops. We enjoyed visiting:

• Café Bonaparte Redondo Beach: Order a fresh pastry, omelet or scramble for breakfast — the Egg Salmon Scramble was divine. The price point is a bit high for breakfast, but worth the high-quality food and flavors. Plus, the coffee and matcha are next-level. 
• Rock ‘N Fish: We’ll publish a full review on this Manhattan Beach sweetheart, but what we’ll say for now is this is a must-visit. The jambalaya had us swooning, the service was impeccable and Manhattan Beach pier is directly down the street for a pre- or post-meal visit.  

All in all, Shade at the Marina is an absolute gem, surrounded by unforgettable scenery and first-rate service. The staff (with a huge shout out to Nicole) go above and beyond to recommend things to do, places to go and ensure that your stay is as pleasant as possible. To learn more, visit rb.shadehotel.com.