Regent Santa Monica Beach has now officially opened, marking the return of the five-star hotel brand to the US. Karryon Luxury spoke with Younes Atallah, General Manager, to find out more about the property and what guests can expect.
The 167-key Regent Santa Monica, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts, sees the Regent brand return to the United States.
Regent Hotels & Resorts joined IHG Hotels & Resorts in 2018, reimagining a new era for the luxury brand.
Regent Santa Monica Beach joins Regent Hong Kong, Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel, Regent Shanghai on the Bund, and Regent Phu Quoc in the brand’s new chapter. The debut of Regent Jeddah in 2024 and Regent Kyoto in 2025 will lead the brand’s next wave of openings.
The beachfront resort is located just steps away from the Santa Monica Pier and overlooks the Pacific Ocean. It combines the glamour of Los Angeles with the laid-back, coastal vibes of Santa Monica.
General Manager of the newly-opened hotel, Younes Atallah, began his travel and tourism career in 1999, holding several positions during a 10-year tenure with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.
“I began my journey through managerial positions at the Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach and Four Seasons Hotel Houston, before moving up to Director of Housekeeping and Director of Rooms at Four Seasons Resort Whistler. I continued to immerse myself in the luxury market for both Canada- and US-based properties under Fairmont Hotels & Resorts for another 10 years before becoming General Manager at Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel for two years – the now Regent Santa Monica Beach,” said Atallah.
The hotel vibe and wellness offering
With its number of guest rooms and suite options, Atallah says that the resort is ideal for leisure travel, families and group travel, “providing pool and beachfront access, beach butler service, an array of meeting and event spaces, private dining options and more,” he said.
“A 10,000-square-foot (929 square-metres) Guerlain Wellness Spa is situated on the lobby level, which is also the first and only Guerlain spa on the West Coast. The spa features amenities inclusive of 12 treatment rooms, a pre-treatment relaxation lounge, a post-treatment relaxation and champagne room, sauna, steam room and much more. There are also three treatments exclusive to the property, alongside a menu of massages, facials and body treatments,” he said.
Dining options
“The resort has four on-site dining concepts and each offer unique culinary experiences,” said Atallah.
“Regent Santa Monica Beach’s signature restaurant Orla, as well as Orla Bar, debuts with award-winning celebrity chef and global restaurateur Michael Mina. Chef Mina is phenomenal in delivering elevated cuisine, and we’re elated guests can be a part of this special dining experience that reflects his Greek and Egyptian upbringing.
“In addition to Orla is Sweet July Café – the lifestyle and culinary brand founded by entrepreneur, restaurateur and two-time New York Times bestselling author Ayesha Curry. Visitors can find a never-before-seen menu, coffee and tea beverages, and select grab and go items. Additionally, the perfect option for those lounging by the pool, Azure Bar provides delectable poolside cuisine and creative cocktails,” he said.
About the location
Attallah says that Regent Santa Monica Beach sees guests embedded in a prime location that comines beachfront relaxation with the ease of accessing iconic Southern California destinations.
“Here, guests can immerse themselves in the vibrant Santa Monica Beach scene, just steps from their room, and enjoy curated beach butler service by their Regent Experience Manager, who can personalise everything from lounge settings to refreshments on the sand,” he said.
“Beyond the beach, the resort is just a quick drive from famed attractions like Beverly Hills, Orange County, and beloved theme parks, making it an ideal launchpad for exploring Los Angeles and beyond.
“From the picturesque Santa Monica Pier and lively Third Street Promenade to the broader adventures Southern California offers, every experience is within reach. And for a stress-free way to explore, guests can arrange rides with the resort’s house cars through their Regent Experience Manager,” he says.
Must-see and must-do experiences for visitors to Santa Monica
Attalah encourages guests to discover the local culture of Santa Monica.
“The Pier has an amusement park, aquarium, museum and a diverse selection of food vendors,” he says.
“The city’s famed farmers market is a celebration of California’s bountiful produce. Sample the freshest fruits, locally-made treats, and artisanal bites. Join locals and chefs alike every Wednesday and Saturday and bring a piece of Santa Monica’s culinary flair back with you,” he said.
For shopping, he says you can’t miss the boutiques on Montana Avenue, Abbot Kinney Boulevard, or at The Regent Boutique.
“Take a stroll down Montana Avenue or Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Both are packed with unique boutiques, stylish fashion finds, and delightful cafes. Montana Avenue offers a relaxed, neighborhood vibe with upscale shops and local favourites; while Abbot Kinney is an eclectic mix of high-end and bohemian, perfect for those who love an artistic twist on the latest trends,” he said.
For those who are keen to combine some adventure with their sightseeing, he recommends biking along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail.
“Grab a complimentary electric bike at our hotel and hit the 22-mile (35 kilometre) coastal path known as The Strand, stretching from Santa Monica down to Torrance. It’s a quintessential SoCal experience with sweeping ocean views, charming beach towns, and an easy, breezy pace,” he says.
For more information visit santamonica.regenthotels.com
