Where to stay - Fairfax/Beverly Hills/West Hollywood

Question

Hi all,

I am travelling for 5 nights to the area with my 20yr old son. We want to be closer to restaurants, shopping, farmers market and anywhere else that might be good!

I have looked at Sofitel, SLS, Short Stories and Palihouse. Does anyone have a recommendation? Budget not as important as the vibe. I would like decent rooms with good hotel amenities - pool, restaurant, gym etc.

We won't have a car! Happy to walk, uber and or bus. Thank you in advance :)

Answer

For a 5-night stay in Los Angeles without a car, and with the goal of being close to restaurants, shopping, and vibrant neighborhoods, Fairfax, Beverly Hills, and West Hollywood all have strong merits. Your listed options—Sofitel, SLS, Short Stories, and Palihouse—are all excellent choices depending on the vibe you’re looking for.

Fairfax Area:

Located near the Original Farmers Market, The Grove, and plenty of trendy restaurants and cafes. Walking distance to shopping and casual dining is excellent, plus Uber or bus options for nearby neighborhoods are convenient. The area has a youthful, lively energy.

West Hollywood (WeHo):

Offers an energetic nightlife and food scene. Hotels here often have modern amenities, pools, and gyms. Great for walking to boutique shops, bars, and restaurants along Santa Monica Blvd or Melrose Ave. Central location makes it easy to Uber to Beverly Hills, Fairfax, or Hollywood.

Beverly Hills:

Upscale and quiet, with proximity to Rodeo Drive, high-end restaurants, and elegant streets. Hotels here may offer more luxury-focused amenities—spas, rooftop pools—but it can feel less “walkable” to casual spots compared to Fairfax or WeHo.

Hotel Options:

Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills: Luxurious rooms, pool, gym, and French-inspired dining. Good for a classic, upscale LA experience. Slightly less walkable to casual spots but Uber is easy.
SLS Beverly Hills: Modern, vibrant hotel with strong nightlife energy, pool, and high-design rooms. Convenient for shopping and dining in Beverly Hills.
Short Stories Hotel: Trendy boutique in West Hollywood with chic rooms and a lively atmosphere. Excellent for walking to restaurants and bars.
Palihouse West Hollywood: Stylish, residential-style boutique with suites, pool, and cozy amenities. Great vibe, very walkable to trendy restaurants and shops.

Given your goals:

If you want walkability, lively dining, and a boutique vibe: Palihouse WeHo or Short Stories are top choices.
If you prefer more classic luxury with full hotel amenities like a larger pool and restaurant: Sofitel Beverly Hills or SLS are excellent.
Without a car, prioritize proximity to places you want to walk to (WeHo or Fairfax) and ensure Uber/Lyft options are convenient for evening or farther excursions.

Overall, for a mix of luxury, amenities, and central location with easy walking access to restaurants and shopping, Palihouse West Hollywood or Short Stories are probably the most convenient and vibrant choices for your stay.