Sea Sprite Beach Club

The main downside was that the popular restaurant had taken over all the indoor and outdoor public spaces, including the bar stools and courtyard couches. As hotel guests, we felt like second-class citizens. We had coupons for free drinks but nowhere to sit and enjoy them, and we’d wanted to relax on those comfy courtyard couches. Getting to our room meant walking past the restaurant hostess and moving dining chairs and strollers to reach the stairs. The restaurant was fully booked and noisy throughout our stay, though it closed promptly. Loaner beach chairs and towels were available, but that wasn’t the kind of relaxing we wanted. We came to Sea Sprite after an overnight layover at LAX turned into three nights because of East Coast storms, hoping for something nicer than the dreary airport hotels. It was a mixed bag. The location on The Strand was great for shops and restaurants, and our clean, nice ocean-view king room had a huge window overlooking the courtyard, beach, and ocean. Watching the beach volleyball was fun. The front desk welcomed us warmly, carried our heavy luggage upstairs despite there being no elevator, and ordered a taxi for our return to LAX. The room had very little light, so reading a magazine in the evening was difficult. Breakfast was the basic continental sort, with bagels, croissants, cereal, yogurt, oranges, bananas, juice, coffee, and tea. There wasn’t much protein, and I’d expect that at a Days Inn, not a place with a high-end restaurant. Hermosa Beach is terrific for an overnight LAX stop, but Sea Sprite may not be the right choice.

The storms that followed us down from the north hit hard, but the staff knew what to do even though a storm like that was unusual. Thanks to the front desk team, especially the people who kept the beach club secured. We spent two days at the Sea Sprite after traveling up and down the California coast. It’s very close to the promenade and in a great location. The rooms are older, but clean, with plenty of towels, clean sheets, and a hot shower. Ours also had a yoga mat and a kitchenette with a refrigerator. There’s some nice history here, so “quaint” may fit better than “older.” We’ll be back. For breakfast, try Good Stuff, and Tiki Kai is fun for cocktails.

My daughter and I have loved coming here for years, and we’re big fans of the refresh. We were only in town for the day this time, but sitting on the patio with drinks and watching the sunset was lovely. Can’t wait to stay overnight in one of the updated rooms next time.

Even after just one night, I’m already planning to come back for longer. I arrived early and they let me leave my belongings in the office while I wandered around town. By the time I checked in, everything had been put in my room. Ann was wonderful, quick to answer questions, and helpful with whatever I needed. The whole staff was great, and the bartenders suggested local restaurants within walking distance that were all good. The beds were comfortable, the amenities were exceptional, and the ocean view was so peaceful, with a cool breeze drifting over the fire pit. Honestly, I don’t know what you’re doing with your life if you don’t book here next time you’re in Hermosa Beach. Respectfully. Can’t wait to return!