Westdrift Manhattan Beach, Autograph Collection by Marriott

A busy hotel, but everyone stayed on top of things throughout the day. Valet and bell staff, the front desk, housekeeping, and F&B all delivered, whatever the hour. You could see the training, but the hospitality also felt genuine, and the staff seemed to enjoy their work. That pride came through in the service. This visit was great, just like my last one. I’ve never had a bad stay here. Kudos to the GM and the whole staff. Whenever I’m in town, you’ve got a loyal customer.

The open, bright lobby and outdoor areas make it easy to relax and explore without feeling hurried. There’s a playful, creative feel, with room for teenagers to hang out, take pictures, and enjoy the scenery. I often see teens around the lounge and outside near the golf lawn, and I can see why they like it. Even without staying overnight, spending time here leaves a strong impression on me. It’s one of the most enjoyable and relaxing hotel settings I’ve been around in a long time, and I’d recommend it to teenagers as a peaceful but exciting place to have fun and feel inspired. I’ve been coming to the westdrift Manhattan Beach, Autograph Collection every June since 2021 for its all-ages prom, where young adults and younger people can attend. That’s meant a lot to me because I never got a real prom. I graduated from Robert A. Millikan High School in June 2020, when everything was still shut down for the COVID lockdown, and going to these events has let me experience something I missed, even though I’m still physically a teenager. Every year, the visit feels smooth and comfortable, and I trust it’ll be what I hope for.

Dani at the front office was so welcoming and accommodating. I arrived early and my room wasn’t ready, but she got it sorted in good time and made the wait worthwhile with excellent lunch recommendations. The hotel’s artistic design, golf course view, pool, and quiet setting were all lovely. My room was clean and comfortable too. Such a beautiful experience.

The spacious design made the property feel comfortable, but I was hugely disappointed by the restaurant’s automatic 20% gratuity on takeout. That feels like the kind of fee you’d expect at a bottom-tier hotel. I understand it for dine-in, where there’s service beyond entering an order and handing it over. For food, go to Costco, Trader Joe's, or even one of the area’s higher-end grocery stores instead of ordering at the restaurant. At least there, you won’t pay extra for the bare minimum of service. They aren’t even at Ritz Carlton or JW’s level, yet they think they can just add this charge. That’s the reason I’m so disappointed in the property.