From downtown to the Westside and beyond: Los Angeles hotels you can book on points
Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here.
Los Angeles is a popular destination, whether you're visiting as a family with kids, a romantic couple or are on a business trip. The region is actually comprised of a vast expanse of cities and neighborhoods all bundled into a collective area known as LA. Choosing a hotel here can be overwhelming and sometimes expensive, so redeeming points for hotels in Los Angeles is a great option.
My cohorts and I have spent huge amounts of time in Greater Los Angeles and stayed in dozens of hotels there. Together, we've collected several of our favorites based on location, proximity to various points of interest and value.
The hotels noted below are just a smattering of the points properties you can book in the Los Angeles area. Click on the interactive map below to see more details about each property.
Downtown Los Angeles
InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown
A stunning tower that soars 73 stories above the city, the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown is located atop the tallest building in the West. Not for the faint of heart, the 70th-floor sky lobby is something to be seen, with unparalleled 360-degree views.
Rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows and a sleek, contemporary design. This is true luxury, and guests here will enjoy being pampered before and after their forays to the nearby sights and attractions at Staples Center (soon to be renamed Crypto.com Arena) and LA Live. Downtown LA (or as locals call it, DTLA) is hopping right now, and this is the luxurious way to enjoy it.
Points redemption: From 60,000 IHG Rewards Club points (rates from $342).
How to earn points: Earn 140,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening with the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card or transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to your IHG Rewards Club account at a 1:1 ratio.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Los Angeles Downtown
Complete with complimentary warm cookies, the DoubleTree Hotel Los Angeles Downtown is located right next to Little Tokyo and features gorgeous landscaped Japanese gardens. Situated in an active part of downtown Los Angeles, the DoubleTree offers fantastic views from its upper floors of the city skyline all the way to the ocean. The incredible architecture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad art museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art and more are all within walking distance.
Points redemption: 46,000 to 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night for a standard room reward (cash rates from $319).
Related: How to choose the best Hilton credit card for you
Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles LA Live
DTLA is chock-full of cool new places to visit and things to see. Fun for the whole family or good for a romantic getaway, the Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles L.A. Live is close to all the action. The hotel is located within L.A. Live, the city's enormously popular sports, music and entertainment center. Staples Center (soon to be the Crypto.com Arena), the Grammy Museum, Lakers games, live music by major acts and more are all steps away. The Courtyard here stays remarkably peaceful despite being in the midst of all that action, and the pool here is fantastic.
Points redemption: Marriott Bonvoy Category 5, from 35,000 points per night on standard dates, or use an up-to-35,000-point Marriott annual free night certificate like the one you get with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card or Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card (rates from $293). Note that Marriott is eliminating its award chart in favor of dynamic pricing effective March 2022, but there are still a few months left to book a stay with the current pricing.
Hotel Figueroa
If you're eager to be in the thick of things, but a bustling high-rise isn't your thing, here's an option for you. The Hotel Figueroa is a historic, low-key property that holds its own in the shadow of the giant L.A. Live complex and other hospitality stalwarts that loom nearby. The iconic, 95-year-old Hotel Figueroa joined Hyatt's Unbound Collection in June 2021. Restored to its Spanish colonial revival style, rooms are a bit small, but comfortable and well appointed. Attentive service, two restaurants, a pool, a small gym and an art collection add to the charm. The Hotel Figueroa is a great choice if business brings you to DTLA, but you'd like an intimate, boutique-like stay.
Related: A boutique hotel on the edge: A review of LA's Hotel Figueroa
Points redemption: World of Hyatt members earn double points on the room rate and eligible incidental charges when paying the Double Your Points rate of $362 per night for a standard room. The World of Hyatt Credit Card is currently offering a sign-up bonus of 60,000 points — 30,000 after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening and up to another 30,000 points by earning 2 points per $1 spent in the first six months from account opening on purchases that normally earn 1 point, on up to $15,000 spent. For awards redemption, the Hotel Figueroa is a World of Hyatt Category 5 property, from 20,000 points per night. Note that for stays from March 1, 2022, onward, World of Hyatt's award charts will have three categories — peak, off-peak and standard — with redemption rates that will vary across dates.
Beverly Hills and the Westside
Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills, a Member of Design Hotels
Beverly Hills is known as a posh destination within Los Angeles, and it certainly lives up to that reputation. The Avalon Hotel Beverly Hills is located in a more residential area, which is quiet and relaxed. We loved the midcentury design and historic-yet-modern vibe of this stylish hotel. Without being over the top, the Avalon exudes LA style and the guests here reflect that. A well-heeled group, the Avalon crowd is smartly groomed yet relaxed, fun and surprisingly approachable.
Points redemption: Marriott Bonvoy Category 5, from 35,000 points per night on standard dates (rates from $332). While Marriott is eliminating its award chart in favor of dynamic pricing effective March 2022, there are still a few months left to book your stay with the current pricing.
The Beverly Hilton
The iconic Beverly Hilton is one of the original settings for Hollywood celebrities. Home to the Golden Globe Awards each year, the Beverly Hilton is positioned at the gateway to Beverly Hills and steps away from Rodeo Drive. Still glamorous, this hotel has been home base for families, couples and girlfriend getaways for decades. Ask for a poolside cabana room for some added chic, or you can relax in the patio furniture overlooking the pool and restaurant.
Points redemption: From 60,000 Hilton Honors points for a standard room reward (rates from $248), or use a free weekend night reward certificate like the one that comes with the Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card ($450 annual fee; see rates and fees).
The information for the Hilton Aspire Amex card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Kimpton Hotel Palomar Los Angeles Beverly Hills
We love staying at a Kimpton Hotel Palomar because the design is always impeccable, and the Kimpton Hotel Palomar Los Angeles Beverly Hills location is no exception. As guests enter the stylish lobby, the hotel exudes a plush, relaxing mood. With a boutique hotel approach, the attentive Palomar staff somehow finds ways to make each guest feel special. The service here was so great we considered camping here all day instead of exploring all the cool restaurants, shops and galleries nearby. This hotel is great for romantic getaways and those seeking a chic place to see and be seen.
Points redemption: From 60,000 IHG Rewards Club points (rates from $314). Cardholders of the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card get the fourth night free on all award stays.
Fairmont Century Plaza
The landmark Century Plaza hotel is back, this time as the Fairmont Century Plaza. The familiar curved facade remains, this time replete with high-tech lighting effects at night. The favorite LA waystation of U.S. presidents and presidential candidates is now the centerpiece of a $2.5 billion mixed-use project. In its new iteration, it regains its former glamour and then some.
Features we love include a stunning lobby, spacious and elegantly appointed rooms and a huge spa. Located amid the Century City office tower complex that houses lawyers, financial firms and talent agents, this is a prime location for business travelers. Walkable Beverly Hills is next door, and if you time it right, the beach is a straight shot west (7 miles or so) on Santa Monica Boulevard.
Keep in mind this is one of the most expensive hotels in LA right now. With fees such as $75 to use the spa and $65 for valet parking, this isn't our top suggestion for leisure travelers. But, if you've got important business meetings lined up on the Westside, it's the gold standard.
Booking details: Room rates at the Fairmont Century Plaza start at between $700 and $800 per night. We recommend logging in to your Accor Live Limitless account, where you may be able to find member specials. We were able to get a room and daily breakfast for two for $715 per night. Taxes and fees will easily add an extra $100 per night to your tab. Note that if you are a non-elite ALL member, you can earn 25 points per 10 euros ($11.65) spent at participating hotels and can redeem them in increments of 2,000 for 40 euros ($46.60) off hotel charges.
Related: A beloved LA icon is brought back to life: Reviewing the new Fairmont Century Plaza
Try Hollywood or Universal City
W Hollywood
If you're traveling to LA to be part of the action, then the W Hollywood is an ideal place. Located right on Hollywood Boulevard along the Walk of Fame, the W is hopping with sleekly dressed visitors from all over the world. The music is thumping, the Instagram opportunities are plenty and the vibe is Hollywood chic. The rooftop pool and bar is a well-known hot spot for both visitors and locals, day or night. You may even catch a celebrity sighting or two.
Points redemption: Marriott Bonvoy Category 6, from 50,000 points per night on standard dates (rates from $273). While Marriott is eliminating its award chart in favor of dynamic pricing effective March 2022, there are still a few months left to book your stay with the current pricing.
Thompson Hollywood
For those eager to venture into authentic (as opposed to well-manicured or touristy) LA, Thompson Hollywood may be a good fit. Located between the marquee thoroughfares of Sunset Boulevard and Hollywood Boulevard, the Thompson is in a Hollywood neighborhood that's transitioning to trendy on the hospitality front.
Sleek rooms, a great rooftop pool and bar with views of the Hollywood sign, a designer gym and a magazine cover-worthy lobby are a few of the Thompson's most notable aspects.
It's a good choice for anyone looking to stay midway between downtown and the Westside. It's also close to attractions such as Universal Studios and the hiking trails of Runyon Canyon and Griffith Park. Make sure to take a ride-hailing service at night, as streets are a tad empty. But the good news is that the Hollywood/Vine Metro station is close by.
Points redemption: World of Hyatt member rates start at $304 for a standard room. A Double Your Points rate is available from $351. Since this is a Hyatt Category 6 hotel, award nights for standard rooms are 25,000 points. You will pay another $50 per night in taxes, as well as a $25 destination fee for complimentary coffee in the morning, use of the gym and pool and discounts at some local attractions. Note that for stays from March 1, 2022, onward, World of Hyatt's award charts will have three categories — peak, off-peak and standard — with redemption rates that will vary across dates.
Related: Midcentury chic meets SoCal cool: A review of the Thompson Hollywood
Andaz West Hollywood
We love this hotel for all its racy beauty and legendary '60s past. The rooftop pool is just stunning, and guests might recognize it from scenes shot for many a Hollywood production. Rooms are colorful and interesting, with eclectic art, mirrored furniture and some wild prints. The Andaz West Hollywood (WeHo) also offers one of the better-outfitted hotel gyms in the area. You can even bring Fido along for the stay – the hotel is dog-friendly and so are the guests.
Points redemption: Category 5, from 20,000 World of Hyatt points (rates from $259). Note that for stays from March 1, 2022, onward, World of Hyatt's award charts will have three categories — peak, off-peak and standard — with redemption rates that will vary across dates.
Pendry West Hollywood
The cool factor of West Hollywood is on overdrive these days, thanks to new hotels such as Pendry West Hollywood. If you're looking to be immersed in LA hipster chic from a Sunset Strip vantage point, you've arrived.
Standouts include eye-popping sculptures and other curated public artwork, Wolfgang Puck-helmed restaurants, gorgeous rooftop lounge and pool areas, a bowling alley, a 100-seat live entertainment venue and a private membership club known for attracting Hollywood A-listers. Our one-bedroom suite featured walk-in closets, a grand entryway, a powder room and a soaking tub overlooking the Hollywood Hills. I confess we didn't leave the premises at all during our stay.
Booking: The Pendry doesn't belong to a major loyalty program, though it does participate in Chase's Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection. This means that Chase Sapphire Reserve cardmembers and other eligible cardholders can enjoy perks such as complimentary breakfast for two, upgrades and more. Standard rates start at $370 for a king room and $735 for the deluxe skyline one-bedroom suite we stayed in.
Related: Experience the best of LA under one roof — TPG's first look at the new Pendry West Hollywood
Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City
If you like movies and amusement parks, the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City is located directly next to Universal Studios Hollywood and all the excitement that comes with it. Walk or shuttle to the park to enjoy rides, shows and tours sure to please the entire family. When we stayed here recently, our kids were wowed by the hotel's over-the-top buffets at every meal. (The chocolate fountain was a huge hit.) The hotel is also close to the famous Hollywood sign and Griffith Park in one direction and Burbank with all its movie studios in the other.
Points redemption: Between 53,000 and 60,000 Hilton Honors points per night for a standard room reward (rates from $263).
Holiday Inn Express Hollywood Walk of Fame
Perfect for families, the Holiday Inn Express Hollywood is literally in the thick of the action. We love the no-fuss, no-muss offerings of this hotel — especially the great complimentary breakfast options. Walking out the door and down the street, guests can visit all the famous sights including the Walk of Fame, Hollywood and Highland (home to the Academy Awards), the historic Egyptian Theatre and more. There is so much to do in this area, you'll have a hard time choosing favorites. The hotel does not offer a ton of frills, but you won't need that with so much to see just outside the doors.
Points redemption: From 40,000 IHG Rewards Club points (rates from $225).
Santa Monica
JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot
If the beach is your jam, the JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot is great for couples, families and groups of friends. Located right across from the boardwalk with ocean and palm tree views, the hotel is just steps away from the famous Santa Monica Pier, the most photographed location in all of LA. Great restaurants and world-class shopping are within walking distance. And did I mention the beach? This is iconic LA, straight from the movies and TV.
Points redemption: Marriott Bonvoy Category 7, from 60,000 points per night on standard dates (rates from $273). While Marriott is eliminating its award chart in favor of dynamic pricing effective March 2022, there are still a few months left to book your stay with the current pricing.
Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
An all-suites hotel can be a great option for families with small kids, as there is more space for everyone. The Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites is a quick three blocks from the famous Southern California beaches where guests can rent a bike or surfboard to cruise the shore. There also is a park very close by for the little kids to work off some steam, and the Santa Monica Pier and boardwalk are just a couple of blocks away.
Points redemption: Between 56,000 to 80,000 points per night for a standard room reward (rates from $327).
The Shay
Hyatt has opened The Shay, its first Destination by Hyatt property in Southern California. It is located in Culver City, which may not be as well known as other areas of LA, but it's actually a Westside gem with a historic entertainment industry pedigree. You'll find it due north about 7 miles from LAX.
Culver City has been a film and television production center for the past century. Now, it's having a renaissance as a hub for creative types, tech and trendy independent boutique outposts.
The Shay's industrial, edgy look features lots of open spaces, oversized windows, two dining venues and quirky touches like a fire pit in the lobby. The pool deck offers sweeping LA vistas and frequent yoga pop-ups. Suites feature large living rooms, a work area, soaking tubs, wet bars and some patios.
If you need to spend an extended time in LA, location is one of The Shay's best features. The nearby Culver City station of the LA Metro E Line provides a light rail connection from downtown LA to Santa Monica. So, you can stay at the Shay and conveniently explore a wide swath of what LA has to offer.
Points redemption: The Shay is a Category 5 hotel with World of Hyatt, so standard rooms are 20,000 points per night. Room rates start at $359 per night, plus an additional $82 in taxes and fees per night. Note that for stays from March 1, 2022, onward, World of Hyatt's award charts will have three categories — peak, off-peak and standard — with redemption rates that will vary across dates.
Related: A new boutique Hyatt with a rooftop pool just opened near the Santa Monica Airport
Airport lodging
Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport
Sometimes it's just easier to stay near the airport, particularly if you are just arriving or perhaps leaving very early. Since LAX is such a huge and busy airport, we sometimes like to stay in an airport-adjacent hotel the night before we leave — especially if we have an early flight. The Hyatt Regency LAX is one of the best we've visited, particularly for design, comfort and proximity. It is literally the closest hotel to the airport, and we can walk to our flights from the Hyatt Regency lobby. Many choose this as their home base and navigate to the sights of LA from here. Its very nicely appointed, spacious rooms and a good restaurant make this a natural choice for this area of LA.
Points redemption: Category 3, from 12,000 World of Hyatt points. Note that for stays from March 1, 2022, onward, World of Hyatt's award charts will have three categories — peak, off-peak and standard — with redemption rates that will vary across dates.
Bottom line
Regardless of where you choose to bank your loyalty points, there are great redemption options across the Greater Los Angeles area. If you're junkies like us, you may have points programs with several (OK, maybe all) of the hotel programs. That will allow you to pick and choose your options based on location, cost and even mood. Whichever it may be, those points are going to save you money on your visit to Los Angeles, which you can then spend on those Lakers tickets or convertible Ferrari rental. Splurge! It's LA!
For rates and fees of the Hilton Aspire, please click here.
Additional reporting by Ana Figueroa.