Winds of Change

If you were wondering what was up with the former Manhattan Beach Marriott, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. As of late February, the hotel will re-debut as westdrift—the first Autograph Collection hotel in Los Angeles. The newly renovated and beautifully appointed space enjoys some major upgrades: 393 guest rooms, 9-hole golf course, a signature indoor-outdoor restaurant and a CrossFit-inspired fitness center … to name a few highlights.

Now a bit of historic trivia. With westerly winds famously sweeping dunes of sugary sand over the boardwalk and vacation homes of Hollywood’s elite, Manhattan Beach first made a name for itself by dispatching heaps of its sand to create Hawaii’s own star-studded playground of Waikiki Beach. Meanwhile, the continental drift was underway as East Coast trailblazers were in pursuit of the Southern California dream—including the New Yorker who named the city. The westdrift name reflects the decidedly West-Coast-meets-East-Coast vibe of the hotel’s design and amenities.

Brimming with a sun-washed beachy palette and casual sophistication for which Manhattan Beach is known, the design fuses the bicoastal aesthetic with driftwood, modern lines, tailored details and sandy hues brightened by pops of navy blue to paint the quintessential Southern California dreamscape. Mirroring the nostalgic Manhattan Beach pier, the hotel lobby will feature striking wooden columns with metal accents. The bold sense of arrival continues with a custom Argentine driftwood check-in desk and artwork by Sausalito photorealist Eric Zener, celebrated for his elemental water paintings.

One place guests can enjoy a few Californian takes on the classic Manhattan cocktail, westdrift’s signature restaurant offers an indoor-outdoor enclave where locals can sip at the 360º bar alongside the sun-seekers. Executive Chef Octavio Sabado aims to bring a fresh, creative and communal-focused dining experience slated to elevate the already vibrant Manhattan Beach culinary scene. From dusk to dawn, the restaurant will transform from morning tea and pastries to evening cocktails, craft beer and wines from private labels. You know where to find us all season long.

For more, visit westdrift.com.