Hotel happenings are nothing new in Santa Monica, but the city by the sea has some new developments on that front this fall.
On Sept. 18, Hyatt Hotels Corporation opened up the Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica, taking over the site formerly known as Le Méridien Delfina Santa Monica. While the hotel will keep the same management, Viceroy Hotel Group, the sixth Hyatt Centric location in California will be undergoing some changes alongside the name switch.
From now through the second quarter of 2025, a $16 million refurbishment project will be taking place. Work includes a facelift for the hotel’s dining experience, as Hyatt stated that an all-new three-meal restaurant and bar is in the works. Other priorities are revitalization of meeting space, as well as the lobby and guest arrival area.
What Hyatt calls a "carefully phased approach" to the work will not impact guests’ time at the site.
"We are committed to growing Hyatt’s brand presence in the leisure and lifestyle segment, and our latest Hyatt Centric hotel opening in a key market like Los Angeles demonstrates our focus on destinations that resonate most with our guests and World of Hyatt members," Hyatt Senior Vice President of Global Franchise Operations Mike Waddell stated. "As the first Hyatt hotel in Santa Monica, this lifestyle property not only celebrates the areas vibrant culture, but also offers our guests an opportunity to explore one of Los Angeles’ most iconic coastal destinations."
Hyatt is already well-versed in the Los Angeles hotel scene, operating such spots as Andaz West Hollywood and The Shay in Culver City. The group now takes over the Le Méridien Delfina, which Viceroy Hotel Group Chief Operating Officer Mike Walsh has been of great service to Santa Monica.
"We are excited to continue the hotel’s legacy as a premier destination in Santa Monica," Walsh said. "This property has long been a staple in the neighborhood, and we look forward to its next chapter through a new look and feel."
Hyatt is not the only company investing in local hotels, as Crescent Hotels & Resorts announced last week that Courtyard Santa Monica and Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica have been added to the group’s portfolio. Previously under OTO Development, the two sites now join a Crescent portfolio headlined by the PGA National Resort and Spa in West Palm Beach, Florida and the Williamsburg Inn in Williamsburg, Virginia.
"Ideally situated near Downtown Santa Monica’s best entertainment, dining, and the renowned Third Street Promenade, these hotels provide the perfect beach getaway," Crescent said in a Facebook post. "Just steps away from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, guests can enjoy an exceptional blend of coastal relaxation and vibrant city life. We’re delighted to bring these premium hotels to our portfolio."
These management shifts are supplemented by the upcoming remodeled and rebranded Regent Santa Monica Beach, which will have its grand opening on Oct. 1. In advance, hotel management gathered city officials and business leaders on Sept. 12 for a sneak preview tour of the updated establishment.
