Staycation Review: Hotel June in Los Angeles – A Boutique Experience Near Manhattan Beach
When my boyfriend proposed that we celebrate our one-month anniversary with a beach day, I saw the perfect opportunity to suggest a staycation. Instead of dealing with the drive back to the Westside, I thought it would be much more enjoyable to book a hotel near the coast. After researching various hotels in the Manhattan Beach area, I found Hotel June to be the most appealing option, conveniently located just minutes away from the sandy shores.
From my initial exploration of Hotel June’s website and Instagram, it was clear that this boutique hotel, while not luxurious, was designed with a unique flair that stood out in the area. Promoted as embodying the free-spirited essence of California, I was eager to experience what it had to offer. As a sister property to the acclaimed Proper hospitality group, known for their stunning Santa Monica location, I anticipated a high level of attention to detail, akin to what one might expect from a diffusion line.
Location and Arrival
Hotel June is just an 8-minute drive from Manhattan Beach, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely getaway. Cruising up the Pacific Coast Highway with the top down after a day of sun and relaxation felt like the perfect way to unwind. Upon arrival, I opted for self-parking at a reasonable rate of $25, which was straightforward and hassle-free.
First Impressions
The hotel had a serene ambiance, likely a result of the ongoing global pandemic. The lobby was particularly striking, creating a warm welcome for guests, especially those flying into LAX. I’ve noticed that many hotels are increasingly focusing on the design of communal spaces, especially the lobby, to create Instagram-worthy moments for visitors. While I appreciate this trend, I hope that the guest rooms also reflect this same level of creativity, which is unfortunately not always the case. This was evident during my stay at Hotel June.
Room Review
Despite being labeled a boutique hotel, I found the room amenities to be somewhat lacking. There were no robes, slippers, or special touches that one might expect, and the toiletries felt outdated. However, the choice of mattress was commendable—an essential aspect of any hotel stay. The investment in quality bedding ensured a restful night, especially after a long day spent in the sun, with crisp white sheets and refreshing air conditioning providing the perfect comfort. Our corner standard king room offered a peaceful city view, and the tranquility made it feel like we had the entire place to ourselves.
Pricing and Amenities
While I was unsure of the standard room rates at Hotel June due to fluctuating prices resulting from COVID-19, I discovered that you could book a spacious king room for around $209, excluding taxes and fees. During our stay, we secured our room for just $106 a night through the Hotel Tonight app. Unfortunately, the dining options and pool were closed during our visit due to the pandemic, which left the experience feeling incomplete. However, I’m pleased to report that these amenities have since reopened, and I look forward to returning to explore their bar and restaurant, which promise exciting collaborations and events.
Summary of Experience
Overall, Hotel June provides a clean, modern, and bright space to unwind after a beach day. While it may lack some of the luxurious amenities typical of a boutique hotel, it serves as a comfortable and convenient option for those looking for a safe place to rest their heads.
