Hotel Review: The Beverly Hilton
I was extremely lucky to spend a couple of nights at the famous Beverly Hilton. Known throughout the world as being the home of the Golden Globes, the Forbes Four Star hotel is certainly a true gem in the heart of Beverly Hills, with the iconic 90210 postal code.
Since opening in 1955, the Beverly Hilton has welcomed scores of Hollywood legends in addition to Presidents, Celebrities, and Royalty, amongst regular tourists like myself. Situated on the crossroads of Wilshire and Santa Monica Boulevards, you simply cannot miss the iconic retro-exterior of the hotel. But don't let that fool you, the Beverly Hilton is continuously evolving. As you edge closer to the main entrance along the drive, you know that you're not just at any Hilton hotel or resort. But somewhere very special.
Location
The Beverly Hilton
9876 Wilshire Boulevard
Beverly Hills, California, 90210
+1 310 274 7777
The hotel is located along Wilshire Boulevard; literally just as it intersects with Santa Monica Boulevard. It's approximately 12 miles away from LAX, which can be reached in about 20-25 minutes. But I'm talking about LA traffic, so be prepared for the journey to take a little longer. The city of Beverly Hills is easily walkable, and you are only a short stroll away from the iconic shops and restaurants located along Rodeo Drive. If you don't feel up to human power, then I was delighted to learn that The Beverly Hilton offers a complimentary one-mile sedan service within "the golden triangle of Beverly Hills". This was very handy.
Check In
Being a Hilton Honors member, you can actually check-in online or via the Hilton mobile app up to 24-hours prior to your arrival. However I opted to go with the traditional method. The clerk whom assisted me appeared to be very tired and didn't really talk much. I was surprised that I did not have to show any form of identification; which I thought was very odd. It is the first time I have experienced this in any hotel I have stayed in.
My Room – #531
I was staying in a Deluxe King guest room in the Wilshire Tower which overlooked the pool area.
At 344 square feet, the room felt very spacious and modern.
The room was complete with a lot of storage areas, which was fabulous along with a 47-inch plasma television mounted on the wall, a desk, Bose Wave sound system, two telephones, a minibar, safe and many more additional features including interactive technology.
I liked the idea of having a power outlet on the base of each bedside lamp. You honestly do not know how frustrating it can be to find a lack of plugs in hotel rooms. There was also a USB and other access ports located to the left-hand side of the desk.
The bathroom was most impressive. There were separate compatments for the WC and walk-in shower, along with a 13-inch LCD TV beside the vanity unit! Just wow. If only I had one of those at home...
Now saving the best for last: The balcony.
As you can see, I had a pretty awesome view looking towards Los Angeles and the Aqua Star Pool below...
It was a lovely room; and I would certainly recommend booking into this category room, ask for a view!
Here are some photos I took one evening. Notice the movie screen!
Food & Drink
The Beverly Hilton has a restaurant and two lounges, including the rather famous Trader Vic's.
Aptly named after the year when the hotel first opened, Circa 55 is the main restaurant at The Beverly Hilton and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Serving up a modern twist on traditional Californian cuisine; the restaurant is incredibly popular, and I've heard a lot of rave reviews about the S'mores.
Trader Vic's is a rather famous Polynesian-inspired lounge that is a hit with all the celebrities and Hollywood royalty alike. Think island cuisine and exotic cocktails and there you have it.
The lounge reminds me a lot of Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar and Tangaroa Terrace at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim. Funnily enough the latter also does an Asian Chicken Salad. It was delicious!
The Lobby and Lounge and Bar is fairly expansive and there's plenty of seating either around the bar or at tables. Continental pastries are served in the morning along with Starbucks coffee.
Room service is available around the clock. I utilised this service quite late one evening, and my order was with me in a little under 20 minutes. Very good indeed. The menu also features several dishes that you would find within the restaurants.
Relaxation
Boasting the largest heated swimming pool in Beverly Hills, the Aqua Star pool is just as famous as the hotel is itself. After all, it is the pool where celebrities such as Angelina Jolie jumped into the water after winning her second Golden Globe! The outdoor oasis is currently designed by Estree Stanley and was very nice. You can also enjoy drinks and snacks from Circa 55 and Trader Vic's.
This is also the location where you can enjoy watching a movie under the stars, or even roast some S'mores!
You'll also find a 24-hour Fitness Centre by Precor (just use your room key for entry), Bellezza Salon, Aqua Star Spa and two boutiques.
The Verdict
Overall, The Beverly Hilton is a really great hotel. The rooms are lovely, views superb, amenities are plentiful, and you are just a short stroll (or a chauffeur-driven transfer away from Rodeo Dr. and the rest that the city of Beverly Hills has to offer.
Would I stay here again? Without a doubt.
Just be sure to book into a room in the Wilshire Tower - as these offer the best views of the city and beyond.
8/10.
