What to expect: Colorful hanging plants, multiple skylights, and potted trees lend an atrium ambience to the lobby. Conference attendees, wedding guests, and other travelers lounge on earth-toned loveseats and browse in the small gift shop.

Amenity highlights: The hotel features a fitness center on its third floor; guests also enjoy complimentary access to the adjacent health club, which features an outdoor lap pool, 13 tennis courts, spa tub, and full array of exercise equipment. Complimentary shuttle service is provided to restaurants, attractions, and offices within a three-mile radius. Business services are available 24 hours, and high-speed Internet access is available in the lobby, meeting rooms, and business areas.

Insider tip: A ride through Topanga Canyon makes for a spectacular drive, especially at sunset. Topanga Canyon Road (CA-27) is located one exit west of Canoga Avenue off the 101 Ventura Freeway. The road’s curving southwestern route takes drivers past Topanga Village’s casual restaurants and rustic homes, through the Santa Monica Mountains, and to its ocean cut-off at Will Rogers State Beach. The trip is about 17 miles each way.