A selection of rooms feature expansive oceanfront views PHOTO COURTESY OF NOBU RYOKAN MALIBU
Like all hot reservations in Los Angeles, Nobu Ryokan Malibu is intimate, private and hard to find. But the latter is intentional—once behind the discreet, unmarked teak gate that protects the Japanese-inspired compound, the hustle and bustle of your trip down the Pacific Coast Highway melts away. The stress of stop-and-go traffic is quickly replaced by the smell of salt in the air and the sound of waves washing ashore on Carbon Beach. The resort houses an exclusive selection of just 16 rooms, the most coveted of which are positioned right above the sand; others face the lush garden that sits at the heart of the resort, where native California fan palms, staghorn ferns, and water and fire features evoke the serene nature of the property. The design of each suite reflects that quiet luxury; limestone walls, tatami mats and exquisite teak soaking tubs are featured throughout the two-story haven, which was designed in collaboration with TAL Studio, Studio PCH, Montalba Architects and C.W. Eisner. Order a bottle of Champagne—it will be delivered at lightning speed—and kick back on a lounge chair on your beachfront deck as you wrap up in a linen yukata robe.
Malibu Fit Concierge’s seaside yoga class. PHOTO COURTESY OF MALIBU FIT CONCIERGE
Next, book a reservation at nearby Nobu—guests are given preference when it comes to scoring a table— or indulge in the restaurant’s menu in the privacy of your room. (Either way, ordering the crispy rice with spicy tuna and black cod with miso is a must.) To experience all of chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s greatest hits, opt for the multicourse omakase. As the food coma sets in, retreat to your suite, where your bed outfitted in Italian linens awaits.
The secluded resort PHOTO COURTESY OF NOBU RYOKAN MALIBU
In the morning, take advantage of Nobu Ryokan’s partnership with Malibu Fit Concierge (malibufitconcierge.co). Its talented team of adventure and fitness enthusiasts, led by founder Peter Deacy, is ready to take you on guided hikes through the Santa Monica Mountains; teach you how to surf or paddleboard; or help you get moving with private yoga, Pilates and personal training sessions. It’s no wonder Nobu Ryokan requires a two-night stay—leaving will be the furthest thing from your relaxed mind. Suites from $2,000 per night, malibu.nobuhotels.com
Umbrella deck PHOTO COURTESY OF CURE DAILY
SAY SPA-AAH!
While Nobu Ryokan Malibu does not have a spa on-site, fret not—its concierge is ready and waiting to transport you by Range Rover to nearby Cure Daily Malibu (curedaily.com). Perched above the Pacific Coast Highway with its own primo ocean views, the full-service wellness destination features salon, spa and medical services ranging from injectables, fillers and lasers to cuts, color and blowouts to reiki, massages and facials. Request an open-air room to bask in the seaside ambiance as you’re pampered from head to toe.
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