Nobu Ryokan

Located in a remodelled 1950s motel, this uber-exclusive Japanese-style beach hideaway has made waves in the Los Angeles hotel scene since its opening in 2017. Discretion and privacy are a premium on the VIP stretch of the Malibu coastline, and this hotel gives little away, with just an email address for enquiries. What we do know is that the hotel complex takes its inspiration from traditional Japanese hospitality; soaking tubs, serene patios and indoor/outdoor fireplaces seek to create the ultimate relaxation experience for guests. Visitors can request beachfront rooms that offer direct beach access, first-floor ocean rooms that have beautiful views, or garden suites with a private terrace. Interiors boast a painstaking attention to detail with luxury materials throughout; expect silks, linen, sisal and polished teak. There are understated high-tech features, too, like a switch beside the bed to operate black-out blinds and fireplace controls on an iPad. The sound of the ocean mingles with the trickling of the Japanese garden to create an atmosphere of serenity throughout. The hotel has recently seen the addition of an oceanfront swimming pool, and next door there is a 'nikkei' restaurant offering Japanese-Peruvian fusion food. Breakfast is delivered to guests in a Bento box in the mornings, meaning there is no need to leave your cocoon of comfort until you decide to head out to the beach. An impossibly stylish beach bolt-hole.