Hotel Erwin – Hotel Review

The Los Angeles neighbourhood of Venice has a definite vibe — so too does Hotel Erwin, a boutique offering in the midst of it all. The property’s rooftop bar is where parties (and party people) pool and, with incredible, sweeping views of the surrounding strip and greater LA, it’s little wonder. Do people come to this part of LA to sleep? Not at Erwin, it seems. Read on for the full review.

Where is Hotel Erwin? 

Overlooking the festooned strings of lights spelling ‘Venice’, Hotel Erwin is in the beating heart of the hippie community, on Pacific Avenue. It’s a block from the beach and about 25 minutes from LAX (without the city’s infamous traffic, of course).

What’s near Hotel Erwin?

There’s little to see in Venice that isn’t around the corner from Erwin: the Boardwalk is less than 10 minutes on foot, the canals are the same distance away (in the opposite direction) and Abbot Kinney Boulevard, with its crowds of brunch spots and boutique shopping, is about 15 minutes’ walk away. LA Louver, an exceptional contemporary art gallery displaying American and European works, is about five minutes’ wander away, too.

Room types 

Somewhat subdued in comparison with the hotel’s general energy, the rooms still keep a little of the property’s cheeky personality. In some rooms, the wallpaper is graphic, in others the wall is painted a cool blue. There are mustard-coloured couches, tangerine lampshades and polka dot curtains, too — alongside drawcards such as pillow top mattresses, great views (and in some cases, balconies) and roomy bathrooms. 

Restaurants and bars 

Crowned by High Rooftop Lounge and anchored by Venice Way Pizza, a Detroit-deep-dish style joint that slings the heavenly carb bomb by the slice, Hotel Erwin has a few makers of a good time on the premises. From weekend brunch (which can be boozy, if that’s your thing) until evenings (10pm on Friday, Saturday, Sunday), the rooftop is absolutely the place to be, with views stretching as far as the Hollywood sign. At sundown, food heads into the realm of South Cali, with ceviche and Pacific fish tacos.

Travel for work

While each room has a generous desk and the hotel is equipped with free wi-fi, we’d hazard a guess that not a lot of work will get done here — it’s more of a venue for play. (Meetings and events can be planned on-site, however, if you’re in town to chat out a project or two, with gallery-style space with room for up to 65 people).

Sustainability

There are a few key initiatives in play to keep Erwin as eco-conscious as possible. Some of them include low-flow showerheads, sustainably and ethically sourced coffee pods, free bikes for guest use and the use of biodegradable cleaning products. 

Accessibility   

The hotel has limited accessible rooms available, so enquire ahead of time.

What you need to know

The rooftop bar obviously facilitates a good time, which can mean not so much of a great time for those in for an early night. Bring your earplugs… or, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.