Since inspiration feeds creation, few environments are more productive than the colorful shores of Santa Monica Beach—coupled with a luxurious stay at Shutters on the Beach and Casa del Mar.
So besides California wine and gourmet coastal cuisine (like the smoked salmon blinis and beef carpaccio on our new catering menu), here are a few of our favorite ways to take advantage of Santa Monica for your 2017 group getaways.
The bottom line: Who knew surfing lessons and beach yoga could be so productive?
Yoga on the Beach
Start the day with creative energy when you reserve a group yoga class in the sand. A private instructor will tailor the practice to your desired style of yoga, and there are even customized Shutters and Casa mats available to remind you of your time in Santa Monica.
Small Group Wine Tastings
The Wine Room at Casa is now open and able to accommodate groups of 16 or fewer for wine tastings and talks. Enjoy a customized flight of red, white, or bubbly from a selection of low-production, difficult-to-find wines from across the globe. Or partake in the Coravin Selection, which highlights the most celebrated and expensive wines in the world. Saluti!
Group Cooking Classes with Chef Vittorio and Chef Gemma
Spend some time in the kitchen with Chef Vittorio, who specializes in Italian and California cuisine, or Chef Gemma, who highlights Spanish and Mediterranean fare. Both can teach groups to cook nearly any type of food, including healthy, California-inspired dishes using fresh produce from Santa Monica’s farmers market.
Downtown Walking Tours
There are more than 130 years of history to uncover in Santa Monica. Explore downtown on foot during a 2-hour guided tour with the Santa Monica Conservancy, in which you will hear stories of the city’s frontier beginnings and visit architectural marvels like The Majestic Theatre and The Bay Cities Guaranty Building.
Surfing Lessons
In the new year, do something you have never done before, like surfing with your colleagues. The concierges at Shutters and Casa can arrange for a private instructor to teach your group for an hour (or a few) right in front of the hotels.
Bike Rentals
Spanning 26 miles from Malibu to Redondo Beach, the beachfront bike path affords groups a wonderful way to explore the coastline while staying active. Visit the concierges at Shutters and Casa to reserve bicycles for you and your colleagues.
Vineyard Tours
Just 20 miles from Santa Monica, Malibu wine country is home to more than 50 vineyards and any number of award-winning California wines. Spend a day sipping wine with your group and touring Southern California’s beautiful countryside.
