iPads and Toasted Marshmallow Rum Shakes: What More Could You Want?

July 9, 2010 at 5:47 PM | by juliana | Comments (2)

A few months ago there was some concern about the pool scene at a new Hollywood hotel--the concern being that guests weren't always given priority access to the pool. Kinda shocking when you're paying close to $400 a night. But the boisterous party pool scene has become a bit of trend in Los Angeles, even at hotels that only allow guests to access the pool.

We've heard one guest complain about the pool at another hip LA hotel, saying they couldn't relax in peace and quiet by the pool, thanks to other partying guests. Again, not something you want to find when you're paying $400 a night.

Never fear, there's an antidote to the pool party scene in Santa Monica at the Hotel Oceana.

The hotel has always been one of our favorite, low-key spots to relax in LA and now they've ratcheted up the poolside services for hotel guests with iPads, iPods, ice cream treats, specialty summer cocktails, sun care products, gossip mags and a dedicated poolside host, Liz Carrol, to make sure you have everything you need for fun in the sun. (That's Liz showing off one of the hotel's four iPads above.)

We were able to sample some of the hotel's specialty cocktails the other week and while the poolside lemonade (made with Ketel One Citroen, fresh lemonade and watermelon ice cubes, $14) is certainly refreshing, we think everyone should try one of the Oceana shakes (also $14.) The Toasted Marshmallow shake, made with 10 Cane rum, topped with toasted marshmallows and served ice cold, hardly tastes like alcohol (which means you can have a couple.)

But since the Oceana is so close to the beach, you may not want to bum around poolside all day and the hotel understands that. So if you're looking to spend time in the sand, Liz will pack you an Oceana beach bag with towels, games and a picnic lunch from the hotel's Ocean Lounge. Of her job, Liz says:

You name it - I�m here to make sure we provide it.

Now, doesn't that sound a lot better than fighting amongst drunken 20-somethings for a space at the pool while obnoxious club beats pound a headache into your brain? Yes, we think so too. Oh and just to be absolutely clear, only hotel guests have access to the Oceana's pool, iPads, treats and Liz.

Room rates at the Oceana start at $425 for a deluxe king room. And when you hit up the pool, make sure to say hi to Liz!

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