Welcome to Backpacker’s Boutique. Every Sunday, this spot will feature a new travel blogger. Some weeks it will be a really fun interview about packing, fashion, and fitness so you can snoop inside their bags & lives a little bit and other weeks it’ll be a detailed luxury guide to a city the featured blogger/expat knows very well. E-mail me if you’d like to be featured.

A Luxury Guide to Redondo Beach

Tell us a little about yourself and tell us why you’re an expert on luxury travel in Redondo Beach.

I’m a flight attendant and travel blogger at Travel with Mia and I’ve been living in Redondo Beach for the past 6 years! I consider myself an expert on this city because when I’m not traveling for work or play, I spend loads of time exploring my own backyard.

What makes Redondo Beach a perfect destination for travelers seeking a glamorous trip?

Redondo Beach is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. It has miles of sandy beaches and a beautiful marina filled with activities plus a slip for your luxury boat! Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this is the place to be!

What 5 star hotel is the best in Redondo beach?

Redondo Beach is a small, seaside town with no 5 star hotels but there are luxury accommodations. Portofino Hotel & Marina is a Mediterranean-esq, 4-star oceanfront hotel. Originally opened in 1962, this charming hotel recently underwent a multi-million dollar renovation. While staying at the Portofino Hotel, guests are treated to first class service and amenities such as in-room massages, oceanside pool & spa, fire pits on the harbor, and complimentary beach cruisers. Click here for rates and availability. 

What about boutique hotels in Redondo Beach, of them all, which would you send your friends or family to stay at?

The Redondo Beach Hotel is a sleek, modern boutique hotel with 112 guest rooms and suites located just steps from the marina, the beach and all of the city’s best attractions. I would send my friends and family to this hotel because it offers many of the same amenities as the Portofino Hotel & Marina at half the price. Click here for rates and availability. 

Are there any fun activities in Redondo Beach for the adventurous traveler?

The adventurous traveler won’t have to go far to find thrilling activities in this city! At King Harbor visitors can go kayaking, sailing, (SUP) Stand Up Paddle Boarding, whale (and dolphin) watching, surfing and more!

Where are the best hang outs during the day in Redondo Beach?

With all the activities available, you’ll want to spend most of your free time at the beach! Pack an umbrella, sunblock and a few snacks and enjoy a relaxing day in the sand or get moving and do a few of the activities listed above.

If you have a big date night, what are the most delicious restaurants in Redondo Beach and what are their best dishes (include any location information you have)?

On date night, my husband and I would probably go to R10 Social House (just off the boardwalk at 179 N. Harbor Drive). This gastropub features a full list of handcrafted cocktails and fresh, farm-to-table fare.. My favorite dish on the menu is the P.E.I. Mussels! Every time I have this dish, which is often, I want to order a second bowl before I’ve even finished the first! Other can’t miss dishes are the Jidori Chicken and Waffles, Mac-n-Cheese with house-cured lamb bacon and Alice and Willard’s Short Ribs!

These local restaurants are also date night worthy: BALEENkitchen, H.T. Grill, Bottega Romana, Ortega 120 and Chez Melange.

Let’s talk desserts- what place makes the best?

I can’t say who makes the best but I can tell you about MY favorite place, Kirari West Bake Shop! This quaint, modern bakery offers an extensive selection of gluten-free pastries and bold coffee. Since I love salted caramel and my husband loves chocolate, we usually order a salted caramel scone and a slice of Dark Passion, a decadent chocolate sponge cake with chocolate mousse and fruit confiture. More often than not, we compromise and share the chocolate brownie with sea salt caramel!

Tell us all the hot shopping spots; who’s carrying the trendy local designers? 

The Riviera Village is THE place to shop. From clothing and accessories to home and garden, you’ll find everything you need in this trendy neighborhood. Several shops sell recognizable and local designers. Come for a visit and pick your favorite shop!

What are a couple of the best salons and spas in Redondo Beach?

Finding a place to pamper yourself is easy unless having too many choices gives you anxiety! With over 30 salons and spas to choose from, the Riviera Village can satisfy any budget. My top picks are Ananta Spa, Salon Riviera, Spade Skin Care, Riviera Eyebrows, and Lux Nail Spa.

Time for a great sunset view… where would you go?

For a great view of the sunset, I would stay in the Village area and grab a spot on the Avenues (A-I) just above the strand where you can get a full view and stunning photographs.

Now that the sun’s gone down, fill us on the best places to go for some evening drinks or a great pre-gaming spot.

Pre-gaming can be done in a number of spots around town. If you’re at the beach, Barney’s Beanery and The Slip Bar & Eatery are casual choices right on the boardwalk. A few blocks away is Hudson House, a gastropub owned by former Top Chef 10 runner up Brooke Williamson and husband. Popular with locals and visitors alike, this pub boasts an extensive beer list, signature craft cocktails and a killer menu!

Mia is a flight attendant and travel blogger at Travel with Mia! She’s also a wife and amateur photographer who has traveled to many beautiful destinations around the world. Before taking flight, Mia attended Arizona State University and spent her time working as an entertainment publicist and social media analyst. Currently on a mission to see the world, Mia has a wonderful career that allows her to do just that!. Connect on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

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