Enjoy sunrise to sunset views of the beach, mountains and urban skyline at the top of Santa Monica’s highest hotel.

The Penthouse bar/restaurant/lounge sits on floor 18 of the Huntley Hotel. Open both to hotel guests and non-residents, its spectacular panoramic views attract a vibrant and eclectic crowd of local and fellow tourists.

The Penthouse is an inside venue but with huge windows and a skylight filling the space with light. Windows open letting in the fresh ocean breeze. Open fires are lit in the cooler months.

We enjoyed beach views at breakfast and watched the sun set over the mountains in the evening.

The quality of the Breakfast matches the quality of the views. Extensive options, generous portions and sides/special requests to meet every need. Eggs come 16 different ways, from Huevos Rancheros to crab benedict and black truffle omelet. Plus some LA style and nutritionally powerful, egg white options. We went low on  health, but high on flavor with a fantastic (full of flavour) Bananas Foster French toast and delicious sourdough Breakfast Sandwich.

Both of which could easily see you through to the evening. (We however ate again a few hours later, wanting to sample as many LA meals as 48 hours allows!)

Following a big breakfast and lunch, our evening at the Penthouse was spent enjoying their bite size appetizers; a cheese plate, black truffle tater tots, sliders and spicy tuna tartare. Together with cocktails and some great conversation with a friendly local couple also taking in the sunset. We got some great local knowledge about Santa Monica history, the best place to hangout (Abbot Kinney), sites to visit (Venice canals) and more great places to eat; Joes, Hals and Gjelina. (Thank you Moxie Beads for the top tips!)

The Penthouse was a perfect start and end to the day.