Text by Armella Stepan
It’s no secret that Southern California is an outdoor lover’s paradise, blessed with sunshine and temperate weather 12 months a year. Yes, it’s true—you can surf in the morning and hit the ski slopes by afternoon. But what makes the region truly special is how effortlessly locals weave the outdoors into their everyday routines. At Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa del Mar, the Concierge Team doesn’t only recommend activities—they live them. These outdoor enthusiasts lead by example, ensuring their guests experience the best that Southern California’s natural playground has to offer.
Jonathan Dyke, concierge at Shutters on the Beach and father of three, is no stranger to balancing family life with outdoor adventures. On weekends when he can manage to wrangle all the kids together, you may find them biking along the Santa Monica Beach bike path, starting from the Santa Monica Pier and riding as far as they can go along the scenic coastline. He swears by the timeless charm of Pacific Park and the Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel, which offers sweeping, panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. “It’s the perfect way to start or end a family day,” Jonathan shares, adding that the Ferris wheel is a surefire hit for families.
For those who prefer to explore the inland beauty of the region, Jonathan’s colleague Willem de Geus is the go-to source. Originally from Europe, Willem found his forever home in Los Angeles, drawn by the seamless combination of sea, sun, and mountains. An avid skier and hiker, Willem regularly makes the five-hour drive to Mammoth Mountain during ski season, where he spends his weekends carving through fresh powder. However, when he’s back in Santa Monica, he satisfies his love of nature by hitting local trails like the Solstice Canyon Trail. “It’s the perfect mix of workout and reward,” Willem says. The trail offers a bit of history with scenic ruins, while also giving hikers breathtaking views of the Pacific from a ridge. Willem is equally committed in his day-to-day routine, often walking to work along Santa Monica’s beach paths, blending his passion for the mountains and the sea into his everyday life.
Hansel Cortez, from Hotel Casa del Mar, takes a more serene approach to the outdoors. A fan of quiet reflection, Hansel suggests the Temescal Canyon hike. Located within Will Rogers State Park, this beginner-friendly trail winds through lush greenery and offers stunning views of both the ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. His favorite spot? Inspiration Point, a lookout that provides sweeping views of the Santa Monica cityscape, the Pacific, and beyond. “Temescal has some terrific picnic spots along the way,” Hansel says. “I always recommend guests grab a picnic to go from the hotel before they set out. It’s not just about the view; it’s about slowing down, enjoying a good meal, and letting the landscape relax you,” he adds, perfectly capturing the laid-back essence of Southern California.
What all three concierges agree on is that no stay in the Los Angeles area is complete without a private city tour early in the trip. “It’s not your typical bus tour,” Jonathon explains, “it’s about tailoring the experience to your interests—whether that’s seeing the Hollywood sign up close or getting insider tips on where to catch the best sunset views.”
From biking along the beach to hiking the rugged canyons, the concierge team at Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa Del Mar embodies the Southern California outdoor lifestyle. Whether you’re traveling to Santa Monica solo, as a couple, or with family, the Concierge team looks forward to guiding you wherever you may wish to roam.
