Tucked between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, the Hyatt Westlake Plaza Thousand Oaks delivers Southern California pizazz at a pace that doesn’t forget the true meaning of vacation. Just far enough off the beaten path in lesser-known Conejo Valley, the hotel is 40 minutes from LAX, giving you easy access to the long list of Southern California’s popular attractions along with some unknowns you’ll want to check out.
First Impression, Hyatt Westlake Plaza
One major difference is clear from the moment you pull in; parking. There’s plenty of it at the Hyatt Westlake Plaza and ready for this – it’s free. So is the internet. And while we’re on the subject of money, there’s no hidden resort fee waiting for you at check-out.
Built in the 1980s, but fresh off a multi-million dollar renovation in 2013, the hotel has a Mediterranean feel. Natural light and open space makes the lobby and indoor plaza area a popular place to meet and grab a cocktail. With space to spread out, it also makes the 263 room hotel feel a bit smaller than it really is. Traveling families especially will appreciate the fact that all guestrooms can accommodate two beds. If a room with two queen beds isn’t available, all king rooms include sofa beds. All guestrooms also boast perks like Hyatt Grand Beds™, flat-panel HDTVs, coffee makers and safes.
Room to Get Comfy
The Hyatt Westlake Plaza caters to the business set during the week, then focuses on leisure travelers come the weekend. The mix of clientele is a win-win for both sides. Wifi fast enough to do business, makes keeping tabs on life at home easier for vacationers.
Perfect Place to Relax
An outdoor patio complete with fire pits (s’more making is encouraged and kits can be bought at the hotel) overlooks a manicured back yard complete with cascading waterfalls, pool and herb garden. Executive Chef, Ed Horincewich, likes his food as local as he can get it. When the herb garden was full, he found a hidden spot behind the Hyatt to farm his own pumpkin patch.
Breakfast is Served
There’s no excuse to give up on your exercise routine during your stay at the Hyatt Westlake Plaza. The 24-hour Hyatt Stayfit® Gym isn’t huge, but has a nice selection of equipment. The shortage of space may be what lead to the brilliant solution of bringing a bit of the gym outside. Along with a hot tub, the small outdoor courtyard leading to the gym is also home to a spin bike and elliptical trainer. There’s plenty of shade and a nice breeze to make breaking a sweat a little more enjoyable. Runners can pick-up jogging maps at the front desk and bicycles are available to rent.
Sunshine Filled Workout
The hotel’s Thousand Oaks location makes it a nice jumping point to explore places like Malibu and other famous Southern California stretches, but save time to discover some local favorites like Paramount Ranch. Loaded with hiking trails, don’t be surprised if you see Hollywood hard at work here shooting a soon-to-be-released flick. Actor turned President, Ronald Reagan will always be a star in Simi Valley. See a full-size replica of the Oval Office and climb aboard the flying White House, also known as Air Force One, at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Library.
Guestroom rates range from $139 to $249 depending on the season and day of week. Book direct or go through Booking.com or Hotels.com.
Dana was hosted by the Hyatt Westlake Plaza, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.
