This home has an undeniably spectacular view and wonderful location. The sound of waves lulling us to sleep was even more wonderful than expected.
However, there were a few bits that I found really off putting. Specifically the communications with the host, and the signage around the apartment, as well as the policy regarding guests. And for what was ultimately over $1000/night all in.... I struggle to recommend.
Firstly, the heater was leaking gas. The host responded promptly and had it turned off, and provided extra space heaters (which we didn't need really). I believe the heater has now been replaced.
Next is the constant signage around the apartment telling you that something will be an extra charge. Not getting makeup on the towels when washing your face, not smoking (obviously). Suggesting you take 5 minute showers (in all caps?). That the hot water will take a minute, etc. It's just off putting, and really takes me out of the mindframe of being on vacation and feeling like I'm welcome in a space. In fact, I have very rarely felt less welcome in an airbnb.
I am aware that this isn't a place to have a party or a gathering, but be aware that you are not even allowed to have someone over for dinner or a drink before you go somewhere. You can not allow them to come see where you are staying. And as someone who used to live in LA and came for my birthday, I had hoped to have some friends over for dinner and that was part of why I was staying in an Airbnb. And I was pretty shocked to read the exceptionally long message (after booking) from the host regarding not having anyone on the property.
Additionally, the trip was originally suppposed to be just me and my husband. But at the last minute my very good friend who has been in cancer treatment, got some good cancer related news and we decided to add her to the trip to celebrate. I messaged the host the day before, explaining the situation and that we didn't need any additional space/beds (she's tiny and bc of treatment things prefers to stay in the bed with us).
The host proceeded to charge me $900 for 4 days to have her there, and despite me asking her not to, went ahead and made up the cot in the living room, which just took up extra space from the already small apartment. There is honestly no justification for charging $900 for an extra guest when it requires 0 extra work on the part of the host.
Checkout is at 10am, which itself is insane. But my friend was struggling that morning due to cancer issues (triggered migraines), and we weren't due to fly out of LAX til 3pm. I asked if we could potentially stay a bit later to get her some rest, and were promptly denied.
Honestly, the space is spectacular. The location is everything you want it to be. But the experience wasn't. For what was ultimately over $1000/night... eh.