Review: Fairmont Breakers Long Beach: First In

Why book? After a multi-million dollar, two-year renovation, the Fairmont Breakers has reopened with a blend of grandeur and historic charm. To truly appreciate its significance, just sit at the bar and listen to the stories of those who have walked through its doors over the years. The Fairmont is not only restoring a piece of history, but also introducing a new restaurant, a 360-degree rooftop bar, and a jazz lounge to enhance the experience.

Set the scene: The Fairmont Breakers pays homage to that past with subtle nods to Hollywood’s glitz and glamour, found in everything from the light fixtures to a curated gallery wall. In the past, the hotel was a hotspot among celebrities, from Elizabeth Taylor to Babe Ruth. Upon entering the lobby, you’re instantly reminded of its history. While the marble flooring is new, the original plaster molding on the ceiling remains, and refurbished doors lead to Alter Ego, the new jazz lounge. A 1920s-era mail chute also runs through each floor, adding a unique touch. The Fairmont draws a diverse crowd—from business travelers to couples celebrating anniversaries, to casual visitors—creating a lively but laid-back atmosphere.

The backstory: The Fairmont, part of the Accor group, teamed up with investment and development firm Pacific6 to restore and reopen this historic hotel. Originally known as The Breakers, the hotel was developed by local banker Fred B. Dunn. Over the years, it became a hotspot for Hollywood stars and, during World War II, served as a military outpost, acting as the Airwatch HQ for Long Beach Harbor. In the 1960s and 70s, the building was repurposed as an assisted living residence. Pacific6 acquired the property in 2017 and embarked on restoring it to its former glory.

The rooms: Elegant and clean. Think light wood floors, grey walls, marble bathrooms, and control panel features that offer both style and functionality. While the rooms may feel a bit compact, especially the closets, there's a real consideration in the details: a reading light attached to the headboard, a showerhead with a soothing mist feature that turns bathing into a spa experience, a super plush, comfortable bed. Every room offers a view—either toward the ocean or downtown Los Angeles.

Food and drink: While the Nettuno, located downstairs next to the lobby, serves up casual Italian fare, it's the re-designed Sky Room on the rooftop that truly deserves the buzz. Since 1938, the Sky Room has been recognized as Long Beach's premier fine dining destination, with over 86 years of rich history. Although closed in 2018 (after being revived in the late 1990s), it has once again made a fresh start. As you step off the elevator, you're greeted by photos and mementos that highlight the restaurant's significance to the city. Inside, you're immersed in 1930s decor that makes you feel like you've stepped back in time, and you have sweeping views of Long Beach, the harbor, and the skyline. But what’s better than a nice view? Good food. Eating at the Sky Room is an experience. Servers glide by with carts of champagne and caviar, and with desserts waiting to be flambéed right at your table. After dinner, save room for a drink and head up one more floor to the rooftop bar, Halo, which offers 360-degree views of Long Beach. While Halo has a lively, tropical vibe, the downstairs jazz lounge, Alter Ego, offers a more intimate, sultry atmosphere.

The spa: Even thought the spa doesn't have a ton of wellness bells and whistles, like a sauna or soaking pools, visiting it was a real highlight of my stay. The treatment rooms are spacious, and lying on the massage table felt like sinking into a cloud. My 60-minute Breakers massage was exactly what I needed and the steam room was the perfect finishing touch.

The neighborhood/area: Located just 25 miles south of Los Angeles, Long Beach offers a more relaxed coastal escape from the hustle and bustle of the City of Angels. The Fairmont is perfectly situated next to the Terrace Theater, home to "Broadway at the Beach" through 2025, and is also close to the Aquarium of the Pacific and within walking distance of the beach. Naples Island, a short 15-minute drive away, offers opportunities for year-round whale watching or a romantic gondola ride with Gondola Getaways, the oldest and largest fleet of gondolas in the Americas, established in 1982.

The service: The service is attentive and thoughtful. I felt very taken care of. During my stay, I was celebrating my mother’s birthday, and we were showered with well wishes from staff throughout our visit. The service staff’s uniforms complement the hotel’s Hollywood theme.

Eco effort: I loved that they use wooden key cards to eliminate single-use plastics.

Accessibility There are ADA-compliant rooms and suites.

Anything left to mention? This is just the beginning of the building’s new chapter. At Alter Ego, the hotel plans to feature live jazz performances. For those considering a staycation, it’s also worth noting that the hotel has no resort fees and offers complimentary Wi-Fi.