Lobster Ravioli, Kayaking and Luxury Suites in Marina Del Rey

ByGreg Aragon

The lobster ravioli was delicious, the bloodymary was spicy and potent, and the view of colorful boats bobbing in the waterbehind my table was incredible. Dinner at Café del Rey was a great way toend a wonderful day in Marina del Rey.  

My getaway to the waterfront city began when Ichecked into a gorgeous suite at The Hilton Garden Inn Los Angeles Marina DelRey. Located across the street from the marina and beach, and within walkingdistance to restaurants, the hotel makes a perfect base camp while in town. 

My suite at The Hilton Garden Inn overlooked thepool and featured a super comfy king bed, a spacious sitting area with sofasleeper and two large TVs. Other room amenities included an office desk withcomplimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, and a small kitchenette area with microwave,refrigerator, Keurig coffee maker and sink.

Beyond cozy rooms and luxury suites, the hotelboasts a Jacuzzi and heated pool with marina views, fitness center,24-hour lobby business center, on-site bicycle rentals, a gourmet restaurant,and meeting/conference rooms.  

But the hotel’s best feature is its proximity tothe spectacular marina. Built in the early 1960s at the site of an old saltmarsh, Marina del Rey is a modern wonder of construction.As one of the world’s largest man-made small craft harbors, it features eightbasins and is home to approximately 6,500 boats.

In spite of its epic marina and quaint seasidelocation, Marina del Rey is still kind of a hidden gem. Located near thelarger, more famous areas of Los Angeles such as Venice Beach and Santa Monica,the tiny city can be overlooked. But for savvy travelers from around the globe,the place is waterfront paradise.

Janet Zaldua, CEO ofthe Marina del Rey Convention & Visitors Bureau says,“Marina del Rey is an urban waterfront playground that offerstourists resort-like amenities, exceptional hotel accommodations, and diningexperiences with breathtaking Marina views.”

To get an up-close look at the water and boats, and some of the luxury condos and new developments lining the shoreline, I rented a kayak from the Pro SUP Shop. Located in the parking lot in front of Mother’s Beach, the company specializes in stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking and offers daily rentals and lessons by professional ASI & WPA certified instructors.

During my hour tour of the harbor I paddled pastmillion-dollar yachts and old wooden sloops. I waved to small boats passing byand barking seals sunbathing on docks. Kayaking is not only a great way to seethe harbor; it is also a good workout and very relaxing. For those looking toget into paddle boarding or kayaking Mother’s Beachin Marina del Rey is probably one of the best places in theLos Angeles area to learn.

After playing on the water, I walked over to the swimming area for Mother’s Beach. Here I laid out my towel and put my umbrella in the sand and relaxed. I then headed back to my suite for a nap. For dinner I walked 10 minutes to Café del Rey.

Set on the harbor, with memorable views of boatsand sunsets, Café del Rey is led by Executive Chef Job Carder who has createdan exciting menu highlighted by creative seafood dishes, along with top qualitysteaks, chicken, chops and salads. The restaurant has been recognized by FoodNetwork and Wine Spectator.

My meal at the Café del Rey began with chilledlarge shrimp with fresh herbs and cocktail sauce. With this I had a spicybloody mary. For the main course, I enjoyed lobster ravioli with poached lobstertail, lobster mousse ravioli, lobster truffle sauce, mushrooms, peas andbottarga. While devouring this succulent dish, I watched boats bob in theharbor just outside the window. 

The next morning, I worked out at the hotel’s fitness center and then walked across the street for breakfast at Cafe Buna, a local favorite, known for its breakfast menu, which is served all day. Here I devoured Juevos Rancheros with flour tortillas, avocado, sour cream, over easy eggs, ranchero sauce, beans, rice and cheese.

The Hilton Garden Inn Los Angeles Marina Del Reyis located at 4200 Admiralty Way, Marina delRey, California, 90292. For more info, call (310) 301-2000 orvisit: hiltongardeninn3.hilton.com. For more informationon visiting Marina del Rey, visit: visitmarinadelrey.com.

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