Hyatt Centric The Pike Long Beach

Views of Long Beach, California, and the sunset behind Rainbow Harbor and the Queen Mary accompany mixers for up to 200 guests on the Rooftop Pool Terrace at Avia Hotel Long Beach. The Courtyard, another alfresco venue, entertains up to 145, while the adjoining Club Room hosts 40 for social affairs and 24 for executive meetings. The largest conference room, The Gallery, provides seminar seating for 54.

The new $27-million, 138-room hotel opened in 2009 three blocks from the Aquarium of the Pacific and one block from the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, in a prime location surrounded by shops, nightlife, and restaurants. Entertainment at home centers largely on the Avia Wine Bar + Lounge and Avia Kitchen + Dining Room, where a small-plate menu and complimentary tastings encourage mingling and sharing.