Steeped in Hollywood glamor and mystique, Los Angeles has long beckoned stars and socialites, drawing them into a vibrant orbit where exclusive opportunities to dine, party, and unwind behind the velvet rope are not just sought after, but expertly curated. When the first Soho House West Hollywood arrived more than a decade ago, it ignited a fervent desire among Angelenos to gain access to such sparkling social clubs, perched alluringly above the city’s iconic Sunset Boulevard. These institutions are far more than mere venues for leisure; they are sanctuaries of influence, connection, and elevated living, meticulously designed for those who understand that true luxury lies in exclusivity.
Gaining entry into these highly coveted enclaves can often prove more challenging than securing admission to LA’s most elite private schools, marked by lengthy application processes and membership fees that are, by any measure, exorbitant. Yet, the allure persists, for joining these clubs bestows benefits that extend far beyond basic socialization. Members gain access to pristine gyms, private offices, and rooftop pools, to name just a few of the tangible advantages that transform daily routines into extraordinary experiences, elevating the very concept of urban living.
Today, we pull back the curtain on this hidden world, offering an intimate glimpse into the inner workings of Los Angeles’s premier members-only clubs. We will navigate the intricate landscapes of these exclusive societies, revealing their unique offerings, the stringent requirements for entry, and the distinct cultural niches they carve within the sprawling metropolis. Prepare to venture into a realm where power, prestige, and unparalleled privilege converge, as we uncover the secrets of LA’s most sought-after memberships.
1. **Jonathan Club DTLA & Santa Monica**For over a century, the Jonathan Club has stood as an enduring pillar of Los Angeles society, a distinguished hub for creative characters and influential figures alike. Its storied history is woven into the fabric of the city, representing a timeless tradition of refined socialization and unparalleled amenity. With two distinct locations, members are afforded a choice between the serene, commanding views of the Santa Monica coastline and the dynamic, sweeping panorama of the downtown Los Angeles skyline, each offering a unique backdrop for connection and leisure.
Beyond its breathtaking vistas, the Jonathan Club distinguishes itself with state-of-the-art gyms and comprehensive workout facilities, catering to every aspect of a member’s wellness regimen. These spaces are not merely equipped; they are meticulously curated, featuring a myriad of classes, courts, and advanced machines designed to challenge and invigorate. This commitment to physical well-being seamlessly integrates with the club’s broader ethos of holistic living, ensuring members can pursue their health goals within an environment of absolute sophistication.
Perhaps most notably, the downtown location champions a remarkable commitment to sustainability and culinary excellence with its expansive 2,800-square-foot garden. This verdant oasis yields over 30 varieties of fruits and vegetables, all meticulously incorporated into the club’s diverse dining concepts. Such dedication to fresh, locally sourced ingredients elevates the gastronomic experience, while hundreds of social events and workshops provide ample opportunities for members to mix, mingle, and forge meaningful connections with like-minded individuals. It is also worth noting the club’s inherent beauty, so picturesque that it has become a popular and sought-after wedding venue, adding another layer to its storied legacy.
Accessing the Jonathan Club is a testament to its formidable exclusivity, demanding a significant commitment from prospective members. Inquiring about membership typically involves filling out a specific form, initiating a process that is both thorough and selective. The initiation fee alone hovers around a substantial $50,000, a clear indicator of the value placed upon entry. Furthermore, admission often requires a personal invitation or an existing connection through a current member, underscoring the deeply entrenched social networks that define this century-old institution.
2. **City Club LA DTLA**Ascending 51 stories above the bustling heart of Downtown Los Angeles, City Club LA establishes itself as a preeminent society for networking and social engagement within the city’s vibrant Business District. Its lofty perch grants members an unparalleled vantage point, offering sweeping views that encapsulate the expansive urban tapestry, a fitting setting for those who operate at the apex of their professions. This isn’t just an office away from home; it’s a statement of status, a nexus where ambition and leisure converge in a sophisticated urban aerie.
City Club LA is meticulously designed to cater to the modern professional, providing private spaces that are ideal for hosting collaborative meetings, fostering innovation and strategic discussions in an environment free from external distractions. For those seeking an alternative to the traditional home office, the sleek coworking lounge offers a dynamic yet serene setting, making it the ultimate destination for professionals who desire to work remotely while still immersing themselves in the city’s vibrant pulse. It is a space crafted for productivity, effortlessly blending business with refined comfort.
Beyond its impressive workspaces, City Club LA elevates the culinary and social experience with its cool and upscale dining concepts, available at both the lounge and Arbor. These venues provide exquisite gastronomic journeys, complementing the exclusive access members receive to a curated calendar of events. These include intimate wine tastings, chef-driven dinners that tantalize the palate, and thoughtfully organized networking and speaker events, all designed to enrich and expand a member’s professional and personal horizons.
To join this esteemed society, prospective members are invited to submit an application online, a process through which a club representative typically responds with efficiency. The financial commitment varies based on age, reflecting a nuanced approach to membership tiers. Those aged 41 and older are subject to a $1,500 initiation fee, alongside a monthly payment of $395. For a younger demographic, specifically those 40 and under, the initiation fee remains constant at $1,500, but the monthly payment is adjusted to a more accessible $285, demonstrating an understanding of varying career stages within its elite community.
3. **Griffin Club Cheviot Hills**Tucked away within the affluent, tree-lined avenues of Cheviot Hills, the Griffin Club LA emerges as a veritable private oasis, particularly renowned as a sanctuary for tennis enthusiasts. This exclusive retreat offers a remarkable eight premium LED-lit courts, providing members the luxury of honing their forehands and backhands from dawn until dusk. The presence of a professional staff of seasoned tennis pros further elevates the experience, ensuring that personalized assistance and expert guidance are readily available, fostering both skill development and competitive spirit within a pristine setting.
The club’s dedication to recreation extends gracefully beyond the courts, encompassing an impressive aquatic landscape designed for both serious swimmers and leisurely sun-seekers. Members have access to two recreational lap pools, perfect for focused exercise, alongside a spacious 25-meter family pool that welcomes children, creating a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere. For those seeking tranquility, an adults-only resort pool provides a serene escape, complete with an ambiance that encourages relaxation and rejuvenation under the California sun.
When the urge for culinary indulgence strikes after an energetic workout or a relaxing afternoon, members need only ascend to the upstairs dining room or seek out the intimate hideaway bar. These sophisticated venues offer an array of delectable cocktails and appetizers, providing the perfect setting for unwinding and socializing. The club’s thoughtful amenities also include a sleek shared workspace, ensuring that members can effortlessly transition from recreational pursuits to focused productivity, seamlessly integrating work and leisure within one luxurious environment.
Entry into the Griffin Club is a highly selective affair, operating on an invite-only basis, a testament to its exclusive nature. Prospective members do not simply apply; their admission is subject to the rigorous approval of the Griffin Club’s Board of Directors, a process that emphasizes discretion and alignment with the club’s esteemed values. While interested individuals can submit an inquiry online, the ultimate decision rests with this authoritative body. The pricing structure is thoughtfully tailored to different membership types, with a family membership, for instance, requiring a substantial $12,000 initiation fee, complemented by a monthly cost of $450, reflecting the comprehensive benefits and prestige associated with this Cheviot Hills gem.
4. **The Aster Hollywood**Envisioned as an expansive “adult playground,” The Aster Member’s Club in Hollywood redefines the concept of a members-only establishment, granting creatives unparalleled access to a meticulously curated world of leisure, work, and entertainment. This isn’t merely a club; it’s a self-contained universe where every conceivable need, from intellectual stimulation to physical exertion, is met with an exquisite attention to detail. The facilities are designed to inspire and facilitate the endeavors of Hollywood’s innovative minds, fostering an environment where ideas flourish and connections are forged.
Within its opulent confines, The Aster boasts an impressive 36-seat movie theater, offering members an intimate cinematic experience that rivals the grandest premieres. For those immersed in the auditory arts, a professional recording studio stands ready, providing a cutting-edge space for musical creation and production. Furthermore, a suite of work studios and dedicated meeting rooms offers the perfect antidote to the monotony of working from home, presenting a more inspiring and collaborative environment for the modern professional. These spaces are thoughtfully equipped, ensuring that both creative and corporate needs are met with equal measure of sophistication.
Beyond the dedicated workspaces, The Aster truly distinguishes itself through its vibrant social calendar. Members receive exclusive access to a plethora of engaging events, ranging from enriching workshops that spark new skills and perspectives, to captivating film screenings that showcase artistic prowess, and electrifying musical performances that bring the house to life. These events are not merely diversions; they are opportunities for meaningful interaction, fostering a sense of community among a diverse cohort of creative individuals.
For those who prioritize well-being, The Aster offers robust fitness amenities, including a 24-hour gym, a dedicated weight room, and a refreshing swimming pool, ensuring that health and vitality remain within easy reach. Culinary delights await at the rooftop restaurant, Lemon Grove, an idyllic setting for after-work dinners and drinks, where exquisite flavors are paired with captivating views. Membership, beginning at $3,600 per year, is acquired through an online application process that goes beyond simple financial commitment, requiring hopeful members to upload a photo and compose a small bio highlighting their interests, skills, profession, and hobbies, ensuring a truly synergistic community.
5. **HEIMAT Hollywood**For the discerning, fitness-focused denizens of Los Angeles, HEIMAT Hollywood presents itself as more than just a gym; it is a trendy spa and membership club that seamlessly blends cutting-edge wellness with sophisticated design. The very name, “Heimat,” translating from German as “the feeling of home,” encapsulates the club’s ethos: to create a sanctuary where comfort, community, and personal growth converge. This transformation from a 1930s industrial building in Hollywood’s Media District into a sprawling 75,000-square-foot, five-floor fitness haven is a testament to its visionary ambition, reshaping an architectural relic into a modern temple of health.
Stepping into HEIMAT is akin to entering a highly curated art gallery, where the raw elegance of concrete elements harmonizes with vibrant original graffiti and striking mural designs. Live cacti gardens are artfully integrated into the space, creating a unique aesthetic that elevates the fitness experience beyond the purely functional. Amidst this artistic backdrop, members find sleek weight and circuit training machines, alongside state-of-the-art cardio equipment, all chosen for their superior performance and design. The visual appeal is undeniable, turning every workout into an experience that stimulates both body and mind.
Membership at HEIMAT is comprehensive, granting access to an extensive array of fitness classes designed to cater to every preference and intensity level. Offerings include dynamic cycling sessions, invigorating running clubs, high-energy boot camps, graceful barre workouts, rigorous boxing, rhythmic dance cardio, innovative kinesis, challenging TRX, restorative mat and hot yoga, and precise reformer pilates. This diverse schedule ensures that members can consistently find new ways to challenge themselves, maintaining an engaging and varied fitness journey.
The club’s crowning glory is undoubtedly its fourth-floor rooftop, an exquisite garden oasis that offers a serene escape from the city below. Here, members can bask by a stunning rooftop pool, relax in luxurious cabanas, and indulge in the culinary artistry of Mother Tongue, a global dining destination helmed by the Michelin-starred chef Michael Mina. Uniquely, Mother Tongue stands as the club’s sole amenity open to the public, a tantalizing invitation to experience a taste of HEIMAT’s exceptional offerings. Membership is priced at $4,200 annually, or $350 per month, with a $300 initiation fee. Prospective members apply online, a process that includes providing social profiles and the names of any current members they may know, reinforcing the club’s community-centric approach.
6. **Artha West Hollywood**Artha West Hollywood stands as an invite-only sanctuary, meticulously crafted with a profound focus on wellness, designed to offer bespoke therapies aimed at nurturing the mind, body, and soul. In an age of relentless pace and constant connectivity, Artha provides a crucial haven, a space where members can retreat from the demands of the outside world and embark on a personalized journey of healing and rejuvenation. It represents the pinnacle of holistic luxury, where every detail is considered to foster an environment of profound well-being.
Members are granted exclusive access to a diverse curriculum of classes, including the calming practices of yoga and meditation, the immersive serenity of sound baths, and deeply therapeutic massage experiences. Beyond these foundational offerings, Artha distinguishes itself with an impressive suite of advanced treatments. These encompass the purifying heat of infrared saunas, the invigorating chill of cryotherapy, the profound relaxation of float therapy, the targeted benefits of thermal shock treatments, the revitalizing effects of cryo facials, and the innovative contour light therapies. This comprehensive range ensures that every aspect of physical and mental restoration is addressed.
The club’s spaces are exquisitely appointed, each boasting state-of-the-art facilities that underscore its commitment to cutting-edge wellness. Within its tranquil confines, one finds multiple infrared saunas, advanced cryotherapy chambers, and serene float rooms, all complemented by pristine treatment rooms meticulously prepared for bespoke sessions. Dedicated yoga and meditation studios provide an ideal setting for group classes and individual practice, furthering the club’s mission to cultivate inner peace and physical harmony through a blend of ancient wisdom and modern science.
As an invitation-only club, Artha maintains an aura of exclusivity, though it extends a welcoming gesture through complimentary day passes for prospective members, allowing them a glimpse into its transformative offerings. Those interested can initiate their journey by simply filling out their name, email, and phone number on the club’s website for more detailed information. Membership options are thoughtfully structured, beginning at $169 with no down payment, making entry accessible to those committed to their wellness journey. A single pass can also be purchased for $29, offering a low-commitment opportunity to experience Artha. Should one join, the membership generously includes unlimited access to yoga, mat pilates, meditation, sound baths, and cryotherapy, with all other specialized treatments available at a discounted price, ensuring a truly comprehensive wellness experience.
