Kauai’s Chelsea Yamase travels the world as a professional athlete and writer. When she was invited to spend a weekend at Malibu Beach Inn, California’s iconic boutique beach resort and a 2017 Hot List winner, she soaked up the chic design and breathtaking surroundings. ‘Traveling has taught me so many things. There’s always something to explore,’ says adventurer Chelsea Yamase. When she arrived at Malibu Beach Inn, she felt invigorated by the coastally inspired yet distinctly modern aesthetic.

Each of the 47 rooms features a private balcony above Carbon Beach, tile showers, and luxury details. Guests are also a mere five-minute walk to the Malibu Pier and hiking trails. Chelsea reveled in the idea she would be waking up to the waves and ending each day with sunset yoga. ‘l grew up on an island so being surrounded by water is important to me,’ she says.

When Chelsea wasn’t exploring the beaches and mountains, she indulged in the Mediterranean-inspired fare at the hotel’s Carbon Beach Club. ‘Malibu has a food culture that feels very health conscious,’ she says. ‘It has a wellness aspect that I wasn’t expecting.’ Chelsea also made a point to explore Malibu’s boutiques, as well as the shops of Santa Monica. ‘Besides the view and location, I think my favorite part of staying at the Malibu Beach Inn has been the way that it makes me feel.’ Chelsea says. ‘It’s so peaceful’.