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Top 5 Member Only Clubs Fit for the Elite in California

Members Only: A Guide to L.A.’s Most Exclusive ClubsThe California Club | Reception Venues - The Knot

The California Club

Nestled in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, The California Club stands as one of the oldest and most esteemed member-only clubs. Since its inception in 1888, the club has served as a meeting ground for the elite to network and enjoy a luxury lifestyle. Members of The California Club enjoy access to exclusive events that range from high-profile speaker engagements, to elegant galas. The club’s dining options are second to none, offering gourmet cuisine in a setting that exudes sophistication. Aside from the personal concierge service that attends to members’ every need, the club boasts amenities such as stunning library and fitness facilities. With its strict invitation-only policy, securing membership at The California Club is a great way to tap into a social network.

The Jonathan Club

Love of Country And Community Makes Jonathan Club A Top-Five City Club – Eloquence MagazineGolf Course at The Jonathan Club

The Jonathan Club, established in 1895, is another venerable institution among Los Angeles’s member-only clubs. This club extends beyond the ordinary with amenities like a private beach club that offers a serene getaway and a challenging 18-hole golf course. The club’s social calendar is filled with a variety of events – from intimate wine tastings to grand yacht cruise, to dinners prepared by celebrity chefs. The Jonathan Club also offers a private cigar lounge, where connoisseurs can savor the world’s finest tobacco. Lastly, they offer a state-of-the-art fitness center for those who value staying in shape. Membership here is about being part of a storied legacy and a community that values tradition and camaraderie.

The Battery

The Battery — Hotel Review | Condé Nast TravelerThe Battery - Private Club in San Francisco, CA | The Vendry

In the financial district of San Francisco, The Battery is a contemporary and  with a twist. The club distinguishes itself with a membership base comprised of innovators, entrepreneurs, and creative minds. This modern hub offers a private club space, a chic restaurant, and a boutique hotel for members and their guests. The Battery is also known for its concierge travel service, which grants members access to exclusive destinations and events worldwide. The Battery offers a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city skyline, a luxurious spa for ultimate relaxation, and a fitness center equipped with the latest technology. This club is the epitome of a luxury retreat for those who seek innovation and excellence in their daily lives.

The Beach Club

Perched on the shores of Santa Monica, The Beach Club presents a private beachfront paradise for its members. The club emphasizes health and wellness, offering state-of-the-art spa facilities, a modern fitness center, and a selection of wellness classes designed to rejuvenate the body and mind. The Beach Club is also celebrated for hosting exclusive events that range from sophisticated wine tastings, to philanthropic charity events, and private dinners under the stars. Members can unwind in the tranquility of the club’s private beach, offering a picturesque backdrop to this exclusive sanctuary. This is where California’s elite come to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy moments of serenity by the sea.

Inside L.A.'s Beach Club Scene Where Kathleen Kennedy, Kate Hudson Are MembersInside L.A.'s Beach Club Scene Where Kathleen Kennedy, Kate Hudson Are Members

The California Yacht Club

The California Yacht Club

For ocean lovers, The California Yacht Club in Marina del Rey is the quintessential high end member-only club. Boasting a full-service marina, a yacht club replete with sailing opportunities, and a private beach club, this club is a sailor’s dream. Members can enjoy an array of water activities, including sailing lessons that cater to both beginners and seasoned sailors, as well as luxurious yacht cruises that explore the California coastline. The club also plays host to exclusive events that embody the seafaring spirit, such as regattas that draw competitors from across the globe and beachside parties that showcase the club’s vibrant community. At The California Yacht Club, the love for the ocean is matched only by the commitment to excellence in every aspect of the club’s offerings.

How to Become a Member

Gaining entry into these exclusive membership only clubs with their strict invite-only policies might appear formidable. Nevertheless, there are pathways to membership for those determined to join the ranks of California’s elite.

Personal Invitation

The most straightforward route to membership is by securing a personal invitation from an existing club member. This method is particularly common for historic clubs like The California Club and The Jonathan Club, where tradition and personal connections play a significant role.

Sponsorship

Certain clubs permit potential members to apply even if they lack a direct invitation, provided they have a sponsor who is a current member. This sponsor not only endorses the applicant but also serves as a guide and advocate within the club’s social sphere.

Waitlist

For clubs that experience a surfeit of membership interest, waitlists are often employed. This is especially true for newer clubs or those with limited membership numbers, such as The Battery and The Beach Club, where exclusivity is paramount.

Why Join a Member Only Club?

Membership in these exclusive clubs comes with a host of advantages tailored to the discerning individual. These benefits include:

Exclusive VIP Access

These member-only clubs offer entry to a world of events, venues, and experiences that remain beyond the reach of the general populace. This includes access to VIP events, private concerts, and secluded travel destinations that exude luxury and privacy.

Luxury Lifestyle

Membership is a passport to a life of opulence, allowing individuals to indulge in the finer things with no holds barred. From gourmet dining experiences to private beachfronts and high-end amenities, the lifestyle of a club member is one of unabashed luxury.

Networking Opportunities

These clubs serve as a nexus for successful and influential people, providing a fertile ground for forming business partnerships, igniting collaborations, and fostering friendships that can span a lifetime.

Personalized Services

The personal concierge services, such as Elite Lifestyle Management offered by many member-only clubs are designed to cater to the members’ every need. Whether it’s making travel arrangements, planning exclusive events, or securing hard-to-get reservations, we have you covered and ensure the smoothest experience possible for our exclusive VIP members. We take the guess work out for you, and work as your personal assistant, travel agency, and lifestyle manger all in one.