Inside the Hottest Members-Only Clubs in LA
- By: Julianne Elise Beffa
Are they worth the hype?
Los Angeles is a city built on the thrill of exclusivity. Whether it’s a star-studded red carpet, an underground speakeasy with a secret password, or an A-list afterparty tucked behind a velvet rope, the City of Angels knows how to keep things tantalizingly out of reach. But when it comes to members-only clubs, the stakes aren’t just high—they’re sky-high.
These elite enclaves promise more than just a fancy address and a stiff cocktail. They offer a world of curated experiences, top-tier networking, and a sanctuary where Hollywood’s movers and shakers can let their guard down. But are these hush-hush hideaways really worth the price of admission?
We’re pulling back the curtain and stepping inside five of LA’s most exclusive members-only clubs—SoHo House, NeueHouse, Bird Streets, Gravitas, and Jonathan Club—to see what they’re all about, who’s on the guest list, and whether they truly deliver on their VIP promise. Buckle up, because this is one guest list you’ll want to be on.
SoHo House: The Gold Standard of Private Clubs
SoHo House is the name that likely pops into everyone’s head when they think of an exclusive club in LA. With multiple locations worldwide, its Los Angeles outposts—West Hollywood, Holloway House, Malibu, and the Warehouse in DTLA—offer distinct yet equally coveted experiences for A-listers, industry executives, and creatives alike.
What’s Inside?
Each SoHo House location in LA has its own unique atmosphere:
SoHo House West Hollywood – The original LA location, perched above Sunset Boulevard, boasts a rooftop pool with sweeping city views, cozy lounges, and impeccable decor.
Holloway House – A more intimate setting in West Hollywood, known for its art-filled spaces and relaxed yet sophisticated ambiance.
SoHo Warehouse – Located in the Arts District, this expansive venue has an industrial-chic vibe, featuring a rooftop, coworking spaces, and a lively social scene. This is also my favorite SoHo House in the world, and yes I’ve been to the Miami, Paris, Dumbo, London, and Amsterdam locations.
Little Beach House Malibu – A beachfront escape that feels like a private sanctuary, offering oceanfront dining and a laid-back yet exclusive environment.
SoHo House is notorious for its strict no-photo policy, allowing members to unwind without worrying about paparazzi or social media leaks. The food and drinks are top-tier, and the networking potential is unmatched.
NeueHouse: The Creative Powerhouse
NeueHouse isn’t your average social club—it’s a dynamic workspace-meets-cultural hub designed for creative professionals. Located in the historic Bradbury Building and Hollywood’s iconic CBS Radio building, it attracts entrepreneurs, artists, and media mavens.
What’s Inside?
A fusion of high-end coworking spaces, artist studios, screening rooms, and intimate gathering spots. NeueHouse offers everything from thought-provoking speaker series to cocktail parties with industry heavyweights.
NeueHouse Hollywood – Housed in the iconic CBS Radio building, this location blends Old Hollywood glamour with modern creative energy. It features expansive workspaces, a rooftop terrace, and exclusive industry events.
NeueHouse Bradbury (Downtown LA) – Set in the legendary Bradbury Building, this space exudes historic charm while offering cutting-edge work environments, private studios, and cultural programming.
NeueHouse Venice Beach – A coastal retreat for creatives, this location combines sleek design with a laid-back atmosphere, providing ocean-view workspaces and an intimate setting for networking.
Worth the Hype?
If you thrive on creative energy and need a workspace that doubles as a networking goldmine, NeueHouse is a fantastic investment. With memberships starting around $2,000 annually, it’s a solid option for those looking to blend work and play in a high-end environment.
Bird Streets Club: The New Kid on the Block
Perched on Sunset Boulevard, Bird Streets Club is LA’s newest ultra-exclusive club that’s already generating major buzz. It’s designed for those who want a more intimate, boutique experience without sacrificing luxury.
What’s Inside?
Picture a stylish yet understated setting where celebrities, business moguls, and tastemakers mingle over gourmet cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails. The club prides itself on its ultra-selective membership process, ensuring that every person in the room brings value to the experience.
Worth the Hype?
For those seeking a more refined and private setting compared to larger members-only clubs, Bird Streets is a gem. It’s not just about being seen—it’s about who you’re seeing. If you can get in, it’s absolutely worth it.
Gravitas: THE Beverly Hills Hotspot
Gravitas is LA’s newest and most enigmatic members-only club, known for its secretive nature and avant-garde approach to exclusivity. Unlike the flashy hotspots of the city, Gravitas leans into discretion and intellectual stimulation.
What’s Inside?
Think of it as an elite salon for intellectuals, innovators, and cultural pioneers. With no signage and invite-only events, members gain access to intimate dinners, off-the-record discussions with influential figures, and an atmosphere that feels more like a secret society than a social club.
Worth the Hype?
If you’re looking for a club that prioritizes depth over superficiality, Gravitas is a dream come true. It’s not about being trendy—it’s about meaningful conversations, cutting-edge ideas, and an unmatched sense of belonging. However, the level of secrecy means that getting an invite is no easy feat.
Jonathan Club: Old-School Elegance Meets Modern Luxury
Jonathan Club is one of LA’s most prestigious and historic private clubs, with roots dating back to the 1890s. Unlike the newer, trendier clubs, this one is steeped in tradition and caters to a more established crowd.
What’s Inside?
The club boasts an opulent downtown clubhouse with fine dining, world-class fitness facilities, and an impressive wine cellar. Members also gain access to the Santa Monica Beach Club, offering a private beach experience complete with cabanas and first-class service.
Worth the Hype?
If you appreciate heritage, exclusivity, and top-tier amenities, the Jonathan Club is a no-brainer. However, its old-school vibe might not appeal to those looking for a more contemporary, high-energy scene.
Final Verdict: Are They Worth It?
Each of these clubs offers something unique, and their worth ultimately depends on what you’re looking for. If you want star-studded glamour and rooftop cocktails, SoHo House is unbeatable. If you’re an entrepreneur or creative, NeueHouse provides both workspace and networking. For those craving ultra-discretion, Bird Streets and Gravitas offer a different level of exclusivity, while the Jonathan Club remains the pinnacle of old-school elegance.
No matter which one you choose—if you can get in—LA’s members-only clubs are about more than just status. They offer access, experiences, and relationships that go beyond a typical night out. And in a city where who you know is just as important as what you do, that kind of exclusivity is priceless.
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