10 Best Hotels in Santa Monica: Your Ultimate Beach Getaway Guide
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Have you ever dreamed of falling asleep to the sound of ocean waves and waking up to a gorgeous sunrise over one of California’s most beautiful beaches, all while being just steps away from world-class shopping and dining?
Santa Monica, the sunny coastal gem of Los Angeles, offers visitors the perfect blend of beach relaxation and city excitement. With its iconic pier, beautiful beaches, and perfect weather year-round, finding the right place to stay can make your California dream vacation even more magical.
From luxury beachfront resorts to charming boutique hotels, the best hotels in Santa Monica offer incredible views, amazing service, and perfect locations for exploring this beach paradise. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family vacation, or solo adventure, we’ve rounded up the 10 most amazing places to stay in this beautiful beach city.
Let’s dive into our guide to the best hotels in Santa Monica and find your perfect home away from home!
Beachfront Luxury: Ocean View Escapes
These oceanfront properties offer stunning views and direct beach access for the ultimate Santa Monica experience.
1. Shutters on the Beach
Often called Santa Monica’s most romantic hotel, Shutters offers the perfect blend of luxury and beach house comfort. This stunning property features:
- Ocean view rooms with private balconies
- Plush beds with Italian linens
- Jacuzzi tubs in marble bathrooms
- Three excellent restaurants and bars
- Full-service ONE Spa
- Beachfront pool with food and drink service
The white wooden shutters and blue accents make you feel like you’re staying in a millionaire’s beach house rather than a hotel. It’s consistently rated among the best hotels in Santa Monica for its incredible service and location.
2. Hotel Casa del Mar
Once a beach club for Hollywood stars in the 1920s, this elegant hotel offers:
- Luxurious rooms with ocean views
- Italian marble bathrooms
- A beautiful indoor pool with sea views
- Catch restaurant with seafood specialties
- Live entertainment in the lobby lounge
- Beach butler service
The stunning lobby with its high ceilings, massive windows, and palm trees creates a grand entrance. Hotel Casa del Mar is one of the best hotels in Santa Monica for travelers seeking old Hollywood glamour.
3. Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel
This family-friendly luxury resort right on the beach includes:
- Spacious rooms with ocean views
- Large oceanfront pool with fire pits
- Fitness center with beach views and classes
- Kids club and family activities
- Multiple dining options
- Eco-friendly practices
Its location near the pier makes it perfect for families, while the luxury touches please even the most demanding travelers. Many consider it one of the best hotels in Santa Monica for combining family-friendly features with upscale amenities.
Downtown Santa Monica: Steps from Shopping & Dining
For those who want easy access to shopping, restaurants, and nightlife, these centrally located hotels are perfect.
4. The Proper Hotel Santa Monica
This stylish boutique hotel combines vintage elements with modern design:
- Rooms designed by Kelly Wearstler with local art
- Rooftop pool and bar with ocean views
- Award-winning Palma restaurant
- Luxury Aesop bath products
- Wellness center with yoga and fitness classes
- Walking distance to Third Street Promenade
The unique décor makes each room special, with warm colors, natural materials, and artistic touches. It’s one of the newest best hotels in Santa Monica and has quickly become a favorite for design lovers.
5. Viceroy Santa Monica
This trendy hotel near Ocean Avenue offers:
- Sophisticated rooms with coastal-inspired design
- Two outdoor pools with cabanas
- Excellent restaurant and bar with craft cocktails
- Pet-friendly rooms
- Fitness center with personal training
- Easy walk to the beach
The bold, modern design with touches of green and gold creates a chic atmosphere that attracts celebrities and style-conscious travelers. It’s considered one of the best hotels in Santa Monica for younger travelers looking for a hip scene.
6. The Huntley Hotel
This sleek hotel in the heart of Santa Monica features:
- Bright, airy rooms with ocean or city views
- The Penthouse restaurant on the 18th floor with 360-degree views
- Luxury car service within Santa Monica
- Modern, elegant design
- Walking distance to shopping and dining
- Minutes from the beach
The rooftop Penthouse restaurant is a highlight, offering breathtaking views along with excellent food and drinks. The Huntley consistently ranks among the best hotels in Santa Monica for its central location and stunning views.
Boutique Gems: Unique and Charming
These smaller hotels offer unique character and personalized service for a special stay.
7. Palihouse Santa Monica
This historic 1927 Mediterranean-style hotel offers:
- Apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes
- Beautiful garden courtyard
- Vintage-inspired décor
- Lobby lounge serving food and drinks
- Quiet residential location
- Walk to Montana Avenue shops
The blend of old-world charm and modern amenities creates a home-away-from-home feeling. Many long-term visitors consider it one of the best hotels in Santa Monica for extended stays.
8. Channel Road Inn
This charming bed and breakfast in a 1910 Colonial Revival home includes:
- Cozy rooms with period features
- Free breakfast and afternoon wine and cheese
- Homemade cookies and snacks
- Peaceful garden and hot tub
- Free bicycles to borrow
- Walking distance to the beach
The warm, friendly atmosphere makes guests feel like they’re staying with family rather than at a hotel. It’s one of the best hotels in Santa Monica for travelers seeking a more intimate, personal experience.
Budget-Friendly Options
Great stays in Santa Monica don’t have to break the bank with these more affordable choices.
9. Gateway Hotel Santa Monica
This recently renovated hotel offers excellent value with:
- Modern, comfortable rooms
- Free continental breakfast
- Outdoor heated pool
- Free parking (rare in Santa Monica!)
- Walking distance to the Metro line
- Pet-friendly rooms
While not directly on the beach, the savings and amenities make it a smart choice among the best hotels in Santa Monica for budget-conscious travelers.
10. Sea Shore Motel
This classic motel provides simple, clean accommodations with:
- Affordable rates in a premium location
- Free parking
- Some rooms with kitchenettes
- Friendly, helpful staff
- Just two blocks from the beach
- Near local buses and restaurants
Its no-frills approach and unbeatable location make it a hidden gem among the best hotels in Santa Monica for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring rather than in their room.
Tips for Choosing Your Perfect Santa Monica Stay
When selecting from the best hotels in Santa Monica, consider these factors:
- Location: Hotels closer to the beach typically cost more but save you walking time. Downtown hotels put you closer to shopping and dining.
- Parking fees: Most Santa Monica hotels charge $30-50 per night for parking. Look for hotels with free parking if you’ll have a car.
- Resort fees: Some hotels charge additional daily fees that might not be included in the base rate. Always check what’s included.
- Best views: Ocean-facing rooms on higher floors offer the best views but cost more. City view rooms can still be lovely and more affordable.
- Time of year: Summer brings higher rates and crowds. Consider visiting in spring or fall for better deals and still-perfect weather.
Frequently Asked Questions About Santa Monica Hotels
What area of Santa Monica is best to stay in?
The best area depends on your interests. Staying near the pier and Ocean Avenue puts you close to the beach and main attractions. Downtown Santa Monica offers more shopping and dining options. Montana Avenue provides a quieter, more local experience.
How far are Santa Monica hotels from the beach?
Beachfront hotels like Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa del Mar are directly on the sand. Most other hotels in Santa Monica are within a 5-15 minute walk of the beach.
Do I need a car when staying in Santa Monica?
No! Santa Monica is very walkable, and they have great bike-sharing programs. The Metro Expo Line connects to downtown Los Angeles, and buses run throughout the area. Many hotels offer shuttle services or bike rentals.
When is the cheapest time to visit Santa Monica?
January through March typically offers the lowest hotel rates, though the weather is still mild (60s°F). November and December (excluding holidays) also offer good value.
Which Santa Monica hotels have pools?
Most luxury hotels have pools, including Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, Viceroy Santa Monica, and The Proper Hotel. Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa del Mar have pools with ocean views.
Are there family-friendly hotels in Santa Monica?
Yes! Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel is particularly family-friendly with its kids’ club and activities. Gateway Hotel offers family rooms and a pool. Most hotels can accommodate families, but always check their specific amenities for children.
From luxurious beachfront properties to charming boutique inns, the best hotels in Santa Monica offer something for every type of traveler. By considering your budget, preferred location, and must-have amenities, you’ll find the perfect base for exploring this beautiful California beach town.