The Best Hotels in Santa Monica, California
There’s perhaps no more neighborhood more emblematic of the Southern California lifestyle than Los Angeles’ Westside, with its marine-layered mornings and palm tree–lined streets. Its relative dissociation from the center of the city makes it extra special—a real retreat for locals and travelers alike. The accommodations range from eclectic bohemian stays to traditional beachside retreats, but all of them boast proximity to what you’re really here for: the ocean. If you’re looking for the ultimate Santa Monica stay, here are our favorite properties.
Looking for hotels in the larger Los Angeles area? Check out our guide to the best hotels in L.A.
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Courtesy Palihouse Santa MonicahotelPalihouse Santa Monica
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Readers' Choice Awards 2019This 1920s Moorish-style manor turned 38-room hotel has a lush, tree-lined courtyard with a trickling fountain, and its Grand Studio Residences come with fully-equipped kitchens and the pos-and-beam ceilings that are so classically part of Los Angeles’ Mediterranean-inspired architecture. Be sure to ask for one of the front-facing rooms that look out over the gorgeously manicured garden for a real retreat, and stop by the charming restaurant, with its colorful tiles and stunning vintage wood bar, for classic comfort fare like burgers and club sandwiches.
Courtesy Viceroy Santa MonicahotelViceroy Santa Monica
$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021The hotel’s soothing sea blue and white color palette brings the ocean indoors, putting you in a vacation state of mind. If you’re looking to dine in, Sugar Palm offers Pan-American fare and classic cocktails, but the real star of the show is the outside area, which includes two pools flanked by brightly decorated private cabanas and a quirky, geometric (and very Instagram friendly) graphic art wall. Book the surf-and-stay package for a true summer experience, complete with a beach butler, boards, wet suits, and gourmet picnic.
The IngallshotelSanta Monica Proper Hotel
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Hot List 2020 Readers' Choice Awards 2020Lifestyle-driven boutique brand Proper has been expanding to some of the country’s hottest metropolitan areas, from San Francisco, Austin, to Downtown Los Angeles—but their Santa Monica hotel is just blocks from the beach. The design by Kelly Wearstler, accented by mixed and matched wallpapers and eclectic global pieces, couldn’t possibly be any more California cool. And Surya Spa, an Ayurvedic retreat beloved by celebs like Gwyneth Paltrow, draws travelers and staycationers alike with its unique blend of East-meets-West treatments. Indulge in a four-hand massage and then head to the rooftop for a sundowner for the ultimate Westside experience.
Lisa RomereinhotelShutters on the Beach
$$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021There isn’t a more perfect location for your Santa Monica stay than Shutters, just steps from the pier and historic Old Muscle Beach. The sleek residential-style rooms are finished with hardwood floors, hand-woven Tibetan rugs, and shuttered doors that overlook the white sands below. The property, designed by Michael S. Smith, resembles a Cape Cod dream home and includes a serene spa and a pool with views of the Pacific.
Mark DurlinghotelVenice V Hotel
$Set inside the historic Waldorf—a landmark originally opened in 1915—this newly-remodeled property was formerly a residence for A-listers including Charlie Chaplin, whom the luxurious penthouse suite is named after. Updates like the oversized noise-cancelling windows are a major plus, especially considering its location right above the Venice Boardwalk. In the aforementioned Charlie Chaplin suite, relax in a plush king-size bed, watch the sailboats breeze by outside the window, and stargaze through the vintage-style standing telescope at night.
Courtesy Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows.hotelFairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
$$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2021Grand gates and a cobblestone-lined driveway lead to a magnificent, oversized Moreton Bay fig tree that predates the 100-year-old property. The newly renovated ground floor includes a breezy lobby bar decorated with midcentury-modern furniture, brassy regency touches, and an eight-seat, Tokyo-style sushi bar called Soko. One of the best happy hours on the Westside can be found overlooking the pool at Fig, or if you’re looking for a more nightlife-y, youthful vibe, head to the Bungalow for drinks and dancing before heading back to your room. The Ocean tower offers more traditional rooms, but we recommend splurging on one of the 31 residential-style Bungalows set in the flower-filled Miramar Gardens.
Lisa RomereinhotelHotel Casa del Mar
$$$ | Readers' Choice Awards 2017, 2018, 2019, 2021The Italian Renaissance Revival–style building is one of two Santa Monica beach icons—the other being sister-property Shutters on the Beach. The airy lobby is a grand one, with its rattan ceiling fans, wicker furniture, and lots of greenery. The feeling of the rooms is rustic and residential, and the Palm Terrace Rooms have private patios with loungers and face a peaceful inner courtyard. Opt for sunset cocktails at the Terrazza Lounge, where you’ll be blessed with 180-degree views of the ocean.
