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Best Santa Monica hotels

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Near International Chess Park
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The 10 best hotels in Santa Monica

Discover the top hotels in Santa Monica, handpicked by local expert Matt Meltzer.
Article Author
Matt Meltzer
September 25, 2024
When people picture the beachside scenes of Los Angeles – the piers, the palm trees, the volleyball players and bodybuilders – most of what they’re imagining is Santa Monica. LA’s beachy enclave is one of America’s top seaside destinations, and the picture of California beach culture. If you’re planning a Southern California vacation by the water, you’ll most likely be staying here. The best hotels to stay in Santa Monica aren’t all right on the ocean – though if you want a room with a view,...Learn moreWhen people picture the beachside scenes of Los Angeles – the piers, the palm trees, the volleyball players and bodybuilders – most of what they’re imagining is Santa Monica. LA’s beachy enclave is one of America’s top seaside destinations, and the picture of California beach culture. If you’re planning a Southern California vacation by the water, you’ll most likely be staying here. The best hotels to stay in Santa Monica aren’t all right on the ocean – though if you want a room with a view, they’re not hard to come by. Some sit a little off the sand in quiet residential areas, offering respite from the city’s hectic pace; others are sprawling ocean resorts. As a kid, we went to Santa Monica for vacation several times a year, and as an adult I’ve had the pleasure of calling LA’s west side my second home. Here’s my pick of the best hotels in Santa Monica.
Palihouse Santa MonicaPalihouse Santa MonicaRank #1
$206-$652/night
1001 3rd Street
If you were dropped inside the Palihouse Santa Monica, you’d probably think you were in a stately library in the...Learn more

If you were dropped inside the Palihouse Santa Monica, you’d probably think you were in a stately library in the English countryside rather than three blocks from the Pacific Ocean. That eccentricity is what makes this one of the best hotels in Santa Monica, where oversized plush furniture, an elk head, and a cozy fireplace give Palihouse a unique ambience.

It’s also delightfully quiet – perfect for when I want a spot that’s not right in the thick of it all, but still close enough to walk to the beach.

The rooms stick to the antique motif, decorated to feel like a late 19th-century country house. The old school elevator is also fun, if a bit of a challenge to manage with its manual door. Breakfast is best enjoyed outside in the front garden, where the California sun reminds you that despite the decor, you’re still squarely in Santa Monica.

The Georgian HotelThe Georgian HotelRank #2
$351-$844/night
1415 Ocean Avenue
After a lengthy renovation and reopening in 2023, this Ocean Avenue gem is once again one of the best hotels in...Learn more

After a lengthy renovation and reopening in 2023, this Ocean Avenue gem is once again one of the best hotels in Santa Monica. Supremely glamorous, everything here – from the lobby bar to the nightstands in the rooms – has a little bit of Art Deco flair. Even if I’m not staying here, I love stopping by the Georgian’s restaurant, Sirena, to soak up the ambience and enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean.

Back in the day, the original Georgian was a big hangout for the likes of Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable. So, in addition to being one of the best boutique hotels in Santa Monica, it’s also a fun place to pretend you’re a 1930s movie star, gallivanting among arched ceilings and pastel walls and using the beach as your own personal playground.

Shutters On The BeachShutters On The BeachRank #3
$175-$2,260/night
1 Pico Boulevard
“Charming” is a hard thing to pull off when you’re a resort with 189 rooms. But Shutters on the Beach does just...Learn more

“Charming” is a hard thing to pull off when you’re a resort with 189 rooms. But Shutters on the Beach does just that, somehow maintaining a cute, coastal cabin vibe while taking up nearly an entire city block. The beachside retreat sits at the end of meandering Pico Boulevard, a fitting reward for those who’ve ventured here by traversing one of LA’s most congested roads.

Once you’re at Shutters, you’ll see why it’s consistently named as one of the best hotels in Santa Monica. Every room feels like your own private beach house, with white wood and views over the Pacific Ocean.

I love this hotel because it feels the most like being at the beach of any beachfront hotel in Santa Monica. Others offer more of an urban vibe, but Shutters is the kind of place I feel like I’m on vacation as soon as I arrive.

Huntley Santa Monica BeachHuntley Santa Monica BeachRank #4
$80-$996/night
1111 2nd Street
If you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Santa Monica that’s a little removed from the noise of the beachfront, book...Learn more

If you’re looking for a luxury hotel in Santa Monica that’s a little removed from the noise of the beachfront, book a room at the Huntley. Not too long ago, the hotel was a big LA hotspot, thanks mostly to the rooftop bar that drew big crowds of Westside locals.

The bar is still beautiful, and I still think of it as a great happy hour destination to watch the sunset from the rooftop. But because it’s not an “it” place like it was a few years ago, the hotel is way more relaxed now. This bodes well for families looking for spacious rooms and a little peace and quiet.

The Huntley’s service is always fantastic, and the views are equally impressive, whether you’re looking over Santa Monica to the mountains or into the ocean.

Santa Monica Proper HotelSanta Monica Proper HotelRank #5
$383-$1,594/night
700 Wilshire Boulevard
While many of the best hotels in Santa Monica trade on their beachfront locale, the Proper Hotel is a destination...Learn more

While many of the best hotels in Santa Monica trade on their beachfront locale, the Proper Hotel is a destination unto itself. It’s a spot where locals hang out, the chic design and high-end clientele giving it a definite air of Westside cool.

The hotel is set between a modern structure and an historic 1920s building, so it also offers a nice mix of old and new LA. Guests at the Proper mostly come for the food and the spa, both of which are among the best in Los Angeles even without the 267 rooms.

Palma is a high-energy, see-and-be-seen kinda place, and though I’ve never spotted a celebrity there, it’s allegedly popular with the stars. The rooftop Calabra is better if you want a cocktail in the sun, and though it doesn’t have a view of the ocean, the vibes feel no less LA.

Viceroy Santa MonicaViceroy Santa MonicaRank #6
$338-$754/night
1819 Ocean Avenue
The Viceroy Santa Monica was the first-ever Viceroy Hotel when it opened back in 2000. As the city evolved, so did...Learn more

The Viceroy Santa Monica was the first-ever Viceroy Hotel when it opened back in 2000. As the city evolved, so did the Viceroy, and it recently completed a three-year, multi-million-dollar renovation to restore it as one of the best hotels in Santa Monica.

This luxury lifestyle hotel sits right on Ocean Avenue, with rooms that feel like you’re staying on top of the sand. I love the place for its location above all, as it allows you to get to Venice Beach or downtown Santa Monica without having to deal with the notorious LA traffic.

The other great thing about the Viceroy is Sugar Plum, its poolside restaurant that goes way beyond the usual offering. The menu is packed with local ingredients and the wine list is full of California producers, meaning you get a true taste of Southern California without having to leave your lounge chair.

Casa Del MarCasa Del MarRank #7
$115-$2,714/night
1910 Ocean Way
Back in the Roaring Twenties, the Casa del Mar Beach Club was THE place to be on the LA scene. One of the nation’s...Learn more

Back in the Roaring Twenties, the Casa del Mar Beach Club was THE place to be on the LA scene. One of the nation’s premiere seaside social hangouts, it was a hotspot for the rich and famous.

Like many such places, it saw a rather dubious turn towards the end of the 20th century, but found new life 25 years ago when it reopened at the beginning of Santa Monica’s new wave of luxury beachfront hotels.

Now, it’s hands down one of the best hotels in Santa Monica, where history meets luxury at the Pacific Ocean’s front door. Like its sister property Shutters, Casa del Mar offers some of the finest beachfront accommodation in Santa Monica. But here, you’ll find more of a retro, Mediterranean-revival motif than Shutters’ elegant beach house vibe.

Shore HotelShore HotelRank #8
$257-$754/night
1515 Ocean Avenue
Years ago, I was jogging down Ocean Avenue and saw this hotel where every room had floor to ceiling windows and a...Learn more

Years ago, I was jogging down Ocean Avenue and saw this hotel where every room had floor to ceiling windows and a big balcony with two chairs facing the ocean. And I thought, “Well, if that isn’t the ultimate in Santa Monica vacationing.” So, I stopped and discovered this little stretch of California oceanfront was the Shore Hotel, which makes exceptional use of its stellar shoreline location.

Not only are the balconies here like your own private beach bungalows, most of the in-room showers also boast ocean views. So, you won’t have to worry about missing sunset if you want to shower up for happy hour after a long day on the beach. The hotel itself is well appointed and modern, but more affordable than most of the other beachfront properties in Santa Monica.

Regent Santa Monica BeachRegent Santa Monica BeachRank #9
$1,017-$2,415/night
1700 Ocean Avenue
If you’ve been to Santa Monica before, you may remember the Regent as the Loews. After a year-and-a-half-long...Learn more

If you’ve been to Santa Monica before, you may remember the Regent as the Loews. After a year-and-a-half-long renovation, it reopens late summer 2024 as the Regent. And though I haven’t had a chance to stay there yet, I’ve toured the place – and it is spectacular.

Each guestroom is a 700-square-foot, two-room suite, with a full living room with banquette and walk-in closet. The sprawling pool deck looks out over the Pacific Ocean, and the lobby is a marvel of white marble and ocean views.

Michael Mina helms the kitchen at Orla, a coastal-cuisine restaurant that leans heavily on fresh California produce. Another celebrity chef, Ayesha Curry, brings her fast-casual Sweet July concept to the hotel. Regent’s first foray into North America is an absolute palace, and instantly places itself among the best hotels in Santa Monica.

The Pierside Santa MonicaThe Pierside Santa MonicaRank #10
$208-$668/night
120 Colorado Avenue
Much like you’ll often find old motels transformed into cool boutique spots, this old Holiday Inn has been...Learn more

Much like you’ll often find old motels transformed into cool boutique spots, this old Holiday Inn has been brilliantly restored as a high-rise surf hotel. While that may seem like an odd combination, the Pierside makes it work with a light, beachy motif and boards for rent in the lobby. I love this place for how it fully immerses itself in Santa Monica’s surf culture.

As the name suggests, the Pierside is one of the best hotels in Santa Monica if you’re looking to spend time on the city’s famous pier. The on-site restaurant, The Surfing Fox, is a breezy indoor/outdoor space with a lively bar and Japanese-Mexican fusion cuisine. I’ve found it great for drinks with people from out of town, as the location and cool marine air give it a very LA sense of place.

Useful Info

KAYAK’s insights for hotels in Santa Monica

Discover seasonal trends, ideal booking windows, and other data-driven tips to plan your stay in Santa Monica with confidence.

How much does a hotel cost in Santa Monica?

The average price of a double room in Santa Monica is $516 per night. In the last 3 days, KAYAK found great deals as cheap as $272 per night. Expect to pay around $411/night for a 4-star hotel in Santa Monica and $637/night for a 5-star, with prices varying by date.

Which month has the cheapest hotel rates in Santa Monica?

Hotels are cheapest in Santa Monica in December, with average rates of $390. In comparison, February is the most expensive month, with prices at $764.

What is the cheapest day of the week to book a hotel in Santa Monica?

Friday offers the lowest rates in Santa Monica, with an average nightly price of $504. The highest prices are found on Saturday, with average rates at $648.

How much is a hotel in Santa Monica for tonight?

The best deal for a 3-star hotel room in Santa Monica found by KAYAK users in the last 3 days was $177, while a 4-star hotel the lowest price was $202. The cheapest room found overall was for $117.

How much is a hotel in Santa Monica for this weekend?

The cheapest hotel room in Santa Monica for the upcoming weekend found on KAYAK in the last 3 days was for $131 per night. For the same dates, 3-star hotel rooms have been found for as low as $222 per night and 4-star hotel rooms from $245 per night.

How early should you book a hotel in Santa Monica?

Book at least 58 days before your stay begins to get the best price for your Santa Monica hotel.

How much is a Santa Monica hotel?

Here are our most popular & best value hotels

Good to know

Low season

November

High season

October

Average price (weeknight)

$579

Average price (weekend night)

$562
Cheapest month to stay with an average 34% drop in price.
Most expensive month to stay with an average 94% rise in price.
Average Sun - Thu price over the last 2 weeks.
Average Fri & Sat price over the last 2 weeks.

KAYAK's top tips for finding Santa Monica hotel deals

  • The cheapest 3-star hotel room in Los Angeles found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks was $228, while the most expensive was $564.
  • How long should you stay? KAYAK users usually book their hotel in Los Angeles for 2 days.
  • Downtown Santa Monica contains many of the city’s main attractions, such as the Santa Monica Pier, so consider booking a hotel near this area to be centrally located.
  • A short walk from the restaurants and amusement park rides situated on the Santa Monica Pier, The Sea Blue Hotel is an excellent hotel in this area.
  • Much of Santa Monica is located on a bluff overlooking the ocean, so hotels here are usually either situated directly on the beach or offer ocean views.
  • Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel offers upscale accommodations 2-blocks from the beach, while the more affordable Bayside Hotel offers views of the ocean.
  • Visitors seeking a budget hotel should look at least a mile from the beach. The Santa Monica Motel is an affordable choice that provides guests with free parking.
  • If you’re interested in doing a bit of shopping during your stay, book a hotel located near Montana Avenue, such as the 4-star Palihouse Santa Monica.
  • To stay near public transportation, consider a hotel along the Expo Line light-rail route, which runs between Santa Monica and downtown Los Angeles. The Pierside is a good option along this line.
  • Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel offers a luxurious stay. It features rooms with step-out balconies that provide views of the ocean. Along with 2 chic lounges, one of which is a bustling tapas bar, there is fine dining with Californian dishes with views of the ocean. There is also a fitness center, heated outdoor pool, and hot tub.
  • Consider booking a room at Hampton Inn & Suites if you're going to Santa Monica with a dog. They permit 2 pets per room at this pet-friendly hotel. A complimentary hot breakfast is also available. Other features include a 24-hour gym, a convenience store, an electric car charging station, and an outdoor pool with a hot tub and fire pit nearby.
  • Consider staying at Shutters on the Beach if you want to indulge in a spa treatment while you are in Santa Monica. Suites with fireplaces and seaside views are also available at the hotel. A classy restaurant, a relaxed seaside cafe and bar, and a lobby lounge are all present.
  • Travelers arriving at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) who want a budget-friendly hotel should consider staying at the Venice on the Beach Hotel. It is 5-miles from the airport. In addition, the hotel offers complimentary breakfast to its guest.
  • One of the top hotels in Santa Monica is Courtyard by Marriott. There are rooms there with balconies that overlook the water. A convenience store, a casual restaurant, a fitness facility, and an outdoor heated pool are available as amenities. The Santa Monica Pier, only a mile away is Santa Monica's prime fishing location where you can go fishing.

FAQs when booking a hotel in Santa Monica

  • Which hotels in Santa Monica have especially good restaurants?

    Located on the rooftop of The Huntley Hotel, The Penthouse is a well-known restaurant with panoramic views. Meanwhile, about a mile from the Santa Monica Pier, Hotel Shangri La is home to an upscale restaurant with ocean views and an American-style menu. Another great option with ocean views is Ocean & Vine in the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, which specializes in dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

  • Which hotels in Santa Monica are near Palisades Park?

    The Oceana Santa Monica is a 4-star hotel located directly across the street from Palisades Park, and it’s only a 15-minute walk from the 3rd Street Promenade. The Hotel Carmel is a budget choice located just 2-minutes walk from Palisades Park and offers simple yet comfortable accommodations.

  • What are some good family hotels in Santa Monica?

    The Le Méridien Delfina is a 4-star hotel that offers suites that are spacious enough for families. The hotel also has an outdoor pool and private cabanas. The Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites has a large outdoor pool and lounge area. In addition, it is within easy walking distance of most major attractions, including the roller coaster and other amusement park rides on the Santa Monica Pier.

  • What are some good spa-hotels in Santa Monica?

    The Casa Del Mar is less than 10-minutes by car from Montana Avenue and has an on-site wellness spa and a seafood restaurant overlooking the ocean. Le Merigot Santa Monica is a 10-minute walk from the Santa Monica Pier and has a luxury spa as well as an outdoor pool and terrace lounge. The Shutters on the Beach is a 5-star luxe hotel that is also a 10-minute walk from the Santa Monica Pier and has a spa and fitness center.

  • Which hotel in Santa Monica offers California dishes?

    Those looking forward to having California dishes should consider staying at theThe Huntley Hotel. The hotel has luxurious accommodations with ocean views, flat-screen TVs, desks, tufted headboards, and designer toiletries. A workout facility, a gift shop and valet parking are available as amenities.

  • Which hotel in Santa Monica is close to the beach?

    Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites is one of the hotels you may consider staying in near the beach. The hotel is a 12-minute walk from Santa Monica Pier and the Pacific Ocean. It is also a 15-minute walk from Santa Monica State Beach and 40 miles from Disneyland Resort. Amenities include a restaurant, outdoor pool, fitness room, terrace, bar and breakfast. There's also valet parking.

  • Which hotel offers complimentary breakfast to its guest?

    While staying at The Ambrose, take advantage of the complimentary continental breakfast. Use of loaner bikes and a shuttle service are additional freebies. In addition, the 3rd Street Promenade's shops, restaurants, and the Santa Monica Pier are just 2-miles away from the eco-friendly hotel.

  • Which hotel is recommeded for parents with kids?

    We recommend Days Inn by Wyndham. It's a kid-friendly hotel offering a complimentary stay to kids under 17, accompanied by a paying adult. The Third Street Promenade is a great place to take the kids shopping. You can also take them to Santa Monica Beach, 2-miles from the hotel.

  • What are the best hotels near Santa Monica Pier?

    Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites, The Pierside Santa Monica and Shore Hotel are very popular with users who want to stay within walking distance of Santa Monica Pier.

  • Which freebies do KAYAK users look for when booking a hotel in Santa Monica?

    KAYAK users look for a hotel in Santa Monica with free parking. Hotels with free parking in Santa Monica include SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, Channel Road Inn, A Four Sisters Inn, and Ocean Park Hotel.

  • How do I find a hotel in central Santa Monica?

    After you launch a hotel search on KAYAK, you can refine your research by neighborhood, which allows you to pick the central Santa Monica districts. You can also do a search using the city map to choose a specific location, like Santa Monica city center.

  • How can I find hotels near me?

    Take a look at our extensive hotel map to find the best hotels near you.

  • Are there Santa Monica hotels with free parking?

    There are many hotels in Santa Monica that offer both parking and free parking. Popular choices among KAYAK users include Santa Monica Hotel, Ocean Park Hotel and SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica.

Where to stay in Santa Monica?

Our map will help you find the perfect place to stay in Santa Monica by showing you the exact location of each hotel.

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Everything you need to know for your stay in Santa Monica

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