Where to stay in Santa Monica

Santa Monica is one of the more iconic and recognizable coastal towns in the United States. From the beach to the boardwalk, and everything in between, Santa Monica is part of the quintessential Southern California experience. Santa Monica is a national treasure that’s been immortalized on the silver screen more times than we can count. Hit the beach, dine with the stars at LA’s most celebrated eateries, or shop at the finest boutiques along the California Coast. After spending your day in the California sun, you’ll rest easy with Santa Monica’s selection of boutique, timeless, and hip hotels. To find out where to stay in Santa Monica, CA, continue reading below.

For high rollers

High-end hotels are not hard to find in Santa Monica or the greater LA area for that matter. However, not all fancy hotels are created equal. Proper Santa Monica features earth tones, copious amounts of natural light, and understated coastal décor. The Kelly Wearstler-designed boasts a unique offering of La-chic activities, like sound baths, journaling workshops, yoga, and sunset music session. You won't find a straw or single-use plastic on the property, thanks to the hotel’s partnership with Heal the Bay. Foodies rejoice, the Proper’s onsite restaurant, Onda, is an award-winning chef-driven concept that serves fresh, local produce in a Mediterranean and California style.

Photos courtesy of Proper Santa Monica Facebook

For a classic California stay

Feeling nostalgic for the California of yesteryear? If so, book your stay at the Georgian. The Georgian Hotel’s history is woven into the fabric of LA, Santa Monica, and Hollywood. Established in 1933, the Georgian was the vision of Attorney and Judge Harry J. Borde. Featuring classic Romanesque Revival and Art Deco architecture, it was one of the first skyscrapers built along Santa Monica’s Ocean Avenue. A favorite amongst Hollywood’s elite, the Georgian earned its nickname, “The Lady,” in honor of Rosamond Borde, Harry J. Borde’s mother.

Photos courtesy of Channel Road Inn

For a charming B&B

Santa Monica isn’t all five-star resorts. Travelers who prefer boutique hotels and small-scale operations will be pleased to learn of Santa Monica’s most charming bed and breakfast, the Channel View Inn. Afternoon wine and cheese, daily decadent breakfast for two, and house bicycles for exploring are just a few of the many things we love about the Channel View Inn. If you’re looking for an intimate, romantic experience just a stone’s throw away from Santa Monica Beach, then Channel View Inn is the hotel for you.

For beach lovers

Looking for a Santa Monica beach vacation without a celebrity budget? Ocean Beach Club looks out over the vast Pacific and is just a short walk, bike ride, or shuttle ride from Santa Monica Beach. This suites-only boutique resort offers spacious rooms, ocean views, and best-in-class service. A stay at this ocean-front hotel comes with indulgent amenities and bespoke activities, like surf lessons, yoga, fitness classes, and more.

Santa Monica has a little something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a family coastal getaway, a romantic retreat, or a weekend luxury escape.