Question 1

What is the best area to stay in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

The best area to stay in Santa Monica is near the Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade, especially for those looking for a classic Southern California beach experience with easy access to shops and restaurants.

This central area is highly walkable and offers a mix of hotels, from luxury options to more boutique stays. The iconic Santa Monica Pier is a short stroll away, featuring an amusement park and various eateries, while the Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-only zone known for its street performers, shops, and dining. Ocean Avenue, which runs parallel to the beach, provides stunning ocean views and is home to many much-loved hotels.

Couples will find this area particularly appealing. You're perfectly placed for romantic sunset walks along the beach, enjoying dinner with ocean views, and exploring the upscale shops and restaurants around Montana Avenue, which is just a short walk or ride north of the promenade. The overall atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated, offering plenty of opportunities for memorable experiences.

For solo travellers, staying close to the Third Street Promenade offers convenience and a lively environment. You'll have easy access to public transport for exploring further afield, and there are many cafes and casual dining spots great for a solo meal.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in Santa Monica that travellers recommend?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best hotels in Santa Monica that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are The Huntley Hotel and Shutters on the Beach.

The 4.5-star The Huntley Hotel, with an outstanding 9.4 rating, is praised for its friendly and helpful staff, as well as its spacious and beautiful rooms. Its excellent location is also frequently mentioned by guests, and the hotel offers premium bedding and rainfall showerheads for added comfort.

Another highly recommended option is the 5-star Shutters on the Beach, which also has an impressive 9.4 rating. This hotel is celebrated for its beautiful location, excellent and friendly staff, and clean, spotless rooms. Guests often highlight the absolutely delicious food and first-class service.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

For families visiting Santa Monica, excellent options include the Regent Santa Monica Beach, Fairmont Miramar Hotel, Sandbourne Santa Monica, Autograph Collection, Palihouse Santa Monica, and The Huntley Hotel.

The 5-star Regent Santa Monica Beach, with a superb 10.0 rating, is an outstanding choice for families. It offers a pool, sofa beds, child-friendly window designs, and complimentary cots and rollaway extra beds. The hotel also provides toys for both babies and children, alongside connecting rooms for convenience. It is located near Ocean Avenue and Main Street Santa Monica.

Another highly-rated 5-star option is the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, with an 8.4 rating. This hotel provides kids' meals, complimentary cots, connecting rooms, and children's bathrobes. It also features a pool gate for added safety and sofa beds. Guests frequently praise its superb location, comfortable rooms, and friendly staff. It is close to Ocean Avenue and Pacific Park.

The 4-star Sandbourne Santa Monica, Autograph Collection, rated 9.0, is also well-suited for families. It offers a pool, complimentary cots, child-friendly window designs, connecting rooms, and sofa beds. Previous guests have highlighted its great location, clean rooms, and amazing staff. Ocean Avenue and Venice Beach are easily accessible from this hotel.

The 4-star Palihouse Santa Monica, with a 9.0 rating, provides on-site babysitting services, connecting rooms, and complimentary rollaway extra beds. Guests appreciate the good-sized, comfortable rooms and the helpful staff. It is situated near Ocean Avenue and the Annenberg Community Beach House.

Finally, The Huntley Hotel, a 4.5-star establishment with a 9.4 rating, offers child-friendly window designs, on-site babysitting, and complimentary cots. Its staff are consistently described as friendly and helpful, and the spacious rooms are often noted as beautiful. The hotel is conveniently located near Ocean Avenue and Pacific Park. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Santa Monica

Question 4

What are the best 5-star hotels in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

For exceptional 5-star accommodation in Santa Monica, consider the Regent Santa Monica Beach, Shutters on the Beach, Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts, Fairmont Miramar Hotel, or Santa Monica Proper Hotel.

The Regent Santa Monica Beach stands out with an outstanding 10.0 rating. This hotel offers luxurious amenities such as premium bedding, designer toiletries, and bathrobes. Guests can enjoy a poolside bar, a fireplace, and a rainfall showerhead. For dining, there is a beachfront restaurant, and 24-hour room service is available. It is conveniently located near Ocean Avenue, Main Street Santa Monica, and the Santa Monica Pier.

Shutters on the Beach, rated 9.4, provides a wonderful beachside experience. Amenities include 24-hour room service, a beachfront restaurant, premium bedding, and designer toiletries. It is also situated near Main Street Santa Monica and Ocean Avenue.

Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts, with a 9.2 rating, offers luxurious features such as deep soaking bathtubs, rainfall showerheads, and a poolside restaurant. Guests frequently praise the gorgeous pool and kind staff. It is located near Ocean Avenue and the Annenberg Community Beach House.

The Fairmont Miramar Hotel, rated 8.4, offers a range of luxury amenities including Frette Italian sheets, deep soaking bathtubs, and designer toiletries. Guests can enjoy an ocean-view restaurant, evening entertainment, and a poolside bar. It is very close to Laemmle Theatres Monica Film Centre and Ocean Avenue.

The Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels, also has a 9.2 rating. This hotel provides premium bedding, Frette Italian sheets, and a poolside bar. Guests appreciate the comfortable and beautiful rooms, superb location, and friendly staff. It is close to Ocean Avenue and the Laemmle Theatres Monica Film Centre. Find more luxury hotels in Santa Monica

Question 5

What are the best spa hotels in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

For exceptional spa hotels in Santa Monica, consider the Regent Santa Monica Beach, Shutters on the Beach, and Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts.

The 5-star Regent Santa Monica Beach boasts an outstanding 10.0 rating and offers a full-service spa with a wide array of treatments. Guests can indulge in facial treatments, Swedish massage, aromatherapy treatments, deep tissue massage, and hot stone massage. The spa also features a sauna and steam room, along with couples' treatment rooms for a shared experience. It is conveniently located near the Santa Monica Pier, just 0.4 km away.

Another excellent choice is the 5-star Shutters on the Beach, rated 9.4. This hotel provides an extensive spa experience with detoxification wraps, Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, sports massage, and aromatherapy treatments. You will also find body scrubs, body treatments, and manicures and pedicures available. The spa includes a steam room, sauna, and hot tub, and massage appointments can be arranged with advance notice. The hotel is situated very close to the Santa Monica Pier, only 0.6 km away.

The 5-star Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts, with a 9.2 rating, also offers a full-service spa experience. Here, you can enjoy body scrubs, body wraps, hot stone massage, deep tissue massage, and Swedish massage. Facial treatments and manicures and pedicures are also available, and massages can be booked with advance notice. It is located 1.0 km from Third Street Promenade. See all spa hotels in Santa Monica

Question 6

What hotels in Santa Monica offer free breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in Santa Monica that provide complimentary breakfast, consider the Channel Road Inn, A Four Sisters Inn, the SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, the Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica, the Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, or the Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles.

The 4-star Channel Road Inn, A Four Sisters Inn, with an excellent 9.2 rating, offers a wonderful full breakfast each morning. Guests frequently praise the amazing breakfast and the excellent service. It is conveniently located near Annenberg Community Beach House and Will Rogers State Beach.

The SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, rated 8.8, provides a good continental breakfast. Reviewers often highlight the great breakfast and the friendly staff. It is situated close to the Santa Monica Museum of Art and Bergamot Station Arts Centre.

The Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica, with an 8.6 rating, also includes a free continental breakfast. Guests appreciate the convenient location and the friendly staff. The hotel is close to the Santa Monica Museum of Art and Bergamot Station Arts Centre.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, rated 8.4, offers a brilliant buffet breakfast as part of your stay. Guests frequently comment on the spacious and clean rooms and the excellent location, with Ocean Avenue and Pacific Park within easy reach.

Finally, the Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles, rated 8.2, includes a free self-serve breakfast. Reviewers often mention the comfortable rooms and the convenient location. It is located near the Santa Monica Museum of Art and Bergamot Station Arts Centre. Find more hotels with breakfast in Santa Monica

Question 7

What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

For top pet-friendly hotels in Santa Monica, consider the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels, the Fairmont Miramar Hotel, the Regent Santa Monica Beach, The Georgian Hotel, and The Pierside Santa Monica.

The 5-star Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels, boasts an excellent 9.2 rating. It is a welcoming option for dog owners, providing food and water bowls for your canine companions. Guests consistently praise its comfortable and beautiful rooms, as well as its superb location, which is just 0.6 km from Ocean Avenue.

Another excellent choice is the 5-star Fairmont Miramar Hotel, rated 8.4. This hotel permits both dogs and cats and provides food and water bowls. Its location is highly regarded by guests, situated only 0.4 km from Ocean Avenue and 1.0 km from Pacific Park.

The 5-star Regent Santa Monica Beach stands out with a superb 10.0 rating and offers the fantastic benefit of pets staying for free. Both dogs and cats are welcome, and the hotel provides food and water bowls, an outdoor pool, and poolside cabanas.

The Georgian Hotel, a 4.5-star property with a 9.4 rating, is also a highly-rated pet-friendly option. It is specifically set up for dogs and provides food and water bowls. Guests frequently praise the attentive and helpful staff and the spacious, clean rooms. It is conveniently located just 0.3 km from Ocean Avenue.

Finally, The Pierside Santa Monica, a 4-star hotel with an 8.8 rating, is another great choice for pet owners. This hotel welcomes dogs and provides food and water bowls. Its location is often described as amazing, being only 0.5 km from Ocean Avenue and a mere 0.3 km from Original Muscle Beach. See more pet-friendly hotels in Santa Monica

Question 8

What are the top boutique hotels in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

For top boutique hotels in Santa Monica, the Hotel Carmel is an excellent choice.

The 3-star Hotel Carmel, with an 8.0 rating, is particularly popular for its Beaux-Arts design and excellent location. It is conveniently situated near Ocean Avenue and Fidelity Arts, both under 0.2 km away. Guests frequently praise its comfortable beds and clean, good-sized rooms, appreciating the great ambiance provided by the friendly and excellent staff. Free WiFi and complimentary toiletries are also available, adding to the comfort of your stay. See all boutique hotels in Santa Monica

Question 9

What are the best budget hotels in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly options in Santa Monica, consider the Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica or the SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, with an 8.4 rating, offers spacious and clean rooms. Guests frequently praise its excellent location, being just 0.5 km from Ocean Avenue and 0.9 km from Pacific Park. It provides complimentary breakfast, free WiFi, and free toiletries, adding to its convenience and value. The staff are frequently described as attentive and amazing.

Another excellent choice is the SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, which has an 8.8 rating. This hotel provides free continental breakfast, free WiFi, and free toiletries. Its location is considered convenient, and it is just 1.1 km from the Santa Monica Museum of Art. Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the clean rooms and convenient parking. View all budget hotels in Santa Monica

Question 10

What are the most romantic hotels in Santa Monica for couples?

Accepted Answer

For a romantic escape in Santa Monica, consider the Regent Santa Monica Beach, Casa Del Mar, or Shutters on the Beach. These hotels are known for their luxurious amenities and stunning ocean views, superb for couples.

The 5-star Regent Santa Monica Beach, with a superb 10.0 rating, offers an exquisite experience. Many rooms feature ocean or beach views, and some even include balconies or furnished balconies, ideal for enjoying a private moment together. The hotel boasts a poolside bar, outdoor pool, and private cabanas, alongside 24-hour room service for ultimate convenience. For a truly indulgent experience, couples can enjoy treatments in the dedicated couples' treatment rooms. It is conveniently located near Ocean Avenue and a short stroll from the iconic Santa Monica Pier.

Another exceptional choice is the 5-star Casa Del Mar, rated 9.4. This hotel provides a sophisticated setting with many rooms offering ocean or beach views. Guests can enjoy deep soaking bathtubs and 24-hour room service, ensuring a comfortable stay. It is situated close to Main Street Santa Monica, offering easy access to local attractions.

The 5-star Shutters on the Beach, also with a 9.4 rating, is a wonderful option for couples seeking relaxation and pampering. This hotel features a full-service spa with a hot tub and dedicated couples' treatment rooms, superb for unwinding together. Its prime location offers beautiful ocean or beach views, and it is just a short walk from the Santa Monica Pier. See all romantic hotels in Santa Monica

Question 11

What are the best hotels in Santa Monica near Third Street Promenade?

Accepted Answer

For hotels in Santa Monica near Third Street Promenade, the HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel and the Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels, are both excellent choices.

The HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, with a 9.2 rating, is conveniently located near the shopping district and the ocean, making it ideal for exploring. It's only 0.2 km from Laemmle Theatres Monica Film Centre and Ocean Avenue, and 0.7 km from Pacific Park. Guests frequently praise the friendly staff, the free breakfast, and the modern, clean rooms.

Another superb option is the 5-star Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels, which also has a 9.2 rating. This hotel is located 0.7 km from Laemmle Theatres Monica Film Centre and 0.6 km from Ocean Avenue. It offers comfortable and beautiful rooms, and guests appreciate the wonderful amenities, including a pool and free bikes.

Question 12

When is the best time to go to Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Santa Monica is during the shoulder seasons, specifically from September to November and April to May.

During these months, you'll experience pleasant weather, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, ideal for enjoying the beach and outdoor activities. The crowds are also generally smaller than during the peak summer months, allowing for a more relaxed experience at popular attractions like the Santa Monica Pier and the Third Street Promenade. Prices for accommodation and flights can also be more favourable outside of the high season.

For those looking to enjoy the warmest beach weather and don't mind larger crowds, the summer months of June to August are also an option. However, be prepared for more people and potentially higher prices.

Question 13

Where can I find the best nightlife in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

Santa Monica offers several distinct areas for evening entertainment, suiting different preferences.

Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-only area that comes alive in the evenings. You'll find a mix of casual pubs, wine bars, and restaurants with outdoor seating. There are also street performers and live music acts, sometimes. It's a good spot for a relaxed evening stroll and a drink.

Main Street, running parallel to the beach, has a more laid-back, neighbourhood feel. Here, you'll discover a selection of gastropubs, cocktail bars, and some venues with live music. It's generally less crowded than the Promenade and offers a more local experience.

Ocean Avenue, with its views of the Pacific, features a number of upscale lounges and restaurants that transition into bars later in the evening. These establishments often have a more sophisticated setting, ideal for a refined cocktail or a late-night drink with a view.

Santa Monica Pier hosts various attractions that remain open into the evening, including an amusement park.

Question 14

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Santa Monica.

Question 15

How can I save on a hotel booking in Santa Monica with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

One Key™—Expedia’s free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Santa Monica hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Question 16

How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in Santa Monica often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$131 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	56.7°F (13.7°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	57.0°F (13.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	59.0°F (15.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
April	62.4°F (16.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	64.9°F (18.3°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
June	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	73.6°F (23.1°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	75.0°F (23.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
September	74.5°F (23.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
October	69.4°F (20.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
November	62.6°F (17.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

Search Santa Monica hotels

Change your mind

Treat yourself

Be picky

Go beyond your typical stay in Santa Monica

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Property class

Guest rating

Our top choices for Santa Monica hotels

1. Hyatt Place LAX/Century Blvd

2. Hilton Los Angeles Airport

3. Hotel Angeleno

4. Hyatt Regency Los Angeles International Airport

5. DoubleTree by Hilton LAX - El Segundo

6. Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica

7. Short Stories Hotel

8. Loews Hollywood Hotel

9. Hilton Garden Inn LAX Los Angeles Airport

10. Sheraton Gateway Los Angeles Hotel

11. Sonesta Los Angeles Airport LAX

12. Gateway Hotel Santa Monica

13. Holiday Inn Los Angeles - LAX Airport by IHG

14. Fairmont Miramar Hotel

15. The Huntley Hotel

16. Embassy Suites by Hilton Los Angeles International Airport North

17. The Eden

18. Motel 6 Los Angeles, CA - Los Angeles - LAX

19. citizenM Los Angeles Downtown

20. The Westin Los Angeles Airport

Our guide on where to stay in Santa Monica

Downtown Santa Monica

Ocean Park

Wilshire Montana

Pico

Sunset Park

Stay near popular Santa Monica attractions

Santa Monica Beach

Learn more about Santa Monica

Top Santa Monica Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Santa Monica

Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica

More cheap accommodation in Santa Monica

Motel 6 Los Angeles, CA - Los Angeles - LAX

Find out more about Santa Monica

Top reasons to visit Santa Monica

Find great hotels near Santa Monica

Where to stay in Santa Monica

Things to do near Santa Monica

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Monica

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Monica

Best time to go to Santa Monica

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Monica

Frequently asked questions

Explore a world of travel with Expedia

Go further with the Expedia app