Hotels in Santa Monica

Coastal Bliss: Discover the Enchantment of Santa Monica's Sun-Kissed Shores

Nestled along California's stunning coastline, Santa Monica is a vibrant beach city that effortlessly blends sun-soaked relaxation with urban charm. Stroll along the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where thrilling rides and ocean views await, or unwind on the picturesque Santa Monica Beach, renowned for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere. Explore the lively Third Street Promenade, brimming with shops, eateries, and street performers. With its breathtaking sunsets, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions, Santa Monica offers a perfect escape for beach lovers, romantics, and families alike, making it a must-visit destination on your California adventure.

Discover great hotels in Santa Monica

Santa Monica offers a diverse range of hotel accommodations, from luxurious beachfront properties to charming boutique options. Many hotels feature stunning ocean views, modern amenities, and easy access to the lively beachfront, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure by the sea. Here are some of the best hotels in Santa Monica that our travelers love:

1. Air Venice on the BeachOpens in a new window: This inviting 3.0-star hotel is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a beach getaway. With direct beach access, guests can indulge in various adventure sports like biking, hiking, and scooter rentals nearby. The property boasts a vibrant atmosphere where outdoor enthusiasts can immerse themselves in exciting recreational activities. Frequent travelers appreciate the seamless experience this hotel offers, making it a premier choice for those who value comfort and distinctive adventures in a stunning coastal setting.
2. Venice V HotelOpens in a new window: This charming 3.0-star hotel is an excellent choice for pet-friendly travelers looking for a beach retreat. With direct access to the beach, it provides a warm and welcoming environment for guests and their four-legged companions. The property offers amenities such as food and water bowls, ensuring a comfortable stay for pets. Travelers enjoy the inviting ambiance and the ability to explore the beautiful coastline with their pets, creating memorable experiences in a relaxing seaside location.
3. FOUND HotelOpens in a new window: This welcoming 3.0-star hotel offers an inclusive atmosphere ideal for LGBTQIA travelers seeking a memorable vacation experience. The property features a stylish design and a vibrant social scene, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate a welcoming environment. Guests enjoy the unique experiences tailored to their lifestyle, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. This hotel stands out for its commitment to providing a supportive and enriching experience, making it a top choice for trend-aware travelers looking for distinctive, high-quality journeys.

Top locations to stay in Santa Monica

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting Santa Monica are West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Inglewood. West Hollywood offers vibrant nightlife and sun-soaked streets, Beverly Hills is known for its hilly landscapes and luxury shopping, while Inglewood features diverse shopping options. For first-time visitors, Beverly Hills is the ideal choice for its iconic attractions and upscale ambiance.

1. Beverly HillsOpens in a new window: Staying in Beverly Hills puts you in the heart of luxury. Known for its glamorous vibes and hilly landscapes, this area is perfect for travelers looking to indulge in high-end shopping on Rodeo Drive. Explore the beautiful neighborhoods with stunning architecture, and take a leisurely stroll through the iconic Beverly Gardens Park. With its celebrity sightings and upscale dining options, Beverly Hills is an attractive base for those wanting a taste of the glamorous Los Angeles lifestyle.
2. West HollywoodOpens in a new window: West Hollywood is a vibrant neighborhood that pulses with energy and creativity. Famous for its lively atmosphere, this area is a hotspot for cultural attractions, including art galleries and theaters showcasing local talent. You can enjoy shopping at trendy boutiques or unwind at chic cafes. West Hollywood also boasts an array of outdoor spaces, perfect for soaking up the California sun, making it an exciting place to stay for travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and urban excitement.
3. InglewoodOpens in a new window: Inglewood is a hidden gem for those seeking a more local experience. Known for its shopping opportunities, you can find unique boutiques and local shops that reflect the community's character. The area is also home to the newly built SoFi Stadium, which hosts exciting events and concerts. While Inglewood may be quieter than its more famous neighbors, it offers a genuine feel of Los Angeles life, making it a great choice for travelers wanting to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

Things to do in Santa Monica

Santa Monica boasts stunning coastal views and inviting beaches, perfect for sunbathing or beach volleyball. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the shore at sunset, or dive into vibrant shopping districts filled with local boutiques. With opportunities for biking, water sports, and exploring lush parks, it’s an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation.

• Universal Studios HollywoodOpens in a new window – Dive into the excitement at Universal Studios Hollywood, a thrilling theme park where blockbuster movies come to life. Experience exhilarating rides and attractions based on your favorite films, and don’t miss the chance to explore the behind-the-scenes magic of filmmaking. It's a perfect spot for families and movie enthusiasts alike!
• Six Flags Magic MountainOpens in a new window – Get ready for an adrenaline rush at Six Flags Magic Mountain, a premier theme park renowned for its record-breaking roller coasters and thrilling rides. Challenge your limits on the high-speed attractions, and enjoy a day filled with fun for all ages, from heart-pounding drops to family-friendly experiences.
• Santa Monica BeachOpens in a new window – Soak up the California sun at Santa Monica Beach, a beautiful stretch of coastline perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Stroll along the iconic pier, indulge in beachside snacks, or take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic paths that line the shore.
• Venice BeachOpens in a new window – Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Venice Beach, where eclectic street performers, artists, and vendors create a lively scene. Walk along the famous boardwalk, watch surfers ride the waves, or relax on the sandy beach. Don’t forget to check out the unique shops and colorful murals that embody the spirit of this iconic destination.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Santa Monica

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Santa Monica is during January, November, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For a great value for money experience, staying for at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to fully explore the city's key landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty. During your visit, you can enjoy the stunning beaches, the vibrant sea, and picturesque sunsets, as well as indulge in shopping, dining at local cafés, and experiencing live music. This affordable getaway offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Santa Monica while taking part in various sports and leisurely walks along the coastline.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals in Santa Monica, start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options. This way, you can be alerted if rooms become available or prices drop for a spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay at a Santa Monica hotel. If you're seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll recommend alternative dates that could help you find a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to be pricier, but thanks to Santa Monica's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit farther out that’s still well-connected. If you're interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even some lesser-known nearby cities, you can often find excellent value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership for free and start planning your next getaway to Santa Monica! As a member, you'll gain access to exclusive prices on over 100,000 hotels around the globe. Enjoy the benefits of quickly advancing through membership tiers, which can lead to perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these incredible savings and benefits for your next stay!

Best time to go to Santa Monica

Santa Monica experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 56.5°F (13.6°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 75.0°F (23.9°C). December is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Santa Monica, April, June, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, with no rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, October to December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by no to light rainfall and sunny to mostly sunny conditions.