Hotels in Santa Monica, CA

Still wondering what to do in Santa Monica, CA? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Santa Monica, CA and book your hotel today!

Nestled along the Pacific coast, Santa Monica offers a distinctive blend of urban living and beachside leisure. It's well-known for its pier, which hosts an amusement park and the historic carousel, marking the official end point of Route 66. The area also features extensive beaches, popular for cycling, sunbathing, and volleyball, alongside a substantial number of upscale shops and restaurants.

The Third Street Promenade, a pedestrianised outdoor shopping centre, provides entertainment with street performers and a wide array of retail options. Beyond the retail, the city is a significant hub for tech and media industries, attracting a diverse populace. Its accessibility to Los Angeles, combined with a laid-back coastal atmosphere, makes it a frequent destination for both residents and visitors seeking recreation and culture by the sea.

When looking for a hotel in Santa Monica, many visitors gravitate towards the area close to the pier and the Third Street Promenade, as it offers a central base with easy access to many attractions. This part of the city is particularly popular for its lively atmosphere and convenient amenities.

For those seeking a bustling experience, the area around Downtown Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Pier offers a wide array of hotels, from boutique options to larger chains. Here, you're right on the doorstep of the famous pier itself, with its amusement park rides and aquarium, and just steps away from the pedestrianised Third Street Promenade, known for its street performers, shops, and restaurants. The Santa Monica Place shopping centre is also located here, offering a more upscale retail experience.

Further north, towards Montana Avenue, the accommodation tends to be a bit more residential and relaxed, with smaller hotels and guesthouses. This area is known for its independent boutiques, cafes, and eateries, offering a more local feel away from the main tourist crowds. It's a pleasant spot for a leisurely stroll and a spot of window shopping.

To the south, near Main Street, you'll find a blend of surf culture and trendy spots. This area is home to diverse restaurants and bars, and it’s a short walk from Muscle Beach and Palisades Park, which offers views across the Pacific. Accommodation here often includes stylish hotels catering to a slightly younger, more laid-back crowd.

Considering transport, Santa Monica is reasonably well-connected. The city operates a comprehensive bus network, and the Metro E Line (formerly Expo Line) connects Downtown Santa Monica Station directly to Downtown Los Angeles, making it easy to explore further afield without a car. For air travel, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the closest major hub, typically a 30-45 minute drive depending on traffic, with various shuttle and ride-share options available to most hotel areas.

When planning your stay in Santa Monica, consider the time of year to potentially reduce your accommodation costs. The most expensive period for hotels typically runs from June through August, during the height of summer, as well as around major holidays like Christmas and New Year. This aligns with school breaks and pleasant beach weather, driving up demand significantly. If your travel dates are flexible, aim for the quieter months.

For better value, look at booking during the winter months, specifically November through March, excluding the festive period. During these times, visitor numbers drop, and you're more likely to find competitive rates. Another useful tip specific to Santa Monica is to check the local events calendar; large festivals or events like the Twilight Concert Series in summer can cause price surges, so avoiding these specific dates could save you a bit. Also, exploring hotels slightly further from the immediate beachfront or Third Street Promenade can often yield more affordable options.