Overall Impression
I like this hotel. The lobby feels very California oceanside. Dim lighting, dark wood, shutters, high ceilings. It feels like a Hollister or Abercrombie store. The location is about 5-10 minutes walking from the beach. There is a car rental place nearby and walking to the 3rd Street Promenade is not too much of a chore. If you don’t like walking you may want to stay closer to the shops or the beach, whichever you fancy most. The rooms are nice. If you’re looking for ocean view stay elsewhere, but this hotel is good value for the money.
My Rating: 4 stars
Value Range: $175-$250 USD per night
Recommended
Location
The hotel feels like it is on an urban island, but it is not far from most things you want to do in Santa Monica. They also offer a shuttle service to destinations close to the hotel. The beach is a short walk. I recommend renting a bike by the Santa Monica Pier and riding the walkway out to Venice Beach.
Amenities
Pool and fitness center are both decent, but not super luxury.
Service
I have always had good service here.
Elevator Speed
The elevators here are a bit slow and usually busy. Expect to wait around for them to show up.
Atmosphere
Relaxed Old school California chic. Walking into the lobby is like walking onto a different planet compare to the exterior.
Bed Comfort
Beds are nice.
Internet
This is a Starwood Hotel so they pillage you at about $15 per day.
Room Cleanliness
Clean and nice.
Toiletries
The usual boring Sheraton fare.
Family Friendly
Yes.
Rates
Rates here seem consistently around $200 per night.
Other Notes
The Viceroy hotel down the street is quite cool too, but this one is more affordable. Sometimes I’ll stay here and just go for drinks at The Viceroy.
Number of Stays
4
When
Winter 2007, Spring 2008, Spring 2009
Frequent Flyer Miles / Hotel Points
Starwood points which convert to many different airlines.
Related posts:
