The best luxury hotels in Santa Monica, California

Chic properties with a West Coast twist

Santa Monica’s golden beaches and balmy breezes have always drawn in the glitterati. But it’s the hotels that truly put the cherry on the California sundae. These are more than just places to rest your head – they’re the stars of the show, each with its own personality and panache. Here’s our pick of the hotels that are making waves on the West Coast.

Regent Santa Monica Beach

Fresh from a major overhaul, the Regent Santa Monica Beach is the definition of spacious, stylish comfort. Every room is big enough to stretch out in, with living areas, oversized closets and bathrooms stocked with Perricone MD goodies. Michael Mina’s Orla is a delight – think mezze, phyllo-crusted fish and tableside baklava sundaes. The rooftop pool area is an all-day hangout, with the Azure pool bar’s health-conscious snacks. And the enormous Guerlain Spa promises some serious pampering.

Shutters on the Beach

Shutters is the beach house you’ve always dreamed of – whitewashed and airy, with breezy rooms dressed in hardwood floors and hand-woven rugs. The lobby feels as cosy as a Cape Cod living room, complete with crackling fireplaces and Modern art that’s more gallery than guesthouse. With just 186 rooms and 12 suites, it’s intimate yet buzzing. The 1 Pico restaurant offers ocean views with seafood to match, while the Living Room serves up jazz, cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere.

Santa Monica Proper Hotel

Step inside the Santa Monica Proper and you’re greeted by Kelly Wearstler’s signature design: bold, playful and oh-so-glamorous. The Spanish Colonial bones lend a sense of history, while the interiors feel fresh and arty with LA-inspired works. Rooms are generously sized, with Proper’s signature beds and top-notch amenities (think Fili D’Oro linens and Aesop bath products). The rooftop pool is the star here, with Calabra restaurant serving up Mediterranean-Californian plates that pair perfectly with sunset cocktails and an unbeatable view.

The Georgian Hotel

Standing tall in bright turquoise, The Georgian is a star in its own right. Once a playground for Golden Age Hollywood, it’s now a whimsical, art deco retreat. Inside you’ll find scalloped velvet headboards, rotary phones and minibar surprises. The Sunset Bar buzzes with energy, and the restaurant blends Mediterranean and Japanese dishes that hit all the right notes. For those who crave a touch of nostalgia with their beachside stay, The Georgian delivers.

Casa Del Mar

Casa del Mar is all about glamour with a dash of old Hollywood allure. Its 1920s Italianate design feels grand yet inviting, with Michael S. Smith’s contemporary updates adding polish without overshadowing its vintage heart. Rooms are classic, elegant and comfortable, perfect for sea-gazing or sunset drinks. Terrazza offers Mediterranean bites with front-row ocean views, while Patio del Mar keeps things casual and breezy. And if you need a bit of indulgence, their in-house spa awaits with exceptional treatments.

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