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Santa Monica is a popular beach city on the west side of Los Angeles.  This great destination has everything a tourist wants, wide variety of hotels, restaurants, shopping and of course, the spectacular beach.  The Pier in Santa Monica is world famous and offers all the entertainment a family needs.  With everything close to each other, this vibrant beach city is very accessible.  However, a car is needed, if you plan on visiting other Los Angeles attractions. Here are some hotels for you to consider.

High End

Hotel Shangri-La – Close to the Santa Monica Pier and The 3rd Street Promenade shopping area.  This upscale  boutique hotel is perfect for the tourist who wants to be in the middle of everything and do it with style. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean every room has a little ocean view.  There are rooms, suites and apartments in this art-deco hotel. The Dining Room is elegant and Suite 700 is the place to be, at the top of the hotel, on a balmy summer night.  1301 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica

Viceroy Santa Monica – Modern & sleek, this hotel is for hip people. Stylish lobby and spacious rooms. A block away from the beach and walking distance to all Santa Monica attractions.  Beautiful pool area, romantic outdoor dining and a trendy lounge.  I’m a big fan of Viceroy hotels. They fit my personality.  1819 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica

Shutters on the Beach – Most popular, iconic hotel in Santa Monica.  This hotel as the best location which is right on the beach. It’s upscale, elegant, yet very relaxed.  Beautiful art work throughout the hotel.  Rooms are luxurious with white linens and hardwood floors. The restaurants are oceanfront, one being the upscale restaurant, One Pico. Outdoor pool and hot tub, even though the beach is just steps away.  One Pico Blvd, Santa Monica

Mid-Range

JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot– I’m a big fan of  JW Marriotts and this Santa Monica JW doesn’t disappoint.  Located in between Venice Beach and the Santa Monica Pier, its very easy to visit both beach towns.  Rooms are lovely with private balconies.  A romantic vibe can be found at this upscale Marriotts Hotel. Relaxing pool and spa will make it easy to lounge all day.  1740 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica

Hotel California – My friends from Canada stayed here last Fall and were completely happy with their stay.  They didn’t want to spend a lot money, but they still wanted that California feel.  They got that here.  Old, 1940’s spanish styled hotel. This hotel has a true California surfer’s life vibe. Because its just steps away from The Santa Monica pier, its not quiet.  Its a vibrant, clean, cool spot with great people watching.

The Georgian Hotel – Located overlooking the Pacific Ocean.  This colorful, art-deco hotel was built in 1933 and is located close to all the Santa Monica fun. Upscale and elegant room, great for a romantic getaway.  1415 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica

Economy

Ocean Lodge – Great location, right on Ocean Avenue, next to the more upscale hotels.  Walking distance to all attractions.  1950’s styled hotel, that’s clean and quaint.  If you’re on a budget, this is a good choice.  1667 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica

Car Mar Hotel – All suite hotel, this is a good choice for families on a budget.  More of an apartment style with a small pool and walking distance to the beach.  The 36 suites are clean and all slowly getting updated.  Needs work here and there, but its pretty nice for the price.  220 California Ave, Santa Monica

HI-Santa Monica – I’m a fan of hostels, I try to always include them.  They remind me of my days of wanting to travel when I only had pennies. This hostel is big, clean, lots of activities, close to the beach and relaxing, if you just want to be lazy.  Breakfast is included.  Pretty awesome, if you’re on a real tight budget. 1436 2nd Street