The Most Popular Hotels in Santa Monica
Santa Monica is more than just a beach town — it’s a world-class coastal destination. With swaying palms, endless sunshine, and the Pacific Ocean at your doorstep, it’s no surprise that millions of travelers check into local hotels here each year.
If you’re planning a trip and wondering where everyone stays, you’re in the right place.
This list ranks the Top 10 Most Popular Hotels in Santa Monica based on volume of stays, booking data, and guest appeal. From luxury legends like Casa Del Mar to practical favorites like Courtyard by Marriott, these are the properties that dominate bookings — and for good reason.
🥇 1. Hotel Casa Del Mar
Beachfront luxury with timeless elegance.
Set in a restored 1920s beach club, Casa Del Mar blends five-star sophistication with Santa Monica’s ocean breeze. With live lobby music, Italian Riviera charm, and deep bathtubs overlooking the sea, it’s one of LA’s most iconic beachfront hotels.
Why stay here: For unmatched location, luxury, and history — right on the sand.
Pros: Historic charm, beachfront, top-tier dining
Cons: High rates, limited availability
🥈 2. Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts
An ultra-private luxury retreat just steps from the beach.
Oceana is a favorite among high-end travelers who want a residential feel with discreet service. With wellness menus, light-filled suites, and personalized concierge attention, it’s a high-volume boutique gem.
Why stay here: Quiet, exclusive, and ideal for refined travelers.
Pros: Spacious suites, serene vibe, wellness-forward
Cons: Expensive, not ideal for families
🥉 3. Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
Modern amenities, high capacity, and family convenience.
With 286 rooms and a strong national brand, the Hilton is one of the most booked hotels in the area. Its proximity to the beach, business district, and Pier makes it a practical go-to for large circles and family travelers.
Why stay here: For spacious suites, a solid location, and brand-name reliability.
Pros: Family-friendly, lots of rooms, walkable
Cons: Lacks boutique flair
4. Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica
High-volume comfort in the heart of town.
Popular for business trips, weddings, and short getaways, this centrally located Marriott delivers clean, functional rooms near shops, transit, and the beach — without the price tag of oceanfront resorts.
Why stay here: Dependable, comfortable, and close to everything.
Pros: Rooftop terrace, walkability, good value
Cons: Not luxurious, no ocean view
5. Viceroy Santa Monica
Trendy, stylish, and social — with a designer pool scene.
The Viceroy draws a creative crowd with its bold interiors and social atmosphere. Located just two blocks from the sand, it’s one of the most photographed hotels in the area — and a solid favorite for couples and remote workers.
Why stay here: For style, location, and a rooftop-meets-lobby bar vibe.
Pros: Beautiful design, good food/drinks, energetic
Cons: Louder than average
6. Regent Santa Monica Beach (Opening Soon – 2025)
The new flagship of luxury in Santa Monica.
Slated to open in late 2025, the Regent is set to become the new crown jewel of beachfront stays. With five-star amenities, expansive suites, and sleek architecture, it’s already driving advanced bookings and media buzz.
Why stay here: Brand-new beachfront indulgence from a legendary global brand.
Pros: New build, beachfront, luxury standard
Cons: Not open yet, premium pricing expected
7. Shutters on the Beach
Cape Cod charm meets West Coast sunset magic.
Shutters is Santa Monica’s most iconic hotel brand — offering beachfront romance with spa touches and cozy interiors. It’s long been a celebrity favorite and still draws a high share of premium bookings.
Why stay here: For cozy luxury, warm service, and true beachfront living.
Pros: Location, heritage, comfort
Cons: Often booked out, valet fees
8. Sandbourne Santa Monica (Formerly Le Méridien Delfina)
An updated boutique stay with a new name and a fresh design.
After rebranding and renovations, Sandbourne is emerging as a new favorite among younger travelers looking for modern vibes and quick beach access. It’s stylish, walkable, and a bit of a hidden gem.
Why stay here: New name, great walkability, stylish refresh
Pros: Renovated rooms, less crowded
Cons: Still building reputation
9. Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica
Budget-friendly comfort with high turnover.
For travelers who want Hilton reliability at a better price point, this Hampton Inn delivers. Guests appreciate the clean design, included breakfast, and steps-to-the-beach location — all at lower nightly rates.
Why stay here: For comfort, affordability, and location.
Pros: Value, breakfast, convenient
Cons: No luxury features
10. Hyatt Centric Santa Monica
A lesser-known beachfront boutique with prime positioning.
Tucked quietly into the coastline, Hyatt Centric offers stylish rooms, ocean views, and one of the best locations in Santa Monica. Though smaller in volume, its guests love the mix of simplicity and elegance.
Why stay here: For location, ocean views, and Hyatt perks.
Pros: Oceanfront, peaceful
Cons: Less buzz, smaller footprint
📍 What to See and Do in Santa Monica
After you check in, it’s time to explore. Santa Monica Pier offers a classic boardwalk experience with rides, games, and sunset views from the Ferris wheel. A short stroll leads to the Third Street Promenade, known for shopping, dining, and live music.
If you’re craving beach time, head to Muscle Beach, rent a bike along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, or explore the art galleries at Bergamot Station. For a local feel, try brunch on Montana Avenue, or walk to Venice Beach and Abbot Kinney for eclectic style and culture.
Santa Monica offers the best of coastal California in one compact, walkable package.
❤️ Reserve on Orbitz | Reserve on Expedia
Final Word: Which Hotel Is Right for You?
Whether you’re looking for beachfront bliss (Casa Del Mar, Oceana, Regent), boutique charm (Viceroy, Sandbourne), or budget-friendly comfort (Hampton, Courtyard), Santa Monica offers options for every kind of traveler.
✈️ Pro tip: Book early — these hotels stay packed year-round thanks to consistent weather, festivals, and LA’s global draw.
👉 Tap any “Book Now” button to check current prices on Orbitz and Expedia — and lock in the perfect stay.
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