Fodor's Expert Review Hotel Shangri-La
301 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, California, 90401, USA
Across from Santa Monica's oceanfront Palisades Park, the 1939-built art deco, ocean-liner-inspired Hotel Shangri-La is firmly in tune with the 21st century. Behind its original brilliantly white curved facade, deco accents blend vintage and custom-built features such as soundproof casements, antique propellers in the restaurant windows, maple floors, indirect lighting, nickel-plated hardware, burled-wood cabinets, and polished work spaces. Modern baths are each outfitted with Carerra marble counter and floors, some with a sunken Jacuzzi tub, eco-friendly bath products in biodegradable bottles, Frette bathrobes, and elegant light fixtures. Upper-floor rooms facing west have stunning beach, ocean, and Malibu views. Try the rooftop bar for unforgettable sunsets, and enjoy the 1930s-inspired pool cabanas.
PROS
- sunken Jacuzzis in bathrooms
- ONYX rooftop bar is the place to be
- active pool scene in the summer
CONS
- some rooms have tight, cruise-ship-like quarters
- pricey parking rates ($49)
- some furnishings are a little tired
HOTEL INFO
HOTEL DETAILS
Rate Includes: No Meals, Credit cards accepted
