Sorry to be such a major bonehead. Yes, the BW Oceanview and the Huntly. Must do better research next time. We have stayed at the Gateway, but don't recommend unless you are just looking for a cheap place to bunk. the Oceanview much nicer and a great location. The Huntly is a litte further north of 3rd street promenade.

We love Ocean for seafood. And the Viceroy is a wonderful place to meet for a drink. Huge martinis. It was also in one of this season's episodes of the Sopranos, so apparantly the mob likes it too.

FYI, we also love Broadway Deli for breakfast. About two blocks from the BW Oceanview. Fun place to people watch and if you sit at the counter there is plenty of action to watch while you read the paper.

tcreath... sorry I got the BW's mixed up... my bad. Whichever one I contacted 10 days ago had very few rooms available due to their remadel and now I can't tell you which one! So much for me being helpful!

We stayed 1 night at the Holiday Inn at the Pier in Santa Monica our way to New Zealand and we thought it was a great location. Right next to the pier and only 3 blocks away from the Promenade. It was not lavish but the beds were very comfortable and the room was clean. I think that we paid ~$170 through the hotel website.