10 Incredible Beach Hotels Near the Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica is usually one of the first places that visitors new to Los Angeles think of when they want to go to the beach, and it's pretty understandable as to why. The Santa Monica Pier has 100 years of history, and has been featured in tons of stuff--movies, television, video games, magazines, you name it--it's really famous, and therefore very popular. Plus, it has a fully-functioning actual amusement park, with roller coasters and a (solar-powered) Ferris wheel--and tourists frickin' love those things. Here are great hotels near the pier, so you can be right by the action.
Hotel Shangri-La
Why it made the list
This classic boutique hotel just north of the Pier is home to one of the best rooftop bars in Los Angeles, and also just outright resembles more of a magical fortress than a hotel. Hope you like absolute luxury, because, once again, that's what you'll be getting here. A short jaunt from the Pier, the hotel also claims that all 71 rooms have views of the Pacific Ocean. We believe them.
Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows Santa Monica
Why it made the list
A little less than a mile north of the Pier is this remarkable hotel known for its superior service. The venue features a renowned restaurant (FIG), a nightlife hotspot (The Bungalow), and a lobby lounge that oozes elegance (the appropriately named Lobby Lounge). If you’re a dude looking to get spruced up before a night on the town, Lloyd’s Barbershop offers shaves and haircuts for men that comes with complimentary Bourbon, Scotch, or Cognac. Ladies, there's a spa for your sprucing-up needs, but they don't offer haircuts, so you're on your own for those, apparently.
Shore Hotel
Why it made the list
This retreat is one of the newest (and perhaps most eco-friendly) hotels on the beach in Santa Monica. Across from the Pier, Shore revels in recycling waste-water and using smart sensors to limit electricity use. The hotel also has a great pool and a mouth-watering Mexican restaurant with unrivaled sunset views. It also has almost a futuristic vibe to it, both inside and out, which gives it an edge that the other hotels don't have.
The Georgian Hotel
Why it made the list
An Art Deco masterpiece originally built in 1933, this hotel was once a secret place of solitude for luminaries like Clark Gable, Bugsy Siegel, and Rose Kennedy. Today, it sits prominently on Ocean Avenue as a reminder of Hollywood glamour with dazzling views and first-class service. It's extremely close to the pier, and an all around unique experience - it's eclectic and has a lot of character, setting it apart from some of the other hotels in Santa Monica.
Wyndham Santa Monica at the Pier
Why it made the list
As it says in the name, this hotel is practically right smack on top of the Pier. Hop on one of their beach cruisers and pedal down Ocean Avenue, or simply walk outside and experience Santa Monica’s unique nightlife, dining, and shopping right outside your door. It's super convenient, and very stylish.
JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot
Why it made the list
Right next door to the Loews, Le Merigot is also defined by its beachfront location, stunning sunset views, and access to the Pier and Santa Monica’s famed Third Street Promenade for shopping and dining. It is also very fancy.
Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel
Why it made the list
Practically next to the Pier, this extremely large beachfront oasis boasts a stunning ocean-view pool, fine-dining, multiple lounges, and a pool-side ice-cream shop for those scorching beach days. This is another Santa Monica hotel that is more "literal beach palace" than "hotel." There is a slight chance that you might be too busy enjoying this ridiculously fancy hotel to remember to actually go to the beach, so try not to forget, all right?
Viceroy Santa Monica
Why it made the list
While not technically on the beach (it’s literally across the street, so don't get too bent out of shape, all right?), the hotel features a one-of-a-kind outdoor pool setup, where you can order from their award-winning restaurant as you sip cocktails, all while also under heat lamps. For Pier access, the hotel sits right on Ocean Avenue which is a short ten-minute walk away.
Shutters on the Beach
Why it made the list
Good grief, this hotel is gigantic and it is gorgeous looking. It looks like some sort of beach castle from the outside, and the interior is equally beautiful - and is right on the beach, which obviously has its perks. The hotel can help arrange activities like paddle tennis, beach cruisers, yoga on the sand, and more. It’s just south of the Pier, so you can stroll up the beach and enjoy the Santa Monica sunsets - and the really, really nice hotel you're staying at. Seriously. It's nice.
Hotel Casa del Mar
Why it made the list
A short walk to the Pier, this breathtaking (and way over-the-top fancy) hotel features a pool that overlooks the ocean (and is essentially right there on the beach), an exceptional fitness center and spa, and one of the best hotel restaurants in town. If you want to experience Santa Monica with intense style before heading to the slightly less elegant (very less elegant) pier, this place is for you.
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