Fodor's Expert Review Palihouse Santa Monica
1001 3rd St., Santa Monica, California 90403, United States See on Map
In continuous operation as a hotel since 1927, Palihouse Santa Monica is a Mediterranean landmark with a shabby-chic interior that makes guests feel as if they’re entering a country house estate. A young and creative clientele can be found working on their latest screenplays or lounging around the lobby to soak in the timeless aspects of the hotel. Blocks from the beach and dozens of dining, drinking, and shopping options, this eclectic abode provides a unique opportunity to live a historical Santa Monica life with all modern amenities.
YOU SHOULD KNOW The hotel exudes an effortless cool vibe, but be aware that there is no pool, gym, or spa here.
room
There are a variety of room types, but customers can expect quirky design touches, original wooden doors, vintage furnishings, espresso makers, Pendleton blankets, and balconies (in some). Suites come complete with kitchens and L-shaped couches that inspire long term stays.
bathroom
Rain showers pour down on subway-tiled walls, and bathrooms are equipped with La Bottega bath products.
lobby
The lobby acts as a giant living room and serves as the hub of the hotel. Guests are encouraged to mix and mingle on communal tables over original red-brick designed floors. High, wood-beamed ceilings hover atop green u-shaped booths and taxidermied animals throughout. The lobby is also home to the bar and restaurant.
There’s no gym, but you can rent Linus Bikes for $25 a day--perfect for lazy rides around the Santa Monica pier and beyond.
dining
Dining in the lobby, guests will find a California cuisine menu and complimentary breakfast on weekends. In back of the hotel is an outdoor eating area with original tiled floors that will take you back to the '30s.
YOU SHOULD KNOW The Lobby Café is open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. for breakfast and lunch. After 3 p.m., you can get complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks but dinner you’ll have to venture elsewhere.
LOCATION
Getting Around
You don’t have to rent a car here, but you may want to. While it’s close to the beach and downtown Santa Monica, it’s a hike to get to any other parts of the city. There is a metro station (8-minute drive) that you can grab a Lyft or Uber ride to and that train can take you to downtown, Hollywood, or even Universal Studios.
Restaurants
There are dozens of great restaurants within walking distance. For the best bagel and lox, check out Wexler’s Deli (10-minute walk). If you want an unpretentious yet upscale California cuisine spot, try Michael’s (4-minute walk), which is a longtime Santa Monica staple.
WHY WE LIKE IT
The Palihouse brand is known for its chic and eclectic design, and this incarnation doesn’t disappoint. Making great use of a Santa Monica landmark, the hotel keeps the heart of the building’s history while giving guests updated and modern amenities. Close enough to the beach without being in the thick of tourist throngs, this hotel is in a quiet spot where creative types can get inspired and then mingle with like-minded millennials at the bar and restaurant. Going strong for over 90 years with an impeccable attention to detail, we’d expect it to attract customers for 90 more.
QUICK FACTS
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