Fodor's Expert Review Palihouse Santa Monica

Tucked in a posh residential area three blocks from the sea and lively Third Street Promenade, Palihouse Santa Monica caters to design-minded world travelers, with spacious rooms and suites decked out in whimsical antiques. Picture Scottish hunting lodge meets Hollywood chic. The 1927 Mediterranean Revival exterior is encircled by a grassy courtyard, a bocce ball court, and outdoor seating. Step into the low-lit lobby, which also plays host to the hotel's guest-only all-day eating establishment, to be greeted by mismatched antiques highlighted with trophies, terrariums, and kitschy paintings. Rooms feel as though you just stepped into a quirky globetrotter's pied-à-terre, with locally made wallpaper prints, hand-carved vintage tables, and sets of faux antlers guarding the beds. Bathrooms hit all the high notes, including Diptyque toiletries. Modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi appeal to tech-minded travelers, while the fitness center and the fully equipped kitchens in most rooms cater to extended-stay visitors. Enjoy use of bicycles, a daily lemonade and candy bar, and a mocktail social hour. The all-day breakfast menu is universally loved.