Fodor's Expert Review Shore Hotel
1515 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, California 90401, United States See on Map Fodor's Choice
This horseshoe-shaped hotel prides itself on its eco-friendly sustainability and backs up that claim with solar panels, drought-resistant greenery, low-flow showers and a variety of other energy saving techniques. Beyond its green footprint, the hotel itself sits directly across from the ocean, and a block from the Santa Monica Pier, and provides its guests with unbeatable views in a laid-back environment.
room
The hotel was built in 2011 and houses 164 rooms and 20 suites. Rooms are divided by the view, with ocean-facing as the premium choice. Standard rooms are equipped with free coffee, free Wi-Fi and docking stations for your iPhone. All guest rooms have either a balcony or patio.
Request an ocean-facing room with a balcony to watch the sunset.
bathroom
Guests should be aware that the bathrooms are see-through (that includes the toilet) but there are drop down shades for privacy. The hotel uses Lather bath products, which are locally sourced.
The hotel sells a plush starfish in the rooms for $20, and all proceeds go to Heal the Bay, a non-profit organization to keep Santa Monica’s beaches clean.
lobby
The lobby is modern and minimalist with giant windows looking out to the ocean. It’s not a big hangout spot, and guests typically post up while waiting for their rooms. There is also a Sixt car rental station if you’re looking to drive to Malibu for the day.
pool
The guest-only, solar-heated pool sports ocean views and has plenty of deck chairs. There’s also a hot tub. During the summer, the hotel has Summer Soiree nights that features an acoustic band.
gym
The small fitness center’s floor is made from recycled tires and offers guests 24-hour access to weights, treadmills, bikes and more.
dining
There isn’t a restaurant on-site, but a small eating room where guests can snack on breakfast, lunch and dinner items. If you’re looking for something a little heartier, modern Mexican joint Blue Plate Taco rents space in the front of the hotel. Room service is also available from 6 am-10 pm.
YOU SHOULD KNOW If you want a more substantial food program out of your hotel, you won’t find it here. You will have to find substantial food programs elsewhere, like at restaurants.
gardens
Some of the non-ocean-view rooms surround a lush garden that’s equipped with heat lamps and lounge chairs. It’s also the only pet-friendly part of the hotel.
LOCATION
Getting Around
It’s only an 8-minute walk to the nearest metro station and tourists can take the train from Santa Monica to Hollywood, Downtown and Universal Studios. The hotel is really in a great walking area, and taxis, Ubers and Lyft rides are ubiquitous. The hotel has a Sixt rental car station in the lobby if you want to get to non-metro linked places around the city.
Tip: The hotel also has a couple of beach cruisers that guests can take out for a stroll.
Restaurants
Blue Plate Taco is attached to the hotel and is a great option for modern Mexican cuisine. Boa Steakhouse (5-minute walk) and Robata Bar Santa Monica (5-minute walk) are great options for upscale steaks and Japanese skewers respectively.
WHY WE LIKE IT
Eco-friendly travelers will appreciate the lengths this hotel goes to in order to limit its footprint on the environment. The stylish design, beach-facing rooms, and heated pool will attract young couples and families alike and the location is perfect for restaurant, nightlife, and attractions within walking distance. There are some limitations: there’s no spa and food options are minimal, but overall, this beachfront property will have you breathing in the fresh sea air and relaxing in style.
QUICK FACTS
What’s Nearby
People also liked
The NoMad Hotel Los Angeles
$$$ | 649 S Olive St.
Close your eyes and imagine an Italian-themed hotel. You’re prob... Read More
Mr. C Beverly Hills
$$$ | 1224 Beverwil Dr.
An Italian getaway in the middle of Los Angeles, Mr. C Beverly Hills o... Read More
Freehand Los Angeles
$$ | Downtown Los Angeles | 416 W. 8th St.
Despite being smack-dab in the middle of what was once a forgotten blo... Read More
Venice Breeze Suites
$$
There’s nothing quite like the sights, sounds, smells, and taste... Read More
Sofitel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
$$$
Combining French sensibilities with Hollywood glamour, the Sofitel is... Read More
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
$$$
The best things in life come with a wait. In the Mission Inn’s c... Read More
