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There are outposts of this quirky – and marginally more affordable – hotel group all over the city, from West Hollywood and Culver City to Silver Lake, but it’s their Santa Monica spot that’s touted as the pick of the bunch.
Housed in an elegant 1927 Spanish Colonial Revival Mansion, walking into the property feels like stepping back in time, with tranquil courtyards lining the entranceway and high wood-beamed ceilings giving the air of a country estate.
Inside you’ll find plenty of whimsical touches, including mismatched vintage furnishings, paintings propped on easels and antlers hanging above bedheads.
Locations don’t come much better than this, with the hotel set just three blocks from the beach and a few minutes’ walk to Third Street Promenade, which is filled with shops and restaurants.
In spite of its central location, the hotel remains an oasis of calm, tucked away on a quiet street that’s mercilessly free from the hordes of tourists.
The beachside neighbourhood of Santa Monica showcases the best of sunny So-Cal life, with its miles of sandy coastline and beach promenades.
Come to watch the surfers zip through the waves before taking a walk along the delightfully gaudy pier, where you can ride on the world’s only solar-powered ferris wheel.
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Bucket list experiences our writer says you must do in this destination, closest first
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[1.5 miles]
An iconic, old-school amusement park and a two-mile stretch of golden beach offer the perfect day at the beach. Great surfing & cycling too.
Best for ages: 4+ | Free
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[6 miles]
LA’s most vibrant neighbourhood, beachside Venice is a unique blend of boho and kitsch. Surf lessons too.
Best for ages: 6+ | Free
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[6.8 miles]
A marble-clad modernist complex, opened in 1997, houses the late billionaire oil tycoon J. Paul Getty’s art collection. Highlights include works by Titian and Van Gogh, illuminated manuscripts from the Middle Ages, Louis XIV-era furniture and decorative arts.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[13.8 miles]
The world’s largest museum dedicated solely to the art of film, home to a collection of movie treasures, a rotating roster of exhibitions featuring industry creators and an experience where you can hold a coveted Oscars statuette.
Best for ages: 8+ | £22
Other worthwhile experiences in this destination if you have the time or the interest, closest first
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[6.4 miles]
John Paul Getty’s homage to ancient Rome and Greece is a Malibu gem, filled with ancient art, beautifully landscaped gardens offering up sparkling ocean views and a 500-seat amphitheatre that hosts some of the city’s finest outdoor classical productions.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[10.6 miles]
For a fascinating insider look at a period mansion and estate in Beverley Hills, call ahead to reserve a tour of the Virginia Robinson Gardens. The Beaux Arts mansion from 1911 is surrounded by stunning botanical gardens in a range of styles.
Best for ages: 13+ | £12
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[12.2 miles]
If this Tudor Revival mansion in Beverly Hills looks more than a little familiar it’s due to its stellar Hollywood lineage, having appeared in films including The Big Lebowski and X-Men. Come to explore its formal English gardens and elegant grounds.
Best for ages: 18+ | Free
Los Angeles, California, United States of America (USA)[14.1 miles]
A 22-mile bike path called the Strand runs from Southern LA’s Manhattan Beach up to Pacific Palisades, just north of Santa Monica. It’s a fun ride if you’re feeling fit. Hire bikes from Hermosa Cyclery – there’s a detailed map of the Strand on their website.
Best for ages: 6+ | Free | 2-3 hours
Destination guides including or relevant to this place to stay
California, United States of America (USA)
The bright lights of Tinseltown are home to surfer-filled beaches, glorious mountain hikes, glitz and glamour in spades and year-round sunshine.
![Santa Monica Pier & Beach [surfing & cycling]](https://familyhotelfinder.com/wp-content/uploads/Los-Angeles-Santa-Monica-Beach1-SH.jpg)
