Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Oceana Hotel

    4.0 (187 reviews)
    PriceyHotels
    Open Open 24 hours

    Oceana Hotel Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Oceana Hotel

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Non draining after we were moved from a slow draining shower room.

    Great location and the staff was very polite, but lacked attentiveness that you'd expect at a listed 5-star property. Also, the room(s) had issues. We were moved from our first room because the shower wouldn't drain properly, only to be assigned a room where the bathroom sink did not drain. Aaron, the manager was very empathetic and offered various ways to accommodate us for the subpar experience (restaurant bill adjustment, late check-out) , which we appreciated, but declined. All we really wanted was a good experience. The only direct request we had after speaking with Aaron was to have our bed re-made so we could nap before leaving. In fairness, we requested this from the a front desk attendant after they could not locate Aaron directly. However despite being assured that it would happen, it never did. Very unfortunate as we really wanted to like this property given the location. Other, albiet smaller issues included our lunch order being initially incorrect as there was a menu change but the chefs didn't know about it. Our server was very nice and apologetic. My wife was asked and requested a warm room for her spa service but it didn't happen. Also, someone walked in during the middle of her treatment looking for something. We had to walk around to find a server for the pool restaurant after waiting ~10 minutes for someone to arrive. With all of this, we would consider giving it another try namely because of the location and because everyone was courteous despite not delivering, but that would be a tough decision with other proven 5 star properties in the vicinity.

    Morning coffee from bed looking out to the water
    Kelli M.

    What an amazing boutique hotel in Santa Monica. My husband and I did an overnight stay and can't wait to come back. The staff are very friendly and welcoming, the rooms are spacious and well stocked to toiletries, the location is right across from palisades park making walking to the beach and pier accessible. The best part is the onsite restaurant was phenomenal. We booked through AMEX and used our resort credit towards dinner. I was concerned the food wouldn't be impressive but what a hidden gem. My husband got a steak which was delicious and I got the fig pizza. Breakfast was equally as enjoyable. The pool area is well appointed with lounge chairs and umbrellas. I will be recommending this property to my friends!

    Burrata starter and an order of warm bread to go with it.
    Meghan D.

    Finally! We live a couple blocks away and have walked by here for over 12 years but never went because it was only available to oceana hotel guests. So far it seems just the restaurant is open to residents now but the terrace lounging area is still only open to guests. The ambience of the restaurant called the sandpiper was so beachy; clean and bright. The service was impeccable and our server was so kind and helpful. We went for lunch to enjoy the sunny day and ocean view. The burrata starter was ridiculously spectacular. We ordered a side of bread to go with it but the flavors of the creamy burrata and spicy radish, tangy red cabbage and sweet in season persimmons just danced together in harmony. We were floored. The chicken sandwich was perfectly cooked and had a nice spiciness to it. The turkey sandwich was so fresh and the cranberry mayo went perfectly with the turkey and toasted sourdough along with crisp lettuce and ripe avocado. I think it was supposed to be to have bacon but I didn't miss it either way. We were told to come back for dinner to watch the sunset and after experiencing a wonderful lunch experience; we will definitely be back.

    King suite bathroom
    Audrey P.

    Oceana is a beautifully appointed hotel with attentive, friendly and available staff - they strive for service excellence. The pool is well maintained and at the center of the hotel. There's a patio on the top floor (3rd floor) that catches wonderful breezes and a good view of the beach while one can grab a drink and light bites. There are different room layouts available and even their king suite is spacious at 400-525 square feet options. Each room is well appointed and elegantly styled. A definite step up from your typical hotel. Will be coming back!

    Corporates response
    Demond D. E.

    While this location was directly across the street that was the only beauty and elegance I received. My expectations were that service was going to be impeccable and above everything. I assumed it would have started with my room upgrade or offer. I received neither. Despite them having rooms they could have upgraded too. From there it seemed that they just wanted me out the way. From housekeeping rushing to turn down my room, five minutes into me checking into it. Bursting into my room, not once but twice without ringing the doorbell or knocking at 8AM. Why are people waking up that early on vacation? The service at their premier restaurant - they overcooked my $70 strip steak, confirmed that it was over cooked and apologized by offering me a lemonade. Finally, they overcharged me for breakfast that was supposed to be free. When I mentioned my concerns to management. We set an appointment to go over the concerns. They didn't show. Ultimately, I was instructed to contact corporate and corporate sent an apology letter stating this was not how they operate and to reach out to Oceana to correct the billing mistake and to have a nice day. I realize that I am probably not the clientele for this establishment and will not go back. I expected much more out of Hilton though they use to be much better at correcting an issue. They didn't even offer honors points as an apology.

    Roger W.

    During our trip to Santa Monica, I reserved Oceana and thinking this might be just another typical Hilton hotel. I believe this is the first time I do a review about a hotel. They don't have self parking but they provide full service from valet parking, bellmen, tour of the hotel. This is a small but I think it is one of the best experiences I have had with Hilton. This property is well designed, clean, friendly and professional staff, and even their swimming pool is set at 82 degree. Love it.

    Grace L.

    The gentleman that checked us in last night was very nice, courteous and helpful!! The lady next to him wasn't. She wasn't rude, but she wasn't friendly either. I guess she just wanted to do her job, that's all. Anyway, I enjoyed my stay at the hotel, albeit short. The location is great, just across the beach. I'm glad we didn't bring a car otherwise it'll probably be a nightmare coz parking nearby is quite limited. They charge $50+ for valet. Although expensive, I guess it'll be worth it. The toiletries, towels and linens are luxurious. The scent of the toiletries is that of a wealthy old lady kind of smell. It's fine by me. The linens are so smooth like butter and pillows are so soft. And the bed; very comfortable. The entire room smells fresh and looks so well kept. When you're inside the room, you don't hear much noise from the outside so you can relax completely. The bathroom could use some cups for when you brush your teeth. I'm sure they will provide it if you ask, but I expect things to be available without having to ask for them considering it's an expensive hotel. The room needs a bigger table between the two chairs for in-house dining purpose. We ended up placing the food tray on the bench, not so big a deal but it made us feel uncomfortable. The food was just okay. The food presentation is just simple. Not the kind you normally expect from other expensive hotels. Overall, it was a good stay.

    Looking down from 3rd level to pool/ restaurant
    Maria T.

    Went to Santa Monica for a mini Weekend getaway to celebrate our 2year Wedding Anniversary. Oceana is located on the main street facing the park/ocean. Location is ideal, it's away from the nosy crowded areas, but only a 15min walk from 3rd Street. There's also Valet parking in the front, and they do provide their own free car service for guest : Alto - Higher end Vehicles, with employees instead of contractors. They will drive you a certain mileage before it charges. If you want a ride from Hotel-3rd st. it's Free. Grand Lush greenery drapes the exterior entrance, the aesthetic is very plush and pleasing to the eyes. Our room was located 3rd floor, there's only 3 floors. Room was very cute, I adore the book shelf design. There's a mini swing area for you to hang out infront of your room, thought that was Charming. Pool is located right in the Center on the 1st floor. We received Complimentary Desserts, to congratulate our anniversary.. funny thing is there's another senior couple who checked in same time as us, and they told us it was their 25 Anni, on our dessert platter has our our last name on it, but it said congrats on 25LOL !!! I wonder if they got the congrats on 2year one hehe. From Valet service, front desk, house keepers and all their employees, including Resturant staff, everyone provided exceptional Service! No one dropped the ball. Definitely will be back. Highly recommend!!

    Pool area
    Jena A.

    Pricey... about $750 a night But stunning suite at end of pool. So much room for our baby to crawl around in. Table niche with books I was able to work from with amazing internet. I had to to log into internet separate each morning, like it stopped working overnight. Staff was amazing, upgraded our friends to be by us. Live music Friday and Saturday at the pool Pool was heated Food from the restaurant was ridiculously marked up. $8 for an Evian bottled water... that's the starting point. Robes to use in large bathroom. Awesome soaps. A bath would have been great but large shower sufficed. Great light controls in the room. Perfect location, far enough away not to be noisy, close enough to walk to a lot. Staff was super amazing

    Doreen M.

    One of my new fave hotels. Love the decor and the 3rd floor terrace lounge. Pool is a little small, but the chairs are very nice and fun to sit at after sunset too. The menu is also pretty good. I showed up at 3pm as the site said that is when check in is, arrived and was told it was between 3pm-4pm. I ended up getting to my room at 430pm. Had I known, I would have been happy to just show up at 4pm. Service was good. I was in Room 106, which had a partial ocean view. Loved the room. :) Will def stay here again. This place does not have a spa, but does have a gym.

    Ocean Suite
    Kerry A.

    My husband and I decided to stay here for a two day staycation. From the moment you pull up to the valet, the staff makes you feel like you are a VIP. Customer service is clearly important and a priority. Genuine smiles and conversation surrounds the guests. The room was spotless with luxe furnishings, a Nespresso maker (decaf and caffeinated), and fantastic views. The courtyard is lovely to sit and relax with a beverage and enjoy the sunshine. The pool is small but relaxing - and heated to 82 degrees. The restaurant here is worth staying in or getting room service. Don't forget to stop by the front desk for freshly baked sugar cookies - sprinkled with a touch of sea salt (I want another one now that I am writing about them) and the refreshing lavender lemonade. Palisades Park is a stunning walk all the way down to Third Street Promenade or the Pier. You do not want to miss out on the opportunity to stay at this property!

    Heated pool to 82 degrees
    Eddie T.

    Beautiful boutique hotel, small and Intimate. Staff is attentive and very polite, property grounds are well maintained and the rooms stunning. Would definitely one back!

    Nice space, sweet Murphy bed

    See all

    Photo of Rex C.
    1061
    1656
    7228

    3 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 2
    Love this 2
    Oh no 2

    4 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ron B.
    0
    48
    1

    7 months ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Beautiful and quiet hotel. Excellent service , food, and amenities. The rooms are spacious and well appointed.

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of S K.
    2
    86
    14

    1 year ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 3

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    5 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jena A.
    310
    47
    51

    5 years ago

    Helpful 10
    Thanks 0
    Love this 8
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ken H.
    573
    908
    1051

    5 years ago

    Helpful 7
    Thanks 0
    Love this 7
    Oh no 0
    Photo of B S.
    0
    69
    15

    2 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Kerry A.
    22
    33
    23

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Eddie T.
    64
    51
    166

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Dan D.
    6
    25
    11

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jim P.
    53
    3
    1

    4 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jules R.
    144
    118
    13

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Shervin S.
    146
    54
    21

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 5
    Thanks 2
    Love this 0
    Oh no 2

    6 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 3
    Love this 3
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Susan K.
    268
    112
    133

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Terry E.
    3715
    801
    3773

    7 years ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of AJ M.

    AJ M.

    Helpful 30
    Thanks 0
    Love this 31
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 4
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Rich L.
    190
    11
    1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 3
    Love this 0
    Oh no 3

    Page 1 of 5

    Oceana Hotel Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Oceana Hotel

    Review Highlights - Oceana Hotel

    We've stayed at the Hotel Oceana in Santa Barbara before so we knew we'd like the Oceana Santa Monica.

    Mentioned in 9 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Shutters On The Beach - Pearfection spritz

    Shutters On The Beach

    (829 reviews)

    $$$

    It's a great luxury hotel. As we live in LA, we rarely stay. Yesterday, our CPA appointment ran…read moreunexpectedly short and we bridged our time until dinner with drinks on their balcony. Service, ambiance (and view) and drinks we as nice as one would expect from a place like this. We were the only table who did not get chips with their drinks. Why "only" four out of five stars? Because of the chips? C'mon, gimme a break. Of course not. Without question this is a very upscale hotel. I try to avoid to combine this with upscale expectations - how could you rate this say against a $100-a-night-motel. The motel will always fall short. So in my rating world, when I go, the place as automatically three stars. If it had not, I would not go. Depending on the experience, regardless of the status of the place, I give it more, or ... less. The place is and was really nice and I highly recommend it. By pure definition, it sure deserves five stars. A five star hotel with five star service and five star prices. Now, having lived in the world of the rich-beauty-famous for most of my life, that alone does not impress me too much. If the five star hotel would fall short - and I have seen this, my individual experience may lead to two stars or less, and sadly, it happened. In this case, we loved it and would go again. BUT: to achieve five stars in my rating scheme, I need to be willing to make a 30+ min detour just to go to this particular place. And while ambiance, view & stuff was nice, it was not nice/ special/ outstanding enough to earn its five points. And after Shutters, I went to a place that was clearly worth five stars. A place I have been to often, in walking distance - and a place to I would drive an hour out of my way just to go. But that's another story :-)

    My husband, toddler, and 5 months old stayed here for 3 nights on Memorial Day weekend…read more We had a great time from the moment we walked in: - the hotel is beautiful and location is everything - the staff is very nice, tries to call you by name to make you feel special, and everything screams quiet luxury - the room was very nice, well decorated and comfortable. The tub is the highlight. One comment would be that when we checked in with Anthony, who was so sweet to our toddler, also kept telling us we were getting upgraded to a very nice room. We got all excited. It was a normal room. The "very nice upgrade" just meant that we were on floor 5. I barely call that an upgrade but ok. - we asked for a crib, and we go a nice crib with a cute little baby soap kit from noodle and boo- very nice touch. And baby robes for the kids- my toddler loved it. My toddler was on a rollaway bed and they were super accommodating about it- great experience on that front. - balconies are tiny and I never saw anyone out when I sat out - pool staff was super nice. It was a chilly weekend and the pool could have been warmer (I couldn't get in, but I really don't like cold water). - the beach chairs are also very nice and we were surprised to find them available - they were extremely pleasant about our friends visiting us every day! - the lobby waiter during the day was almost inexistant. We had to go to the bar to ask for drinks. The woman at night was great. Now for the food...: - coast has a great breakfast, the lemon ricotta pancakes are excellent (though stupid expensive for pancakes) - pico is a good spot for shrimp cocktail and calamari. Hasn't seen shrimps that big in a long time. - overall the food was good everywhere but way overpriced.... The kids menu are ridiculous... hard to justify spending $28 on kids pancakes. That being said, the portions were the same as adult portions... maybe make the portions smaller, and price more accessible? Overall we had a great stay, and while on the expensive side, we agreed we would come back. Nicely done!

    The Ambrose Hotel - Fireplace

    The Ambrose Hotel

    (186 reviews)

    $$$

    Very nice hotel next to where I had surgery. It was about a 4 minute walk and 1 minute drive…read more However, we choose to drive to the 5am surgery, which was probably for the best. There's a parking garage under the building, I believe it was $45 additional to park every day. There's a glass water jar in the room but it costs $6. There's an elevator here and wide hallways. Nice bathrobes and long balconies. There's alcohol in the fridge and snacks you can pay for. I didn't really like the shower that much but it was alright. I've been to a lot of hotels with this style. Water pressure was probably a 6/10. Turning the knob for the initial morning shower sucks cause it's cold and you get hit with the cold water before lol. Other than that, this location is prime. Very specious in the building and hallways. Room was standard spacious and it had vaulted ceilings.

    I recently stayed at the Ambrose Hotel while my mother was undergoing surgery at UCLA Santa Monica…read moreMedical Center, and it could not have worked out better for our situation. I needed a place that could comfortably accommodate my dad, my dog, and me while allowing me to shuttle back and forth to the hospital easily. The Ambrose ended up being just about a two-minute drive from the medical center, which made an enormous difference. When my mom had surgery there a few years ago, I stayed closer to the ocean. Even though it was only about a mile and a half away, the traffic made it take 15 minutes each way to get to the hospital. This time, being so close made everything so much easier during a stressful few days when I was going back and forth constantly. The property itself was clean, quiet, and very comfortable. It was also incredibly convenient to have Tartine right across the street for coffee, breakfast, and quick refreshments. There are also plenty of nearby shops, restaurants, grocery stores, and even specialty markets like Erewhon within minutes. Most importantly, the hotel was very accommodating for my dog Grace, which was essential for our stay. All around, it was a wonderful experience, and I would absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it--especially for anyone who needs to be close to UCLA Santa Monica Medical Center.

    Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites - Guest room

    Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites

    (250 reviews)

    $$

    Did a quick stay-cation here for a much needed get away. It's walking distances to the Santa Monica…read morepier/beach, the metro E line, and lots of great restaurants. The only option is valet parking which is steep, but convenient. There are other parking structures nearby; we still opted for valet for peace of mind. Rooms are clean and they offer suites if you want more spacious rooms. Service is incredible: we were able to check in early, borrow beach towels, and have all our questions answered. I only have Hilton Silver status (used to have to travel so much for work that I diamond once a upon a time), but they treated us with more consideration than I've experienced at other hotels when I was a Diamond member. Certainly a splurge stay for me, but between the service and location, I'd come back and recommend it to anyone.

    We really enjoyed our Spring Break stay at this wonderful hotel. Firstly, the staff was really…read morehelpful. The allowed us to check in about 2 hours early. The housekeeping staff was fantastic too. The gentleman who was responsible for our room always asked if we needed anything and if he could provide any assistance in making our stay even better. We stayed in a 1 bedroom suite. The great thing about the suite setup is that the living room with a pull out couch is separated by a door to the bedroom; you could watch TV in one room and not bother the people in the other room. The TVs in each room were oversized and there was a decent sized mini fridge (Target and Trader Joes are just down the street - hello wine and beer!) The walls were thick, as was the main door and hotel noise and street noise was minimal. They have a pool on the 3rd floor that doubles as the covered drop off/entrance area and it was very nice. The breakfast buffet was solid (include made to order eggs), but it was too expensive (approx. $33 per person-tip included.) The best part about our stay were the pillows. Down pillows! The most comfortable pillows I have ever slept on! The beds were solid too. What else? You're a couple of blocks from the Santa Monica Pier and Beach. You're within an 8 minute walk to McDonald's for breakfast (cheaper than the hotel buffet!) and your about a 10 minute walk to the 3rd St Promenade. Our daughter absolutely loved her first trip to the beach and this Hilton property and its staff had a lot to do with that! *Tip 1* Head to Trader Joes to stock up on booze for your room fridge. *Tip 2* They don't have a microwave on property to reheat leftovers or snacks. Plan accordingly.

    Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica - Front lobby

    Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica

    (104 reviews)

    $$$

    This hotel is in downtown Santa Monica and right next to the metro rail as well as several shops…read moreand restaurants! The lobby and guest lounge looks immaculate and features a ATM, restaurant, snack pantry, business center, guest lounge with flat screen TVs, wooden shelf with decorative sculptures, artwork and books! Amenities at this hotel include gym, swimming pool, hot tub/jacuzzi, guest laundry, meeting rooms and ice dispenser! In the rooms you get a flat screen smart TV to stream Netflix, work desk with office chair, telephone, refrigerator, coffee maker, lounge chair with tiny round table, coffee maker, refrigerator, safe deposit box, ironing amenities, clothing rack, full length mirror, hair dryer and complimentary toiletries in the bathroom. Only issues here are No microwave in the rooms! $20 Deposit required at check in!

    Nice-ish Courtyard on a very sketchy street. Last night on 5th after walking back from dinner I saw…read moreseveral sketchy characters and a guy smoking meth on a door-stoop feet from the entrance to the hotel. Luckily I was with people or I would not feel safe. Rooms are average. I really don't like the hardwood floors in the rooms. If there was someone above you wearing high heels or loud steppers you can hear everything. The bed wasn't too bad, it was average. There was a nice chaise lounge in my room -- not sure if they have that in every room but it was comfy. The fitness room was pretty good too -- open 24/7 and had a few treadmills, ellipticals and stationary bikes. There were some free weights as well. There is a hot tub and the swimming pool also on the 2nd floor. This is my least favorite Marriott in SaMo, but the location is very close to the promenade, the pier, the train, and tons of other amazing restaurants. Also there is a Target and a Trader Joes right on 5th -- these are major pluses! So if you don't plan to be in the hotel very much the location is great!

    Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows - View from our ninth room floor looking south to the pier

    Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows

    (581 reviews)

    $$$

    Come with an expectation that it's an older hotel…read more.. Yes there some remodeling that needs to be done but honestly the service, food, and LOCATION outshined here. They attempt to modernize the rooms which I give them credit for because it's not that bad but bathrooms are expected to be outdated since this hotel is old as their humongous fig tree. It still was not terrible! Everything was working well still in our room and bathroom. We love the service here. Everyone was so professional and kind. Those valet guys were the best we ever had!! And we stay in numerous hotels in country and internationally! They honestly were so kind in taking our scooters in and out of storage whenever we needed them. Daniel was great and so were the others! Those guys need more credit running around in their suits in this heat while maintaining their smiles and professionalism, and managing the constant chaos in this roundabout! Food was amazing at the FIG. Better than I expected it to be! Location is clutch here. This is close to all the shopping, restaurants, park, and most importantly the beach! You can rent e-bikes and bikes here. We love how this hotel is dog friendly as well! Mr. Chuck had a splendid time. We definitely will be back!!

    My husband stayed home with our two youngest so I could take our older three kids to Santa Monica…read morefor one last special hoorah before summer ended and school started. The Fairmont Miramar absolutely did not disappoint. The service exceeded my expectations from the moment we arrived until we left. As a mom traveling alone with three young kids, the little things matter--and the staff seemed to anticipate what I needed before I even asked. The moment we pulled into valet, they unloaded my vehicle, directed me to check-in, and promptly brought our luggage to our room. Shortly after settling in, housekeeping unexpectedly knocked just to ask if I'd like fresh ice. During our stay, they also brought a refrigerator and microwave to our room and even delivered my grocery and Target orders upstairs while we were sightseeing. What made our stay especially memorable was how genuinely kind the staff were to my children. Victor went above and beyond. He made sweet conversation with my kids and made them feel seen rather than like children simply tagging along at a nice hotel. He invited them to feed the koi fish each morning, which they loved. My six-year-old had brought a little fishing net and was dying to catch a fish. I had already warned him the answer would almost certainly be no, but let him lightheartedly ask Victor anyway--just in case there was some magical chance he'd say yes. Victor laughed and said he'd be right back. He returned with three adorable koi-fish squish toys, tossed them into my son's fishing net and told him they were "kind of like fish" and to share them with his brother and sister. It was such a small gesture, but it made his day. Those are the moments kids remember. The service at the pool was equally wonderful. The gentleman working there wouldn't let me lift a finger. He removed used towels and the lounge-chair cover, replaced everything with fresh linens, and laid out a clean towel for me while my kids jumped into the pool. One night my oldest became sick in bed. Embarrassed and unsure how they wanted me to handle the cleanup, I called the front desk. I had already stripped the bed to protect the mattress, but within moments a gentleman came upstairs, took the soiled bedding and told me not to worry--he would take care of it. He quickly returned with cleaning supplies, fresh bedding and pillows. I repeatedly offered to clean it myself or at least help, but he graciously refused. He cleaned everything and even completely remade the bed for me. I believe his name was Martin. It was late and I was half asleep, but I truly hope I remembered correctly because he deserves the recognition. As a mom, I'm usually the person taking care of everyone else. Having someone step in during an exhausting middle-of-the-night parenting moment and essentially say, "I've got this," meant more than he probably realized. On our final morning, I asked Victor for extra ice to keep our cold food chilled for the drive home. Instead of simply giving me a bucket, he prepared three vacuum-sealed bags of ice to use as ice packs. That level of thoughtfulness sums up our entire stay. The property itself is beautiful. I've seen reviews describing the rooms as somewhat dated, and I can understand what they mean, but it honestly wasn't anything worth complaining about. Our room was clean and surprisingly spacious--we had plenty of room for the four of us. The grounds are beautiful and have a charming, smaller resort-style feel. The onsite coffee shop had good, reasonably priced coffee, and there are several other amenities and dining options onsite. Saturday evening a pianist played in the lively lobby. My children never felt unwelcome, but we didn't linger out of consideration for the adults enjoying their evening. For families: The hotel is a bit of a walk from the Santa Monica Pier, but definitely doable. I did it with a 7, 6 and 4-year-old. We also rode scooters to the mall and Cheesecake Factory. If your priority is spending all day at the beach and walking directly from your hotel onto the sand, this may not be the most convenient choice. Beach access involves crossing over the busy highway or taking several stairs. However, it's a very short and easy drive to public beach parking. There are hotels closer to the pier and beach, but I do not regret choosing the Fairmont Miramar for a second. This hotel is pricey, but it was worth every dime. What I paid for wasn't simply a beautiful property or room--it was the service. They made vacationing alone with three young children genuinely easier, and as a mom, I appreciated that tremendously. We had a fabulous, memorable weekend, and the Fairmont was a huge part of what made it special. I would stay here again and again and wholeheartedly recommend it. The staff exceeded my expectations at nearly every turn, and I left feeling incredibly well cared for. Five stars, without hesitation.

    Santa Monica Proper Hotel - Iced oat milk latte from Palma

    Santa Monica Proper Hotel

    (261 reviews)

    $$$

    FABULOUS VIEWS AND CENTRAL LOCATION…read more Trying to find the entrance to the hotel was a bit challenging. Given the actual address is Wilshire, I parked at a meter on that street; the entrance, however is half way down 7th street. The gothic hallways and dim lighting made me feel like I was entering a cool church. I was headed to an event at Calabra, which is on the roof. This place is a bit of a maze, and I never saw an employee here until I made it to the roof. En route to the elevator, I stumbled into a lounge area for the guests, which had a spread of Counter Culture coffee and some little muffins. Once I found the elevator, it took awhile for it to actually arrive. One of the guests, who was there to attend a wedding, mentioned it had been slow the day before, too. Once I reached the roof, I was blown away by the beautiful views and the rooftop pool. Then, I headed to Calabra, to check in for a Story Walk. It was a light and breezy room with all kinds of seating options. Plus, there were plenty of places to sit on the patio. During our walk, which took us seven blocks to Palisades Park with a view of the ocean, I realized what a great location this is for visitors. There are all kinds of restaurant and shopping options nearby, and who doesn't love to see the Pacific If you're adventuresome, you can walk to Santa Monica Pier. After our hour-long walk, a super healthy breakfast buffet was set up in Calabra. Service was prompt and attentive. Fresh fruit platters, a healthy green juice and some kind of oat/date bar properly hit the spot that morning. Overall, I loved the rooftop setting, the dungeon vibe of the common interiors, and the guest lounge. Now, I need to have a Proper stay!

    Recently I had the pleasure of being able to experience this outlandish hotel. Me and my gf were…read moreinvited to a wedding reception here on the rooftop and a time was for sure had! The view was immaculate, and the food was outstanding! After the rooftop closed we went to the lobby to finish the night off . That area was a vibe of its own, tons of swanky seating arrangements that helped end the night perfectly.

    Oceana Hotel - hotels - Updated August 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...