Actually, whenever I go to Los Angeles, I make it a point to book myself into this hotel. Why? Simple, it's near the beach and, if I'm going to L.A., I want to be near the Pacific. Simple as that. But this hotel is my favorite in the city. Most of the time I stay here, I'm working but it doesn't feel like it thanks to the laid-back vibe at this hotel. It's steps from the beach (and you can rent a bike right there), has a great gym (with classes) and a very nice pool. The restaurant is tops and overall, it just feels like a resort. Another plus is that you can walk to several other good and hip eating establishments (Chez Jay, Cha Cha Chicken and Cora's Coffee Shop) as well as the tons of shopping along the 3rd Street Promenade. In L.A., which is not a walking city, this is a huge plus for me. You can also hop in your car and head north on the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) to Malibu and other beaches.

My wife and I are from Australia, and for the second time we booked into Loews Santa Monica on our way back through L A

We love the laid back beach atmosphere of Santa Monica, and Loews is in the perfect position to take advantage of this lifestyle

Make sure you get a room that not only overlooks the beach, but also has a view of the Santa Monica pier. When this is lit up at night the view is spectacular

We love being able to access the beach easily, and to walk 20 mins down the beach to Venice for breakfast. Most of the restaurants of Santa Monica are a short walk or taxi ride away, and shopping and entertainment on 3rd St promenade is also in walking distance

The hotel has a great bar and lobby area, and there is nothing better than sitting there, or on the pool deck, with a drink, watching the sunset.

The rooms are vey comfortable and well stocked and staff are friendly and helpful

I would recommend this hotel and will always make it part of our plans when next in L A

This is a very nice hotel in Santa Monica, close to some exclusive shops, and within adequate range to downtown Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Malibu, L.A.... The beach is one block away, but you can enjoy the nice pacific view from your room, if facing the pacific and from the higher floor. You could also see the famous Santa Monica Pier, seen in many movies. The beach is a block away, the only reason I did not give it a 5, but the road is so narrow that it almost feels like you are right on the sands. The hotel is nicely kept, clean, and impressive. Adequate choice of restaurant, price within expected range for such a hotel. 2 hotels are a few feet away form thsi one and right on the beach, but way too expensive for most. The price range for this one was more than adequate for this hotel class. I would reccomend it.

I need my room to be coolish (19 degrees) in order for me to sleep; so I complained when my room was way too warm (yes in May). They moved me but next room wasn't much better but I could leave windows opened which helped. And I got a better view. I agree with others that the price doesn't equal expectations. Thank god for the view hey? Outdoor areas are great - breakfast is a treat and nighttime drinks with flame heaters are magical times. Must admit hotel impressed my Santa Monica mates.

Food okay but nothing spectacular cept the view, it is a bit of a walk to shopping but only about 10 mins. Would stay if there's a bargain price on one of the websites. Def wouldn't pay more than usd300 per night tho.

My personal pref still Bev Hills Hilton :)