For a large hostel, this place wasn't too bad. There was a big dining area, TV room and library, and only two blocks from the beach and one from the main shopping / dining area, the Third Street Promenade. However, our private room was quite expensive given that the price didn't include breakfast and the bathroom was big, not very clean and down the corridor. The rooms are also tiny - we stayed in a twin for the first two nights and there was barely room for the (smaller than your average single) beds to fit in, although the double room we moved to for the last two nights was slightly bigger. The room was also near the water fountain and so we would get people talking loudly outside our door all night, as well as the noise from the busy 2nd Street outside. No air con either, so it gets pretty hot. Nonetheless, the rooms and the hostel itself were generally quite clean and the staff was reasonably helpful. However, for about the same price we could have stayed in the air conditioned Best Western or the Sea Shore Motel, which probably would have been more comfortable.

Not a bad experience, overall.

Having just 'done' Hollywood as it were, looking forward to a relaxing stay in Santa Monica. Weren't disappointed, in dorm rooms of 6 - single sex if thats of any interest, each with shower room and separate toilet. If you're looking for a pure hostel then this is it, only provides breakfast but there is a great crepe (pancake) place around the corner which is frankly superb - on 3rd street at the shopping centre end. Oh, and it's right around the corner from the beach, if only there was a back entrance that could take you almost straight there. Not to worry though, its only 5/10mins away. Great for a couple of nights, unless you're a beach lover in which case...