We had a couple of days in the LA area and wanted to stay near the beach. I lived in LA for years and didn't even know about this hotel. Based on TA reviews, we booked it. The only room options were the Bed and Breakfast, and it was a great choice.
A couple of downsides include: Valet parking only option-- when we arrived around 4pm, there were no valet people, and no parking in front, so we had to park away from the hotel, and get out of the car to ask the desk about parking and they had to walkie talkie a bellman. The bellman informed us that there were busy and that we could leave out car with him. The hotels boasts twice daily service which includes a turndown service. Basically, that included a person knocking on our door carrying a scoop of ice, and asking us if we wanted any. Then she gave us a couple of chocolates. There was no offer of turndown, and we left the room a few times, and no one came to turn down the room. Those were minor compared to the rest of the wonderful stay.
I've read reviews from other reviewers about the bus noise if you get an ocean view. We had a back of the building view, really no view, but it was SOO quiet, that it was a good night's sleep. We sat on the 'infamous' veranda for cocktails before dinner, and the drinks were very good and so was the view.
Breakfast was excellent! They prepare it on the premises. It was all free including the extra side dish I ordered. The staff was more than accomodating. The location across from the Santa Monica Pier and very close to many new restaurants. Definitely worth the $250 we paid!








