My family and I just came back from the Holiday Inn at Santa Monica Pier. The hotel definitely had its good points - the staff was great, very helpful and courteous, the room was lovely for a Holiday Inn but a bit small for 2 adults and 2 teenagers. They only had full size beds - I asked if queens were available or 1 king with a pull-out sofa but those types of rooms don't exist. I didn't notice a noise problem but I've always lived in a city and street noise never bothered me. The pool is small but nice to have, however, it feels like it literally sits on the highway which is right in back of the hotel. The worst part of the hotel is the homeless people. They all gather at the McDonalds across the street and just seem to be all over the place. If that doesn't bother you then the location is great. I would just prefer to not have to deal with that on vacation.

We had the opportunity to stay at this hotel for two nights. The room was exceptional and very comfortable. We were not at all bothered by the highway noise even though we were on that side of the hotel. My only complaints were the entrance to get in is very small and the approach is difficult. We had to go around the block and flip around to go the other way to get in. And the food was not great. The service in the restuarant is good but the breakfast is bad. Otherwise the location is perfect for walking to the pier. Easy walk.

The friendly staff made our stay most enjoyable, and the free champagne upon arrival gave a great first impression. They provided excellent directions and tips on where to go near the hotel, and they were very welcoming overall. This hotel is very centrally located - walk to the beach, Pier, 3rd Street Promenade, as well as a number of restaurants and shops plus very close to the freeway (which can be a bit noisy but only if you're sitting right beside the window without the air conditioning running). Rooms are large and well-appointed - many more amenities than other Holiday Inn locations! The bathrobes are a nice touch, and the toiletries are nicer than most hotels. Rooms are well-decorated and spacious, and the hotel is very clean overall. The parking garage can be a bit cramped and hard to navigate, but we've experienced this at other places in the LA area as well. Hats off to a great staff and a top notch Holiday Inn!

We enjoyed our stay at the Holiday Inn Santa Monica very much. It is conveniently located to many attractions. The staff was wonderful. Our room was comfortable and quiet enough. We would definitely stay there again.