We spent 4 nights in Santa Monica at the Fairmont. We had an ocean view room with a balcony. The room was a bit small but luxurious. The entry way to the hotel is beautiful with an Australian Fig tree that we couldn't look at enough. The staff was helpful and friendly, especially the door men.
We could walk across the street (there is a street and a highway between the hotel and the beach) - and walk over a bridge and be at Santa Monica pier - continue walking and you get to Venice Beach. Three blocks away from the hotel is the 3rd street promenade which is closed to traffic. On Saturday morning there was a farmers market which was great.
Santa Monica is a nice spot if you are visiting L.A.. It is very close to LAX - on Sunday morning it only took 20 minutes to get to the airport.

We stayed at the Miramar for 3 nights in an Ocean Tower room. The service was excellent - on par with the service at the Ritz Carlton. After just a day, everyone knew our names and greeted us personally, helped us with our rental car, sent packages back home, gave restaurant recommendations, and assisted with a very easy room change. The rooms were well-appointed and fabulous views. The Koi Pond is lovely with live turtles. The rooms were not 100% quiet but were very relaxing. Only complaint is $14.00 charge for internet access. I would absolutely come back for my next visit to Santa Monica.

This place is so beautiful - we were upgraded to a bungalow and absolutely loved it! The hotel is located near the shopping and easy access to the path over the ocean.

The service was fantastic and the vibe is very relaxed and yet it makes you feel glamorous.

I would recommend staying at this hotel - we found it to be a wonderful respite from our dreary NYC winter!

I stayed there with my family for 2 nights. I got a reasonable rate through my company so I didn't find it too expensive. Yes they gouge you on valet parking. But great affordable dining is available walking distance for the hotel. Our room was large(425 sq ft) and well appointed. The service was outstanding. We were traveling with our 3yo boy and they brought us complimentary milk and cookies within an hour of arrival. The pool is really nice and the grounds make you feel like you are staying at a tropical resort not west LA. So, if you want a nice stay in Santa Monica seriously consider The Miramar.