I normally wouldn't plan on staying at a Travelodge, but due to a convention in SM the weekend I was going to be there, I really didn't have any other choice. The reviews on TA eased my mind considerably as most were very favorable.
I have to say that I was most pleasantly surprised by what I found at this location. We were granted a nonsmoking room in the back of the 2nd floor of the 4th building. Buildings 3 and 4 were separated by a fenced-in courtyard, accessible only with a room key. I liked this... felt very safe in my room here! Upon entering our room, we noticed that it appeared to have been recently remodeled and was pleasant and attractive. Bathroom was bright and perfectly cleaned. We were also upgraded to a room with a full kitchen, complete with table and chairs. We didn't use the kitchen, but it was nice to have in case we somehow got the urge to cook something.
Free breakfast was offered the next morning... it was limited (mostly carbs from what I remember), but it served its purpose for us. Front desk service was always polite and friendly; I had interacted with 4 different people, between calling in my reservation, and during my stay.
I was concerned about noise, being on Pico Blvd, but we slept soundly and did not hear anything. Parking was free and ample. Reaching the pier was a direct and easy drive straight down Pico, about 5 minutes or less.
We loved it that Trader Joe's was right next door... we had fun shopping there at night to pick up snacks after a long day!
I would definitely stay here again while in Santa Monica.
