I was at the Casa Del Mar for a work trip to potentially host a meeting at the property. It is one of the nicest properties I've ever been to, and I worked in luxury hotels for over 10 years and have stayed at some exceptional places.
Kansas (yes, Kansas is his real name) welcomed me at my check in. He was passionate and super knowledgeable about the area and the hotel itself. Super friendly and welcoming. A terrific start to my stay.
The room product here is fantastic - they are spacious and bright. Comfortable beds, great views (even the non-ocean views are still nice). But if you get a room with a view, it pretty much includes the Santa Monica Pier which is lovely at night.
I had dinner at the restaurant and it was fantastic too! Try the squid ink pasta dish, try the sushi. And any server you have would be awesome. I so wish I could remember the name of our server because he was fantastic. We sat back in the corner of the restaurant. And every bite was just a dream!
I rented a bike one day and rode up and back on the sidewalk that goes all along the beach. I did the Saturday morning beach side workout with a lovely female trainer (again, I'm bad with names but she was awesome). We were the only ones out there and she was able to tweak the workout for my bum shoulder I have, and again was very knowledgeable.
Honestly, staying at this hotel is the nicest thing you can do for yourself. One of my top hotel experiences in my life.