Santa Monica offers the perfect blend of Southern California sunshine, coastal calm, and urban energy—just a short ride from the heart of Los Angeles. Whether you're catching a sunset on the pier, dining along Ocean Avenue, or planning day trips across the city, where you stay can elevate the entire experience.
We’ve curated a list of romantic and relaxing Santa Monica stays that are ideal for couples looking to explore the coast, unwind in style, or hop easily into LA’s vibrant scene.
Luxury Santa Monica Hotels:
Lounge in Boutique Bliss at Viceroy Santa Monica
Viceroy Santa Monica felt like stepping into a chic oasis—palm-fringed pools, white cabanas, and a soundtrack that made every moment feel like a private film. I remember reclining in a poolside lounger with a spicy margarita, thinking, "This is the pulse of coastal cool."
What I Loved Most: The retro-glam design and the effortless transition from sun-drenched afternoons to candlelit evenings.
My highlight? Dinner at Sugar Palm: grilled swordfish with fennel and blood orange, followed by a scoop of sea salt gelato under the string lights.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Stylish, vibrant, poolside glam
- Highlights: Outdoor pool, on-site dining, private cabanas, city bikes
- Best For: Couples, birthday weekends, boutique luxury fans
- Address: Viceroy Santa Monica, 1819 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA
Stay Sleek and Sustainable at Shore Hotel
Shore Hotel felt like modern California at its breeziest—sustainable design, ocean views, and a lobby that smelled like eucalyptus and sea air. I remember watching the sun sink into the Pacific from our balcony, thinking, "This is exactly where we’re meant to be."
What I Loved Most: The perfect blend of eco-conscious features and indulgent comfort—it felt clean, clear, and coastal.
My highlight? Room service breakfast: avocado toast with chili flakes, fresh-pressed juice, and the sea just outside our window.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Modern, bright, sustainable luxury
- Highlights: Ocean views, heated pool, EV charging, LEED Gold certification
- Best For: Green travelers, beach lovers, design-conscious couples
- Address: Shore Hotel, 1515 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA
Wake to the Waves at Ocean View Hotel
Ocean View Hotel felt like a front-row seat to Pacific calm—just steps from the beach, with sea breezes sneaking into the lobby and the Ferris wheel glowing nearby. I remember waking up to soft surf sounds and thinking, "Why would anyone want to leave this view?"
What I Loved Most: The simplicity of it all: clean lines, ocean balconies, and the feeling of being centered between the city and the sand.
My highlight? A sunset walk to the pier followed by shrimp tacos and pineapple agua fresca at a nearby taqueria.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Bright, simple, ocean-focused
- Highlights: Beach views, steps to pier, walkable location, minimalist rooms
- Best For: Beach walkers, casual couples, pier wanderers
- Address: Ocean View Hotel, 1447 Ocean Ave, Santa Monica, CA
Romantic Santa Monica Hotels:
Rest Easy at Gateway Hotel Santa Monica
Gateway Hotel Santa Monica felt like a well-kept secret—modern comfort, friendly service, and easy access to both the beach and the buzz of LA. I remember stretching out on the king bed after a morning at the promenade, thinking, "This place is quiet, clean, and just right."
What I Loved Most: The calm location that still felt central—ideal for both early beach walks and late-night tacos.
My highlight? Brunch at nearby Urth Caffé: a Spanish latte, poached eggs on arugula, and a warm almond croissant.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Relaxed, affordable, low-key
- Highlights: Free parking, fitness center, quick access to beach and Brentwood
- Best For: Budget-minded couples, LA day-trippers, longer stays
- Address: Gateway Hotel Santa Monica, 1920 Santa Monica Blvd, Santa Monica, CA
Relax Naturally at The Ambrose Hotel
The Ambrose Hotel felt like a serene sanctuary tucked into the heart of Santa Monica—earth-toned interiors, leafy courtyards, and that sense of having found something quietly perfect. I remember curling up in a robe with a book and green tea, thinking, "This is the retreat I didn’t know I needed."
What I Loved Most: The calming blend of wellness-forward amenities and boutique charm—like a yoga studio in hotel form.
My highlight? A breakfast of avocado toast with microgreens and honey lavender latte on the shaded patio.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Wellness, boutique calm, sustainable
- Highlights: Organic breakfast, Tesla shuttle, eco-conscious touches, fitness center
- Best For: Wellness weekends, quiet couples, creative escapes
- Address: The Ambrose Hotel, 1255 20th St, Santa Monica, CA
Soak in the Scene at Huntley Santa Monica Beach
Huntley Santa Monica Beach felt like glamor with a panoramic twist—sleek, stylish, and perched high above the Pacific with views that seemed to stretch into tomorrow. I remember sipping a cocktail at the rooftop lounge, thinking, "The sky really does turn gold here."
What I Loved Most: The floor-to-ceiling windows in our room—waking up to the ocean made every morning feel cinematic.
My highlight? Dinner at The Penthouse: truffle fries, seared halibut, and the entire city twinkling below us.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Sleek, glamorous, panoramic
- Highlights: Rooftop restaurant, beach views, luxury linens, spacious rooms
- Best For: Stylish couples, anniversary weekends, sunset seekers
- Address: Huntley Santa Monica Beach, 1111 2nd St, Santa Monica, CA
Family Santa Monica Hotels:
Sleep Smart at SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica
SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica felt like the kind of place where comfort comes easy—free parking, simple rooms, and no fuss about being close to everything. I remember returning after a beach day, sun-kissed and sleepy, thinking, "We got everything we needed—and still stayed on budget."
What I Loved Most: The surprising peacefulness and reliable comfort—sometimes less really is more.
My highlight? Breakfast of warm waffles and fresh coffee on the sunlit patio before heading to Venice Beach.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Practical, friendly, laid-back
- Highlights: Free parking, breakfast included, courtyard seating, short drive to beach
- Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, weekend trippers, couples on the go
- Address: SureStay Hotel by Best Western, 3102 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA
Enjoy Effortless Comfort at Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica
Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica felt like the best kind of reliable comfort—crisp white sheets, a rooftop pool, and just one block from the Metro. I remember watching the city light up from our balcony, thinking, "We’re close to everything—and it still feels like vacation."
What I Loved Most: The unbeatable location and generous rooms—it gave us space to breathe and explore.
My highlight? Morning omelets, fresh waffles, and strong coffee before hopping the Expo Line into LA.
Plan your trip:
- Vibe: Bright, reliable, well-located
- Highlights: Rooftop pool, breakfast buffet, fitness center, steps from the Metro
- Best For: City hoppers, practical couples, business + leisure blends
- Address: Hampton Inn & Suites, 501 Colorado Ave, Santa Monica, CA
Conclusion:
From sleek oceanfront hotels to peaceful boutique hideaways, Santa Monica offers a place for every kind of romantic escape—all just minutes from the energy of Los Angeles.
When you're not relaxing at your hotel, dive into the local scene with these best things to do in Santa Monica, explore the city’s most delicious restaurants, or grab a cup from one of the best coffee shops in Santa Monica.
Planning a broader adventure? These top places to visit in Southern California can easily become part of your itinerary. Whether you’re staying local or exploring beyond, Santa Monica is the perfect coastal base for your next romantic trip.