Casa del Mar occupies a historic 1926 Mediterranean Revival building directly on the beach in Santa Monica, originally built as a private beach club and now a luxury hotel. The grand lobby, with its high ceilings, arches and ocean views, sets the tone, and the rooms look out over the Pacific or the city. It sits next to Shutters on the Beach, a short walk from the Santa Monica Pier and the Third Street Promenade, which makes it a strong base for a beach-focused trip.
The building's history is part of its charm. The lobby lounge, with its ornate details and ocean views, is a pleasant place for a drink, and the architecture gives the hotel a more classic feel than the newer glass-and-steel hotels. Rooms are bright and contemporary, many with balconies and sea views, and the suites are spacious. The hotel has a pool and a spa, and the beach is a few steps from the door, so it is easy to move between sand and swimming pool.
The location is the biggest advantage. You can walk to the Pier, the Santa Monica Pier's amusements and the beachfront bike path, and Third Street Promenade and Main Street are close. Venice is a short ride by bike or car, and Malibu is about half an hour up the coast. Parking is by valet, which is typical for the area, and the hotel can help arrange activities and dining. Check the hotel's current dining options, since restaurants and bars change.
Casa del Mar suits couples, families and travelers who want an elegant beachfront stay with historic character. It is quieter and more refined than the beach-town hostels and lower-priced motels, and the ocean views are worth paying for. Request an ocean-facing room on a higher floor, and book early for summer and holidays. For a base that combines Santa Monica's walkability with a sense of occasion, it is hard to beat.
Why stay here
- ✓Oceanfront location
- ✓Historic 1926 building
- ✓Ocean-view rooms
- ✓Pool
- ✓Spa
- ✓Lobby lounge
- ✓Valet parking
- ✓Walk to Santa Monica Pier
Good questions
Is Casa del Mar on the beach?+
Yes. It sits directly on the beach in Santa Monica, next to Shutters on the Beach, with ocean views from many rooms.
What is the building's history?+
It was built in 1926 as a private beach club in the Mediterranean Revival style and later converted into a hotel.
Can I walk to the Santa Monica Pier?+
Yes. The Pier and the Third Street Promenade are a short walk from the hotel.
