How did it strike you on arrival?
The Italian Renaissance Revival-style building is one of two Santa Monica beach icons—the other being sister-property Shutters on the Beach. The airy lobby—with its rattan ceiling fans, wicker furniture, and lots of greenery—feels like a set from a Nancy Meyers film.
Interestingly, what began in 1926 as a private beach club became housing for the Navy in 1941, and in subsequent years the building became a drug rehab facility and the Pritikin Longevity Center. It was finally purchased in 1997 by the owners of Shutters on the Beach, and returned to its former glory in 1999.
What’s the crowd like?
Leisure travelers and families who want a refined stay close to the beach. Lots of business travelers, too.
The good stuff: Tell us about the rooms.
There are 129 rooms and 16 suites. They feel incredibly romantic yet residential, with four-poster beds, subtle patterns like navy-and-grey striped throw blankets, crisp white curtains, and potted greenery. There are subtle nods to the beach, including shells displayed on large built-ins that would look great in your living room. And all the colors are soothing pastel shades of blue and green.
Palm Terrace Rooms have private patios with loungers, and face a peaceful inner courtyard.
We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?
Beds are dressed with Italian linens.
How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?
Rooms come with Keurig coffee machines, while the suites get Nespresso machines.
Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.
Bathrooms are large, and finished in Italian marble and have whirlpool bathtubs, and products are by Malin + Goetz.
Anything stand out about other services and features?
Terrazza Lounge is an all-day spot for a ho-hum Italy-meets-California menu that doesn't have to try too hard because of its 180-degree views of the ocean. It has lots of hanging plants, natural light, and a circular bar. For al fresco dining mere steps from the beach, stop at Patio del Mar, at the foot of the iconic hotel, and try the Big Eye Tuna with yuzu oil, ponzu aioli, and black garlic salsa—a sophisticated dish that perfectly captures the restaurant's fresh, coastal California spirit. There’s also a Lobby Lounge, where you can get small plates and cocktails with live entertainment every night.
The hotel also has an eco-friendly spa offering treatments with Kerstin Florian skincare, emerginC Scientific Organics, and Intraceuticals products. Personal trainers are on hand for circuit training sessions, and there are daily fitness classes like yoga on the beach (private or group).
What was most memorable about your stay?
The location can’t be beat, and you could spend all day in the lobby. Though the one downside is that there is no terrace off the lobby-level public areas. You get a view of ocean but only through windows that don't open.
Bottom line: Why are we choosing Casa del Mar
For the views and fairytale four-posted beds.
1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica, California 90405
United States
https://www.hotelcasadelmar.com/
(844) 880-1077