Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels

Between Wilshire Boulevard's office corridor and the Third Street Promenade two blocks south, Santa Monica Proper occupies a converted 1920s civic building four blocks from the pier and beach. Its five-star interior mixes original terrazzo with new plaster arches and rattan furnishings.

A rooftop pool deck with outdoor fireplace overlooks the Pacific, while the ground-floor restaurant and coffee house draw locals as well as guests. Spa treatments, yoga classes, and bike rental suit both business travelers and couples wanting a beach base without giving up downtown access.