Viceroy Santa Monica

Hidden behind a blue-and-white Kelly Wearstler facade on Ocean Avenue, Viceroy Santa Monica faces the bluffs above Santa Monica State Beach, a five-minute walk from the pier and its Pacific Park rides. The location suits couples and design-minded travelers over families chasing budget rates, with Third Street Promenade shopping six blocks inland.

The rooftop pool deck, striped umbrellas and all, works as a de facto neighborhood living room after sunset, drawing locals as well as guests. Rooms lean nautical-modern, with porthole mirrors and ocean-glass tones rather than standard hotel neutrals.

Santa Monica's Expo Line terminus sits ten minutes north on foot, running direct to downtown Los Angeles.