Question 1

Which are the best hotels to stay in Santa Monica as a budget traveller?

Accepted Answer

For budget-conscious travellers seeking comfortable and convenient stays in Santa Monica, excellent options include Sea Shore Motel, HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, Ocean View Hotel, SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, and Ocean Park Inn.

The Sea Shore Motel, with a 9.0 rating, offers great value with complimentary WiFi and free self-parking, which is a significant saving in Santa Monica. Guests frequently praise its convenient location, spacious and clean rooms, and comfortable beds. A terrace and balcony are additional perks.

For those who enjoy a more social atmosphere, the HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, also rated 9.0, is a fantastic choice. It provides free WiFi and is located within a shopping district, very close to the beach and ocean. Reviewers often highlight the friendly staff, great free breakfast, and modern, clean rooms.

The 3-star Ocean View Hotel, with an 8.8 rating, provides free toiletries and free WiFi. Its staff are consistently described as friendly and fantastic, and the hotel's location is highly rated. Guests appreciate the nice, clean rooms and comfortable beds.

Another strong contender is the SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, rated 8.8. This hotel offers free continental breakfast, free internet, and free WiFi, which are excellent value-adds. The staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, and guests appreciate the convenient parking and good location.

Finally, the Ocean Park Inn, with an 8.8 rating, also offers free self-parking and free WiFi, along with air conditioning and a terrace. Reviewers often mention its excellent and clean rooms, helpful staff, and convenient location.

Question 2

How much does a budget hotel in Santa Monica cost?

Accepted Answer

Budget hotel prices in Santa Monica vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $233 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.

Question 3

Which area of Santa Monica is best to stay in for cheap hotels?

Accepted Answer

For budget-conscious solo travellers looking for affordable accommodation in Santa Monica, the neighbourhoods east of Lincoln Boulevard and closer to the border with West Los Angeles generally offer more economical hotel options. These areas, particularly around Santa Monica Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard, provide a good balance between cost and accessibility to the city's main attractions.

While direct beachfront properties can be pricey, staying slightly inland means you're still within easy reach of the beach and pier, often just a short bus ride or a pleasant walk away. Many hotels here cater to a range of budgets, from smaller boutique hotels to well-known chains, providing a comfortable base without the premium price tag of ocean-view rooms.

Question 4

What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

Several top-rated and affordable hotels in Santa Monica cater well to families, including SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, Ocean View Hotel, and Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles.

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, with an 8.8 rating, is highly praised by guests for its friendly and helpful staff, as well as its great, complimentary continental breakfast. Families will appreciate the convenience of free WiFi and easy parking.

The 3-star Ocean View Hotel, rated 8.8, offers nice, clean rooms and is known for its fantastic and friendly staff. Its location is a significant draw, providing good access to local attractions.

Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles, with an 8.0 rating, provides comfortable and clean rooms, along with a good, free breakfast and complimentary cribs for little ones.

Question 5

What cheap hotels in Santa Monica offer complimentary breakfast?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Monica that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent options, including SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica, Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, and Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles.

The SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, with an 8.8 rating, is much-loved for its free continental breakfast. Guests frequently praise the convenience of its free internet and the helpfulness of its staff. Its location is often described as convenient.

Another solid choice is the Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica, rated 8.6. This hotel also provides a complimentary continental breakfast, and guests often comment on the cleanliness and quietness of the rooms, as well as the friendliness of the front desk staff.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, with an 8.4 rating, offers a free buffet breakfast. Reviewers consistently highlight the spacious and clean rooms, the excellent location, and the attentive staff. Free WiFi is also a key amenity.

Finally, the Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles, rated 8.0, provides a free self-serve breakfast. This hotel is often noted for its comfortable and clean rooms, and its convenient location.

Question 6

When is the most affordable time to visit Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

The most affordable time to visit Santa Monica is generally during the off-season, specifically from late autumn to early spring, avoiding major holidays. During these months, typically November through March, excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's, you'll find lower prices on accommodation and fewer crowds.

Solo travellers will particularly benefit from visiting during these quieter periods. Hotels often offer reduced rates, and you might even snag deals on flights. While the weather might be cooler, averaging around 15-20°C, it's still pleasant enough for exploring the iconic Santa Monica Pier, strolling along the beach, or cycling the Marvin Braude Beach Trail, all of which are free activities.

Another advantage of visiting off-season is the ability to enjoy local eateries without the peak season rush. Many restaurants offer lunch specials or happy hour deals that become more accessible when the city isn't bustling with tourists.

Question 7

What are the best cheap hotels in Santa Monica with a pool?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Monica that feature a refreshing pool, consider the Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica, Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles, and Cal Mar Hotel Suites.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, with an 8.4 rating, offers a fantastic outdoor pool. Guests consistently praise its spacious and clean rooms, as well as the brilliant complimentary breakfast, making it excellent value.

Another great option is the 3-star Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica, rated 8.2. This hotel also boasts an outdoor pool and provides comfortable, clean rooms. Reviewers frequently highlight the friendly and great staff.

The Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles, with an 8.0 rating, features an outdoor pool and offers free breakfast, which guests describe as good. Its convenient location and comfortable, clean rooms are often mentioned by visitors.

Finally, the 3-star Cal Mar Hotel Suites, rated 7.6, provides an outdoor pool with sun loungers, superb for relaxing.

Question 8

Are there any cheap Santa Monica hotels near Third Street Promenade?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels near Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, excellent options include HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel and the 3-star Ocean View Hotel.

The HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, with a 9.0 rating, is ideally situated right in the shopping district and very close to the beach and ocean. It offers free WiFi and guests frequently praise its friendly staff, clean, modern rooms, and the great free breakfast.

Another strong contender is the 3-star Ocean View Hotel, rated 8.8. This hotel provides free toiletries and free WiFi, and its staff are consistently described as friendly and fantastic. Guests often highlight the great location and comfortable beds.

For those prioritising parking, the Sea Shore Motel, rated 9.0, offers free self-parking and free WiFi. It's conveniently located near the beach and boasts spacious, clean rooms with comfy beds.

The SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, with an 8.8 rating, is another good choice, offering free continental breakfast, free internet, and free WiFi. Reviewers often mention the helpful staff, nice rooms, and convenient parking.

Finally, the Ocean Park Inn, rated 8.8, provides free WiFi, free self-parking, and air conditioning.

Question 9

Is Santa Monica a budget-friendly destination?

Accepted Answer

While Santa Monica is generally considered a more upscale destination, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, look for options slightly inland from the immediate beachfront, as these tend to be more affordable. Areas like Mid-City or even parts of neighbouring Culver City offer better value and are well-connected to Santa Monica's main attractions by bus or shared ride services. Solo travellers might also find budget-friendly hostels a short distance from the beach.

Couples can enjoy many of Santa Monica's best features for free. Take a stroll or cycle along the iconic Marvin Braude Beach Trail, explore the lively Santa Monica Pier (though rides and games cost extra), or simply relax on the expansive sandy beaches. The Third Street Promenade offers excellent people-watching and street performances without needing to spend a penny.

Dining can be managed affordably by seeking out local eateries away from the main tourist thoroughfares, or by taking advantage of farmers' markets for fresh produce and picnic supplies. Many cafes offer great value lunches.

Question 10

How can I save on a budget hotel in Santa Monica with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Santa Monica. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards program, to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on your hotel booking. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.

Question 11

What cheap hotels in Santa Monica offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?

Accepted Answer

For cheap hotels in Santa Monica that offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes, you have some great options, including SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, Bayside Hotel, and Cal Mar Hotel Suites.

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, with an 8.8 rating, provides kitchenettes in its rooms, making it convenient for preparing your own meals. Guests frequently mention the friendly and helpful staff, nice and clean rooms, and a great complimentary breakfast. The location is also described as convenient.

Bayside Hotel, rated 8.4, also features kitchenettes, allowing for a more independent stay, and some rooms even offer ocean views. Its location is a major highlight, described as excellent and great, and it's conveniently near the beach.

The 3-star Cal Mar Hotel Suites, with a 7.6 rating, offers kitchenettes in its suites. Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, convenient location, and comfortable beds.

Question 12

Which cheap hotels in Santa Monica have good reviews for customer service?

Accepted Answer

For affordable hotels in Santa Monica with great customer service, travellers often praise Sea Shore Motel, HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, and Ocean View Hotel.

Sea Shore Motel, with a 9.0 rating, consistently receives excellent feedback for its friendly and amazing staff. Guests also benefit from free self-parking and complimentary WiFi, and it is located near the beach.

The HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, also rated 9.0, is celebrated for its friendly and amazing staff. This hostel offers free WiFi and is conveniently located near both the beach and a shopping district.

The 3-star Ocean View Hotel, rated 8.8, is frequently highlighted for its exceptional and friendly service, with staff described as fantastic.

Question 13

Are there any cheap hotels in Santa Monica that allow for late check-out or early check-in?

Accepted Answer

Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Santa Monica offer flexibility for early check-ins or late check-outs, including the Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica and the Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, with an 8.4 rating, is known for its accommodating service. Guests frequently mention the staff as being absolutely amazing and attentive, and they often facilitate early check-ins or late check-outs when possible. The hotel also provides free buffet breakfast, adding to its value.

Another excellent option is the Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica, rated 8.6. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and amazing front desk staff, who are often happy to assist with early arrivals. This hotel also offers complimentary continental breakfast and free WiFi.

The 3-star Santa Monica Hotel, rated 8.6, is another good choice. Its staff are regularly described as friendly and nice, and they can often arrange for early check-ins, depending on availability. Free self-parking is a valuable amenity here.

The 3-star Ocean View Hotel, with an 8.8 rating, also receives high marks for its fantastic and friendly staff. They are often flexible with early check-ins.

Finally, the Sea Blue Hotel, rated 8.0, has a friendly and helpful front desk staff who are often able to accommodate early check-in requests.

Question 14

What free activities should we do in Santa Monica?

Accepted Answer

For solo travellers on a budget in Santa Monica, there are plenty of fantastic free activities to enjoy. The iconic Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit, offering lively entertainment, street performers, and stunning ocean views without any admission fee.

Beyond the pier, the expansive sandy beaches stretch for miles, superb for sunbathing, swimming, or simply strolling along the water's edge. You can walk or cycle the Marvin Braude Beach Trail, also known as The Strand, which runs along the coastline, offering scenic views all the way to Venice Beach and beyond. This path is ideal for an invigorating morning jog or a relaxed afternoon wander.

Another excellent free option is exploring the Third Street Promenade. This pedestrian-only outdoor shopping area features street performers, public art, and a vibrant setting, providing entertainment even if you're just window shopping. Additionally, many of Santa Monica's parks, such as Palisades Park, offer beautiful green spaces with unmatched views of the Pacific Ocean, superb for a picnic or simply relaxing.

Question 15

Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Santa Monica as a package?

Accepted Answer

Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it’s wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.

Question 16

Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Santa Monica for you.

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Our top choices for Santa Monica cheap hotels

1. Regent Santa Monica Beach by IHG

2. The Huntley Hotel

3. Shutters on the Beach

4. Casa Del Mar

5. The Georgian, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

6. The Ambrose

7. The Eden

8. Channel Road Inn, A Four Sisters Inn

9. Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels

10. Oceana Santa Monica, LXR Hotels & Resorts

11. Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites

12. Ocean View Hotel

13. The Pierside Santa Monica

14. Shore Hotel

15. Sandbourne Santa Monica, Autograph Collection

16. Ocean Park Inn

17. Gateway Hotel Santa Monica

18. Rest Haven Motel

19. Viceroy Santa Monica

20. Fairmont Miramar Hotel

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