Smart Stay by

Palihouse Santa Monica

by Juliana Shallcross
Palihouse Santa Monica - guest room
Photo: Palihouse Santa Monica - guest room / Courtesy of Palihouse Santa Monica/Adam Szafranksi
by Juliana Shallcross
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Palihouse Santa Monica - common areas
Photo: Palihouse Santa Monica - common areas / Courtesy of Palihouse Santa Monica/Adam Szafranksi
by Juliana Shallcross
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Palihouse Santa Monica - interiors
Photo: Palihouse Santa Monica - interiors / Courtesy of Palihouse Santa Monica
by Juliana Shallcross
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Palihouse Santa Monica - exterior
Photo: Palihouse Santa Monica - exterior / Courtesy of Palihouse Santa Monica
by Juliana Shallcross
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Palihouse Santa Monica, which is housed in a historic 1920s-era oceanfront building, now has a brand-new hipster identity with 38 guest rooms and suites, some with full kitchens — a rarity on this side of Los Angeles. While the exterior of the building has retained its original Mediterranean Revival architecture, its interiors have undergone a thoughtful makeover (think retro furniture, patterned rugs, and rustic-chic-inspired accents ). And, despite its beachfront location, Palihouse feels more like your most stylish friend’s digs than a seaside hotel. 

What You Need to Know

The Look

It's All in the Details

Each guest room is unique when it comes to design, but you can expect quirky wallpaper, deer antlers hanging above the beds, white bed linens topped with tartan blankets, original windows, and custom furniture from Palihouse's hotelier, Avi Brosh. Downstairs, the lobby has a dark clubby vibe to it, similar to a hangout in old Hollywood circa 1930s, or a common area you'd find at an Ivy League school. 

The Vibe

Palihouse is meant to feel like a 1950s European-style pied-à-terre. But, thanks to modern technology and amenities (including flat-screen TVs equipped with Apple TV and free wifi), your 21st-century habits are easily accessible. 

Who Will Love It

Younger travelers will dig the non-pretentious vibe of Palihouse, which offers an excellent location near the Third Street Promenade. And, since the restaurant and bar are exclusive to hotel guests, the property has a members-only sort of feel.

Who Might Not

While the beds are crazy comfortable and the minibar offers a great selection of snacks and drinks, luxury hotel regulars might be disappointed that room service is only served for breakfast and lunch. Also, the property lacks a pool — as well as elevators. 

Money Matters

What’s Included

The hotel’s rate includes complimentary wifi. 

Fees and Extra Costs You Should Know About

Valet parking costs $45 per day. State and city taxes and fees are added to your bill at check-out. 

How to Get a Deal

The longer you stay, the more you can save. Three nights will get you 15 percent off the room rate while eight nights and more will save you 20 percent. Also, check the property's offers tab for more promotions, packages, and discounts. 

In the Neighborhood

 Palihouse is within easy walking distance to Downtown Santa Monica as well as the Third Street Promenade. Plus, the famous Santa Monica Pier is just a few blocks away. Getting to the beach requires crossing the Pacific Coast Highway via one of the pedestrian bridges but still doable from the hotel. 

Closest Airport

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), is about 10 miles from the property. Expect to pay about $30 for an Uber or Lyft. Depending on the traffic and the time of day, the ride can take anywhere from 40 minutes to one hour, or longer.

Nearest Public Transit

Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus is a great way to get around the city and to the Metro-Expo rail line, which takes you directly to downtown Los Angeles. 

The Bottom Line

When you want to stay somewhere that feels a part of the neighborhood rather than the usual chain hotel, Palihouse Santa Monica offers that “live like a local” type of experience. 

It's All in the Details