This Promenade-adjacent historic hotel boasts quaint digs—think Art Deco detailing, chaise lounges, and shoe shines-- in a thoroughly contemporary beachside neighborhood, making it ideal for visitors who want modern conveniences in a classic, romantic setting.
Opened in 1933, the Santa Monica-based Georgian Hotel is a study in L.A. history: the eight-story Art Deco building has hosted A-listers of yore from Clark Gable to Charlie Chaplin, and housed one of the city’s most infamous Prohibition-era speakeasies. While the neighborhood surrounding the Georgian has caught up with the times—you’re two blocks from an Apple Store—the hotel holds onto its classic charm with architectural throwbacks like elaborate stone and metal moldings, a deco-inspired gold detailed lobby and hallways lined with photos of the hotel’s star-studded history. Guest rooms are more modern, though they retain their retro appeal with details like chaise lounges and artful bathroom tilework. Amenities include free wifi, 24-hour business and fitness centers and even overnight shoe shines. The most unique aspect of the Georgian Hotel? It’s allegedly haunted. According to guests and staff alike, visitors may experience spooky phenomena like phone calls from unoccupied rooms, disembodied voices and inexplicably rearranged furniture. Whether you’re a believer, it’s undeniably entertaining to ask the front desk for their first-hand experience of the hotel’s ghostly lore.
Location: Situated along the slightly-touristy- but-still- totally-beautiful Santa Monica beach, the area around the Promenade is a busy mix of office buildings, fitness studios, shops (big and boutique alike), and a range of dining. There are entertainment options at every price point, making the neighborhood great for travelers of all means, and the best part is, it’s all extremely walkable.
Nearby:
Veranda Restaurant: The Georgian’s lobby restaurant pairs Mediterranean-spiced coastal California cuisine—try the salmon Nicoise, which rests on a bed of nutty grilled farro and creamy white bean puree—with stunning sunset views.
Copa d'Oro: This low-lit lounge is a haven for locals looking to impress their dates, tourists who need a break from the melee of the Promenade, and industry folks blowing off steam with a ginger-laced Honey Snap.
Pacific Park: The Santa Monica Pier’s rides and carnival games are geared towards kids, but even the most grown-up of adults can appreciate a romantic ride on the ferris wheel, or a spin on a restored 1920s wooden merry-go- round.
Venice Canals: Nearby Venice is naturally named for the famed aquatic Italian city, and visitors may be surprised to discover that the neighborhood has its own set of canals. On an afternoon stroll, you’ll take in rows of ducklings, lush foliage and well-appointed beach cottages.
Abbot Kinney: Don’t pass up an opportunity to explore nearby Abbot Kinney, a posh boulevard of designer shopping and buzzy restaurants. If your stay falls on the first Friday of the month, Abbot Kinney turns into a mile-long block party complete with art, music and some of L.A.’s finest food trucks.
Good for: History and design buffs in particular will go nuts for the building’s throwback vibe and rich past, though the Georgian’s elegant accommodations and romantic ambience make it perfect for couples, too. Opt for a weekend getaway—the hotel’s extremely walkable location means you’ll be able to take in a ton of sightseeing in only a few days.
Amenities: Room service, free wifi, minibar, restaurant, bar, gym, laundry service, concierge