Palihouse Santa Monica

There are outposts of this quirky – and marginally more affordable – hotel group all over the city, from West Hollywood and Culver City to Silver Lake, but it’s their Santa Monica spot that’s touted as the pick of the bunch.

Housed in an elegant 1927 Spanish Colonial Revival Mansion, walking into the property feels like stepping back in time, with tranquil courtyards lining the entranceway and high wood-beamed ceilings giving the air of a country estate.

Inside you’ll find plenty of whimsical touches, including mismatched vintage furnishings, paintings propped on easels and antlers hanging above bedheads.

Locations don’t come much better than this, with the hotel set just three blocks from the beach and a few minutes’ walk to Third Street Promenade, which is filled with shops and restaurants.

In spite of its central location, the hotel remains an oasis of calm, tucked away on a quiet street that’s mercilessly free from the hordes of tourists.