There are plenty of places to stay in Santa Monica but I love staying at Viceroy properties. They're all so very unique but one thing is always the same... the service is amazing. I've been fortunate enough to stay in Viceroy hotels throughout the country but the Santa Monica location is just magical.
From the minute you arrive at VSM the service is spectacular. The valet greets you and directs you inside, asks about your day and if there is anything else they can do for you. The check-in involves ((complimentary)) bubbly, beautiful decor, and courteous staff.
I love boutique hotels but sometimes that means you have to give up the conveniences of a pool or gym or even late night room service!! But here, you get it all!
The hotel not only has great staff, but it's also in a wonderful location that's close to the beach, the Santa Monica Pier and the Third Street Promenade. You're also not too far from all the wonderful spots in Malibu (but you probably won't want to leave the hotel).
The staff really goes out of their way to make you feel comfortable. They deliver your bags, grab ice, show you around the room and ask if you need anything else (but they mean it, because I always need something else).
The plated outside wall is iconic. You don't have to look too far on social media to find a picture of this beautiful wall.
In the mood for a read? Or maybe a cute photo? Look no further than this super chic/vibey library.
Each room that we've stayed in has been perfectly positioned as far as views go. Very clean, very spacious, and very VERY chic. The furniture is super cute and functional. Everything in the room makes sense. And the color palette is so calming and peaceful!
Equipped with an outstanding view, mini bar, and 24 hour room service menu.
This beautifully lit white bathroom makes getting ready fun. It's obvious that it's clean but the lighting also puts you in the best mood. It's REALLY hard not to take a selfie or two in here...
Lots of Neil George full-sized products .... and even a great blow dryer. Thanks for thinking of everything guys.
A delivery? "We didn't order anything, they must have the wrong room"... This tray full of goodies showed up at our door 20 minutes after we checked in and got settled. Everything was ON THE HOUSE and there was a cute little hand written note. What a cute touch. Thanks for keeping us hydrated, VSM.
Even though this was from our most recent stay (and the stay I've decided to blog about) we've had this happen EVERY time we've stayed here. It really is the little things that count. And Viceroy Santa Monica really gets it.
The pool area can fill up on the weekends but it's still VERY relaxing. VSM does a great job of maintaining the chill ambience even when they're full. We REALLY enjoy our pool time and not to mention the full service (aka: lots of mimosas and naps and probably a french fry or two).
The inside bar is always pretty active even though we've never been disturbed while trying to sleep. On weekend nights there is usually a live DJ which is so great because you don't have to leave the hotel to dance a little. And if you're in the mood for sleep, you can snooze right away in your room upstairs.
The noise levels may all depend on the location of the room but each room we've stayed in has been pretty sound proof.
Room service for us has been quick and delicious each time we've ordered. And they never forget to make our bacon crispy.
Once we were in a hurry to get to the beach so we called down and had room service prepare us a couple of breakfast burritos to-go. They were so cool about it and had it ready and packed carefully.
Their restaurant, Cast, has delicious food and cocktails. They do a great job of keeping you at the hotel the whole time. Everyone is so courteous and made us feel very taken care of.
The food is great at Cast, they have everything from pizza to kale and.... the last two times I've visited they even had Kumamoto oysters!!
Throughout the stay members of the VSM team would ask us how we were doing and were always concerned on whether we were content.
There are plenty of places throughout the hotel to relax and lounge. All the areas are beautiful and chic - a bloggers DREAM.
There's a small gym that overlooks the beautiful pool area. It has a few treadmills and weights and does the job. Even though it's small I've never had a problem getting a quick workout in because usually there is only one other person MAX working out. If there is a body building convention in town this might be a problem but any other time, it's all good.
Pro Tips
- Ask for a room on a high floor with a water view.
- Grab a pool chair early.
- They have bikes! Grab them pretty early on weekends.
- The concierge is extremely helpful so make sure you utilize them!
- If you plan on staying in Santa Monica for most of your trip, don't rent a car - avoid valet prices at the hotel (VSM is perfectly located for walking).
- Don't bring your own soaps, lotions, or shampoos, they have the BEST Neil George products and you get to use the full size!
- The hotel is dog-friendly so don't forget the pooch!
- Don't leave for drinks! It's so nice to sit in the courtyard and sip on deliciously crafted cocktails.
- The staff wants to make you happy so ASK for what you want.
- Not staying at the hotel? Grab a bite and drink at Cast and chill by the pool anyway.
In the mood for a getaway? Book your trip now at the Viceroy Santa Monica.
