Santa Monica Proper Hotel, California

Set just a few blocks from the Pacific Ocean, the Santa Monica Proper Hotel brings a fresh, design-forward energy to the city’s historic heart. 

With 267 rooms and suites, this architectural landmark combines a restored 1920s Spanish Colonial Revival building with a sleek contemporary wing—all styled by Kelly Wearstler.

Earthy textures, woven fibers, and sculptural light create a sense of organic calm, while ocean air drifts through sunlit courtyards and terraces.

What Makes It Special

• Prime Location: Steps from Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica Beach, and the Third Street Promenade.
• Design by Kelly Wearstler: A masterclass in tactile luxury—sand tones, raw stone, and handmade ceramics.
• Rooftop Pool & Bar: Ocean breezes, sunsets, and craft cocktails above the city.
• Dining Excellence: Calabra—coastal Mediterranean flavors with Californian flair; Onda celebrates the Baja coastline.
• Wellness at Surya Spa: Ayurvedic treatments rooted in ancient rituals, personalized to body and spirit.
• Historic Meets Modern: The charm of 1920s Santa Monica is seamlessly reborn for today’s traveler.

A Day at Santa Monica Proper

Morning

Wake to ocean light spilling through linen curtains; breakfast on avocado toast and green juice.

Afternoon

Borrow a bike for a ride along Ocean Avenue, then return for an Ayurvedic massage at Surya Spa.

Evening

Watch the Pacific sunset from Calabra’s rooftop terrace—mezze, music, and golden light.

Night

Fall asleep to the rhythm of distant waves, your room glowing in warm California hues.

Insider Tips for Santa Monica Proper Hotel

• Valet parking only, but it’s efficient and friendly (≈ $68/night + fees).
• Rooms are soundproof—street and hallway noise is minimal, a huge plus.
• The wellness café and spa menu offer plant-based and adaptogenic options for health-conscious guests.
• Pool cabanas are popular—reserve ahead.
• The Santa Monica breeze can make the rooftop chilly or windy—bring a light sweater.

Why We Love It (Curated Highlights)

At Hotelagio we hand-pick only stays that feel truly one-of-a-kind. This property made our list because of these rare details:

• Kelly Wearstler Design: Organic, artistic, and unmistakably Californian.
• Historic Revival: A 1920s landmark reimagined for the modern era.
• Surya Spa: Holistic wellness and deep serenity by the sea.
• Rooftop Energy: Sunset cocktails framed by ocean views.
• Effortless Soul: Where design meets the spirit of coastal living.

For Whom

For couples: Bohemian romance with sea views and soulful interiors.
For design lovers: A living gallery of California modernism.
For wellness travelers: Spa rituals and organic dining by the Pacific.

Quick Facts (Luxury Snapshot)

Location: Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, California, United States—25minutes from LAX Airport
Rooms: 267 rooms and suites
Rates: From USD 358—modern coastal luxury with a soulful design heartbeat
Best for: Couples, creatives, and design enthusiasts
Style: Historical and design—where timeless architecture meets West Coast artistry.