Abutting Santa Monica's colorful boardwalk and eyeing one of America's widest golden sand beaches, this outstanding beachfront hotel is a smaller, sleeker version of the more conservative Fairmont Miramar, a hotel geared to those who prefer Blackberries to briefcases.
Although the newer Le Merigot next door is more contemporary and sophisticated in atmosphere, this one is superbly laid out, full of sun-washed public areas and expansive ocean views. Le Merigot proffers noticeably superior service, but for most arrivals unable to afford the top tier (Casa Del Mar and Shutters), this hotel is hands-down a better choice.
Little has changed here over the last two years, though the owners were gearing up for a major overhaul that should commence by spring 2008. This hotel's gabled roof makes a dramatic profile on its bluff above the Pacific Coast. Below, a circular drive fronts the galleried five-story lobby aglow with marble and granite. The dramatic atrium runs the length of the hotel, with two rows of a dozen potted palms lending symmetry to the space.
The flowing fabric draped from the ceiling and secluded sitting areas helps conjure up a peacefulness surprising in such a large space—a place where, the hotel quips, "palm sway meets feng shui." The courtyard fountain lends freshness to the scene.
Unlike at Le Merigot, here the restaurants and bars face the pier and coastline, offering stunning water and sunset vistas. In summer, guests on the dining terraces glimpse miles of baking flesh, and the homeless cast wanting glances at meals served only a few feet away.
The lounge is styled as a reading room with floor-to-ceiling windows facing the ocean. Guests can order tapas-style dishes and afternoon tea. The cafe and patio facing the beach are lighthearted in decor and atmosphere.
The cleverly named restaurant, Ocean & Vine, relates directly to the views and lengthy wine list. One part restaurant, one part lounge, diners can be seen lingering at the fire pit before and after meals. Health-conscious diners will be glad to know that the restaurant 
no longer serves foods prepared with artificial trans fat.
The creative American fare puts seafood at the top of the menu. The lobby bar showcases talented jazz performers. An espresso cart dispenses java near reception.
The small glamorous pool has limited seating, but the views and sun-drenched deck are worth fighting for. A whirlpool and fitness room await, and the hotel spa picks up the slack with a full menu of therapeutic treatments. Guests can rent bicycles. Both valet and self-parking incur charges.
Consistent maintenance keeps these expensive accommodations looking fresh and inviting. All come with a simple contemporary design featuring solid-colored fabrics and dark-wood furnishings. Rooms have plenty of comfortable seating and are "workspace friendly" with big desks, floor lamps and 90-channel TVs with Internet capability.
Fittings include three phones, wireless 
Internet access, minibars, mirrored closets and some step-out balconies. The lush baths come with two dressing areas, marble counters, TVs, magnifying mirrors, double basins, tubs and water-saving toilets. The baths sport lovely brass fixtures.
The least expensive standard rooms are on lower floors and lack ocean views. For a 10% bump in price, guests can get a partial ocean view; another 15% jump in the rate buys an oceanfront room. All have sliding-glass doors opening to step-out balconies. Pool and Ocean Premier rooms have spacious patios, also with ocean views.
Room service is around the clock, valets hustle, housekeeping is sharp. Small pets are permitted.
This fine commercial hotel is a crossbreed, a briefcase toting beach bum with a Blue Tooth in one ear and a diamond stud in the other.
