Shutters on the Beach

1 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405, Santa Monica, United States

5-star hotel

Guest rating: 4.5 / 5

Shutters on the Beach is a 5-star beachfront hotel set directly on Santa Monica State Beach, just steps from the sand and a short walk from Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park. The property's airy, refined rooms -- many with private balconies -- feature marble bathrooms with whirlpool tubs, and upgraded rooms add ocean views, while suites offer separate living rooms with working fireplaces. On-site dining spans a polished restaurant, a casual beachfront cafe and bar, and a lobby lounge, complemented by 24-hour room service. Wellness amenities include a seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, spa, and fitness center. Beyond the beach, guests are close to Downtown Santa Monica's shops and restaurants, with Venice Boardwalk, the Venice Canal Historic District, and further afield attractions like The Getty and the Hammer Museum within reach. It's a design-forward, cottage-style luxury property that trades resort sprawl for an intimate, coastal New England-inspired atmosphere directly on the Pacific.

Best for

This hotel suits couples and leisure travelers seeking a romantic, upscale beach escape, thanks to in-room whirlpool tubs, fireplace suites, and direct beach access. It also appeals to travelers who want walkable access to Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park, and Downtown Santa Monica without needing a car. Guests prioritizing polished service and dining -- rather than a sprawling resort -- will find the restaurant, beachfront cafe, and lobby lounge a strong fit.

Travel tips

The hotel is a roughly 9-minute walk to Santa Monica Pier and about a mile from Third Street Promenade, making the beachfront and downtown shopping/dining areas walkable without a car. Parking is paid, so budget for valet or lot fees if driving in. The lobby lounge and bar area can get busy with a local crowd, especially in the evenings, so arrive early if you want a quieter seat.

What guests say

Guests consistently praise the attentive, exceptional service from staff, front desk, and valet, along with high-quality food across the hotel's dining outlets. The prime beachfront location and inviting lobby/bar area are frequently highlighted as standout features, along with relaxing ocean views and in-room jacuzzi tubs. Recurring criticisms include high prices and a lobby that can feel noisy and overcrowded with local visitors, leaving limited seating at peak times. A few reviewers also noted the property showing early signs of wear, suggesting a refresh may be due, though most still described the overall stay as worthwhile.

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