Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica – Hotel Review

Spacious suites, an open-air pool and a central location in the heart of Los Angeles’ most beloved coastal hamlet makes Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica a topnotch stay for business travellers – especially if it ain’t all work and no play. Read on for the full review.

Where is Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica? 

Just three blocks from Santa Monica Beach and its much-photographed pier. You’ll have sand in your toes in less than 10 minutes – and you can reach LAX or Downtown in about 15 minutes by car. 

What’s near Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica?

The city’s coastal lifestyle is on full display at Santa Monica Beach, a flat, pretty beach with a bustling pier and foreshore where tourists and locals mingle. It’s sandwiched between coastal towns of Palisades and Venice and, if you’ve got wheels, a quick half- hour drive to the cliffside haven of Malibu.

Room types 

You’re paying for simplicity and space at Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica. Even the smallest guest room is considerably larger than most, with the Studio inclusive of a little kitchenette, desk space and balcony space made for a morning bevvy, churned up by the in-room coffee maker. 

Restaurants and bars 

The simple Waterman’s Cafe is a classic no-frills affair. We’re talking Starbucks coffee and a smattering of sandwiches, pastries and juices, suited to breakfast and later, snacks such as chicken wings and cheeseburgers (note: it’s closed for lunch). 

Travel for work

The generous in-room work spaces and free wi-fi lend themselves well to business travellers. Two meeting spaces are also hireable, with one connected to a breezy balcony area perfect for making the most of the sunshine. 

Gym and pool

Consider two important LA boxes ticked: there’s both a pool and a gym onsite. The fitness centre has all the necessities, from bikes to treadmills and exercise balls, while the open-air pool, lined by loungers, resides on the second floor.

Sustainability

Initiatives such as water use reduction – thanks to specific in-room fixtures – and extensive harnessing of solar power are in play at Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica, as well as the clever use of concrete stain in place of imported tiles to ensure even the design treads lightly.  

Accessibility   

There are several accessible rooms for travellers with disabilities, as well as features such as sloped pool entry and a pro-service animal policy.

What you need to know

Need even more space for your stay? The Pier View with Sundeck is positively palatial, with a rooftop terrace looking as far as the pier.