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Our top choices for Santa Monica cheap hotels

Gateway Hotel Santa Monica

Gateway Hotel Santa Monica
3.5 star property
Pico
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,591 reviews)
"Great staff location very clean easy parking I love staying there thank you"
United States
Charles
The price is £170
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Gateway Hotel Santa Monica

Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles

Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles
2.5 star property
Mid-City
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,038 reviews)
"Very good location; clean room with excellent features; wonderful breakfast; excellent parking. "
United States
William
The price is £142
includes taxes & fees
2 Mar - 3 Mar
Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles

Sea Shore Motel

Sea Shore Motel
2.5 star property
Ocean Park
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,005 reviews)
"Good simple room, easy check in, fair price "
United States
Fernanda
The price is £160
includes taxes & fees
8 Mar - 9 Mar
Sea Shore Motel

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica
2.5 star property
Sunset Park
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,003 reviews)
"Very nice hotel. Clean room, comfortable bed, helpful staff, and nice breakfast."
United States
Judith
The price is £127
includes taxes & fees
12 Feb - 13 Feb
SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica

Santa Monica Hotel

Santa Monica Hotel
3.0 star property
Ocean Park
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (285 reviews)
"The room was simple but clean. I loved the toiletries they provided as well as the snacks in the morning. The staff was nice."
United States
Ana Gabriela
The price is £137
includes taxes & fees
16 Feb - 17 Feb
Santa Monica Hotel

Cal Mar Hotel Suites

Cal Mar Hotel Suites
3.0 star property
Wilshire Montana
7.8 out of 10, Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Very nice staff, great location. "
United States
bruce
The price is £192
includes taxes & fees
10 Feb - 11 Feb
Cal Mar Hotel Suites

Shutters on the Beach

Shutters on the Beach
5.0 star property
Downtown Santa Monica
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (735 reviews)
"Beautiful location and all staff were extremely friendly and helpful. Small details were attended to as well. Would definitely come back here."
United States
Tim
The price is £584
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Shutters on the Beach

Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica

Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica
4.0 star property
Ocean Park
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (341 reviews)
"Very nice accommodations- upscale!"
United States
Stephanie
The price is £199
includes taxes & fees
1 Mar - 2 Mar
Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica

Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels

Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels
5.0 star property
Downtown Santa Monica
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (791 reviews)
"It is a well-designed, beautiful hotel. A special place to stay."
United States
Josh
The price is £512
includes taxes & fees
23 Feb - 24 Feb
Santa Monica Proper Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels

The Huntley Hotel

The Huntley Hotel
4.5 star property
Wilshire Montana
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (2,454 reviews)
"Lovely hotel with very kind staff, would highly recommended."
United Kingdom
Iona
The price is £317
includes taxes & fees
12 Mar - 13 Mar
The Huntley Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Find out more about Santa Monica

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a gem on the Californian coast that offers both adventure and relaxation, perfect for budget-conscious travellers. Start your day at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where you can enjoy stunning ocean views and take a stroll along the beach for free. For a splash of culture, the Third Street Promenade is a vibrant outdoor shopping area filled with street performers and unique shops, perfect for window shopping or grabbing an affordable bite at one of the many food stalls. If you’re keen on nature, the Santa Monica Mountains provide plenty of hiking trails with breathtaking views, and entry is free. Don’t miss the chance to explore the local farmers market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal goods without breaking the bank. For accommodation, look for hotels around Ocean Avenue or near downtown Santa Monica; these areas provide easy access to the beach and local attractions while offering a range of budget-friendly options. Staying here allows you to explore the lively atmosphere, enjoy the ocean breeze, and experience the charm of Santa Monica without overspending.

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Monica

For budget-conscious travellers visiting Santa Monica, these affordable hotels offer a perfect blend of comfort and convenience without breaking the bank.

HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel offers budget travellers an exceptional rating of 9.0 and a friendly atmosphere. With free Wi-Fi, it's an ideal base for those wishing to explore the vibrant beachside locale without overspending.
  • Other amenities: Guests can enjoy access to nearby beaches, a terrace for sunbathing, and the convenience of beach towels provided. The hostel features a billiards table for relaxation and socialising, alongside concierge services to assist with local recommendations. Its nearby shopping districts and the iconic boardwalk makes it a perfect choice for those wanting to soak up Santa Monica's charm.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Santa Monica
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Monica Place - 0.2 km, Third Street Promenade - 0 km, Ocean Avenue - 0.2 km

Sea Shore Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Sea Shore Motel stands out with its exceptional guest rating of 9.0, making it a perfect choice for budget travellers seeking comfort near the beach. With free Wi-Fi and complimentary self-parking, guests can enjoy a stress-free stay while being just a short stroll away from the ocean's edge.
  • Other amenities: Additionally, the motel features air conditioning for a pleasant indoor environment, a terrace to soak up the sun, and convenient bike parking for those looking to explore Santa Monica on two wheels. Families will appreciate the availability of free cribs, while nearby beach access allows for fun-filled days by the water.
  • Neighborhood: Ocean Park
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Monica Beach - 0.4 km, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area - 0.6 km, Main Street Santa Monica - 0 km

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With a solid review rating of 8.8, the SureStay Hotel is a fantastic option for budget travellers. Guests can enjoy complimentary continental breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and toiletries, ensuring a comfortable and economical stay without sacrificing quality.
  • Other amenities: This hotel also offers a kitchenette in select rooms, making it easy for guests to prepare their own meals. Self-parking and electric car charging stations add convenience, while the hydromassage showerheads provide a touch of luxury. The terrace offers a lovely spot to relax, and daily housekeeping ensures a clean and inviting space throughout the stay.
  • Neighborhood: Sunset Park
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Monica Beach - 4.3 km, Santa Monica Place - 4.8 km

Ocean View Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Ocean View Hotel is an affordable gem with an impressive guest rating of 8.8, perfect for those looking to enjoy Santa Monica on a budget. Guests will appreciate complimentary toiletries and Wi-Fi along with stunning ocean views that make each stay memorable.
  • Other amenities: This hotel features secured valet parking for added convenience, a balcony for enjoying coastal breezes, and nearby activities like surfing and shopping. The concierge service is available to help guests plan their adventures, while daily housekeeping keeps the rooms fresh and inviting, ensuring a pleasant experience.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Santa Monica
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Monica Place - 0.3 km, Santa Monica Pier - 0.4 km, Third Street Promenade - 0.2 km

Bayside Hotel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: The Bayside Hotel is a charming budget-friendly option with a review rating of 8.4, making it an excellent choice for those seeking value near the beach. Guests can benefit from free Wi-Fi and self-parking, ensuring a straightforward experience while enjoying the beautiful Santa Monica area.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features a lovely terrace, beach towels for fun in the sun, and a kitchenette in select rooms for added convenience. With access to nearby beaches and shopping, guests can easily enjoy the local attractions. Daily housekeeping keeps rooms tidy, while air conditioning ensures comfort during warm California days.
  • Neighborhood: Ocean Park
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Monica Beach - 0.5 km, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area - 0.5 km, Main Street Santa Monica - 0.1 km

How to get cheap hotels in Santa Monica?

 

✅ The length of stay in Santa Monica often varies depending on the nature of the trip, but many travellers opt to stay for several days or up to a week to take in Santa Monica's notable landmarks and points of interest.

✅  If you're looking for cheap hotels in Santa Monica in 2026, book your hotel well in advance. Reserving your stay at least a few weeks or months ahead of time can help you take advantage of amazing rates on cheap hotels in Santa Monica, and if your plans change you can find many options of hotels with free cancelation.

✅  To find affordable hotels in Santa Monica on Expedia, start by entering your travel dates and the number of individuals in your group. Once you've provided this information, you can refine your search results by filtering for budget hotels in Santa Monica.

✅  Use the filtering tools offered by Expedia to refine your search results by location, price limits, amenities such as breakfast included, and other factors that matter to you. This will help you quickly locate the ideal budget-friendly hotel that fits your specific requirements.

✅  If you're looking to save money on a cheap hotel in Santa Monica, the ideal time to go is usually during the off-season in Santa Monica. On Expedia, you can find hotels from £127*.

✅  Santa Monica offers numerous budget-friendly attractions and activities for travellers, such as art and exhibits at free museums and galleries or exploring Santa Monica on foot.

✅  One of the best ways to find cheap hotels in Santa Monica is to search Expedia for properties that provide family-friendly accommodations and features such as activities and complimentary meals, and then sort these by price.

*Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Santa Monica Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best hotels to stay in Santa Monica as a budget traveller?
For budget-conscious travellers seeking comfortable and convenient stays in Santa Monica, excellent options include Sea Shore Motel, HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, Ocean View Hotel, SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, and Ocean Park Inn.

The Sea Shore Motel, with a 9.0 rating, offers great value with complimentary WiFi and free self-parking, which is a significant saving in Santa Monica. Guests frequently praise its convenient location, spacious and clean rooms, and comfortable beds. A terrace and balcony are additional perks.

For those who enjoy a more social atmosphere, the HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, also rated 9.0, is a fantastic choice. It provides free WiFi and is located within a shopping district, very close to the beach and ocean. Reviewers often highlight the friendly staff, great free breakfast, and modern, clean rooms.

The 3-star Ocean View Hotel, with an 8.8 rating, provides free toiletries and free WiFi. Its staff are consistently described as friendly and fantastic, and the hotel's location is highly rated. Guests appreciate the nice, clean rooms and comfortable beds.

Another strong contender is the SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, rated 8.8. This hotel offers free continental breakfast, free internet, and free WiFi, which are excellent value-adds. The staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, and guests appreciate the convenient parking and good location.

Finally, the Ocean Park Inn, with an 8.8 rating, also offers free self-parking and free WiFi, along with air conditioning and a terrace. Reviewers often mention its excellent and clean rooms, helpful staff, and convenient location.
How much does a budget hotel in Santa Monica cost?
Budget hotel prices in Santa Monica vary, but you can find a great deal from £127 on Expedia. To find the cheapest budget hotels, be flexible with your dates—typically, off-peak and mid-week stays are cheaper. Stretch your budget further by looking for hotels with free breakfast, free parking or free airport shuttles. Sort your search results by "Price: low to high" to see our lowest rates.
Which area of Santa Monica is best to stay in for cheap hotels?
For budget-conscious solo travellers looking for affordable accommodation in Santa Monica, the neighbourhoods east of Lincoln Boulevard and closer to the border with West Los Angeles generally offer more economical hotel options. These areas, particularly around Santa Monica Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard, provide a good balance between cost and accessibility to the city's main attractions.

While direct beachfront properties can be pricey, staying slightly inland means you're still within easy reach of the beach and pier, often just a short bus ride or a pleasant walk away. Many hotels here cater to a range of budgets, from smaller boutique hotels to well-known chains, providing a comfortable base without the premium price tag of ocean-view rooms.
What are the top-rated cheap hotels for families in Santa Monica?
Several top-rated and affordable hotels in Santa Monica cater well to families, including SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, Ocean View Hotel, and Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles.

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, with an 8.8 rating, is highly praised by guests for its friendly and helpful staff, as well as its great, complimentary continental breakfast. Families will appreciate the convenience of free WiFi and easy parking.

The 3-star Ocean View Hotel, rated 8.8, offers nice, clean rooms and is known for its fantastic and friendly staff. Its location is a significant draw, providing good access to local attractions.

Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles, with an 8.0 rating, provides comfortable and clean rooms, along with a good, free breakfast and complimentary cribs for little ones.
What cheap hotels in Santa Monica offer complimentary breakfast?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Monica that offer complimentary breakfast, you have several excellent options, including SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica, Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, and Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles.

The SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, with an 8.8 rating, is much-loved for its free continental breakfast. Guests frequently praise the convenience of its free internet and the helpfulness of its staff. Its location is often described as convenient.

Another solid choice is the Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica, rated 8.6. This hotel also provides a complimentary continental breakfast, and guests often comment on the cleanliness and quietness of the rooms, as well as the friendliness of the front desk staff.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, with an 8.4 rating, offers a free buffet breakfast. Reviewers consistently highlight the spacious and clean rooms, the excellent location, and the attentive staff. Free WiFi is also a key amenity.

Finally, the Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles, rated 8.0, provides a free self-serve breakfast. This hotel is often noted for its comfortable and clean rooms, and its convenient location.
When is the most affordable time to visit Santa Monica?
The most affordable time to visit Santa Monica is generally during the off-season, specifically from late autumn to early spring, avoiding major holidays. During these months, typically November through March, excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's, you'll find lower prices on accommodation and fewer crowds.

Solo travellers will particularly benefit from visiting during these quieter periods. Hotels often offer reduced rates, and you might even snag deals on flights. While the weather might be cooler, averaging around 15-20°C, it's still pleasant enough for exploring the iconic Santa Monica Pier, strolling along the beach, or cycling the Marvin Braude Beach Trail, all of which are free activities.

Another advantage of visiting off-season is the ability to enjoy local eateries without the peak season rush. Many restaurants offer lunch specials or happy hour deals that become more accessible when the city isn't bustling with tourists.
What are the best cheap hotels in Santa Monica with a pool?
For budget-friendly hotels in Santa Monica that feature a refreshing pool, consider the Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica, Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles, and Cal Mar Hotel Suites.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, with an 8.4 rating, offers a fantastic outdoor pool. Guests consistently praise its spacious and clean rooms, as well as the brilliant complimentary breakfast, making it excellent value.

Another great option is the 3-star Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica, rated 8.2. This hotel also boasts an outdoor pool and provides comfortable, clean rooms. Reviewers frequently highlight the friendly and great staff.

The Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles, with an 8.0 rating, features an outdoor pool and offers free breakfast, which guests describe as good. Its convenient location and comfortable, clean rooms are often mentioned by visitors.

Finally, the 3-star Cal Mar Hotel Suites, rated 7.6, provides an outdoor pool with sun loungers, superb for relaxing.
Are there any cheap Santa Monica hotels near Third Street Promenade?
For affordable hotels near Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica, excellent options include HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel and the 3-star Ocean View Hotel.

The HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, with a 9.0 rating, is ideally situated right in the shopping district and very close to the beach and ocean. It offers free WiFi and guests frequently praise its friendly staff, clean, modern rooms, and the great free breakfast.

Another strong contender is the 3-star Ocean View Hotel, rated 8.8. This hotel provides free toiletries and free WiFi, and its staff are consistently described as friendly and fantastic. Guests often highlight the great location and comfortable beds.

For those prioritising parking, the Sea Shore Motel, rated 9.0, offers free self-parking and free WiFi. It's conveniently located near the beach and boasts spacious, clean rooms with comfy beds.

The SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, with an 8.8 rating, is another good choice, offering free continental breakfast, free internet, and free WiFi. Reviewers often mention the helpful staff, nice rooms, and convenient parking.

Finally, the Ocean Park Inn, rated 8.8, provides free WiFi, free self-parking, and air conditioning.
Is Santa Monica a budget-friendly destination?
While Santa Monica is generally considered a more upscale destination, travellers can absolutely experience its charm on a budget with some smart planning.

For accommodation, look for options slightly inland from the immediate beachfront, as these tend to be more affordable. Areas like Mid-City or even parts of neighbouring Culver City offer better value and are well-connected to Santa Monica's main attractions by bus or shared ride services. Solo travellers might also find budget-friendly hostels a short distance from the beach.

Couples can enjoy many of Santa Monica's best features for free. Take a stroll or cycle along the iconic Marvin Braude Beach Trail, explore the lively Santa Monica Pier (though rides and games cost extra), or simply relax on the expansive sandy beaches. The Third Street Promenade offers excellent people-watching and street performances without needing to spend a penny.

Dining can be managed affordably by seeking out local eateries away from the main tourist thoroughfares, or by taking advantage of farmers' markets for fresh produce and picnic supplies. Many cafes offer great value lunches.
What cheap hotels in Santa Monica offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes?
For cheap hotels in Santa Monica that offer cooking facilities or kitchenettes, you have some great options, including SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, Bayside Hotel, and Cal Mar Hotel Suites.

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica, with an 8.8 rating, provides kitchenettes in its rooms, making it convenient for preparing your own meals. Guests frequently mention the friendly and helpful staff, nice and clean rooms, and a great complimentary breakfast. The location is also described as convenient.

Bayside Hotel, rated 8.4, also features kitchenettes, allowing for a more independent stay, and some rooms even offer ocean views. Its location is a major highlight, described as excellent and great, and it's conveniently near the beach.

The 3-star Cal Mar Hotel Suites, with a 7.6 rating, offers kitchenettes in its suites. Guests appreciate the friendly and helpful staff, convenient location, and comfortable beds.
Which cheap hotels in Santa Monica have good reviews for customer service?
For affordable hotels in Santa Monica with great customer service, travellers often praise Sea Shore Motel, HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, and Ocean View Hotel.

Sea Shore Motel, with a 9.0 rating, consistently receives excellent feedback for its friendly and amazing staff. Guests also benefit from free self-parking and complimentary WiFi, and it is located near the beach.

The HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel, also rated 9.0, is celebrated for its friendly and amazing staff. This hostel offers free WiFi and is conveniently located near both the beach and a shopping district.

The 3-star Ocean View Hotel, rated 8.8, is frequently highlighted for its exceptional and friendly service, with staff described as fantastic.
Are there any cheap hotels in Santa Monica that allow for late check-out or early check-in?
Yes, several budget-friendly hotels in Santa Monica offer flexibility for early check-ins or late check-outs, including the Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica and the Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica.

The 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, with an 8.4 rating, is known for its accommodating service. Guests frequently mention the staff as being absolutely amazing and attentive, and they often facilitate early check-ins or late check-outs when possible. The hotel also provides free buffet breakfast, adding to its value.

Another excellent option is the Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica, rated 8.6. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly and amazing front desk staff, who are often happy to assist with early arrivals. This hotel also offers complimentary continental breakfast and free WiFi.

The 3-star Santa Monica Hotel, rated 8.6, is another good choice. Its staff are regularly described as friendly and nice, and they can often arrange for early check-ins, depending on availability. Free self-parking is a valuable amenity here.

The 3-star Ocean View Hotel, with an 8.8 rating, also receives high marks for its fantastic and friendly staff. They are often flexible with early check-ins.

Finally, the Sea Blue Hotel, rated 8.0, has a friendly and helpful front desk staff who are often able to accommodate early check-in requests.
How can I save on a budget hotel in Santa Monica with Expedia?
There are plenty of ways to save on a budget hotel in Santa Monica. Join One Key™, our free travel rewards programme, to unlock Member Prices across a range of hotels. Typically, booking in advance will help you save on hotel bookings. If you're feeling spontaneous, be sure to check for last-minute deals.
What free activities should we do in Santa Monica?
For solo travellers on a budget in Santa Monica, there are plenty of fantastic free activities to enjoy. The iconic Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit, offering lively entertainment, street performers, and stunning ocean views without any admission fee.

Beyond the pier, the expansive sandy beaches stretch for miles, superb for sunbathing, swimming, or simply strolling along the water's edge. You can walk or cycle the Marvin Braude Beach Trail, also known as The Strand, which runs along the coastline, offering scenic views all the way to Venice Beach and beyond. This path is ideal for an invigorating morning jog or a relaxed afternoon wander.

Another excellent free option is exploring the Third Street Promenade. This pedestrian-only outdoor shopping area features street performers, public art, and a vibrant setting, providing entertainment even if you're just window shopping. Additionally, many of Santa Monica's parks, such as Palisades Park, offer beautiful green spaces with unmatched views of the Pacific Ocean, superb for a picnic or simply relaxing.
Is it cheaper to book flights and a hotel in Santa Monica as a package?
Booking a hotel and flight package on Expedia can be cheaper than booking flights and hotels separately. Bundling can lead to significant savings, especially for international travel or when booking well in advance. However, savings vary depending on factors like destination, travel dates, and availability, so it's wise to compare options. With access to over 300,000 hotels worldwide, Expedia makes it easy to build the perfect travel package.
Can I cancel my budget hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline. This is often within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use Expedia's "Fully refundable property" filter during your search to find the right budget hotel in Santa Monica for you.

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