Just a block from the beach, this unostentatious glass hotel is in the middle of Santa Monica’s hotel mile. The hotel lounge is a meeting point not just for guests, but also for those looking to see and be seen. The expansive inner terrace offers its own pool with eager waiters catering to the guests in the private cabanas. There are many business meetings held here during the day, while the evenings are frequented by those who don’t mind the cool sea breeze and the extravagant parking fees.