The green glow through translucent glass is the only clue that there’s anything out of the ordinary going on behind the discreet (and unsigned) facade of this seaside hotel. Inside, though, it’s something else entirely — the Viceroy is one of Santa Monica’s hottest spots, and the interiors are as chic as can be, a contemporary update of a century-old British country style, where clean-lined modern monochrome meets bright kelly-green antique-style furnishings, with printed wallpaper in vivid colors and ornate china where you least expect it — hanging on the walls.

Too often visual sophistication comes at the expense of real quality, but the Viceroy holds up this end as well: guest rooms come complete with fine Italian linens and down duvets on the beds, body and hair care products by Neil George, and 27-inch flat-screen televisions. Rooms come with balconies, and though only half are oriented toward the Pacific, the view more than justifies the added expense.

Downstairs the Cameo Bar connects the lobby to the pool deck, and guests in search of some privacy sip cocktails in the poolside cabanas. Whist, the restaurant, serves a fine California-French cuisine. The beach is a short walk away but most visitors will likely find themselves headed toward the shops, bars and restaurants on the Third Street Promenade.

How to get there: Viceroy Santa Monica is a 20-minute drive from Los Angeles International Airport. Valet parking is available for $30 USD per night.

Style: Cutting-Edge

Atmosphere: Lively

170 Rooms - Rates start at US$ 245