The hype
Guests are obsessed with the decor and the rooftop views but frequently sticker-shocked by the fees and service lapses.
Santa Monica Proper Hotel
$600-900+/ night
Book this if You want to live inside a Kelly Wearstler Pinterest board and care more about the scene than the service.
Why People Love It
- The only rooftop pool deck on the Westside (Calabra)
- Interiors that feel like a curated art museum
- Surya Spa's authentic Ayurvedic treatments
Quick Take: A stunningly designed social hub where you'll pay a premium for the vibe, the valet, and the view.
Reviewed by @luxetravelgirl: I spent my birthday here and it was perfect. The gym is top-tier for my morning routine, and the design details in the room are just unmatched. Definitely get a terrace room for the extra space and fresh air!
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Multiple reviews mention 'heavily used' furniture, stained upholstery, and a sense that the maintenance hasn't kept up with the high traffic.
- You are an influencer or design aficionado
- You want a buzzing social scene right in your hotel
- You prioritize aesthetics over absolute quiet
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Generally good daily service, though some reports of missed dust and rushed turnover.
- Bathroom hygiene: Stone and tile are usually spotless, but watch for wear on fixtures.
- Maintenance: High traffic is taking a toll—scuffed baseboards, stained rugs, and worn furniture are common complaints.
- Linens & towels: High-quality Bellino and Fili D'oro linens, usually crisp and fresh.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells amazing (custom candle), but some rooms can have a lingering musty or cleaning product smell.
Sleepability™
7MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Thumping bass from Calabra rooftop bar (especially floors 5-6)
- Service doors slamming in hallways
- Street noise from Wilshire Blvd
Before you book
Good to know
- The rooftop pool is small and gets crowded; snag a chair early
- You can rent Linus bikes for free to cruise to the beach (10 min ride)
- Check-in is strictly 4pm; early access is rarely granted without a fee
What to pack
- Designer swimwear (the pool is a runway)
- Earplugs (essential for upper floors)
- A light jacket (rooftop gets breezy at night)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Landmark Garden Terrace King for a moodier, quieter vibe
- 3rd Floor rooms facing 7th Street for the best chance of quiet
- Premier King for the extra square footage and lounge area
Rooms to avoid
- Rooms directly below the rooftop pool/bar (6th floor)
- Rooms near the service elevators/doors
- Standard rooms if you need workspace (can be tight)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am a light sleeper and would love to request a room on a lower floor (ideally 3rd floor facing 7th St) away from the rooftop bar noise and service elevators. If available, a room in the Landmark building would be preferred for the quieter atmosphere.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the rooftop pool is heated, but it's small and more for dipping/socializing than swimming laps.
How far is the beach?
It's about a 10-15 minute walk or a quick bike ride. It is NOT beachfront.
Is it kid-friendly?
Technically yes (cribs available), but the vibe is very adult/social. Not the best pick for toddlers.
What is the parking situation?
Valet only. It's expensive (~$70-85/night) and wait times can be long during peak dinner hours.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, it's very pet-friendly with a fee (~$100/stay). They provide beds and bowls.
Is the resort fee mandatory?
Yes, expect to pay ~$63/night on top of your rate. It covers wifi, bikes, and gym access.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Skip the hotel breakfast and walk to Huckleberry Cafe for a better, cheaper meal.
- ✨
Use the 'Proper App' for requests; it's often faster than calling the front desk.
- ✨
The 'Landmark' building rooms have a completely different, darker aesthetic than the new build—check photos to see which you prefer.
5 things to know before you go
💡Some guests have reported plastic toilet seats that don't soft-close—shocking for this price point.
💡The 'ocean view' is often a distant sliver past other buildings.
💡Hallway carpets and furniture in common areas are showing signs of heavy wear (stains, scuffs).
💡You might hear the service door slamming next to your room repeatedly.
💡Room service adds a $5 delivery fee AND a 20% service charge.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Santa Monica Proper Hotel is located and what's nearby.