The Beach at Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

"Loews isn't exactly beachfront—it's on a hill less than a block away—but the ocean views are fabulous"

"Beach Barn sits on the opposite side of the pool and serves vintage candy and mouthwatering gelato (but is only open on the weekends)"

"Our independent authors have visited Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel and selected this as one of our recommended hotels in Los Angeles"

"Just note that the constant nickel-and-diming and overpriced food can add up, and that the hotel isn't right on the beach (it's across the street from it)"

"Several restaurants include Ocean & Vine (fresh California cuisine), Blue Streak (casual poolside), Papillon (tapas and craft cocktails) and Beach Barn (artisanal ice cream)"

"You "can't beat the location" of this oceanfront retreat, whose pool overlooking the Pacific "steals the show" even though the property also boasts "fantastic" on-site dining, an eco-friendly spa and "amazing" beds in the "lovely" rooms, some of which have "beautiful" views of the Santa Monica Beach and Pier; the service from staffers who "remember your name" and "love kids and dogs" is "spectacular"

"The tots will be more than occupied with the beach, pool, and nearby Santa Monica Pier, plus skate, bike, and rollerblade rentals"

"In addition to the beach, many of Santa Monica’s main attractions are within walking distance of the hotel"

"This fine commercial hotel is a crossbreed, a briefcase-toting beach bum with a Bluetooth in one ear and a diamond stud in the other"

"In the heart of Southern California’s most renowned neighbourhood of sand and surf lies the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel"