The newly renovated Holiday Inn Santa Monica Beach rests at the entrance to Santa Monica Pier, the famous boardwalk that juts out into the Pacific Ocean and is lined with carnival games, junk food and several rides (take a spin on the famous Ferris wheel, which was recently replaced with a state-of-the-art, partially solar powered one). Although just off this chaotic tourist attraction, the nearby Hilton feels like a quieter respite. Nevertheless, the Holiday Inn’s guest rooms are well kept, with blue-and-brown bedding and upholstered furniture accented with white ribbing. While Windows Restaurant and Lounge is the hotel’s onsite dining spot (where kids eat free), there are plenty more exciting culinary and scenic experiences just steps away, ranging from Latin fusion destination Border Grille to star-studded Ivy at the Shore to good old junk food galore on the Pier.

Holiday Inn Santa Monica Beach-At the Pier Amenities:

• 132 rooms. High-speed Internet access. Restaurant, bar. Fitness center. Pool. Business center.