One of the bigger hotels in the area, Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel stands tall along the ocean. From your room, look out onto white sand and blue water, sparkling cityscape or even, from the Presidential Suite, the entire Santa Monica Pier, complete with nostalgia-inducing Ferris wheel and all (even if you can’t remember a time when Ferris wheels were all the rage). In your room you’ll find many tactile treats: 300-thread-count cotton sheets, 100 percent combed and rung-spun cotton terry towels and the hotel’s signature cushy amenity, the sinfully soft “Ultimate Doeskin” robe by Chadsworth & Haig. The bathroom’s filled with natural Bloom products, made from plant and herb extracts—great for the environment, but suds fans, beware as they don’t foam as much because they’re chemical-free. Dining options, in addition to the many lining Ocean Avenue, include Papillon lounge for tapas, fireplaces and ocean views; Ocean & Vine for farmers-market-fresh cuisine (Santa Monica’s Wednesday farmers’ market is highly esteemed by chefs throughout the country); and a poolside menu for a bite while soaking up the sun. And, speaking of relaxing, Ocean Spa’s manicure/pedicure goes the extra mile with glycolic acid, UV protection and Sea Serum.

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel Amenities:

• 342 rooms. High-speed Internet access. Restaurant, bar. Fitness center. Spa. Pool.