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Sonder The Beacon

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Traveler (24)
360
Panoramas (9)
Room & Suite (217)

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About

#1 of 2 limited service properties in Santa Monica
Location
4.6
Service
2.9
Value
2.6
Across the street from Santa Monica Beach, The Beacon, built in 1928, transports you back to Old Hollywood. Lounge in an art deco cabana and dip your toes in the hot tub. Catch a beautiful Pacific sunset from the rooftop bar. It's your stay for relaxation. Each room features modern amenities with a classic touch — soaking bathtubs for winding down and a Roku TV to binge your latest series. Downstairs, the fitness room has free weights and treadmills. You'll have several hiking options nearby, like Los Liones Canyon Trail. Play classic carnival games on the Santa Monica Pier, or ride the only solar-powered Ferris wheel in the world. Endless food options are nearby, starting with the locally sourced catch of the day at The Albright. From sunny beaches and state parks to Downtown LA, The Beacon has it all. The rooftop bar is currently closed. You may hear construction noise from renovations on the elevator.
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Property amenities
Valet parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Fitness Center with Gym / Workout Room
Bar / lounge
Rooftop terrace
Baggage storage
24-hour front desk
Paid private parking on-site
Wifi
Hot tub
Restaurant
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Non-smoking hotel
Outdoor furniture
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Room features
Air conditioning
Private bathrooms
Coffee / tea maker
Kitchenette
Flatscreen TV
Complimentary toiletries
Good to know
HOTEL CLASS
4.0 of 5 stars
Languages Spoken
French
Hotel links
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wendyandmarc2016 wrote a review Feb 2024
Ross-on-Wye, United Kingdom95 contributions46 helpful votes
This is a slightly quirky hotel. On the plus side the rooms are big with wonderful ocean views. The Art Deco look is great and the bathroom has a huge bath. There is also a lovely pool with plenty of space. The staff were very good and helpful. The hotel is close to downtown Santa Monica. On the downside was the rooftop bar, ridiculously expensive for a sunset view, also a bored surly doorman to the rooftop bar. The hotel is still undergoing some renovation and hopefully will add something lovely. This hotel is not for everyone, but you can’t have original Art Deco chic and 21st century swish. I really enjoyed the difference this hotel gave compared to the world wide blandness of some hotels.
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Katie M wrote a review Jun 2023
Victorville, California5 contributions1 helpful vote
Property's Favorite Review
This property is perfect! Emily at the front desk is an absolute delight. Great place to visit right in the middle of downtown Santa Monica. The technology makes it super easy to check in and out seamlessly and even request items
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Date of stay: June 2023Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
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Karen A wrote a review Jan 2024
1 contribution
I was concerned reading the mix of reviews however we were very pleased with our stay at Sonder the Beacon. We've travelled extensively, always research hotels carefully and try to be prepared for how things are going to be. Once we booked, we were able to communicate through the Sonder chat feature, always receiving prompt responses. We stayed in a 2-bedroom apartment and it was very spacious with a full kitchen and 2 full bathrooms, perfect for our family of 5. We were initially missing kitchen linens and also requested extra garbage bags and these were brought up a short time after messaging through the app. Some 'issues' mentioned in other reviews were minor. No restaurant on site (looked to be under renovation?) so we grabbed groceries. I guess that could be an issue if staying in a regular room and not an apartment-style room however, there are restaurants/coffee shops literally 2-3 blocks away. Shower wasn't terribly hot..not a big deal. The pool and hottub look a bit rundown but they're clean. I read they are being redone starting in February. The rooftop bar was active 2 out of our 5 nights and being on the 4th floor, there was some noise but we were prepared with earplugs. Our 3 kids never heard a thing. You can't beat the location. Directly across from Santa Monica beach and a short distance to the Pier and the Promenade. Homeless congregated more in those areas. Overall, it was a pleasant stay in a quirky, historic hotel.
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Date of stay: January 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip: Book an apartment-style room if possible.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Emily P wrote a review Jan 2024
Hawthorne, California2 contributions
Best hotel I stayed at, The Staff was super polite and pleasant to speak to, and they helped with everything I needed assistance with from restaurant recommendations to info on the city. Super helpful, would come back!!!
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Date of stay: January 2024
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled solo
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Sonder Team, Marketing at Sonder The Beacon
Responded Jan 9, 2024
Thank you for your kind words. Our staff is always happy to help with anything you need during your stay. We hope to see you again soon at any of our 40+ locations.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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A S wrote a review Dec 2023
1 contribution
This property is hardly a 2 star hotel. It’s a dated building with some cheap remodeling done mainly in the lobby and pool deck areas. The rooms are dated with so many problems. Do not TRUST the pictures. They are staged and very deceiving.
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Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip: Do not book. The hotel changed its name recently. It used to be Hotel Shangri-La. The new owners...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Sonder Team, Marketing at Sonder The Beacon
Responded Jan 8, 2024
Your honest feedback is important to us. It saddens us that your stay was disappointing. We’d love to hear more details about your experience. Please feel free to reach out to our 24/7 support team. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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Magali C wrote a review Dec 2023
Montreal, Canada8 contributions1 helpful vote
No internet in the suite for our 3 days stay. It is ironical for a hotel where you have to order fresh towels on line. We have been going to this hotel for 10 years when it was the Shangri-La and always had a pleasant stay. Now that Sonder took over it is a disaster, the breakfast room is closed, the roof bar is not always open and you have Zero service. Rooms have not been renovated and it is even more expensive than it was before and you must do your bed and cleaning. No amenities in the bathroom, not even a shower cap. A total disappointment.
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Date of stay: January 2024Trip type: Traveled with family
Room Tip: The only good thing is the parking and the location. When the roof top bar is open, best sunset...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Response from Sonder Team, Marketing at Sonder The Beacon
Responded Jan 8, 2024
Your feedback is important to us. It saddens us that your stay was disappointing. Please accept our apologies for the trouble with the internet. We understand your frustration, and we're sorry for the inconvenience. We offer guests the ability to book housekeeping services on demand for a nominal fee. This ensures guests can enjoy an uninterrupted and sustainable stay. Should you decide to give us another chance, we'd love to host you again at one of our other 40+ locations.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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beatrice390 wrote a review Dec 2023
Indonesia312 contributions133 helpful votes
+1
We love the location .. it’s exactly in front of the beach and it’s only need 5 -10 minutes walk to Santa Monica Pier. The staff are greats they are polite and courteous. Nothing to complain about. This hotel doesn’t provide daily cleaning but if you need extra clean towels or soap or anything , just ask front desk staffs and they will happily to provide more. The room was spotlessly clean. There’s oven, microwave, stoves etc . The only thing that this hotel need to add are washer and dryer . There are lots of eateries around this hotel. Santa Monica shopping centre, movie theatre , TJ MAXX even TARGET can be reach only 5-10 minutes by walking. Recommended place to stay 👍 Notes : 1. This hotel will hold $150 for deposit and will release after check out. 2. Deep cleaning only available after 5 days . 3. Valet parking at this hotel was very expensive for me , it’s $60 / day so we opted to park at public parking behind this hotel. It’s only $25/day for weekend or $20/day for weekday.
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Date of stay: December 2023Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Rey Q wrote a review Dec 2023
1 contribution
Amazing stay!!! I had a spacious room with a stunning sunset view. Staff is incredibly friendly and welcoming! All ways attentive and greeting you with a smile. Beautiful property with a great history. Sonder has won the jackpot on this one! Make sure to check out the pool courtyard with a hot tub and don’t forget the rooftop bar onsite, The Coco Club. Overall will definitely stay frequently!
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Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Matt B wrote a review Dec 2023
Adelaide, Australia1 contribution2 helpful votes
Loud music all night from the rooftop nightclub is the final nail in the coffin of this unenjoyable hotel. The Beacon combines the hotel and private apartment experience by taking the pros of each and discarding them, keeping all the downsides. Do you want breakfast, housekeeping, concierge services of a hotel? Forget about it. How about the independent amenities of an apartment such as a kitchen and peace and quiet? Forget about it. Sonder the Beacon has essentially recreated the experience of staying at a dingy roadside motel right in the heart of Santa Monica with the added benefit of a nightclub playing pounding music deep into the night. Some other highlights. The heating doesn't work. The toilet was difficult to flush. The linen smelled like chlorine. The wifi is inconsistent. Do everything you can to avoid staying here.
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Date of stay: December 2023
Value
Service
Sleep Quality
Trip type: Traveled on business
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
2 Helpful votes
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Response from Sonder Team, Marketing at Sonder The Beacon
Responded Dec 29, 2023
Thank you for staying with us and allowing us the opportunity to make it better. It saddens us that your stay fell short of expectations. While we do enjoy a dance and delicious cocktail from the rooftop nightclub, we recognize the loud sound is not for everyone. Please accept our sincere apology — your comfort is important to us. each space is equipped with a white noise machine and earplugs to aid sleep. Let us know before booking your next trip, and our guest services team can review the location with you.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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michael78861 wrote a review Nov 2023
New York City, New York4 contributions1 helpful vote
I had not been the Shangri La hotel in awhile. It has changed it's name to the Sonders' Beacon and has a new rooftop bar that looks amazing. We went for the sunset and it did not disappoint. The new interior was bright and welcoming, and the staff was very friendly. They were still learning the new cocktails so it took a few minutes to get our drinks, but they were delicious! My friend had a glass of wine that she enjoyed. We didn't try the food this time, but plan to come back on the weekend again to try it.
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Date of stay: November 2023
Value
Location
Service
Trip type: Traveled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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PRICE RANGE
$298 - $578 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
ALSO KNOWN AS
hotel shangri la santa monica
FORMERLY KNOWN AS
Hotel Shangri - La
LOCATION
United StatesCaliforniaSanta MonicaSanta Monica
NUMBER OF ROOMS
70
Prices are the average nightly price provided by our partners and may not include all taxes and fees. Taxes and fees that are shown are estimates only. Please see our partners for more details.
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SONDER THE BEACON - Updated 2024 Prices & Lodging Reviews (Santa Monica, CA)

Frequently Asked Questions about Sonder The Beacon
Which popular attractions are close to Sonder The Beacon?
Nearby attractions include Third Street Promenade (0.2 miles), Montana Avenue (0.2 miles), and Ye Olde Kings Head (0.1 miles).
What are some of the property amenities at Sonder The Beacon?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, a pool, and an on-site restaurant.
Which room amenities are available at Sonder The Beacon?
Top room amenities include a kitchenette, air conditioning, and a flat screen TV.
What food & drink options are available at Sonder The Beacon?
Guests can enjoy an on-site restaurant, a lounge, and complimentary tea during their stay.
Is parking available at Sonder The Beacon?
Yes, paid private parking on-site, paid public parking nearby, and valet parking are available to guests.
What are some restaurants close to Sonder The Beacon?
Conveniently located restaurants include SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa, True Food Kitchen, and Hillstone Restaurant.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Sonder The Beacon?
Yes, guests have access to a pool and a fitness center during their stay.
Is Sonder The Beacon located near the city center?
Yes, it is 0.5 miles away from the center of Santa Monica.
Are there any historical sites close to Sonder The Beacon?
Many travelers enjoy visiting Will Rogers State Historic Park (2.8 miles), Annenberg Community Beach House (1.0 miles), and Los Angeles California Temple (4.5 miles).
Does Sonder The Beacon have any great views?
Yes, guests often enjoy the harbor view available here.