Cheap Hotels in Santa Monica, CA from $126

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Our top choices for Santa Monica cheap hotels

HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel

HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
2.0 star property
Downtown Santa Monica
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (825)
"Stellar, first time staying at a hostel and I was very impressed."
United States
Kieran
$104 nightly
The price is $126
Dec 15 - Dec 16
Total with taxes and fees
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel

Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica

Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica
3.0 star property
Downtown Santa Monica
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1088)
"Good room good location "
Canada
Phil
$145 nightly
The price is $174
Jan 4 - Jan 5, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica

Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica

Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica
4.0 star property
Ocean Park
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (273)
"Clean room, friendly staff"
United States
Mark
$204 nightly
The price is $242
Jan 4 - Jan 5, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Hyatt Centric Delfina Santa Monica

Ocean View Hotel

Ocean View Hotel
3.0 star property
Downtown Santa Monica
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1001)
"Great location and views!"
United States
Elena
$176 nightly
The price is $210
Dec 24 - Dec 25
Total with taxes and fees
Ocean View Hotel

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica

Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica
3.0 star property
Downtown Santa Monica
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1000)
"Great location; enjoyed cafe:)"
United States
Astrid
$195 nightly
The price is $231
Dec 21 - Dec 22
Total with taxes and fees
Courtyard by Marriott Santa Monica

Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites

Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Monica
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1294)
"Great hotel"
United States
jorge Alzaga
$203 nightly
The price is $241
Jan 4 - Jan 5, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites

Hotel Carmel

Hotel Carmel
3.0 star property
Downtown Santa Monica
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1108)
"Awesome place"
United States
Todd
$186 nightly
The price is $219
Dec 31 - Jan 1, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Carmel

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica
2.5 star property
Sunset Park
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1000)
"Very friendly staff and accomodation great"
Australia
Stephen
$150 nightly
The price is $179
Dec 17 - Dec 18
Total with taxes and fees
SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica

Bayside Hotel

Bayside Hotel
2.0 star property
Ocean Park
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1004)
"Good place!"
United States
Aymee
$161 nightly
The price is $191
Dec 17 - Dec 18
Total with taxes and fees
Bayside Hotel

The Pierside Santa Monica

The Pierside Santa Monica
4.0 star property
Downtown Santa Monica
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1467)
"I am definitely coming back. Great hotel and great staff "
United States
Robert
$274 nightly
The price is $323
Dec 19 - Dec 20
Total with taxes and fees
The Pierside Santa Monica
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Find out more about Santa Monica

Discover cheap things to do in Santa Monica

Santa Monica offers a delightful mix of activities for budget-conscious travelers without sacrificing quality. Start your adventure at the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where you can stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy the free live music and entertainment that frequently fills the air. Don’t miss the chance to explore the picturesque Santa Monica State Beach, perfect for a family day out with free beach access, sunbathing, and picnicking spots. For a taste of local culture, visit the bustling Third Street Promenade, where you can browse unique shops and take in street performances without spending a dime. If you're up for a bit of nature, the scenic trails of Palisades Park offer stunning ocean views and are absolutely free to explore. For dining, check out the casual eateries and food trucks near the beach, where you can grab delicious, affordable bites like fish tacos or gourmet hot dogs. Many budget-friendly hotels can be found just a short walk from these attractions, particularly in the downtown area, ensuring a comfortable stay with easy access to all the local highlights. Enjoy the charm and vibrancy of Santa Monica while keeping your travel costs in check!

Find the best cheap hotels in Santa Monica

Travelers seeking affordable accommodations in Santa Monica will find a variety of budget-friendly hotels that don't compromise on comfort or convenience. Here are some excellent options that ensure a pleasant stay without breaking the bank.

Sea Shore Motel

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Sea Shore Motel stands out with a guest review rating of 8.8, making it a charming option for budget travelers looking to stay close to the beach. With free self-parking and Wi-Fi, guests can enjoy straightforward access to their accommodations and stay connected throughout their visit. The motel's prime location near the beach makes it an attractive choice for sun-seekers.
  • Other amenities: Guests can take advantage of the terrace for outdoor relaxation, and enjoy the comfort of air-conditioned rooms. The motel also features bike parking for those looking to explore Santa Monica on two wheels. Each room includes a balcony, providing a personal outdoor space to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
  • Neighborhood: Ocean Park
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Monica Beach - 0.23 miles, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area - 0.35 miles, Main Street Santa Monica - 0.0 miles

SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for comfort and convenience. With a strong guest review rating of 8.8, this hotel offers essential amenities like free continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a pleasant start to each day. Guests can also enjoy the convenience of free self-parking and a kitchenette in selected rooms, perfect for preparing meals on a budget.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a terrace for relaxing outdoors, hydromassage showerheads for a refreshing experience, and daily housekeeping. The hotel also provides cribs and rollaway beds at no extra charge, making it an excellent option for families. Guests will appreciate the accessibility of electric car charging stations and the availability of cooking essentials such as cookware and utensils in the kitchenettes.
  • Neighborhood: Sunset Park
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Monica Beach - 2.64 miles, Santa Monica Place - 2.98 miles

Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Days Inn by Wyndham Santa Monica offers travelers exceptional value with a guest review rating of 8.2. This budget-friendly hotel provides free Wi-Fi and is conveniently located near shopping and beach attractions. With early check-in and late check-out options, guests can maximize their time in Santa Monica.
  • Other amenities: Additional features include a terrace for enjoying the outdoors, air conditioning for a comfortable stay, and the availability of microwaves in rooms. The hotel provides free parking spaces, making it suitable for guests traveling by car. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly amenities, including free offerings for children, ensuring a welcoming place for all guests.
  • Neighborhood: Mid-City
  • Nearby attractions: University of California, Los Angeles - 2.28 miles, Ocean Avenue - 2.06 miles

Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: Offering a delightful mix of comfort and value, the Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica boasts an excellent guest review rating of 8.2, making it another fantastic choice for budget travelers. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast each morning, including a convenient to-go option, perfect for those on the move. The outdoor pool provides a refreshing retreat after a day of exploring Santa Monica.
  • Other amenities: Additional offerings include a 24-hour fitness center, secured valet parking, and a terrace for relaxing evenings. The hotel is conveniently located near the beach, making it easy for guests to soak in the sun. With air-conditioned rooms, shared microwaves, and refrigerators, travelers have all they need for a comfortable stay. The nearby the boardwalk and beach enhances the experience for guests looking to enjoy Santa Monica's vibrant atmosphere.
  • Neighborhood: Downtown Santa Monica
  • Nearby attractions: Santa Monica Place - 0.15 miles, Santa Monica Pier - 0.42 miles, Third Street Promenade - 0.22 miles

Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles

  • Why it's great for a budget-friendly vacation: With a solid guest review rating of 8.0, Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles is a budget-friendly hotel offering excellent value for travelers. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast, and enjoy the convenience of free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. The outdoor pool provides a perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing in sunny Santa Monica.
  • Other amenities: The hotel features self-parking options, air conditioning, and cribs available for families. Nearby activities include windsurfing, kayaking, and surfing, ensuring adventurous guests have plenty to explore. The rooms are equipped with refrigerators and coffee makers, providing essential comforts for a relaxing stay. The hotel also offers easy access to popular attractions and local beaches.
  • Neighborhood: Mid-City
  • Nearby attractions: University of California, Los Angeles - 2.42 miles, Ocean Avenue - 1.92 miles

How can I get cheap hotels in Santa Monica?

Best tips to find a cheap hotel in Santa Monica

  1. If you're looking to travel to Santa Monica on a budget, you'll be happy to know that you can find hotels for as low as $126. Of course, that price is affected by amenities, star rating, and even the time of year you visit. At most, hotel prices can be as high as $323. Staying a short amount of time in Santa Monica is an effective way to reduce hotel costs.

  2. When you cut your vacation down to just a few days, you don't have to worry as much about hotel prices since you don't have that many nights to stay. For budget hotels in Santa Monica, 3 to 4 days should be all the nights you need. That's generally enough to enjoy the city's top attractions, though there's certainly enough to do to warrant a week-long trip.

  3. When booking cheap hotel rooms in Santa Monica, it's typically best to book about 3 weeks in advance. Book further in advance than that and you could be paying too much for your room, as hotels will often overestimate future demand. However, if you wait too long, you might find that the hotel has been completely booked.

  4. When you utilize search filters on Expedia, you'll be able to narrow down your results in a flash. These search filters cover a wide variety of factors you may be interested in when it comes to finding a cheap hotel in Santa Monica, including amenities such as Free Breakfast, 2-star rating, or proximity to local attractions. You can even set filters for price limits to ensure that all the displayed results are within your budget.

Top Santa Monica Hotel Reviews

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Monica like for travelers on a budget?
Santa Monica offers a variety of cheap accommodations and places to visit, making it a budget-friendly vacation choice. In addition to its well-known attractions like Santa Monica Beach and Santa Monica Pier, this destination is home to Palisades Park and International Chess Park, which you can enjoy while spending very little.
What's the best accommodation for a budget-friendly stay in Santa Monica?
Based on reviews, Gateway Hotel Santa Monica is a popular hotel for our travelers who want a more economical choice, and features free WiFi and air conditioning. Other options for your budget-friendly stay include Comfort Inn Santa Monica - West Los Angeles and SureStay Hotel by Best Western Santa Monica.
How many cheap hotels will I be able to find in Santa Monica?
Expedia has 6 hotels in Santa Monica that are ideal if you are watching your pennies.
When is the best time for a budget trip to Santa Monica?
Weather is probably a major factor when you plan your trip to Santa Monica, and keep in mind that cheaper options are usually available when the weather isn't as good. The hottest months are usually August and September with an average temp of 73°F, while the coldest months are February and January with an average of 57°F. Average annual precipitation for Santa Monica is 11 inches.
What is there to see and do in Santa Monica?
Santa Monica attracts visitors with its major shopping area and acclaimed art galleries, and offers plenty to see and do without spending a fortune. You can budget for the top local attractions on your list, such as Santa Monica Beach and Universal Studios Hollywood, and then make time for other wallet-friendly activities. Enjoy the outdoors at Venice Beach and Original Muscle Beach, or check out the area's cultural spots like City Garage Theatre.
How can I get to Santa Monica and get around on a budget?
Scoping out the transportation options in Santa Monica can help keep you on budget. The closest airport is 7.3 mi (11.7 km) from the center in Los Angeles Intl. (LAX). However, if that doesn't suit your budget, you can look into flights to Hawthorne, CA (HHR-Hawthorne Municipal), which is 11.1 mi (17.9 km) away. Nearby metro stations include Downtown Santa Monica Station, 17th Street/SMC Station, and 26th Street/Bergamot Station.

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