Hotel Carmel

We stayed at hotel Carmel for two nights. Our room was on the top floor. There was a smell throughout the hotel but it wasn’t unbearable. Our room was clean and good for what we needed it for! We didn’t notice the smell in our room. There was no fridge in our room, but they easily brought one up for us. The location was fantastic. A 5 minute walk to the pier and easily accessible by car! Many stores for clothing, restaurants, etc located nearby. We did not use the valet service — we parked in the parking garage right next to it but be mindful parking over night as their maxim daily rate is $20… we ended up paying $40 per night because of this (leaving it in the garage over night and into the morning). So I’m sure there are better parking options around! It definitely is a dated hotel but a perfect location! We would recommend it to anyone who’s looking for a cheap, short stay with no frills!

This hotel is spectacular! The staff was absolutely wonderful, and all of house keeping needs a raise for sure! We would leave our room for like 20 mins in the morning and our bed was made and bathroom had fresh towels, they were fantastic. The location is so great. In the perfect spot, great distance to the promenade, the Pier, the mall, so many wonderful restaurants, and more. We parked our car and didn't move it once all weekend. I would say, definitely ask for a room AWAY from the alley, unless you're okay with getting up early. There is a lot of noise in the alley at all hours of the day and night.

We chose this hotel on family members advise and we were not disappointed. This is truly a beautiful original hotel with very very close proximity to the beach, restaurants and shopping. |We were riding a motor bike and the lovely concierge lady walked and guided us across the road into a secure carpark which was very very reasonably priced. Our room was comfortable and had been renovated. The bathroom was yet to be upgraded but there was nothing wrong with it other than being a little tired. The room was quiet and the bed was very comfortable. The room service team were happy to give us extra water and coffee throughout our 5 day stay.|All of the staff members were extremely friendly and helpful with nothing being too much trouble. We would definitely stay here again.

I stayed for two nights in June 2025 and was so pleasantly surprised by this hotel. The 2-star category doesn't do it justice. It is at least a 3-star hotel. The room was a bit small but comfortable and very clean. Service was impeccable, from the lady at the valet parking to the front desk and the service employees. And the price a great value, unbeatable location, one block from the boardwalk, close to restaurants and cafes and two blocks from a Target. We didn't need to drive that much. I highly recommend it and will come back if I visit again the LA/Santa Monica area. Totally worth it!

Great location in downtown Santa Monica, at a walking distance from E metro train station and nearby bus stops for those who rely on public transportation. No frills hotel, neat and tidy rooms. Worth the money. Very near to SM Pier. Staff at the reception was very welcoming but the room was cleaned only once during 3 nights stay (hence a star less). Tea and water supplies were stocked throughout the stay.

Our overall check-in experience was absolutely excellent from the moment we arrived. Maxine greeted us with a warm smile and made us feel comfortable right away. She was incredibly helpful, answering all of our questions with patience and professionalism. Not only that, but she also recommended some fantastic local restaurants that ended up being highlights of our trip. It was clear she genuinely cared about making sure we had a great stay. We truly appreciated her friendliness, attention to detail, and the welcoming atmosphere she created for us.

A friend and I stayed here for one night. It’s in a great location and the staff is friendly. We also used the valet service which was very convenient. Rooms were clean. It’s a little pricey but overall a solid choice.

We stayed here in August 2025. Arrived very early in the morning and were able to store our bags while we went and explored Santa Monica. Rooms were clean but a bit tight for space with two double beds. Air con worked a treat but we had no fridge and the deadlock on the door did not work. Still felt very safe as the lobby is staffed 24/7 and with what appeared to be a Secuirty guard. Wifi is free but doesn’t work great in the rooms. Overall great place to stay if you’re wanting to be close to the Santa Monica pier. If you’re looking for a breakfast, jinxy’s next door is great! And The Whaler is a great spot for a beer. I would stay here again.