Frommer's Review
So well hidden that I passed it for 2 years without noticing it was even there, the Fairmont Miramar is for people who prefer their luxury hotels low-key and unobtrusive, yet within walking distance to the area's best attractions. Which explains why it has served as temporary residence of numerous celebrities and politicians: Cary Grant, Greta Garbo, J.F.K., Marilyn Monroe, Eleanor Roosevelt . . . . It's almost ironic that this hidden gem is located on one of the busiest blocks in Santa Monica -- a block from the beach and at the north end of Santa Monica's perpetually crowded Third Street Shopping Promenade. But through clever use of extensive landscaping and high walls, hotel guests are blissfully unaware of the hubbub that surrounds them.
The hotel consists of two towers and a bevy of bungalows on 5 acres of grounds. The older, larger rooms in the Palisades Building are ideal for families, but I prefer the newer, more modern rooms in the taller Ocean Tower -- particularly the corner rooms on the 8th through 10th floors overlooking the Santa Monica Pier or Malibu coastline. All rooms are well-appointed with such luxuries as goose-down duvets and soundproof windows; rooms in the Ocean Tower have balconies. If you're in a splurging mood, I highly recommend one of the über-romantic garden bungalows, each outfitted with hardwood floors, deep soaking tubs, and original artwork (they're almost as nice as the Beverly Hills Hotel bungalows and far less expensive). Other incentives for staying here include an outdoor pool and whirlpool, a pretty outdoor lounge serving drinks and food, and a fitness center and day spa.
Facilities:
Restaurant; outdoor lounge; lobby lounge; heated outdoor pool and whirlpool; 24-hr. health and fitness center; Club Sante Spa; 24-hr. concierge; business center; 24-hr. room service; laundry service; dry cleaning; Wi-Fi access in lobby
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
