Nearly a century after opening as a beach club, the Santa Monica landmark embarks on a year of celebrations
Words by LESLEY McKENZIE
Over the past century, the Santa Monica shoreline has evolved into one of the world’s most recognizable stretches of coast, from the iconic Ferris wheel overlooking the Pier to the palm-fringed beachfront that has become synonymous with Southern California’s outdoor way of life.
One constant throughout it all? HOTEL CASA DEL MAR, which opened its doors in 1926 as the tony Casa del Mar Beach Club. Next year, the landmark building will fête 100 years, a milestone that underscores its enduring role as the grande dame of the coast.
That history becomes apparent from the moment of arrival. The lobby’s original soaring ceilings and dramatic windows remain intact, inviting in Pacific sunsets as they melt into the horizon. Mediterranean-inspired details throughout the hotel lend warmth and romance, from its arched architecture to its soft, coastal palette, while 129 pet-friendly guest rooms and 16 suites — including three two-story penthouse suites originally built as racquetball courts — ensure an intimate stay. Accommodations emphasize space and comfort, with marble-clad bathrooms, generous layouts, and ocean-facing views that anchor the hotel firmly in its coastal surroundings.
That emphasis on ease carries through the rest of the property, from the Palm Terrace pool overlooking the beach to seasonal Beach Concierge and picnic experiences that make the shoreline feel like a natural extension of the hotel. The same sensibility shapes the spa, Sea, known for its hydrating and anti-aging skincare as well as the Traveler’s Remedy Ritual — a 60-minute massage drawing on Ayurvedic and Indonesian Sea Malay techniques to alleviate travel fatigue and restore balance after long journeys.
Dining centers on the beachfront Terrazza, where California cuisine — ranging from Dungeness crab linguini to Creekstone Farms filet mignon with sunchoke purée — is guided by seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Framed by views of the Santa Monica Pier, the Lobby Lounge, defined by cozy, semi-private cabanas, offers elevated light bites such as caviar and chips and lobster rolls, alongside extra touches spanning Macallan flights to an After Dark Coffee Bar.
As the centennial approaches, Casa del Mar will mark the occasion with yearlong activations, including a Prohibition-era cocktail menu launching in January, a 1926 anniversary suite, and curated displays of historic photographs throughout the hotel. Before the centennial year officially begins, the hotel ushers in the holidays, with Christmas Day dining at Terrazza and a Roaring Twenties–themed New Year’s Eve celebration by the sea. 1910 Ocean Way, Santa Monica; hotelcasadelmar.com.
December 23, 2025.
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