Set on a cliff above the Pacific, Fairmont Miramar Santa Monica offers coastal charms and city delights
Words by SAMANTHA BROOKS
Originally built as a private estate in 1889 before it was transformed into a hotel in 1921, Fairmont Miramar Santa Monica Hotel & Bungalows has seen its surrounding area grow, evolve and emerge as one of the greatest seaside towns in the world. Just 12 miles from LAX, the bountifully landscaped five-acre property is located on the bluffs just above the Pacific and Santa Monica’s famously broad beaches. The 297-room resort feels one part lush resort and one part urban oasis—and it indeed stands out for its sheer range of experiences. To the west, an idyllic walking path with verdant landscaping grants pedestrians miles of walking, jogging and biking paths with views of the ocean; to the south and the east, the city of Santa Monica thrives as a bustling locale for shopping, dining and entertainment.
While authentic coastal charm has always been Fairmont Miramar’s specialty, recent updates and additions will appeal greatly to the modern traveler. Opt for a Signature Palisades Suite, which offers 800 square feet of space, including a living room and views of the Los Angeles skyline—or bunk up in one of the Bungalows and feel like you have your own mini beach house. Each of the 31 standalone structures feels like a charming 1930s beach shack, luxuriously outfitted with retro-modern furnishings, soaking tubs, private patios and dedicated entrances. The 350-square-foot Signature Bungalow can sleep up to three, while the expansive three-bedroom Bungalow One, designed by Michael Berman, offers 2,500 square feet and enough space to sleep eight. Traveling solo? The 275-square-foot Premier Ocean View rooms offer intimacy as well as stunning seaside views.
Spend your days lounging by the pool, sipping spicy margaritas or glasses of rosé; relax at Exhale Spa, where massages are the epitome of self-care; enjoy a cocktail at the Lobby Lounge before walking just outside the hotel’s doors to any number of nearby dining and nightlife options; or stay on site and enjoy sushi at Soko or a night out at Bungalow, where the cozy indoor fireplaces and lively outdoor patio come with ocean views. And don’t miss brunch at FIG, which showcases seasonal produce from the local farmers market. Whichever sounds best to you, do plan on having a memorable getaway.
December 13, 2022
Discover more TRAVEL news.
