FOUND Santa Monica: Affordable Luxury for the Morning After the Afters
Tucked in between Westwood and Santa Monica, this new Series by Marriott hotel is chic, comfy and convenient for those nights out when you’re not quite ready to go home yet.
- By: Amanda Coscarelli
The Stay
Upon entering the lobby, it’s obvious that this hotel was designed with style in mind. Whether its coastal details like decorative surfboards and wood paneling, or modern touches like colored-glass pendant lights, check-in gently reminds you that you can take a deep breath— you’re here to relax.
Let’s get real. The hotel isn’t a grand three-tower property where the trek to your room feels like an entire journey in itself. It’s conveniently sized with practical amenities like a shared kitchen and laundry, and cozy rooms elevated with modern decor, platform beds and plenty of natural light. This is a stay for the weekend while you’re partying on the westside kind of hotel. It’s the kind of place where you want to get ready with your girls— a bathroom nicer than your own, a fancy showerhead and a spacious countertop— and the kind of place you want to return to at the end of the night— a clean room, warm bed and TV (travel tip: bring your Fire TV Stick/ Google Chromecast and instantly sign in to your Netflix account to pick up where you left off at home).
In the morning, you’ll feel refreshed, and in case your hangover’s too much to bear, there’s complimentary coffee in the lobby.
The Pregame
Heading out for the night? Your new favorite pregame spot is just steps away at The Cliffdiver Santa Monica. Accessible to hotel guests from the lobby, this beachy restaurant and bar combines modern coastal vibes with Mexican inspired dishes like tacos al pastor and lobster enchiladas. You’ll want to take some pictures of the thoughtfully curated decor— rattan pendant lights and colorful wallpaper— and snag a comfy seat in one of the velvet chairs. Don’t forget to order the Cheeseburger Spring Rolls and the Prickly Pear Mojito.
The Morning After
Wake up at FOUND Santa Monica slowly and with intention. Let the sunlight drift in through the windows and feel the coastal breeze from the balcony. Fighting a hangover? No need to leave. Breakfast is also just steps away, across the lobby at the Offshore Lounge. The vibes are casual— walk up to the bar and choose from a selection of espresso drinks or breakfast items like burritos, sandwiches and fresh fruit. The decor here is something to write home about. Rattan stools line a seafoam wooden bar, transporting you to what feels like an elevated beach spot in Cabo.
Around Town
Tucked conveniently between Westwood and Santa Monica, the hotel is within close driving distance to the westside’s best restaurants and bars. Dine at places like Tu Madre, Bossa Nova Brazilian Cuisine and Jon and Vinny’s in West LA. Head to Downtown Santa Monica for Elephante, El Cholo, and Edgemar. Stop for drinks at Barney’s Beanery in Westwood or Santa Monica and party at The Room.
The hotel is about 4 miles from the water, but if you don’t mind driving, you can spend a relaxing day in the sun and come back in time to freshen up before dinner. Pro tip: You’ll want to avoid the crowded beach by the pier and head northwest towards Topanga and Malibu, or south towards the ocean park region of Santa Monica.
The bottom line? If you’re looking for a vacation stay, you’ll want to be closer to the beach. But my stay at FOUND Santa Monica felt cozy, comfortable and clean. While it’s not a vacation type of hotel, it’s perfect for a weekend away from home if you’re planning on exploring other things in the city.
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