Coastal getaways: Santa Monica

Art deco beauty near the beach

The recently renovated Hotel Shangri-La, across the street from the sands, oozes old-school details. Even the building has curves! Grab an era-appropriate drink from the poolside bar or from the rooftop bar, which looks out to the Pacific Ocean.

But truth is, the view from the in-room soaking tub is just as blue, blue, blue—these are some of the best tubs in California. (Fair warning: Weekend parties by the pool last past some people’s bedtime.) From $295; 877/999-1301. –Miranda Jones