Hotel
Hotel Bel-Air
A Dorchester Collection hotel set in twelve acres of gardens in Bel Air, opened in 1946 and reached across a footbridge over its famous Swan Lake.
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel
Hostelling International's Santa Monica hostel, a few blocks from the beach, with dorms, private rooms, a guest kitchen and courtyard near the Third Street Promenade.
At a glance
- Type
- Hostel
- Area
- Santa Monica, Los Angeles, United States
- Price
- $ · Budget
- Official site
- hiusa.org
Good to know
- Dorms and private rooms
- Guest kitchen
- Courtyard
- Game room
- Free Wi-Fi
- Social activities
Why we recommend it
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica is a hostel run by Hostelling International USA on 2nd Street in Downtown Santa Monica. It offers some of the most affordable beds in this part of Los Angeles, a few blocks from the beach, and it attracts a mix of backpackers, students, solo travellers and budget-conscious families.
Room options are varied. Dormitories range from four-bed rooms to larger eight- and ten-bed rooms, some with ensuite bathrooms, and there are private rooms, including twin, double and queen ensuite rooms that sleep up to four guests. That flexibility makes it a sensible choice for friends travelling together or families who want a private room at a lower price than a hotel.
Shared facilities include a fully equipped guest kitchen, a sunny courtyard and outdoor area, a work space and a game room, along with personal power and USB outlets and free Wi-Fi. The hostel runs tours and social activities, including free events for guests, which make it easy for solo travellers to meet people. It also highlights its eco-friendly approach.
The location is excellent for a beach-focused stay. The Third Street Promenade is about 0.2 miles away, Santa Monica Pier about 0.4 miles and Venice Beach roughly 2.4 miles south along the beach path. The Downtown Santa Monica station on the Metro E Line is nearby, giving a direct rail link to Culver City, Exposition Park and Downtown Los Angeles.
It suits travellers who prioritise location and value over privacy and luxury. Dorm rooms can be noisy at times, so earplugs are a good idea, and lockers or secure storage are worth asking about at check-in. Groups can book through the hostel's group travel service. Staying in Santa Monica rather than Hollywood or Downtown gives you a walkable base with the beach on the doorstep, at the cost of longer journeys to sights on the east side of the city. Many guests plan their days around the E Line, which makes reaching Exposition Park and Downtown simple, and use buses or ride-shares for Hollywood. The hostel's staff can advise on transport, local events and activities.
Book early for summer and holiday periods, when beds in Santa Monica sell out quickly. Check the hostel's website for current policies on age limits and identification, which can differ between hostels, and for the timetable of social events during your stay.
HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel FAQs
Where is the HI Santa Monica hostel?
At 1436 2nd Street in Downtown Santa Monica.
What kinds of rooms are there?
Dorms with four to ten beds, some ensuite, plus private twin, double and queen ensuite rooms.
Is there a kitchen?
Yes. There is a fully equipped guest kitchen.
How far is the beach?
The Santa Monica Pier is about 0.4 miles away and the Third Street Promenade about 0.2 miles.
Is there free Wi-Fi?
Yes.
Are there social activities?
Yes. The hostel runs tours and social activities, including free events for guests.
Can you reach Downtown LA by train?
Yes. The Downtown Santa Monica station on the Metro E Line is nearby.
What is the phone number?
+1 310-393-9913.