Viceroy Santa Monica551

The Viceroy is a well-kept Santa Monica secret. Anyone driving by the Ocean Avenue address might not even give the place a second look. But walk inside the doors, and one is suddenly immersed in a hidden world that is at once hip and trendy, elegant and friendly.

Guests are greeted upon arrival with glasses of bubbly (apple cider or soda for the kids!), which sets the tone for a hotel that does anything it can to offer a luxurious and relaxing stay.

The 162-room boutique hotel offers guestrooms and executive suites - many with ocean views. While the rooms aren't huge, they are delightful and beautiful. Decorated in hues of green, white, and gold, the space offers a simplicity that results in the "ahhh" factor. (Much needed for over-scheduled parents and tired children!)

Plush comforters and an abundance of pillows provide a great backdrop for the kids to lie back and watch one of a couple dozen children's movies, available on loan at the front desk. Make it that much more cozy with a little room service, which is available with something for everyone - everything from grilled cheese to prime rib.

Folks won't want to get too comfy and miss out on all the other great features of the hotel, including two heated pools (open dawn to dusk), a gorgeous poolside dining/bar area, a 24-hour fitness center, a library, an award-winning restaurant, and spa services (poolside or in-room massages, facials, manicures/pedicures, and yoga instruction).

Ready to leave the hidden world of luxury and have some outdoors fun? The concierge can easily direct families to bicycle and rollerblade rentals, available within a five minute walk. The beachfront path is perfect for a family outing on two or four wheels. Try a tandem! Also within walking distance are plenty of cafes, bookstores, shops, and cafes.

Pacific Park at Santa Monica Pier is a don't miss stop, just a short walk from the hotel. Kids of all ages love the games arcade, bumper cars, and rides - including the vintage carousel.

After a day bicycling, shopping, and playing at the pier, we suggest asking the concierge about babysitting services so adults can spend an evening having dinner at one of the outside candlelit tables or romantic covered cabanas by the pool. On weekends DJs draw a handsome crowd, and it's the perfect time to enjoy a drink while listening the music.