This rare West Coast example of a shingled Colonial Revival house, built in 1910, is tucked into woodsy Santa Monica Canyon, north of the city limits. It was restored and opened as a B&B in 1989, and it is simply gorgeous. The gracious living room where afternoon tea, wine and hors d’oeuvres are served, dominated by an enormous Batchelder tile fireplace, sets the tone with white wicker armchairs and blue uphlstery contrasting with the dark wood built-in shelves and trim. The 15 airy, individually decorated rooms come in an array of layouts with varying combinations of four-poster beds, fireplaces or whirlpool tubs; all but the “Cozy Queen” offer ample space. A few rooms offer peeks at the ocean, .2 mile away, but the garden views are equally enticing. The grounds include a quiet rose garden and a private hillside hot tub. The inn provides bicycles, beach chairs and towels for beach forays. All this, and free parking and Wi-Fi, too.
- Frommer's Staff