West LA Times

Santa Monica welcomes the new year with several hotel updates, renovations, and additions. From the iconic Georgian Hotel’s massive restoration to the rebranding of Le Merigot and The Beacon by Sonder to the grand opening of the newest hotel in Santa Monica, The Pierside, and more – the City is in for an exciting year.

"Santa Monica welcomes the world to experience the Santa Monica sunshine, blue skies, and beaches," said David White, Santa Monica City Manager. "With an abundance of restaurants, walkable neighborhoods, and our historic Santa Monica Pier, we hope you’ll make time to enjoy the scenic views of the Pacific."

Extensive renovations have been underway for The Pierside Hotel, a new lifestyle hotel at 120 Colorado Ave. Situated steps from the beach, The Pierside offers a true taste of California coastal living with panoramic views of the Santa Monica Pier. The hotel features seven floors and 132 rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows designed with natural textures and ocean-inspired colors, taking cues from Santa Monica’s lush landscape and unique style. Amenities include a multi-story mural by Artist Shepard Fairey, an outdoor saltwater pool and on-site activity outfitter for surfboard, skateboard, and GoPro rentals. The hotel will also debut a new restaurant called The Surfing Fox, slated to open in Spring, the casual hideaway will feature local flavors and familiar favorites that will activate and enliven the Colorado Esplanade with a large outdoor dining area.

Also located on Ocean Avenue and perched above the Santa Monica waterfront, The Georgian has been a fixture of the Southern California coastline since its opening in 1933. The historic hotel's newest chapter includes the restoration of its 84 guest rooms and 28 suites, as well as its ocean-view Sunset Terrace, Dining Room, and Sunset Bar. Additionally, The Library, gym, and two new private spaces – The Gallery and The Writer’s Room – will serve as meeting and dining areas. The Gallery will also double as a revolving art showroom featuring work from international artists. Its food and beverage program will be announced at a later date.

The Shangri-La Hotel has transitioned to The Beacon by Sonder on January 7, 2023; the Viceroy Santa Monica is in the process of a complete room renovation and will remain open during its revamp with an anticipated completion this Spring; and later this year, Le Merigot will undergo a renovation and officially rebrand as an Autograph Collection.

"Much of the reimagining of and investment in Santa Monica’s hotel supply stems from optimism about the current and expected health of the travel industry. Since 2020, the industry has been steadily rebounding," said Lauren Schlau, President and Owner of Lauren Schlau Consulting. "By the end of 2021, tourism generated $750 million in total annual spending, and the 41 hotels drove $45 million in revenue. Looking forward and accounting for half of the tourism volume in Santa Monica, international visitor count continues to grow. The City is also seeing a higher demand from business and meetings travelers, resulting in a positive outlook both near and long-term."

"The new and refurbished product in Santa Monica from a tourism perspective is incredibly exciting," said Misti Kerns, President and CEO of Santa Monica Travel & Tourism. "Ocean Avenue, already a desirable area has become even more charming, offering the most seasoned visitors a refreshed experience."

Original source can be found here.