The Spirit of Old Hollywood by the Sea
Sonder The Beacon occupies one of Santa Monica’s most recognisable addresses on Ocean Avenue. Originally opened as the Hotel Shangri-La in 1940 and designed by William E. Foster, this historic property cost $400,000 to construct—a princely sum for pre-war America. The seven-storey structure initially featured nine double apartments and two bachelor apartments on each of its first five floors, with five luxury apartments on the sixth floor and two exclusive penthouses crowning the seventh.
During World War II, the building served a noble purpose as a rehabilitation centre for the United States Army Air Forces before returning to its hospitality roots. Business magnate Ahmad Adaya acquired the property in 1983, with his daughter Tehmina Adaya assuming operational control in 2004. February 2023 marked a new chapter when Sonder Hospitality Group took the helm, rebranding the legendary address as Sonder The Beacon.
Art Deco Style Meets Modern Convenience
Despite extensive renovations, Sonder The Beacon maintains its authentic Art Deco heritage throughout its 70 rooms and 30 suites. The distinctive parquet floors, soft purple fabrics and bold animal print accents create a visual tapestry that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. Neutral tones complemented by dark wood furnishings establish an atmosphere of understated luxury.
Each accommodation features thoughtfully appointed amenities including deep soaking bathtubs for evening relaxation and Roku TVs for entertainment. Complimentary internet access and iPod docking stations ensure guests remain connected while enjoying the sanctuary of their rooms. The property offers multiple vista options, with premium suites providing sweeping views across the Pacific Ocean or the Santa Monica cityscape.
Sustainability Without Compromise
Sonder The Beacon demonstrates that luxury and environmental responsibility can coexist harmoniously. The building incorporates numerous sustainability features, including a solar-powered swimming pool, Natura Green toiletries, low-flow dual flush toilets and an on-site water filtration system.
This forward-thinking approach extends throughout the property without compromising the guest experience. The hotel exemplifies how historic properties can adapt to modern environmental standards while maintaining their architectural integrity and charm.
Rooftop Revelry
The crowning jewel of Sonder The Beacon is undoubtedly its rooftop bar, ranked among the top five in Los Angeles by The New Zealand Herald. The Coco Club offers an unparalleled vantage point for watching spectacular Pacific sunsets while sipping tropical concoctions crafted by expert mixologists. This sophisticated space provides the perfect atmosphere for both intimate conversations and social gatherings against the backdrop of the California coastline.
Wellness and Recreation
Health-conscious travellers will appreciate the fully equipped fitness room, featuring free weights and cardiovascular equipment for maintaining exercise routines while away from home. The Art Deco cabanas surrounding the swimming pool create private oases for relaxation, while the adjacent hot tub provides soothing hydrotherapy.
Active guests can explore numerous hiking options in the vicinity, including the picturesque Los Liones Canyon Trail. The property’s proximity to natural attractions and urban amenities ensures varied recreational possibilities for every preference.
Prime Positioning for Coastal Exploration
Sonder The Beacon boasts an enviable location directly across from Santa Monica Beach, placing guests moments from the iconic Santa Monica Pier. Within a ten-minute stroll, visitors can experience classic carnival games or ride the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel for panoramic coastal views.
Cultural enthusiasts will appreciate the short fifteen-minute drive to the Getty Center, housing world-class European and American artwork. The property’s central position provides straightforward access to Beverly Hills, Malibu and Venice Beach, making it an ideal base for exploring Southern California’s premier destinations.
Thoughtful Considerations for Guest Comfort
The management demonstrates attention to detail by addressing potential challenges proactively. Top-floor accommodations situated beneath the rooftop bar might experience ambient sound from evening gatherings. To mitigate this, rooms come equipped with earplugs and white noise machines. Light sleepers may prefer accommodations on lower floors—a consideration the attentive staff readily accommodates.
Sonder’s innovative approach to service delivery integrates technology for effortless convenience. Guests utilise the Sonder application to navigate their entire stay—from check-in and amenity requests to WiFi connectivity and customer support. This digital efficiency complements rather than replaces human interaction, with a 24/7 staffed front desk ensuring personalised assistance remains available at all hours.
A Sophisticated Coastal Retreat
Sonder The Beacon exemplifies how hospitality spaces can honour architectural heritage while meeting contemporary expectations. The building’s transformation balances preservation with innovation, creating an environment where Old Hollywood glamour meets modern luxury. The thoughtful integration of technology, sustainability practices and personalised service elements demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to guest experience.
For travellers seeking a distinctive coastal retreat with historical significance and contemporary amenities, Sonder The Beacon offers an authentic Santa Monica experience. The marriage of Streamline Moderne architecture, Art Deco interiors and Pacific Ocean vistas creates a memorable setting for business or leisure visits to Southern California’s celebrated coastline.