This century-old boardwalk hotel offers playfully decorated, homey accommodations for unfussy travelers who don’t mind trading a few amenities for access to an authentic Venice Beach experience.
Venice’s beachy culture has become more buttoned up in recent years—the venerated Venice freak show shuttered last April, and along the canals you’re as likely to find craft cocktail bars as you are head shops. Established in 1914, the Cadillac hotel is a welcome nod to the neighborhood’s weird days; the vibe is playful and laid-back, by way of decorative details like a ’70s-esque pistachio color scheme, a hodgepodge of vintage-inspired furniture in the building’s cozy lounge and dreamy retro street art in the parking lot. The Cadillac’s amenities are a bit lacking (you won’t find a pool or a restaurant) but given the price point, the hotel’s mellow ambiance and quirky digs make it a great spot for getting in some R&R after a day of touring the neighborhood. To that end, the hotel’s best asset is its location: the Cadillac is as close to the beach as you can get, and steps from nightlife, shopping, restaurants and more. If you’re looking for a walkable, vibrant spot without any extra frills, the Cadillac is a solid choice.
Location: The Cadillac is steps from Venice beach, meaning sand, surf, and boardwalk attractions are at your front door. You’re also walking distance from Abbot Kinney and Main Street, where you’ll find an array of shopping and dining options, and a short Uber will land you in nearby neighborhoods Santa Monica and Culver City.
Nearby:
Gjelina: Nosh on artisanal pizza—seasonal toppings include wild nettle, confit tomato, and housemade chorizo—and mingle with Venice’s young and beautiful at this Abbot Kinney hotspot. (Hint: the “G” is silent.) There’s always a line, but if you’re feeling especially peckish, you can pick up your pie to go at the Gjelina Take Away next door.
Venice Beach Boardwalk: This sunny stretch of sand is dotted with shopping, snacks and prime people watching. Rent skates, grab a corndog or pick up souvenirs in this kitschy beachside marketplace that seems delightfully stuck in the early ‘90s.
Venice Canals: Venice is naturally named for the famed aquatic Italian city, and visitors may be surprised to discover that the neighborhood has its own set of canals. On an afternoon stroll, you’ll take in rows of ducklings, lush foliage and well-appointed beach cottages.
The Del Monte Speakeasy: Originally established in 1915, this former basement speakeasy has updated its cocktail menu, but its nightly events are a nod to the past: with jazz, vaudeville and crooners, the Del Monte makes for a romantic and original date night.
Good for: The neighborhood’s attractions and walkability make the Cadillac hotel ideal for a West L.A. weekend getaway. While the no-frills vibes aren’t exactly romantic, families, friends, and chill couples looking for a deal can all take advantage of the hotel’s modest pricing and enviable location.
Amenities: Minibar, concierge
Time Out tip: For post-sightseeing respite, book a City View room; facing North or South, these suites trade ocean views for quieter nighttime hours, ensuring you’ll get a full night’s sleep before another day at the beach.