HI Los Angeles - Santa Monica Hostel

HI Los Angeles Santa Monica Hostel stands at 1436 2nd Street in Santa Monica, California, two blocks from the beach and the Third Street Promenade. It is operated by Hostelling International USA and has long been one of the best-value places to stay on the Los Angeles coast, where hotel rates are otherwise among the highest in the region. The hostel occupies a central position in Downtown Santa Monica, so visitors can walk to the Santa Monica Pier, the Promenade's shops and street performers, the Santa Monica Place mall and the beach itself, and the Metro E Line terminus is close enough to reach on foot, which allows low-cost trips to Downtown Los Angeles without a car. Accommodation consists of Dorm Beds in shared rooms and Private Rooms, and rates usually range from about $45 for a dorm bed to around $180 for a private room, depending on season and demand, with summer the most expensive period. A shared kitchen allows guests to prepare their own meals, which is a significant saving in a pricey coastal city, and a common room provides space to socialise, plan outings and meet other travellers. Free Wi-Fi is provided, luggage storage is available for guests arriving early or leaving late, and a bike rental service makes it easy to ride the beach path towards Venice and Marina del Rey. There is no pool, spa or restaurant, and guests are expected to follow the usual hostel conventions of shared bathrooms in some room types, quiet hours and respect for other occupants. The atmosphere is international and sociable, with a mix of backpackers, students, solo travellers and budget-minded groups. Organised activities and local tips are often posted by the staff, and the hostel is well suited to those who want to meet others. Light sleepers should bring earplugs for dorm stays, and early booking is strongly advisable for summer, when beds often sell out.