Le Meridien Beach Plaza

As you might expect along the storied beaches of Monte Carlo, Le Meridien Beach Plaza is a grand, sprawling hotel. When viewed from that waterfront, it makes a fairly eye-catching first impression. The central glass conservatory has a stylish Art Deco look, and the property is sophisticated and airy. It also hums with travelers at all times and things can get a bit overwhelmed at check-out times. Keep in mind that it also has a party edge, drawing international tourists who want to rub elbows with the rich and famous (especially during Grand Prix season, when wild beach parties are the norm). There are plenty of spaces to kick back throughout the hotel, with spacious waterfront terraces set around palm trees, greenery, and pools. Guests on the whole tend to be couples or those on business, although some large European tour groups pass through as well. Unusually for Monaco, it has direct access to a private section of beach, which is kid-friendly and includes a roped-off shallow swimming area, drawing families as well. 

Le Meridien Beach Plaza sits on Princess Grace Avenue, right along Monte Carlo's waterfront. There are a few shops and restaurants nearby and a private beach area is behind the hotel. The National Museum is a seven-minute walk along the waterfront, but otherwise there isn't too much to see and do nearby. It's a 10-minute drive to the old town for the Casino Monte Carlo and the Golden Square boutiques, though many guests enjoy the stroll along the seafront promenade. It's a 15- to 20-minute walk depending on the destination. It's also 10 minutes by car to Monaco Station for connections farther afield. Attractions on the other side of the iconic harbor, like the Prince's Palace, the Antique Car Collection, and the Oceanographic Museum are a 20-minute drive from the hotel. The nearest international airport is in Nice, which is about 40 minutes away by car.

Rooms are large and bright, though decor varies from modern to more classic. The Design Rooms have Mondrian-inspired color block accents and darker wood features, while other more entry-level rooms look a bit tired. Many of the Design Rooms are in the hotel's curved glass towers and have the air of a ocean liner, with their panoramic sea views, but they lack balconies. Other rooms have furnished balconies, and some rooms overlook the city (the cheapest, of course). If you have the extra cash, it's worth splashing out for one of the modern Suites, which have fresh white-and-gray decor with attractive, yet subtle, artsy flourishes. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, and safes. Suites feature a few high-end extras like Bose iPod docking stations and Illy coffee machines. Electric kettles are available from the front desk. Wi-Fi is available, but is only free for SPG members (a free loyalty program). Bathrooms are modern -- some have shower/tub combos, while others have both tubs and large walk-in rainfall showers. Suites add bathrobes and slippers, plus upmarket toiletries. Some Design Suites have stand-alone tubs in the bedrooms.

Le Meridien Beach Plaza has a host of features and amenities for guests, though some -- such as the food -- come with hefty price tags. This is Monaco, after all, and the Le Meridien chain isn't exactly known for being a bargain-seeker's dream. Outdoors, there are two connected saltwater pools with uninterrupted views out to sea. Loungers and table seating are available on the terrace, with service from the various restaurants. Dining options include a main restaurant with all-day meals, a bar serving coffee and sweets (plus evening cocktails), and a seasonal restaurant featuring outside seating and a menu of light meals and tapas. For night owls, there's a late-night bar on the terrace with live DJs, food, and drinks until the early hours -- when it's transformed into a laid-back breakfast lounge. An additional bar sits along the hotel's private section of beach, where during the summer months outdoor movie screenings are held. Beach parties are also part of the scene here, especially during F1 season. Inside the hotel, there's an indoor pool, well-equipped gym, and saunas. The spa offers a range of treatments that can also be taken on the beach, and even a sunscreen protection service. There are 14 conference spaces catering for events of all sizes, and the business center is a useful addition. Other helpful features include an underground parking garage (fee) and laundry services. Wi-Fi is free in public areas, but charged in rooms unless you are an SPG member (a free loyalty program).