I lived in Santa Monica and other neighborhoods within LA for 19 years. To me, this is *the* ideal location. You can stay there and never need a car. It's a short walk to the beach and the bike path, which runs 26 miles. There is a nice playground right on the beach, that is also in walking distance. If you are a coffee-junky, there is a Starbucks right around the corner. Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica Pier, and Venice are all within walking distance as well. (Although if you want to go as far as the Venice canals, I would suggest taking a bike. There are a lot of bike rental places nearby to choose from.) If you do have a car, parking is easy and close by.
The unit was very clean when we arrived. It is bigger than is sounds, and is very sunny with windows on 4 sides, so you can get good ventilation.
We enjoyed our visit and would stay there again.