One hotel I rarely see mentioned is The Oceana http://www.hoteloceanasantamonica.com/
The location is great, I have friends who stay there and love it. You won't be right on the sand, as you are at Shutters or Casa Del Mar, but the views are outstanding. Within walking distance of very good restaurants (Ivy, The Lobster, Ocean Ave Seafood, etc.). I DO NOT recommend The Sofitel. I haven't stayed there, but I loathe the location. It's right across from The Beverly Center (ugly shopping mall), Cedars Sinai Hospital and is NOT within walking distance of Beverly Hills; although it is within walking distance of Robertson Blvd shopping. I agree with previous poster's assessment of The W. The hotel is almost too hip and there is nothing going on in Westwood.
Had lunch recently at The Penthouse at Huntley. Lovely venue, decent food.