Welcome to Dream Inn Santa Cruz – Santa Cruz

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From222US$ /night
Check-in
10Mar2026Select date
Check-out
11Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room
Key details

About the Hotel

175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California, United States, 95060
-
Close to the beach
Great
8.7
9.1
/10
4.5
4.3
/5

Location

The Dream Inn is the only beachfront hotel located in Santa Cruz, positioned directly on Cowell Beach. This prime location offers easy access to the historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and nearby attractions such as the Santa Cruz Wharf and Natural Bridges State Beach. Guests can explore local dining options and activities within walking distance, making it convenient for leisure and adventure.

Rooms

Each guest room at Dream Inn provides a private balcony with sweeping views of Monterey Bay. The spacious Ocean View Cathedral Executive King room offers a vaulted ceiling and floor-to-ceiling windows, enhancing the coastal experience. Suites are equipped with a king-sized bed, a tub, and a fireplace, catering to those seeking extra comfort.

Dining

Jack O'Neill Restaurant and Lounge provides a diverse menu with locally sourced ingredients from the Monterey Bay area. Guests can enjoy casual meals poolside or dine with ocean views, featuring dishes like the Dream Inn Chowder and seasonal seafood options. The restaurant hosts live music events that enhance the dining experience.

Event Spaces

The hotel offers 3,500 square feet of versatile event space, including the Dream Ballroom, ideal for weddings and meetings. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the ballroom present stunning views of the ocean, creating an inviting backdrop for gatherings. Outdoor patio options enhance the available spaces for larger events or receptions.

Wellness Weekend Series

The Dream Inn hosts Wellness Weekend Series designed to promote relaxation and personal growth. These weekends include guided meditation, wellness workshops, and nature-inspired activities, providing a serene environment for guests. This series caters to those seeking rejuvenation amid the beautiful coastal setting.

Highlights

Location: only beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz .

Rooms: Ocean View Cathedral Executive King room .

Dining: Jack O'Neill Restaurant and Lounge .

Event Spaces: 3,500 square feet of versatile event space .

Wellness: Wellness Weekend Series with guided meditation .

Must-do experiences

  • Stroll the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk after sunset for rides and lights.
  • Savor a famous corn dog at the Boardwalk, a local favorite treat.
  • Visit the Seymour Marine Discovery Center for marine education fun.
  • Explore Natural Bridges State Beach for stunning views and photo ops.
  • Check out the Santa Cruz Farmers Market on Wednesdays for fresh goodies.
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Select your room type

Choose from doubles, suites, or family rooms, many with breakfast, flexible cancellation, and promotional rates
Ocean View Suite Tower
2 persons
475 sq. feet 
1 King-size bed
Shower
Balcony
Ocean View Deluxe Two Queen
2 persons
345 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Balcony
Ocean View Cloud Two Queen
2 persons
345 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Balcony
Ocean View Executive Two Queen
2 persons
345 sq. feet 
2 King Size Beds
Shower
Balcony
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Facilities

Boutique hotels design their amenities with your relaxation and unique travel experiences in mind
Facilities: Great
8.6/10Review score

General

  • No smoking on site
  • Wi-Fi
  • Parking
  • Safe deposit box
  • 24-hour reception
  • Express check-in/ -out
  • No pets allowed
  • Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
  • Security
  • Luggage storage
  • Lift
  • ATM/Cash machine
  • Coffee shop
  • Vending machines
  • Fireplace
  • Smoke detectors
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Key card access

Sports & Fitness

  • Canoeing
  • Hiking
  • Golf course
  • Fishing

Services

  • Valet parking
  • Room service
  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Dry cleaning
  • Shops/Commercial services
  • Welcome drink
  • Happy hour

Dining

  • Restaurant
  • Snack bar
  • Bar/ Lounge area
  • Special diet menus

Business

  • Meeting/ Banquet facilities
  • Fax/Photocopying

Children

  • Cots

Spa & Leisure

  • Heated swimming pool
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Beach access
  • Beach umbrellas
  • Sun loungers
  • Live entertainment
  • Sun terrace
  • Jacuzzi

Room features

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating
  • Garden furniture
  • Tea and coffee facilities
  • Ironing facilities

Media

  • Flat-screen TV
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Dining Onsite

At Dream Inn Santa Cruz, guests can delight in the flavors of the region at the Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge. This inviting venue offers a blend of family-friendly and romantic dining experiences, perfect for savoring the culinary treasures of the local area while soaking in the stunning coastal ambiance.
Dream Inn Santa Cruz Restaurant photo
Dream Inn Santa Cruz Restaurant photo

Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge

Local fare with a focus on seafood
Ambiance
Warm, inviting atmosphere conducive for both family gatherings and intimate dinners.
Key Offerings
Signature dishes celebrate the ocean's bounty, with options for breakfast, brunch, and dinner, all complemented by a relaxed lounge setting.
Reservation
Reservations recommended.
Open for breakfast, brunch, and dinner.

Dream Inn Santa Cruz Location

175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California, United States, 95060
Map view
175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, California, United States, 95060
Nearby
Harbour
Santa Cruz Wharf
800 ft
35 Pacific Ave
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
900 ft
Lighthouse Point West Cliff Drive
Mark Abbott Memorial Lighthouse
1900 ft
Store
Cowell Beach
800 ft
Store
Cowell's Beach Surf Shop
1200 ft
Restaurants
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
700 ft
175 West Cliff Drive
Ideal Bar & Grill
900 ft
106 Beach St
The Picnic Basket
1100 ft
125 Beach St
Sawasdee By The Sea
1300 ft
101 Main St Casablanca Inn
Casablanca Bistro
1600 ft
101 Main St
South Beach Pizza Company
1700 ft
303 Beach St
FireFish Grill
2200 ft
25 Municipal Wharf
Riva Fish House
2200 ft
31 Municipal Wharf
Beach Street Cafe
1900 ft
399 Beach St
Splash
2800 ft
49A Municipal Wharf
Stagnaro Bros Seafood
3800 ft
Municipal Wharf
Explore Santa Cruz
Explore Santa Cruz
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
11-minute walk
An iconic amusement park featuring rides and games along the beach; perfect for family fun and seaside memories.
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
5-minute drive
A small museum showcasing the history of surfing in Santa Cruz; features unique surf artifacts and stories.
Santa Cruz Wharf
3-minute walk
A lively wharf with shops and seafood restaurants; ideal for ocean views and fresh local cuisine.
Museum of Art and History
3-minute drive
Offers a fascinating collection of art and historical exhibits; hosts rotating shows and cultural events.
Surfing Lessons
5-minute walk
Surfing lessons available at Cowell's Beach; great for beginners and thrill-seekers with expert instructors.
Well Within Spa
15-minute walk
A serene spa offering massages, treatments, and wellness services; perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Biking along the Coastal Trail
10-minute walk to rentals
Scenic coastal biking trail; bike rentals available nearby for exploring picturesque ocean views and wildlife.
Visit Natural Bridges State Beach
10-minute drive
Known for its unique rock formations and tidal pools; a peaceful spot ideal for picnics and beachcombing.
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
3-minute walk
Casual dining with a vibrant atmosphere and ocean views; great seafood and burgers, reservations recommended.
Ideal Bar & Grill
4-minute walk
A local favorite featuring American classics and craft beers; a cozy spot perfect for casual meals after beach visits.
Sawasdee By The Sea
5-minute walk
Thai cuisine with fresh, flavorful dishes; serene setting with vegetarian options available.
Casablanca Bistro
6-minute walk
Bistro featuring Mediterranean-inspired dishes; offers local wines and seasonal ingredients in a romantic setting.
Cocoanut Grove Banquet and Conference Center
10-minute walk
Hosts various events and live performances; check for family-friendly shows and seasonal events.
Pacifica Gardens
17-minute walk
A vibrant area with street performers, unique shops, and restaurants; perfect for evening strolls and nightlife.
The Catalyst
5-minute drive
Popular live music venue offering a range of performances; entertaining spot for music lovers and night owls.
Santa Cruz Comedy Theatre
5-minute drive
Features stand-up acts and improv shows; fun entertainment option for a night out with friends or family.
Getting around
City Centre
Santa Cruz15 min  ·  4000 ft
Airports
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)83 min  ·  34.0 mi
Monterey Regional Airport (MRY)103 min  ·  42.6 mi
Bus
Bus stop2 min  ·  400 ft
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Property information and rules
Check-in
from 16:00-23:59
Check-out
until 11 am
Guest Parking
Private parking is possible on site at USD 35 per day.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in for free.
Pets
Pets are not allowed.
Year renovated:
2008
Number of floors:
10
Number of rooms:
165
Former name
Coast Santa Cruz Hotel

Reviews and Ratings

Real comments from travelers who have already stayed
Review score
Based on 869 verified reviews
9.0/10
Perfect
88%
Recommend
Breakfast
10.0/10
Cleanliness
9.0/10
Comfort
9.0/10
Facilities
8.6/10
Free Wi-Fi
9.0/10
Location
9.7/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Staff
9.0/10
Value for money
7.7/10
Pros
Beach entrance
Ocean view
Valet service
Pool temperature
Friendly staff
Cons
Broken chargers
Disgusting shower
Loud noises
Guest reviews
based on 3752 reviews
4.5/5
based on 799 reviews
8.7/10
No reviews yet on our siteUnfortunately, our guests have not yet left any reviews for this hotel, but you can read reviews from Booking.com.
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FAQs
About Dream Inn Santa Cruz
How close is Dream Inn Santa Cruz to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk?
Dream Inn Santa Cruz is just a 1 km walk from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
What are the check-in and check-out times at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Check-in is available from 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
Is parking available at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Private parking is available on-site for 35 USD per day without the need for a reservation.
What kind of swimming facilities does Dream Inn Santa Cruz offer?
The hotel features a renovated outdoor heated swimming pool and hot tub.
What dining options are available at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Guests can dine at the on-site Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge, known for its local sourcing.
What amenities are included in the rooms at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Rooms feature flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, mini-refrigerators, and premium coffee makers.
How far is Dream Inn Santa Cruz from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport?
The hotel is located 55 km from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport.
Are there any outdoor activities available at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Guests can enjoy activities such as hiking, canoeing, and fishing directly from the hotel.
What views can guests expect from the rooms at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
The rooms feature private balconies or patios with spectacular views of Monterey Bay.
What languages do the staff at Dream Inn Santa Cruz speak?
The staff at the hotel primarily speak English.
Can guests access Wi-Fi at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
What nearby attractions can guests visit while staying at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Attractions include the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (1 km), Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (0.5 km), and Natural Bridges State Beach (3 km).
What family-friendly amenities are provided at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Family-friendly amenities include cots and access to bicycle rentals.

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Check-in
10Mar2026Select date
Check-out
11Mar2026Select date
Rooms and Guests2 Guests, 1 Room