"Love its proximity to the beach (it's literally on the beach)! We splurged for an ocean-view room and loved hearing the waves crash at night."
Nico from United States
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"The location being right on the beach can't be beat - every room faces the ocean."
jessica_t_larsen
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"The view was incredible, absolutely breath taking during sunrise/sunset with the shimmering water reflecting the colorful sky."
Marc
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4-star beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz with ocean views
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.
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
44 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Ocean View Deluxe Two Queen
2 persons
32 sq. feet
2 King Size Beds
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Ocean View Cloud Two Queen
2 persons
32 sq. feet
2 King Size Beds
Air conditioning
Balcony
room details
Show all rooms
Price and Room Availability Calendar
Check availability and prices for your dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Boutique hotels design their amenities with your relaxation and unique travel experiences in mind
Facilities: Great
8.8/10Review 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
AM/FM alarm clock
Show more
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.
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.
Location
175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 95060,
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 Cruz 15 min · 4000 ft
Airports
Mineta San Jose International (SJC) 83 min · 34.0 mi
Monterey Peninsula (MRY) 103 min · 42.6 mi
Bus
Bus stop 2 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 true.
Internet
Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel 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 955 verified reviews
9.0 /10
Perfect
88 %
Recommend
Breakfast
10.0/10
Cleanliness
9.1/10
Comfort
9.1/10
Facilities
8.8/10
Free WiFi
8.7/10
Location
9.6/10
Paid Wi-Fi
8.9/10
Staff
9.1/10
Value for money
7.9/10
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 743 reviews
8.8/10
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?