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group of friends hanging by the beach at sunset

SATISFY THE SOULWITH A TRIP TO THE SEASIDE

There are dozens of reasons to choose The Dream Inn for your Santa Cruz getaway, and when you book direct you have our . It's our promise that you won't find a better rate at The Dream Inn than the one we offer right here. Plus, book directly with us and relax knowing you’re in the best of hands as you prepare for your trip to Santa Cruz, CA.

Read on to and see why other people have chosen to make The Dream Inn their Santa Cruz travel accommodation.

rocky cliff on beach with rocky sand and greenery, blue skies

Nature at its Finest

The Dream Inn is located just a short walk or drive away from some Central California’s most cherished state parks. Explore the forests of Big Basin and Nisene Marks. Adventure in the meadows of Pogonip or Wilder Ranch. Discover endless beauty along the beachside bluffs up Highway 1.

colorful surfboards stacked up in a surf rack

Legendary Waves

Located right on Cowell beach, all you need to do is stop off at Club Ed’s Surf Rentals to pick up your board or SUP. Surf calm beginner level waves at Cowells. Or, if you’re feeling a bit daring, head out to Steamer Lane for the best waves in Central California. Note: Beware of The Locals.

splattered pain in jars on concrete

Creative Culture

Santa Cruz offers an eclectic array of vibrant inspiration to indulge your inner artist. Retail Galleries can be found at the Tannery Arts Center, which also hosts performances, lectures and works by artists-in-residence. The free First Friday Art Tour features local galleries and artists’ studios which open their doors to visitors. Located downtown, The Santa Cruz Museum of Art and History displays historical collections alongside seasonal art exhibits. Annual art, wine and music festivals take place year around.

people at a concert waving hands in the air

Dream a Little Dream of You

Santa Cruz offers many music venues & styles with frequent visits of top artists and musicians. Experience the best electronic dance music or hip hop at The Catalyst. Calm down with Santa Cruz Symphony, Actors’ Theatre, Kuuwamba Jazz Center, and Cabrillo Festival of Contemporary Music. Relish in Top 40 bands at the Civic Center or come across the best underground garage band you have ever heard at Moe’s Ally.

view of property, beach, ocean and pier

Location Location Location!

The Dream Inn sits on the site of Jack O’Neill’s first surf shop, and is only a playful hop, skip, and a jump away from Santa Cruz’s adored 100-year old wharf, historic Boardwalk, and picturesque West Cliff Drive. A few more skips away, Pacific Avenue, the city’s eccentric downtown, boasts an eclectic array of stores & eateries, from antique shops to trendy coffee stops. The Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor is only a short drive away and is home to a picture-perfect lighthouse, an instagrammer’s dream!

little cute coffee shop with blue wall, floating shelves and a beach cruiser bike with flowers in handlebar basket

Refreshing Amenities

Wake up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore and grab a cup of Verve Coffee and locally baked pastry from the lobby coffee cart. Then after taking a leisurely stroll along West Cliff or the Santa Cruz Boardwalk, take a refreshing dip in the outdoor heated pool or hot tub overlooking the sun-twinkled sea. Wherever you find yourself, revel in panoramic views of the gorgeous Monterey Bay.

blonde bride on beach with white rose bouquet

Your Dream Beach Wedding

Tie the knot at the only beachfront hotel in Santa Cruz. Our 3,500 square feet of space is flexible so that your special day can be customized into the wedding of your dreams. Our packages include onsite catering and wedding coordination. Let the expansive views do the talking and our experienced event team do the work. Your only job is to celebrate your loving union with your closest friends and family.

large room with floor to ceiling windows and a long table set for a board meeting

Oceanfront Meetings & Social Events

Host a meeting, retreat, or reception with a spectacular view of the ocean in one of our three flexible event spaces, accommodating up to 200 guests. We offer in-house catering and banquet services.

four young women sitting on beach laughing with surfboards behind them

Quality Time

Bond with your family playing games on the boardwalk, watching the seals from the wharf, or simply lounging by our heated pool. Whisk away your special someone to experience stunning bay sunrises & sunsets from your own private balcony or a scenic drive up Highway 1. Or, rally the whole gang for surfing lessons on the beach directly in front of the hotel.