"This location is a 12/10. Pool access, beach access, and location to the pier and boardwalk was perfect!"
Anonymous from United States
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"It doesn't take much looking on their web site to see they are in an amazing location, with the large balcony in your room literally jutting over the beach, giving you spectacular views of the Monterey Bay."
Jenifer Marquardt from United States
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"Returning guests- love that all of the rooms have a direct ocean view!"
Sonal from United States
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Dream Inn Santa Cruz - A beachfront hotel with oceanfront dining, heated pool, and panoramic views of Monterey Bay
Located directly on Cowell Beach, this iconic Santa Cruz hotel features 165 air-conditioned rooms with private balconies overlooking Monterey Bay. Each accommodation includes iPod docking stations, flat-screen TVs, rainfall showers, laptop-sized safes, and premium coffee makers. The property houses Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge, serving locally-sourced seafood and coastal cuisine. A heated outdoor pool and hot tub provide beachfront relaxation, while complimentary beach cruiser bikes facilitate exploration. Three flexible event spaces span 3500 square feet with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing views of the wharf and coastline. The hotel sits 0.5 miles from Santa Cruz Wharf and 0.5 miles from the Beach Boardwalk, with Pacific Garden Mall 1 mile away.
Pros
Direct beach access with unobstructed ocean views from every room
Three event spaces with panoramic bay vistas and outdoor patio options
Complimentary amenities include beach cruisers, Wi-Fi, and pool access
Walking distance to major attractions including the wharf and boardwalk
Cons
34 miles from Mineta San Jose International Airport
Limited parking options in the immediate area
“The hotel stands out with its impressive floor-to-ceiling windows displaying ocean views, while sustainable, local cuisine at the on-site restaurant enhances the stay; plus, it's Santa Cruz's only beachfront hotel. Its beachfront locale near the boardwalk and flexible event spaces strike me as particularly convenient. This property seems tailored to both leisure and business.”
Charlotte EvansHead of Editorial at Hotelsdowntown
Select room type
Choose from double rooms, family suites, and premium stays. Enjoy breakfast, flexible cancellations, and exclusive deals.
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
Check Availability & Prices
Find the best rates for your travel dates now!
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Check-in/ Check-out
Facilities
Hotel has comfortable rooms, premium services, and a prime downtown location
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
Dream Inn Santa Cruz features Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge, a delightful venue where local flavors take center stage. Nestled in a family-friendly atmosphere, it offers an inviting setting ideal for both romantic meals and engaging brunches with loved ones.
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
Local
Ambiance
A warm and inviting space that is perfect for families or couples, featuring a casual yet cozy interior that encourages relaxation and enjoyment.
Key Offerings
Specializing in fresh seafood and locally-inspired dishes, the restaurant offers breakfast, brunch, and dinner options with a focus on vibrant flavors and seasonal ingredients.
Reservation
Recommended for dinner.
Open for breakfast, brunch, and dinner; specific hours may vary.
Location
175 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz, 95060,
Explore Santa Cruz
Explore Santa Cruz
Top Attractions
Activities
Dining
Entertainment
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
11 minutes' walk
Classic seaside amusement park featuring rides, games, and a beachside atmosphere perfect for family fun.
Santa Cruz Surfing Museum
15 minutes' walk
Housed in a historic lighthouse, this museum showcases the area's surfing history with engaging exhibits.
Santa Cruz Wharf
3 minutes' walk
A bustling boardwalk area offering stunning ocean views, shops, dining, and seasonal sea lion sightings.
Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
4 minutes' walk
Interactive exhibits about marine life in the sanctuary; family-friendly with stunning ocean views.
Surfing Lessons
5 minutes' walk
Local surf shops offer rentals and lessons; perfect for thrill-seekers eager to ride the waves.
Well Within Spa
15 minutes' walk
Relaxation-focused spa offering treatments and wellness services, ideal for guests seeking tranquility.
Pacific Garden Mall
17 minutes' walk
A vibrant shopping area with local boutiques, cafes, and art galleries, suitable for a leisurely stroll.
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge
3 minutes' walk
Casual dining with a coastal vibe, offering fresh seafood and signature cocktails in a lively setting.
The Picnic Basket
4 minutes' walk
Farm-to-table eatery with locally sourced ingredients; known for delicious breakfast and lunch options.
Sawasdee By The Sea
5 minutes' walk
Thai cuisine with waterfront views; offers vegetarian options and a relaxed atmosphere for dining.
Cocoanut Grove
10 minutes' walk
Historic venue hosting live music and events; enjoy vibrant nightlife amid a charming artsy decor.
Ideal Bar & Grill
4 minutes' walk
Casual bar with live music; known for its friendly vibe and family-friendly atmosphere on weekend evenings.
Getting around
<br />
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
Feedback about Dream Inn Santa Cruz from previous guests about their experience.
Review score
Based on 928 verified reviews
9.0 /10
Perfect
89 %
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
9.0/10
Value for money
7.9/10
Pros
Excellent views
Welcoming staff
Cleanliness
Room service
Convenient location
Cons
Worst room
Tired decor
Chipped paint
No gym
Guest reviews
based on 3752 reviews
4.5/5
based on 745 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
What is the distance from Dream Inn Santa Cruz to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk?
The hotel is located just 0.5 km from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
What amenities does Dream Inn Santa Cruz's on-site dining include?
Jack O'Neill Restaurant & Lounge offers full ocean views and a menu with locally sourced ingredients.
Are there any nearby restaurants to Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Nearby restaurants include Ideal Bar & Grill (0.5 km), Las Palmas Taco Bar (0.5 km), and The Picnic Basket (0.5 km).
What are the check-in and check-out times at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Check-in is from 16:00 and check-out is by 11:00.
What services and amenities can guests expect at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
The hotel features a heated swimming pool, hot tub, gym, bar/lounge area, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Does Dream Inn Santa Cruz offer parking facilities?
Private parking is available on-site for 35 USD per day.
What types of rooms are available at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Room types include Ocean View Cathedral Executive King, Ocean View Deluxe Two Queen, and Ocean View Suite.
What is the closest airport to Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
The hotel is located 55 km from Mineta San Jose International Airport.
Are there any activities offered at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
The hotel offers activities such as bicycle rental, fishing, and golf on-site.
What views can guests enjoy from their rooms at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Rooms feature private balconies with stunning views of Monterey Bay.
Does Dream Inn Santa Cruz provide amenities for children's entertainment?
The hotel features cots and family-friendly room options for guests traveling with children.
What wellness amenities are available at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
The hotel features a hot tub, outdoor swimming pool, and wellness programs.
Is Wi-Fi available for guests at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.
What entertainment options are available near Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Nearby attractions include the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk and Natural Bridges State Park.