Dream Inn Santa Cruz

Always a pleasure staying at this wonderful hotel. We opted for the pool side 2 bed room with large balcony. It was incredible waking to the lapping waves every morning. And the location cant be better next to boardwalk for the kids and the pier for ice cream and walks. Nothing better!

Dream Inn is by far the best hotel in Santa Cruz. From the moment we arrived, the valet was incredibly welcoming, setting the tone for the whole trip. Guest Services really looked out for us, too—they accommodated our request and put us in the exact same room we had last time! Our favorite part of the hotel is definitely the pool and hot tub area; we spent most of our time there. Plus, the beach access is so close and convenient—we loved being able to walk straight to the beach from the hotel. The highlight of our trip was Eric, the pool bartender! 🍹 He is such a vibe and is honestly one of the main reasons we keep coming back. He really knows his guests (especially us!) and is always happy, cheerful, and helpful. He’s the best I know, and we will continue to return because of him! One note on the food: While the service and atmosphere are top-notch, the restaurant food wasn’t all that great. The taste just wasn't there for us, so I wouldn’t necessarily recommend eating on-site—but definitely go for the drinks and the vibes at the pool! Stay here for the location and the amazing service, and go see Eric!

A place where Land and sea weave into perfect harmony is always a place of soul alignment. Dream inn truly provides a breathtaking view and enhances our experiences every time we visit. The sunrise is remarkable and remember to witness the full moon in the balcony with shimmery reflection of its essence on the bed of dancing ocean sparkles. As an artist this balcony always brings me gratitude alignment to fill my ART assignment. Absolute blissful experience of this location was once again enjoyed by us. Yes, we will visit again. Enjoy !

2 visits in 2025. Both A+. First visit: fun, high-floor tower room, perfect Santa Cruz adult getaway. Second visit: traveling solo with my 12-year-old after a long family trip. The Dream Inn team showed up hard with welcome treats, seamless help with bags, reservations, special requests, and real care when mom was exhausted and kiddo wasn’t feeling great. The vibe is rare: historic, soulful, authentic and personal without sacrificing modern comfort. Cool, boutique experiences with this level of service just don’t exist much anymore. Whatever the Dream Inn corporate hiring, training team is doing should be made SOP and broadcasted. They are running a clinic. Major thanks to Aaliyah (reservation magician who 💯 understood the assignment), Katelyn (super thoughtful check-in), Cameron C (swift, smooth room assist), and Ervil (majorly accommodating/effortless send-off). ❤️ thank you. Here’s the thing, though I feel like anyone at this hotel Would’ve been terrific to work just haven’t had a chance yet. 2026! Corporate events, retreats, and VIP client experiences would be next. Always looking for great south of SF options that hasn’t been a white washed by national corporate DNA. Authentic, local and full of character are what people want but with all the service and comfort.

I don't think I will ever stay somewhere else again when coming to Santa Cruz. The rooms are spotless. I love that they come with robes, and a full size couch and table with beautiful balcony's. The views are unmatched. The pool is amazing, with tequila sunsets and ice cream sandwiches in the afternoon. The service is wonderful. I've been met with smiles and kindness every time I talk to someone here, and the valet workers are doing an amazing job! Location is perfect, 2 minutes to the pier and the boardwalk with a private entrance to the beach with foot washing stations on your way back in! Must stay!