The Dream Inn is Santa Cruz’s only true beachfront hotel, located on the legendary location of Jack O’Neill’s original surf store. This stately dame of hospitality created in 1963 evokes the best of summer and the emotion of surfing, only a fun hop, skip, and jump away from the famous century-old pier and historic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk with its famed Giant Dipper roller coaster. Dream Inn embraces its O’Neill tradition and proximity to Cowell’s Beach with retro, surfer chic flair, and is the epitome of nostalgic hospitality.
Dream Inn Santa Cruz Features
Dream Inn portrays the California beach lifestyle that many of a certain age remember fondly, and the youngest guests, those who don’t know all of the Beach Boys songs by heart, will be enthralled as well. (The various surf shops surrounding the hotel provide lots of chances for guests to replicate Dream Inn design at home.) The color palette is dominated by ocean blue, with surfboards and marine paintings adorning the walls, lobbies, and elevators as evident homage to the hotel’s ten-year history. Whether surfers or landlubbers, guests can’t help but fall under the spell of the property’s serenity.
Originally a low-rise four-story building when constructed, the hotel now includes an additional 10-story tower. Each of the 165 mid-century modern rooms and suites have furnished ocean-facing patios or balconies, from which hooks of seahorses and seashells hang on the wall, welcoming wet bathing suits. Swim, float or wade in the heated outdoor pool just steps from the sand or take a dip in the hot tub. Relax atop a lounge chair and cozy up next to a fire pit, cocktail in hand. Take surfing or SUP board lessons at Cowell’s Beach. Cycle along the Santa Cruz waterfront on a Dream Inn Cruiser Bike or explore wildlife like harbor seals and sea lions while kayaking in Monterey Bay.
While it may be tempting to order takeaway from your balcony, where the sunsets are spectacular, don’t overlook the exclusive on-site Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge, where chief chef Gus Trejo has increased offers with a menu. Items produced with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Trejo is committed to partnering with reputable farmers and suppliers, collecting only the finest products from partners such as Mariqueta Farm, a 25-acre property in Watsonville that grows heirloom and specialty vegetables, greens, fruits, herbs, and flowers. Trejo has lifted the standard with a pleasant hospitality crew, making Jack O’Neill Restaurant and Lounge a sought-after location in addition to upgrading the menu. It doesn’t hurt that practically every table has a view of the ocean. Have breakfast, lunch or dinner here and don’t forget to try a creative cocktail, such as the bourbon-based “Smoke on the Water”, whose presentation lives up to its name.
For a grab-and-go breakfast, head down to the lobby coffee bar, serving Verve coffee from the Santa Cruz-based roaster.
All photos by Paul Dyer
Is Dream Inn Santa Cruz the Place to Stay for Families?
Dream Inn Santa Cruz is a beachfront resort located on the iconic Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, California. The hotel is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, comfortable accommodations, and convenient location to many of Santa Cruz’s popular attractions.
What Makes Dream Inn Santa Cruz a Good Place to Stay for Families?
Family-friendly amenities and services
The hotel offers a variety of family-friendly amenities and services, including a kids’ club, a playground, and a swimming pool. The hotel also has a variety of family-friendly dining options, including a buffet restaurant and a poolside bar and grill.
Comfortable accommodations
Dream Inn Santa Cruz offers a variety of comfortable accommodations, including guest rooms, suites, and family rooms. The hotel’s guest rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with features such as private balconies, ocean views, and minifridges. The hotel’s suites and family rooms are even more spacious and offer additional features such as separate living areas and pull-out sofas.
Convenient location
Dream Inn Santa Cruz is located in a convenient location, just steps from Cowell Beach and the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The hotel is also close to many other popular Santa Cruz attractions, such as the Santa Cruz Wharf, the Mystery Spot, and Roaring Camp Railroads.
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Things to Do in Santa Cruz with Kids
From its iconic beachfront boardwalk to its lush redwood forests, Santa Cruz has something to offer everyone.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic seaside amusement park with rides, games, and food for all ages. The boardwalk is also home to the Giant Dipper, one of the oldest roller coasters in the United States.
Santa Cruz Wharf
The Santa Cruz Wharf is a historic pier with shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Kids will love watching the sea lions play in the water and seeing the boats come and go.
Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History
The Santa CruMuz seum of Natural History is a great place to learn about the natural history of the Santa Cruz area. The museum has exhibits on dinosaurs, mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, invertebrates, and plants. Kids will also love the museum’s live animal exhibits, including a tarantula, a bearded dragon, and a snake.
Other Family-Friendly Activities
Cowell Beach
Cowell Beach is a popular beach for swimming, sunbathing and surfing. The beach is also home to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, so kids can easily switch between playing on the beach and riding the rides.
Santa Cruz Beach Trail
The Santa Cruz Beach Trail is a paved bike trail that runs along the coast of Santa Cruz. It is a great place to enjoy a leisurely bike ride with your family. The trail is also a great place to birdwatch and see other wildlife.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Roaring Camp Railroads is a historic steam train that takes visitors on a scenic ride through the redwood forests. Kids will love riding the train and seeing the magnificent redwood trees.
Mystery Spot
The Mystery Spot is a gravity anomaly that causes strange optical illusions. Kids will love experiencing the Mystery Spot and trying to figure out how the illusions work.
Seymour Marine Discovery Center
The Seymour Marine Discovery Center is a marine science center that offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the marine life of the Monterey Bay. Kids will love seeing the sea lions, sharks, and other marine animals at the center.
Surfing Lessons
Santa Cruz is a great place to learn how to surf. There are a number of surf schools in the area that offer lessons for all ages.
University of California, Santa Cruz Campus
The University of California, Santa Cruz campus is a beautiful place to visit. The campus has a number of hiking trails, gardens, and museums that are open to the public.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is a redwood forest park located just a short drive from Santa Cruz. The park has a number of hiking trails that lead to towering redwood trees.
Santa Cruz Arboretum
The Santa Cruz Arboretum is a botanical garden that features a variety of plants from around the world. The arboretum is a great place to learn about plants and enjoy the outdoors.
Mini-Golf
There are a number of mini-golf courses in Santa Cruz. Mini-golf is a fun activity for all ages and a great way to spend a sunny day.
Bowling
There are a number of bowling alleys in Santa Cruz. Bowling is a fun activity for all ages and a great way to beat the heat on a hot day.
Laser Tag
There are a number of laser tag arenas in Santa Cruz. Laser tag is a fun and active activity for all ages and a great way to get some exercise.
Movies
There are a number of movie theaters in Santa Cruz. Going to the movies is a great way to relax and enjoy a new film.
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What to Eat at Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Wonder the best things to eat at Dream Inn Santa Cruz?
Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge
Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge, the resort’s signature restaurant, offers stunning ocean views and a menu of coastal cuisine. The restaurant is named after surfing legend Jack O’Neill, who founded his wetsuit company in Santa Cruz.
Recommended dishes at Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge include:
- Grilled Pacific Coast Oysters with Meyer Lemon Mignonette: Freshly grilled Pacific Coast oysters are served with a tangy lemon mignonette.
- Dungeness Crab Cakes with Remoulade Sauce: These crab cakes are made with fresh Dungeness crab and served with a creamy remoulade sauce.
- Seared Scallops with Risotto and Asparagus: Seared sea scallops are served with a risotto made with asparagus and other fresh vegetables.
- Dry-Aged Prime New York Strip with Mashed Potatoes and Creamed Spinach: Dry-aged for 28 days for maximum flavor and tenderness, this classic steak is served with mashed potatoes and creamed spinach.
- Chocolate Lava Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream: A decadent dessert, this warm chocolate lava cake is served with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream.
The Picnic Basket
The Picnic Basket, a casual restaurant located in the lobby of Dream Inn Santa Cruz, offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, and other light fare.
Recommended dishes at The Picnic Basket include:
- Crab Melt Sandwich: This sandwich is made with fresh Dungeness crab, melted cheese, and lettuce on sourdough bread.
- Kale Caesar Salad: A hearty salad, this dish is made with kale, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing.
- Chicken Salad Sandwich: This classic sandwich is made with grilled chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and lettuce on sourdough bread.
- Fish Tacos: These tacos are made with grilled fish, cabbage, and salsa.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: The Picnic Basket offers a variety of ice cream sandwiches made with fresh-baked cookies and premium ice cream.
The Beach Bar
The Beach Bar, a casual bar located on the beach at Dream Inn Santa Cruz, offers a variety of cocktails, beer, and wine, as well as a small food menu.
Recommended dishes at The Beach Bar include:
- Fish Tacos: These tacos are made with grilled fish, cabbage, and salsa.
- Quesadillas: The Beach Bar offers a variety of quesadillas, including cheese quesadillas, chicken quesadillas, and beef quesadillas.
- Nachos: The Beach Bar’s nachos are loaded with cheese, beans, sour cream, and salsa.
- Burgers: The Beach Bar offers a variety of burgers, including cheeseburgers, bacon cheeseburgers, and avocado burgers.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches: The Beach Bar also offers a variety of ice cream sandwiches made with fresh-baked cookies and premium ice cream.
Tips for Eating at Dream Inn Santa Cruz
- Make reservations at Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
- Take advantage of the resort’s dining packages, which can save you money on your meals.
- If you are traveling with children, The Picnic Basket and The Beach Bar are good options for casual dining.
- Enjoy the ocean views while you dine at Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge or The Beach Bar.
- Be sure to try the local seafood, such as Dungeness crab and Monterey Bay abalone.
How to Arrive at and Get Around Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Dream Inn Santa Cruz is a beachfront resort located in the heart of Santa Cruz, California. The resort is easily accessible by car, train, or plane.
Getting to Dream Inn Santa Cruz
By Car
The most convenient way to get to Dream Inn Santa Cruz is by car. The resort is located approximately one hour’s drive from San Jose International Airport (SJC). To get to the resort from the airport, take Highway 17 south to Santa Cruz. Exit the highway at the Soquel Avenue exit and turn left. Follow Soquel Avenue to Beach Street and turn right. Dream Inn Santa Cruz will be on your left.
By Train
The nearest train station to Dream Inn Santa Cruz is the Santa Cruz Amtrak Station. The train station is located approximately one mile from the resort. To get to the resort from the train station, you can take a taxi or ride the Santa Cruz Beach Train.
By Plane
The nearest airport to Dream Inn Santa Cruz is San Jose International Airport (SJC). The airport is located approximately one hour’s drive from the resort. To get to the resort from the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or ride the Santa Cruz Airporter shuttle.
Getting Around Dream Inn Santa Cruz
Dream Inn Santa Cruz is a self-contained resort, with everything you need within walking distance. However, if you need to get around town, there are a number of options available.
On Foot
Dream Inn Santa Cruz is located in the heart of Santa Cruz, within walking distance of many popular attractions, including the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, the Santa Cruz Wharf, and the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History.
By Bicycle
Dream Inn Santa Cruz offers bicycle rentals for guests. This is a great way to explore the surrounding area and visit nearby attractions, such as the Santa Cruz Mission State Historic Park and Natural Bridges State Beach.
By Car
If you are renting a car, you can easily get around Santa Cruz and the surrounding area. There is ample parking available at Dream Inn Santa Cruz.
By Public Transportation
Santa Cruz has a public transportation system that includes buses and a train. The Santa Cruz Metro operates buses throughout the city, and the Santa Cruz Beach Train operates a train between Santa Cruz and Watsonville.
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