Dream Inn - Santa Cruz, California

My dad grew up in the Santa Clara area, and over the hill, a thrilling, winding road led him to his favorite place in the world—the beach in Santa Cruz. If you’ve ever ventured over that hill, you know the anxiety that courses through your veins as you navigate the sharp turns and bends that descend toward the glittering coastline. Although my parents have since settled in the majestic state of Colorado, the memory of that visit to Santa Cruz nearly 30 years ago remains etched in their minds. Walking hand in hand along the sandy shores, my dad gazed upward, his eyes fixated on the iconic Dream Inn. "One day," he said, "I'll stay there."

Fast forward to September 2021, and I was planning a trip to Santa Cruz. At that point, I had no idea about my dad’s lifelong wish. But as fate would have it, I ended up booking rooms for the entire family at the Dream Inn. I had chosen the hotel purely based on its stellar reputation, unaware that I had unwittingly fulfilled a dream my dad had held for years.

The Allure of the Dream Inn

The Dream Inn holds a timeless allure, with its nostalgic 50s/60s surfer vibe that attracts dreamers and adventurers alike. Its oceanfront location and inviting atmosphere promise an unforgettable stay.

Accommodations

Mike and I opted for a king room in the newer section of the inn, drawn to the rumored spectacular views from this side of the building. We were determined to take full advantage of it. My parents, on the other hand, were mindful of my mom’s love for a relaxing bath, so they selected a double queen room in the original part of the inn, closer to the pool. This location made it easy for them to take refreshing swims whenever they desired.

As we entered our room, we were greeted by a small table, complete with a coffee machine and an assortment of ice—small but thoughtful touches. The design of the fan in our room was sleek and modern, blending seamlessly with the contemporary aesthetics of the new building, circulating air efficiently during the warmer hours of the day. In contrast, my parents' room had an older fan unit, in keeping with the vintage charm of the original building. Another difference between the two rooms was the bathroom setup: Our room featured a luxurious, modern shower with rainfall fixtures that provided a spa-like experience, while my parents' room had the bathtub my mom had been craving.

One of our favorite memories was spent on the balconies, which offered a stunning panoramic view of the Santa Cruz coast and the wharf. The sight was truly breathtaking, especially during sunset.

Amenities

On our second evening, we made our way to the hot tub. Fortunately, it wasn’t too crowded, and the contrast between the cool, humid air and the warm water made it even more enjoyable. The pool area had plenty of seating, and clean, fresh towels were provided, which added a nice touch to our experience. While the pool was peaceful during our visit, I could imagine the lively atmosphere it must have during the summer months. The view of the beach from the pool area was the perfect backdrop.

We had heard from a family friend that the hotel’s restaurant was excellent. However, wanting something a little more budget-friendly, we decided to head over to the Santa Cruz Wharf for dinner instead. The hotel also has a coffee shop that operates until 11 AM. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee was tempting as we walked through its doors, and we were pleased to find a variety of lattes, teas, and strong coffee options. While prices are a bit higher due to the location, it’s to be expected from an on-site cafe. For our morning lattes, we found ourselves walking a short distance to the nearby Picnic Basket, a local favorite.

Parking at the Dream Inn is valet-only. The valet drop-off area is small but conveniently located right off the main road, making it easy to check in.

The Area

The Santa Cruz Wharf is a must-visit destination for tourists, and for good reason. As the longest wooden pier in the United States, it has its own unique charm. However, one outdated feature that stands out is the allowance of vehicles on the pier. In an era where pedestrian-friendly spaces are highly valued, the presence of cars detracts from the atmosphere and feels unnecessary. If vehicles were prohibited, the pier would not only be better preserved, but it could also create more room for attractions, eateries, and shops.

Additionally, while there are dining options on the pier, the seating areas don't offer views of the ocean, as they’re located next to the road/parking spots. It’s a bit of a letdown, especially when you consider the pier's potential as a scenic dining spot. Nevertheless, the area around the wharf is rich with food choices, catering to a variety of tastes. If you’re into souvenir shopping, you’ll also find a range of shops nearby, ensuring you won’t leave empty-handed.

The wharf also offers some wildlife sightings, with seals often visible beneath the pier, adding a bit of natural entertainment to the experience.

For a great dining experience, consider visiting Stagnaro Brothers Seafood or Makai Island & Groggery. Both are highly recommended for their delicious offerings.

Overall, a visit to the Santa Cruz Wharf is highly recommended, and staying at the Dream Inn makes for an ideal home base. Its prime location and comfortable accommodations allow for easy access to the wharf and surrounding attractions. To truly soak in the atmosphere, plan for at least a two-day stay and be sure to pack comfortable shoes for walking.

Our Rating: 4/5