Dream Inn Santa Cruz  

Perched on Santa Cruz’s waterfront at 175 West Cliff Drive, this beachfront hotel looks straight across Monterey Bay. You’re steps from the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Cowell’s Beach and the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, with UC Santa Cruz and Capitola Beach a short drive away.

Retro-chic rooms and suites (165 total) were renovated to spotlight ocean-view balconies and clean, coastal lines. Expect flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, safes, air conditioning, coffee/tea makers and bathrobes. The property mixes laid-back surf-vibe decor with beachfront modern touches and a sun-soaked pool deck and hot tub.

Wake up to sea-breeze mornings and walk straight onto the sand. The hotel offers an outdoor beachfront pool, hot tub, full spa with massages, poolside bar, bike rentals, concierge, 24-hour reception, laundry and onsite parking. Complimentary wireless internet keeps you connected.

Three meeting rooms plus a ballroom/event space that can host up to 250 guests make this a solid venue for meetings, weddings or conferences. Business center services and complimentary Wi-Fi available throughout the property.

Dine oceanfront at Jack O'Neill Restaurant or Aquarius, both serving coastal flavors and locally sourced seafood. The Jack O'Neill Lounge adds playful, surf-inspired bites and drinks. There’s a poolside bar, room service and cooked-to-order breakfasts daily (fee applies).