Santa Cruz Dream Inn

We visited the Dream Inn for a long-weekend retreat (President's day is the new Valentine's day :D)

It's a lovely hotel located right on the beach and within walking distance of the boardwalk...home to awesome arcades. The room was modern and chic with a breathtaking view and a fantastic bed. My only complaint is that it was quite chilly our first evening because the climate control relies upon an in-unit AC/Heater rather than central air with in-room controls. Fortunately, it stayed warm for the remainder of our stay.

Service was friendly and helpful, and the restaurant was quite good in comparison to others in town, although pretty much everything in these sleepy towns closes earlier than expected. We didn't try the pool, but it must be heated because others were swimming despite the February temperatures. I'm sure we'll be back for more fun in Santa Cruz, and we'll undoubtedly stay here each time we return.

This beachfront retreat brings four-star luxury service to Santa Cruz’s surfer community. The boutique hotel hosts 165 deluxe room and suites--all with breathtaking views of the Monterey Bay. (That’s right. Every room has a view.) There’s really no need for a flat screen HDTV when you can relax on your own private patio and overlook spectacular sunsets, super-cute sea lions and dreamy surfers. The spacious rooms come equipped with free wireless internet, iPod docking stations, comfy bath robes, and a fully-stocked mini bar (refrigerators are also available upon request). Kiddies will love the hotel’s heated pool and children’s wading pool, while couples can often be found relaxing in the jacuzzi. Aquarius restaurant is the onsite spot to grab a bite to eat or enjoy a cocktail. Oceanview conference rooms and banquet facilities are popular for weddings and business meetings.