Dream Inn - Santa Cruz, CA

My dad grew up in the Santa Clara area. Over the hill, a thrilling and 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 understand the anxiety that courses through your veins as you navigate the turns and bends as you descend toward the glittering coastline. While time has woven the tapestry of life, my parents have since settled in the majestic state of Colorado. Yet, 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 Dream Inn. "One day," he murmured, his voice laced with a quiet determination, "I'll stay there." Fast-forward to September 2021, and I was booking our trip to Santa Cruz for a family reunion. I knew nothing of this life-long desire of my dad’s. If you can believe it, I booked us all rooms at the Dream Inn. I had chosen it purely based on its reputation, unaware that fate had played a hand in my selection!

The allure of the Dream Inn proved irresistible. With its time-honored 50s/60s surfer vibe, it beckoned adventurers and dreamers alike.

Accommodations

Mike and I booked a king room in the newer section of the building. We had heard rumors of the spectacular view from the rooms on this side, and we were determined to indulge in the splendor. Meanwhile, my parents, aware of my mother's longing for a relaxing bathtub, had opted for a double queen room in the original part of the inn. Nestled closer to the pool area, their choice allowed them to have easy access to refreshing swims whenever they desired.

As we wandered into the entrance of our room, we were greeted by the sight of a table, thoughtfully arranged with a coffee machine and an assortment of ice. Of course, one of the few distinctions between our respective abodes lay in the fan units. The effortlessly modern design of the fan in our room melded seamlessly with the contemporary aesthetics prevalent throughout the newer building, efficiently circulating the air and providing respite during the warmer hours of the day. In contrast, my parents' room hosted an older fan unit. Another discerning aspect lay in the shower/bathtub variation. Our meticulously designed bathroom boasted a captivating shower with sleek rainfall fixtures that imparted a sense of spa-like repose. On the other hand, my parents had an older style bathroom, but with the tub that my mom wanted.
Our most treasured moments were spent on the idyllic balconies, perched high above the grounds, immersing ourselves in the breathtaking view of the Santa Cruz coast and wharf.

Amenities

We made our way to the hot tub on the second evening of our stay. Thankfully, it wasn't too busy. The contrast of the pleasantly cool, humid air against our skin made the hot tub even more enjoyable. The pool area had an abundance of seating options. Fresh and clean towels were provided, enhancing our experience even further. While the pool area seemed relatively calm during our visit, it wasn't difficult to imagine the lively atmosphere it must have during the summer months. The breathtaking view of the beach from the pool served as a picturesque backdrop.

One of our family friends had mentioned that the hotel's restaurant was exceptional. However, craving a more budget-friendly option for the evening, we decided to venture out to the wharf instead. In addition to the restaurant, the hotel features a coffee shop that operates until 11am. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee enticed us as we walked through its doors, and we were pleased to discover an array of lattes, teas, and robust coffee options to choose from. While the prices were slightly higher due to the convenience of its location, it is to be expected from an on-site coffee shop. We found ourselves favoring the nearby Picnic Basket for our morning lattes, enjoying a short, pleasant walk to start off our day.

Parking arrangements at the hotel consisted solely of valet services. The valet drop-off area, though small, was conveniently located right off the main road.

The Area

The Santa Cruz Wharf is a prime destination for tourists. One of the notable features of the Santa Cruz Wharf is its distinction as the longest wooden pier in the United States. However, it does have one peculiar, outdated aspect – the allowance of vehicles. In an era where pedestrian-friendly spaces are coveted, the presence of cars diminishes the overall atmosphere and seems unnecessary. If vehicles were prohibited, it would not only help preserve the pier but also create more room for attractions, eateries, and shops. While dining at the restaurants on the pier, the seating areas do not offer picturesque views of the ocean. Instead, they are situated adjacent to parking lots, providing a view of cars rather than the mesmerizing waves. Despite these drawbacks, the surrounding area showcases a wide selection of food options, catering to every palate. Additionally, souvenir hunters will be pleased to find an abundance of shops in close proximity, ensuring there is no shortage of gifts to take home.

The Santa Cruz Wharf has its unique share of wildlife. Visitors will delight in catching glimpses of playful seals within the pillars and platforms. These creatures offer a source of entertainment and make for quite a memorable experience.
When it comes to dining options on the pier, discerning palates will appreciate establishments such as Stagnaro Brothers Seafood and Makai Island & Groggery. While there is a range of restaurants available, these two come highly recommended for their delectable cuisine.

Overall, a visit to the Santa Cruz Wharf is highly recommended. For an enhanced experience, consider staying at the nearby Dream Inn. With its strategic location and comfortable accommodations, it serves as an excellent base for exploring the wharf and its surroundings. To fully immerse oneself in the vibrant atmosphere, plan for at least a two-day stay and be sure to pack comfortable walking shoes.

Our Rating: 4/5