Mid-century surf lodge
This 1960s beachfront lodge channels Santa Cruz surf culture with an easygoing rhythm centered on the pool deck and breakers.
“The Dream Inn is the perfect base for exploring and has affordable rooms, a retro-chic design, and a beachfront location within walking distance of the famous boardwalk.”
What it’s good at
Notable
Arcsine's retro-chic mid-century interiors, with private oceanfront balconies for every guestroom.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
Also in AFAR.
the proprietors have taken a faded Sixties mid-rise just off the west end of the boardwalk and given it the retro-chic mid-century modern boutique treatment, accenting its vintage geometries with a bold modernist color palette.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk sits just down the sand, and the municipal wharf extends into the bay next door.
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The rooms
Every room faces the water, opening onto a private balcony or patio looking out across Monterey Bay.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
Bright yellow umbrellas line the heated swimming pool, which looks out over the waves from the beachfront deck.
Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge
Handmade surfboards hang above the lounge, and the dining room serves Monterey Bay seafood beside wide ocean windows.
At the table
A lobby cart pulls shots of local Verve espresso, and Shorebreak mixes poolside cocktails out on the deck.
How it began
Surfing pioneer Jack O'Neill developed early neoprene wetsuits on this beachfront before the hotel rose in 1963.
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.