On the eve of yet another nor’easter blanketing New York with a pristine white coat of snow, and with spring still months away, we just had to search for warmer climes and some sun to soak up, even if just for a few days. Having recently discovered the low-key charm and natural beauty of Santa Cruz just a short drive south of San Fransisco, we booked a room on the beach overlooking the stunning Monterey Bay at the classic Dream Inn.
You can’t get more central than the Dream Inn. Towering above Santa Cruz’s boardwalk and central pier, it puts you right in the middle of the action and just a short walk to the town center a few blocks east.
California Dreaming in Santa Cruz
The hotel is composed of two sections, a tower and a lower building containing the hotel’s original rooms, the pool, and restaurant. We opted for the tower, or as the hotel refers to it, “the executive wing”. The executive wing is distinguished by its larger rooms, king-sized beds and … the brilliant views. In fact, if you request a king-sized bed you will be booked in one of the executive rooms by default. However, if being steps from water is more your style, ask for one of the original rooms and enjoy the easy access to beach and pool.