Best Pool Hotels in Santa Cruz

If you're looking for beachside lodging for your vacation in Santa Cruz, California, you won't find it at Chaminade Resort & Spa because this resort sits about 3 miles inland. But you will find spectacular views of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the lush forest surrounding this property. To really make the most of the scenery, travelers recommend requesting a room with a patio. However, no matter which room you stay in, you'll find trendy, colorful decor and contemporary amenities such as Gilchrist & Soames bath products, flat-screen TVs and wireless internet access. Chaminade's on-site facilities earn high praise (and so does the staff). Travelers love the relaxing atmosphere of the spa, while a pool, several hiking trails and tennis courts will keep you busy throughout the day. The resort also boasts two in-house eateries: Sunset Restaurant serves up casual fare and Linwood's Bar & Grill specializes in contemporary Californian cuisine.

Sitting beachfront adjacent to the Santa Cruz boardwalk, the Dream Inn welcomes visitors with warm colors and funky furnishings. Walking in, you may think you've traveled back to the 1960s: Bright, bold decor can be found throughout the hotel, but there are modern amenities, too. Guest rooms boast high-tech items such as iPod docks, flat-screen TVs and rain showers, not to mention private balconies – previous visitors highly recommend asking for an ocean view room on a higher floor for better views and less late-night noise. Travelers also enjoy spending time by the heated beachfront pool. If seeing and hearing the ocean isn't enough, taste it at Aquarius, which serves up fresh seafood in a very relaxed, casual environment. Despite all its offerings, this property earns the most praise for its excellent customer service; previous guests describe the staff as extremely friendly and helpful.