Dan Smart serves as General Manager of Dream Inn Santa Cruz, bringing more than two decades of hospitality leadership experience and a deep-rooted connection to the Santa Cruz community. In this role, he oversees all aspects of hotel operations, with a focus on delivering elevated guest experiences, strengthening team culture, and driving continued growth for the iconic beachfront property.
Dan previously served as Hotel Manager at La Bahia Hotel & Spa, where he led Front Desk, Housekeeping, and Food & Beverage operations, helping to establish a strong service culture and operational foundation for the newly opened luxury resort.
Prior to La Bahia, Dan spent over a decade at Dream Inn Santa Cruz as Director of Sales & Marketing, where he played a pivotal role in expanding both leisure and group business. In addition to leading the sales and marketing teams, he oversaw banquet operations and was instrumental in the successful launch of Jack O’Neill Restaurant & Lounge, elevating the hotel’s dining and event offerings.
Earlier in his career, Dan served as National Account Manager for Collette Vacations, an international tour operator, where he spent seven years developing global partnerships and traveling to more than 25 countries. These experiences helped shape his passion for hospitality, tourism, and destination-driven storytelling.
Dan began his hospitality career at Casa Munras Hotel & Spa in Monterey, where he advanced from Front Desk to Director of Sales, building a strong foundation in both operations and revenue strategy.
A dedicated community leader, Dan served as President of the Santa Cruz County Chamber of Commerce for three years, where he helped guide the organization through a period of transformation, including the appointment of a new Executive Director and renewed focus on business advocacy and community engagement