Santa Cruz Hotels

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Guest rating
Guest rating
Star rating

Our top choices for Santa Cruz hotels

Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz

Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (79 reviews)
"Very Nice Hotel"
United States
Federico
Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz

Hotel Pura Vista

Hotel Pura Vista
3.5 star property
Sardinal
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (104 reviews)
"Everything was great. Mark and the staff were very helpful and courteous. Breakfast was delicious 😋 "
Canada
Victoria
The price is €219
includes taxes & fees
23 Jan - 24 Jan
Hotel Pura Vista

Las Catalinas Doorway

Las Catalinas Doorway
4.0 star property
Tempate
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (111 reviews)
"Perfect for a family vacation. Staff, food, room, amenities all excellent."
United States
Richard James
The price is €437
includes taxes & fees
15 Jan - 16 Jan
Las Catalinas Doorway

Tortuga Verde Glamping

Tortuga Verde Glamping
3.0 star property
Sardinal
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (27 reviews)
"Great staff, lots of privacy, good location."
United States
James
Tortuga Verde Glamping

Coco Beach Hotel

Coco Beach Hotel
3.0 star property
Sardinal
6.8 out of 10, (683 reviews)
"Clean the dead bugs in the room and secured parking was shady but had no problem other than being blocked in after we checked out."
United States
Ed
The price is €84
includes taxes & fees
15 Jan - 16 Jan
Coco Beach Hotel

Suitree Experience Hotel

Suitree Experience Hotel
4.0 star property
Sardinal
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (71 reviews)
"Absolutely incredible experience. Unique and luxurious. The view of the forest from the wraparound deck was magical. "
Canada
Rory
The price is €257
includes taxes & fees
12 Feb - 13 Feb
Suitree Experience Hotel

Hotel Colono Beach

Hotel Colono Beach
3.0 star property
Sardinal
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (407 reviews)
"Excellent stay!"
Canada
Kyle
Hotel Colono Beach

Parti Gras Hotel & Villas en Potrero

Parti Gras Hotel & Villas en Potrero
2.5 star property
Tempate
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
"Very nice remodeled hotel. Staff was very friendly. Easy safe parking. Close to beach."
United States
Roberto
The price is €119
includes taxes & fees
15 Jan - 16 Jan
Parti Gras Hotel & Villas en Potrero

Hotel Villa Acacia

Hotel Villa Acacia
3.0 star property
Sardinal
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (263 reviews)
"The Staff was friendly, the girl on the front desk knew little English thought was very helpful and tried really hard to communicate everything to us. The rooms were nice and clean. The views to the garden were amazing. "
Canada
Saket
Hotel Villa Acacia

Nacazcol Hotel and Villas

Nacazcol Hotel and Villas
3.5 star property
Sardinal
7.2 out of 10, Good, (188 reviews)
"Great"
United States
Rahi
Nacazcol Hotel and Villas

Hotel & Villas Huetares

Hotel & Villas Huetares
3.0 star property
Sardinal
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (393 reviews)
"Nicely kept older hotel, nice pools and good location "
Canada
Zoe
The price is €112
includes taxes & fees
16 Jan - 17 Jan
Hotel & Villas Huetares

Bahia Esmeralda Boutique Hotel & Villas

Bahia Esmeralda Boutique Hotel & Villas
2.0 star property
Tempate
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (131 reviews)
"We loved the layout of the property with individual cabins surrounding the pool area. Beds were comfortable and it was so nice to have a kitchen and hot shower! Would stay here again!"
United States
Katie
Bahia Esmeralda Boutique Hotel & Villas

Marina Flamingo

Marina Flamingo
4.5 star property
Cabo Velas
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (32 reviews)
"Beautiful room with spectacular views over the marina from the large windows and lovely balcony. Quiet pool. Walking distance to Playa Flamingo - the best beach in CR. Thanks especially to Gustav for making our stay exceptional!"
Canada
Alexandra
The price is €480
includes taxes & fees
25 Jan - 26 Jan
Marina Flamingo

El Mangroove Papagayo, Autograph Collection

El Mangroove Papagayo, Autograph Collection
4.5 star property
Sardinal
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (466 reviews)
"Breakfast is not free, but very delicious! Awesome place to stay in the area! "
United States
Maggie
The price is €656
includes taxes & fees
27 Jan - 28 Jan
El Mangroove Papagayo, Autograph Collection

Café de Playa Beach Front Hotel

Café de Playa Beach Front Hotel
3.0 star property
Sardinal
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (140 reviews)
"The room was clean and comfortable. The staff was so friendly and helpful!"
United States
Kelsi
The price is €139
includes taxes & fees
27 Jan - 28 Jan
Café de Playa Beach Front Hotel

Hotel Claudio & Gloria Beach Front

Hotel Claudio & Gloria Beach Front
2.5 star property
Sardinal
6.8 out of 10, (72 reviews)
"The housekeeper that tended to our rooms was polite, friendly, kind and professional and ensured our needs were met for the entire week. Bartenders were professional and friendly as well. Made great drinks The cooks provided excellent meals. But the food servers seemed liked they wanted to be anywhere but there. Except for the gentle that served us he was tentative and responsive to or table."
United States
Daryl
Hotel Claudio & Gloria Beach Front

CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive
4.0 star property
Sardinal
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Clean rooms, great staff and location."
United States
Rich
CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

Papagayo Golden Palms Beachfront Hotel

Papagayo Golden Palms Beachfront Hotel
4.0 star property
Sardinal
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (490 reviews)
"Super friendly staff, lovely pool, very nice room with a little private verandah. Set on a lovely quiet inlet. Very nice food in the restaurant, including a la carte breakfast included."
Australia
Peter
Papagayo Golden Palms Beachfront Hotel

Casa Chameleon Hotel Las Catalinas - Adults Only

Casa Chameleon Hotel Las Catalinas - Adults Only
4.0 star property
Tempate
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (271 reviews)
"Phenomenal experience with superb staff. Huge thank you to Louis, Steven, Alexandra and Angel!"
United States
Ausra
Casa Chameleon Hotel Las Catalinas - Adults Only

Bahia del Sol Beach Front Boutique Hotel

Bahia del Sol Beach Front Boutique Hotel
3.5 star property
Tempate
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (999 reviews)
"great room, super clean, nice pool, easy beach access and access to town, safe/secure parking, great food."
United States
Kevin
The price is €242
includes taxes & fees
18 Jan - 19 Jan
Bahia del Sol Beach Front Boutique Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Where to stay in Santa Cruz

Find the best Santa Cruz areas for the activities you enjoy most.

Barrio Buenos Aires

Check out nearby sights like Parque Bernabela Ramos while you're spending some time in Barrio Buenos Aires and the surrounding area.

Stay near popular Santa Cruz attractions

Learn more about Santa Cruz

Locals gather at Parque Bernabela Ramos to enjoy live music and sample traditional dishes at weekend food stalls. Rent a board to catch beginner-friendly waves at Playa Tamarindo, or book horseback tours through nearby Diriá National Park.

Tamarindo Beach coastline from above, Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in Santa Cruz

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

  • Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and water activities.
  • Rich Cultural Experience: Explore historic churches and vibrant local culture that highlight the region's traditions.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy various outdoor activities, including golfing and excursions in picturesque national parks.
  • Amusement Park Fun: The local amusement park offers entertainment for families and children alike.
  • Charming Accommodation: A variety of hotels and bed & breakfasts provide comfortable stays for every traveller.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Discover the charm of Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, where a variety of accommodation options await, including hotels and delightful bed & breakfasts. Whether you're seeking adventure, a beach getaway, or pet-friendly lodgings, you'll find a perfect fit for your vacation. Many hotels offer essential amenities such as air conditioning and accessible parking, ensuring a comfortable stay as you explore this vibrant region of Costa Rica.

  • Wyndham Tamarindo: This 3.5-star hotel offers a perfect blend of relaxation and business amenities, making it an excellent choice for both leisure and corporate travellers. Located 27.4km from Santa Cruz, Wyndham Tamarindo is pet-friendly, allowing dogs and service animals with certain restrictions. The hotel boasts a full-service spa, a refreshing pool, and a swim-up bar, ensuring a relaxing stay. Business travellers will appreciate the dedicated meeting rooms and coworking space, while those seeking a tranquil retreat can indulge in massages with advance notice. With its serene atmosphere and comprehensive facilities, Wyndham Tamarindo promises a rejuvenating getaway.
  • Best Western Tamarindo Vista Villas: Also located 27.4km from Santa Cruz, this 3-star hotel caters to adventure enthusiasts and business travellers alike. The property is pet-friendly, allowing cats and dogs with specific policies in place. Guests can enjoy various adventure sports such as surfing, fishing, and snorkelling, either on-site or at nearby locations. The hotel features a meeting room for corporate needs, ensuring a seamless blend of work and play. With its focus on adventure and recreation, Best Western Tamarindo Vista Villas provides an exhilarating experience for those looking to explore the vibrant surroundings.
  • Hotel Arco Iris: Situated 29.0km from Santa Cruz, this charming 3.5-star hotel is ideal for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Hotel Arco Iris is pet-friendly and offers an array of adventure sports, including parasailing and horse riding. Guests can unwind at the on-site spa, enjoying massages, facial treatments, and aromatherapy. The combination of exciting activities and soothing spa services makes it a unique choice for those wanting to fully immerse themselves in Costa Rica’s natural beauty. With its welcoming atmosphere and diverse offerings, Hotel Arco Iris ensures a memorable stay.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation, perfect for a family beach holiday. Explore the charming Andalusian-style architecture and revel in the stunning beach views. Nearby, you’ll find secluded spots that foster a friendly atmosphere, ideal for outdoor excursions. With its beautiful beaches and vibrant local culture, Santa Cruz promises an unforgettable experience for every traveller seeking sun, sand, and family-friendly fun.

  • Diriá: Nestled a mere 6.4km from Santa Cruz, Diriá is a charming city that beckons outdoor enthusiasts, families, and couples looking for a romantic getaway. The travel experience here is marked by its scenic landscapes, featuring nearby beaches and a majestic volcano, making it an ideal spot for adventures and relaxation alike. The Diriá National State Park offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing, ensuring that visitors can immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty. Peak visiting times from January to March promise a lively atmosphere, while the quieter months from September to November allow for a more intimate exploration of this delightful locale.
  • Barrio Buenos Aires: Situated around the vibrant area of Santa Cruz, Barrio Buenos Aires is a neighbourhood rich in culture and family-friendly attractions. Its proximity to beautiful beaches and water features makes it an enticing destination for beach lovers and cultural aficionados alike. Visitors can enjoy engaging with local traditions while soaking up the sun, with the bustling atmosphere peaking from January to March. The area’s charm lies in its unique blend of cultural experiences and leisure activities, perfect for families seeking memorable moments together.
  • Veintisiete de Abril: Located 14.5km from Santa Cruz, Veintisiete de Abril is a picturesque city that caters to beachgoers and those in search of romantic escapes. The travel experience here is enhanced by access to stunning beaches, golf courses, and luxurious resorts, making it a prime destination for relaxation and recreation. With a backdrop of mountains and a volcano, visitors can indulge in both adventure and tranquillity. Peak tourist numbers from January to March create a vibrant atmosphere, while the quieter off-peak months provide a serene setting for exploration and enjoyment.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, is an ideal destination for outdoor family beach holidays, offering a variety of activities to enjoy. Popular attractions include golfing at local courses and relaxing at resorts. Visitors can also explore the vibrant Paseo and enjoy fun-filled moments at the amusement park, making it a perfect spot for entertainment and relaxation.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, you can explore local shops for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Frog Pad, a charming store located 35.4km away, offering a variety of gifts that reflect Costa Rican culture.

Recreation

At Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes and outdoor vibes, just 29.0km from Santa Cruz. Black Stallion Eco Park provides a serene environment for wellness and relaxation, located 22.5km away. Reserva Conchal Golf Course offers more sporting excitement, 27.4km from Santa Cruz.

Adventure

Experience the stunning Samara Trails, an 17.7km hike from Santa Cruz, offering breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure. For water sports enthusiasts, Safari Surf School, located 37.0km away, provides thrilling lessons in surfing amidst the beautiful Costa Rican coastline.

Nightlife

In Santa Cruz, the vibrant nightlife is alive with lively bars and dance spots. Venues like La Fiesta offer a festive atmosphere with local music, while Club Noche showcases DJ performances. Enjoy delicious cocktails and immerse yourself in the energetic rhythm of Costa Rican culture.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

To save money on your visit to Santa Cruz, consider travelling during the off-peak months from September to November when prices are lower. Booking your accommodation about a month in advance often yields the best rates, especially on Saturdays, which are typically cheaper than Mondays. Use Expedia to refine your hotel search based on your budget and preferences, and take advantage of last-minute deals. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can lead to significant savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Cruz are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March, July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Santa Cruz about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Cruz is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Cruz is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, is ideal for outdoor family beach holidays, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, picturesque national parks, and historic churches. The attractions cater to those seeking relaxation by the coast, adventurous outdoor activities, and a taste of local culture, making it a perfect destination for a memorable getaway.

  • Tamarindo Beach: Experience the vibrant beach vibes at Tamarindo Beach, located 29.0km from Santa Cruz. This stunning stretch of coastline is perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and enjoying the lively atmosphere of local bars and restaurants.
  • Monkey Park: Just 17.7km away, Monkey Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and wildlife. This attraction features friendly people and relaxing excursions, allowing visitors to observe and learn about various species in a tranquil setting.
  • Recaredo Briceno Park: Situated 19.3km from Santa Cruz, this urban park is ideal for families seeking outdoor enjoyment. With its lush greenery and city vibes, it's a great spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and engaging activities for all ages.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. November is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January78.1°F (25.6°C)No RainSunnyModerately HighAverage
February80.1°F (26.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
March81.7°F (27.6°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
April82.9°F (28.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May81.1°F (27.3°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
June78.6°F (25.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
July78.1°F (25.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly High
August77.7°F (25.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
September77.5°F (25.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
October76.5°F (24.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
November76.1°F (24.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December76.6°F (24.8°C)No RainSunnyModerately HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

When visiting Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, you can fly into several major airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is situated 38.6km away and offers nearby hotels such as the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 16.1km from the airport, with ample transportation services. Cóbano Airport (ACO) is 82.1km away, with high-end options like the 5-star Hotel Nantipa, 9.7km from the airport. Tamarindo (TNO) is a convenient 19.7km away, with excellent accommodations including the W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal, 9.7km from the airport, providing shuttle services. Each airport offers various transport options to ensure a seamless arrival.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Santa Cruz?
Located 21.5 mi (34.6 km) from the heart of Santa Cruz, Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive is a top choice for your stay, based on our traveller data. Other good options for your stay in the area are Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive and Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Santa Cruz.
What are some of the best holiday rentals that Santa Cruz has to offer?
Las Catalinas Doorway: This holiday home rental outside of Santa Cruz is located on the beach, and has a terrace, a garden and air conditioning to put you at ease in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include kitchenware to make your meal-planning easier. Make the most of outdoor tennis courts in this rental home to help you unwind. See all vacation rentals in Santa Cruz.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Santa Cruz, will I receive a refund?
Yes, the majority of room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a reservation that's non-refundable, it may still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Santa Cruz.
What is the favourite LGBTQ-friendly accommodation in Santa Cruz?
Hotel Diria Santa Cruz is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel that features 2 outdoor pools and free Wi-Fi. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in Santa Cruz.
What's the best dog-friendly hotel in Santa Cruz?
Playa Junquillal Eco Resort is a top hotel for people travelling with their pets, and offers 2 restaurants and an outdoor pool for its human guests. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Santa Cruz.
What are some accommodation options with pools in Santa Cruz?
Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive: Property located near Ocotal Beach. Features 6 outdoor swimming pools, a children's pool and free water park access. Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive and Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport are a couple of other choices with an on-site pool. View all hotels with pools in Santa Cruz.
What's it like to stay in Santa Cruz?
Visitors can enjoy all that Santa Cruz has to offer, including its parks. A top sight in the area is Tamarindo Beach. In Santa Cruz, there are 33 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Santa Cruz.
What should I do while I'm visiting Santa Cruz?
A favourite place to visit is Parque Bernabela Ramos. Additionally, you'll find Tamarindo Beach in the area. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Santa Cruz guide.
What's the seasonal weather in Santa Cruz?
The hottest months are usually March and April, with an average temperature of 27°C, while the coldest months are December and January, with an average of 25°C. The rainiest months in Santa Cruz are October, September, June and August, with each month seeing an average of 498 mm of rainfall.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia