Tamarindo Beach coastline from above, Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

Santa Cruz Hotels

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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, (92 reviews)
"Nice room, very clean and in a convenient location, nice staff and delicious breakfast! "
United States
Jennifer
The price is €62
includes taxes & fees
17 Jun - 18 Jun
Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz

Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport

Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport
3.5 star property
Liberia
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,547 reviews)
"Very nice hotel, conveniently very close to the airport. Lovely pool!"
Canada
Nicole
The price is €129
includes taxes & fees
25 Jun - 26 Jun
Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport

Mono Luxe Villas

Mono Luxe Villas
2.5 star property
Tamarindo
The price is €109
includes taxes & fees
15 Jun - 16 Jun
Mono Luxe Villas

Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport
3.0 star property
Liberia
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,608 reviews)
"Friendly hotel, nice property"
United States
Janeen
The price is €140
includes taxes & fees
21 Jun - 22 Jun
Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

Hotel Ocotal B&B

Hotel Ocotal B&B
3.0 star property
Sardinal
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (119 reviews)
"Great stay"
Canada
James
The price is €71
includes taxes & fees
15 Jun - 16 Jun
Hotel Ocotal B&B

Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort
4.0 star property
Tamarindo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,014 reviews)
"Great property, friendly staff, good location. "
United States
Danelle
The price is €204
includes taxes & fees
17 Jun - 18 Jun
Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

The Hideaway Hotel

The Hideaway Hotel
3.5 star property
Sámara
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (312 reviews)
"Wonderful place to stay, clean, staff was wonderful, monkeys outside everyday! Breakfast was delicious! "
United States
SARAH
The price is €105
includes taxes & fees
15 Jun - 16 Jun
The Hideaway Hotel

Hotel Sol Samara

Hotel Sol Samara
3.0 star property
Sámara
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (227 reviews)
"Clean room ,great staff "
United States
Matt
The price is €85
includes taxes & fees
13 Jul - 14 Jul
Hotel Sol Samara

Hotel El Regalo

Hotel El Regalo
3.0 star property
Nicoya
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (51 reviews)
"Hotel was clean and Staff was very nice. 👍 "
United States
Christopher
The price is €78
includes taxes & fees
15 Jun - 16 Jun
Hotel El Regalo

Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique

Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique
5.0 star property
Sardinal
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (16 reviews)
"Great property, not far from airport, awesome service and a pleasant staff to be around. "
United States
James
The price is €1,023
includes taxes & fees
16 Jun - 17 Jun
Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique

Mundo Milo Eco Lodge

Mundo Milo Eco Lodge
3.0 star property
Veintisiete de Abril
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (143 reviews)
"Great location, friendly staff, excellent breakfast and great room"
United States
Patrick
The price is €61
includes taxes & fees
15 Jun - 16 Jun
Mundo Milo Eco Lodge

Iguana Surf Boutique Hotel Tamarindo

Iguana Surf Boutique Hotel Tamarindo
2.5 star property
Tamarindo
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
"This hotel is magical. The staff are friendly and so helpful. The food at the restaurant is incredible and the views from the balcony and pool are spectacular! Highly recommend and we will absolutely be returning!"
United States
Brady
The price is €175
includes taxes & fees
27 Jun - 28 Jun
Iguana Surf Boutique Hotel Tamarindo

Sunset Shack Hotel

Sunset Shack Hotel
3.0 star property
Nosara
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (107 reviews)
"Beautiful setting, great location and quaint rooms!"
United States
Emily
The price is €133
includes taxes & fees
15 Jun - 16 Jun
Sunset Shack Hotel

The Palms At Coco Beach

The Palms At Coco Beach
3.0 star property
Sardinal
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (708 reviews)
"Breakfast is a wonderful treat to such a great property and location superb."
United States
Cheryl
The price is €57
includes taxes & fees
17 Jun - 18 Jun
The Palms At Coco Beach

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
3.5 star property
Cabo Velas
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,017 reviews)
"Fabulous hotel amazing beach and location loved the pickleball."
United Kingdom
Rachael
The price is €233
includes taxes & fees
21 Jun - 22 Jun
Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

Hotel Brasilito

Hotel Brasilito
3.0 star property
Cabo Velas
7.8 out of 10, Good, (338 reviews)
"Location, location, location! The restaurant was awesome and it was so easy to walk around the area."
United States
Cheryl
The price is €69
includes taxes & fees
15 Jun - 16 Jun
Hotel Brasilito

Condovac la Costa

Condovac la Costa
3.5 star property
Sardinal
6.4 out of 10, (1,001 reviews)
"Nicely maintained resort with amazing views and friendly staff right by the beautiful and clean dark sand beach."
United States
Eva
The price is €177
includes taxes & fees
19 Jun - 20 Jun
Condovac la Costa

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, (1,000 reviews)
"Great location"
United States
marvin
The price is €202
includes taxes & fees
17 Jun - 18 Jun
Bahia del Sol Beach Front Boutique Hotel

Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa
3.5 star property
Sardinal
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (927 reviews)
"Beautiful room, very friendly staff and the food at the restaurant was delicious."
United States
James
The price is €264
includes taxes & fees
18 Jun - 19 Jun
Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

Hotel Villa del Sueño

Hotel Villa del Sueño
3.0 star property
Sardinal
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (493 reviews)
"Excellent breakfast, grounds were kept very clean and parking was secure "
Canada
matthew
The price is €93
includes taxes & fees
15 Jun - 16 Jun
Hotel Villa del Sueño
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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 balcony, a terrace and air conditioning to put you at ease in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include kitchenware to make your meal-planning easier. You can relax into your holiday with a garden and outdoor tennis courts. 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: 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.

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