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Compare 5,498 hotels, room rates, hotel reviews and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

Hotel Diria Santa Cruz

3.0 star property
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (62)
"My 3rd stay here. It is always pleasant "
The price is CA $91
CA $103 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 15 - Aug 16
Hotel Diria Santa Cruz

Hotel La Arena

2.5 star property
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (100)
"Friendly owner(s), Good value, clean rooms, easy to find and easy commute to airport and good restaurants in Liberia. I wish pool was heated, but nice for the price."
The price is CA $230
CA $260 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 29 - Aug 30
Hotel La Arena

Leyenda Boutique Hotel & Spa

4.0 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (264)
"Beautiful property and very nice rooms. Staff were wonderful. "
The price is CA $153
CA $173 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 17 - Aug 18
Leyenda Boutique Hotel & Spa

Hotel Amira

3.0 star property
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (4)
"Very well-maintained property. The staff was top-notch and the place is beautiful. The rooms are well designed and constructed. Very comfortable and immaculate "
The price is CA $105
CA $119 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 15 - Aug 16
Hotel Amira

Cabinas el Colibri

3.0 star property
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (81)
"Rooms were spacious, albeit a bit of a hike down to beach. Nice steak house on site, and refreshing pool. One of the most beautiful beaches in Costa Rica. Playa Carrillo"
The price is CA $96
CA $109 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 19 - Aug 20
Cabinas el Colibri

Nammbú Beachfront Bungalows

3.5 star property
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (331)
"Best place so far"
The price is CA $340
CA $384 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 21 - Aug 22
Nammbú Beachfront Bungalows

Montelaguna Boutique Hotel

3.0 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (193)
"Staff were lovely. Room and hotel were clean. "
The price is CA $125
CA $142 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 15 - Aug 16
Montelaguna Boutique Hotel

The Hideaway Hotel

3.5 star property
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (268)
"Everything was amazing."
The price is CA $110
CA $125 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
The Hideaway Hotel

Hotel Sol Samara

3.0 star property
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (218)
"Best place to stay in Samara. Amazing staff and great breakfast (included) a real plus. "
The price is CA $115
CA $130 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Hotel Sol Samara

Hotel Samara Beach

3.0 star property
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (68)
"I liked the price for a hotel and the location right in the middle of town "
The price is CA $99
CA $112 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 15 - Aug 16
Hotel Samara Beach

Hotel Giada

3.5 star property
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (289)
"Great location, staff really helpful and friendly. Comfy room and nice balcony with a view on the pool and the beautiful flowers. "
The price is CA $90
CA $101 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 2 - Sep 3
Hotel Giada

Villas Playa Samara Beach Front Resort

3.5 star property
6.8 out of 10, (216)
"Clean property and nice beach access."
The price is CA $299
CA $338 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Villas Playa Samara Beach Front Resort

Blue Iguana

2.5 star property
7.2 out of 10, Good, (105)
"Friendly staff. "
The price is CA $69
CA $78 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 15 - Aug 16
Blue Iguana

Villas Verdes

3.0 star property
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (56)
"Everything was perfect. The villa was very complete, it contained everything we needed for a great stay."
The price is CA $105
CA $119 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Villas Verdes

Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport

3.5 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1333)
"It was a great property with shopping and eateries close by"
The price is CA $168
CA $190 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 14 - Sep 15
Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport

Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

3.0 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (993)
"Excellent place to stay. "
The price is CA $168
CA $190 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 24 - Aug 25
Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

Jungle's Edge: Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai & Yoga Retreats

3.0 star property
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (106)
"Very charming and unique hotel, the glamping hut was very confortable, the staff (especially the young waiter Steven) was very nice. Close to Nosara as well"
The price is CA $102
CA $116 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Jungle's Edge: Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai & Yoga Retreats

Tierra Magnifica Boutique Hotel

4.5 star property
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (40)
"A truly exceptional hotel in every way. Had a wonderful stay."
The price is CA $312
CA $367 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 15 - Aug 16
Tierra Magnifica Boutique Hotel

El Mangroove Papagayo, Autograph Collection

4.5 star property
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (455)
"The staff are wonderful. Rooms clean and unique with hammocks on the "porch". Wonderful pools! We loved our stay. "
The price is CA $444
CA $548 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
El Mangroove Papagayo, Autograph Collection

Sunset Shack Hotel

3.0 star property
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (97)
"5- min walk to the beach. "
The price is CA $208
CA $235 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 15 - Aug 16
Sunset Shack Hotel
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Where to stay in Santa Cruz

Find the best Santa Cruz areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most.
Barrio Buenos Aires map

Barrio Buenos Aires

Parque Bernabela Ramos is one noteworthy place to stop while you're exploring Barrio Buenos Aires and the surrounding area.

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.

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

  • Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing, catering to all beach lovers.
  • Cultural Exploration: Experience local culture through historic churches and vibrant community events, showcasing Costa Rican traditions.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Engage in various outdoor activities, including golfing and exploring nearby national parks, ideal for families and adventurers.
  • Family-Friendly Attractions: Visit local amusement parks for thrilling rides and fun activities that entertain visitors of all ages.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxurious beachfront hotels to budget-friendly lodgings, providing options for every traveller.

Find great hotels in Santa Cruz

Discover the vibrant charm of Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, where a diverse selection of accommodations awaits to suit every traveller's needs. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious beachfront hotel, a cozy lodge, or budget-friendly options, Santa Cruz has it all. Enjoy thrilling adventures, relaxing beach themes, and business amenities, all while experiencing the warm hospitality of this beautiful Costa Rican destination.

  • Wyndham Tamarindo: Experience the perfect blend of business and leisure at Wyndham Tamarindo, a 3.5-star hotel located 27.4km away from Santa Cruz. This hotel is ideal for travellers seeking a beach, business themed, and spa themed vacation. With direct access to the beach, guests can unwind by the shore or indulge in various water activities. The property also caters to business needs with multiple meeting rooms and a coworking space. For relaxation, enjoy the full spa services including body treatments, manicures, and an outdoor pool, ensuring a rejuvenating stay.
  • Jardín del Edén Boutique Hotel - Adults Only: Escape to a tranquil paradise at Jardín del Edén Boutique Hotel, a luxurious 4-star retreat located 29.0km from Santa Cruz. This adults-only hotel is perfect for those seeking a beach, adventure, and spa themed getaway. With direct beach access, guests can enjoy a variety of adventure sports, including mountain biking and horseback riding nearby. The hotel features a full-service spa, offering deep tissue massages and relaxing poolside amenities, providing the ultimate haven for relaxation and adventure seekers alike.
  • Best Western Tamarindo Vista Villas: Embrace the vibrant spirit of Costa Rica at Best Western Tamarindo Vista Villas, a comfortable 3-star hotel situated 27.4km from Santa Cruz. With a beach, adventure, and business themed focus, this hotel is perfect for a diverse range of travellers. Guests enjoy direct access to the beach, along with exciting adventure sports such as surfing and kayaking nearby. The hotel also offers business facilities, including a meeting room, making it a great choice for both leisure and work-related trips. Experience a laid-back atmosphere with easy access to local attractions.

Where to stay in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, is a delightful destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore the charming towns nearby, where you can enjoy romantic oceanfront views and family-friendly beach houses. With its welcoming atmosphere and beautiful central coast, Santa Cruz promises an unforgettable vacation experience filled with friendly faces and serene moments by the sea.

  • Diriá: Located a mere 6.4km from Santa Cruz, Diriá is a charming city known for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse experiences. Visitors flock here year-round, with peaks during January to March, drawn by the opportunity for outdoor adventures, romantic getaways, and family-friendly activities. Notable attractions include nearby beaches, a majestic volcano, and the scenic national state park, making Diriá a great base for exploring Costa Rica's natural beauty. The local casino also offers a fun night out for those looking to try their luck.
  • Barrio Buenos Aires: This vibrant neighborhood is situated around the Santa Cruz area and is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and leisure activities. Like Diriá, Barrio Buenos Aires sees consistent visitor numbers throughout the year, particularly from January to March. Families and culture enthusiasts will appreciate the easy access to beautiful beaches and family-oriented water features. The neighbourhood’s close-knit community feel, coupled with its cultural landmarks, makes it an ideal spot for tourists looking to immerse themselves in local life while enjoying the sun and surf.
  • Veintisiete de Abril: Approximately 14.5km from Santa Cruz, Veintisiete de Abril offers a delightful mix of relaxation and recreation, ideal for families and couples alike. This city sees a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, peaking in the first quarter. Known for its stunning beaches, golf courses, and luxurious resorts, it's a perfect destination for those seeking a romantic escape or a fun-filled family vacation. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy the beautiful volcano and mountainous landscapes nearby, providing ample opportunities for adventure.

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, is a fantastic destination for outdoor family beach vacations. Enjoy activities like golfing at local courses, soaking up the sun on perfect beaches, and catching the best waves at nearby surf spots. Don't miss the chance to visit the local amusement park for some fun and excitement, making it an ideal getaway for everyone in the family.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, you can visit local shops for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out Frog Pad, located 35.4km away, where you can find a variety of gifts and artisan products that reflect the culture of Costa Rica.

Recreation

At Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course, enjoy a scenic round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Black Stallion Eco Park offers a serene escape with wellness activities amid nature, promoting relaxation. Meanwhile, Reserva Conchal Golf Course combines sports and beautiful scenery for an invigorating experience.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Canopy Vista Tamarindo's zipline ropes course, offering an exhilarating adventure 22.5km from Santa Cruz. Explore the scenic Samara Trails, a hiking trail located 17.7km away, where you can immerse yourself in nature. For water sports enthusiasts, Safari Surf School awaits 37.0km from Santa Cruz.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Santa Cruz with a visit to Casino Diria, located 22.5km away, offering a romantic atmosphere and exciting gaming options. Alternatively, head to El Coco Casino, 33.8km from Santa Cruz, for a lively night filled with city vibes and entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

To save money on your vacation to Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, visit during the cheaper months of September to November, and consider booking your hotel about a month in advance for better rates. Saturdays are the least expensive days to stay, while Wednesdays tend to be pricier. Utilize Expedia to find eco-certified accommodations and compare rates. For additional savings, look for package deals that combine flights and hotel stays. Don't forget to explore free activities in the area, and use public transport to navigate affordably.

  • 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 to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Santa Cruz about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
  • 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 Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, is perfect for outdoor family beach vacations, offering attractions like beautiful beaches, historic churches, and nearby national parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture while enjoying various outdoor experiences. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore the vibrant community, Santa Cruz has something for everyone. Don't miss the chance to discover the unique charm and activities that this coastal town has to offer.

  • Tamarindo Beach: Located 29.0km from Santa Cruz, Tamarindo Beach offers a vibrant atmosphere with golden sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or enjoying a beachside cocktail. The lively beach vibes create an ideal setting for relaxation and adventure.
  • Monkey Park: Situated 17.7km away, Monkey Park is a unique sanctuary where you can interact with friendly animals and learn about wildlife conservation. The relaxing atmosphere and excursions make it a fantastic spot for families and animal lovers alike.
  • Palo Verde National Park: Just 29.0km from Santa Cruz, this national park is a haven for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Explore the stunning scenery through guided tours, bird-watching, and outdoor activities that showcase Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Cruz falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Cruz falls in November, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with moderate rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January78.1°F (25.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighAverage
February80.1°F (26.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
March81.7°F (27.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
April82.9°F (28.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
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 HighAverage
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 Rain (Dry)SunnyModerately HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

Flying into Santa Cruz, Guanacaste offers convenient access via three major airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is 38.6km away, with nearby hotels like the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 16.1km from the airport, and the all-inclusive Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, 14.5km away, both providing various transportation options. Tamarindo (TNO) is 25.7km distant and features excellent accommodations such as the W Costa Rica, 9.7km from the airport, and the JW Marriott Guanacaste, 8.0km away, offering shuttle services. Nosara (NOB), located 32.2km from Santa Cruz, has options like the Azura Beach Resort and Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge, both with shuttle services available.

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 Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive is a top choice for your stay based on our traveler data. Two other choices for your trip to the area are The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa and Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Santa Cruz.

What's the top vacation rental in Santa Cruz?

Las Catalinas Doorway: Visitors like this Santa Cruz vacation home rental. It 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. 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 refundable provided that you cancel prior to the hotel's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you might be able to cancel it and be given a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Santa Cruz.

Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Santa Cruz?

For more information about rescheduling or cancelling your trip to Santa Cruz, go to https://www.expedia.com/service/.

What's the best place to stay for a family vacation to Santa Cruz?

Hotel Diria Santa Cruz is a top 3-star hotel on Expedia for families, and features 2 outdoor pools and a restaurant. Attractions in the area like Las Baulas National Marine Park and Monkey Park are also fun for kids of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Santa Cruz.

What is the favorite LGBTQ-friendly accommodation in Santa Cruz?

Hotel Diria Santa Cruz is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel that features 2 outdoor pools and free WiFi. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in Santa Cruz.

What's the best pet-friendly accommodation in Santa Cruz?

Playa Junquillal Eco Resort is a top hotel for people traveling 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 accommodations with pools in Santa Cruz?

Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive: Features 4 outdoor pools, a children's pool, and free water-park access. The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa and Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport are a couple of other choices that feature an onsite pool. View all hotels with pools in Santa Cruz.

What is the best spa hotel in Santa Cruz?

Playa Junquillal Eco Resort is a highly recommended spa hotel with a pool. In-room massages are also available. See all spa hotels in Santa Cruz.

What is the best accommodation for staying close to Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR)?

Hilton Garden Inn Liberia Airport is a popular 3.5-star hotel featuring a restaurant and an outdoor pool. It's located a short 0.8 mi (1.3 km) from Daniel Oduber Intl. Airport. Other good options near the airport include Hotel Santa Ana Liberia Airport and Hotel Rincon del Llano.

How is it to stay in Santa Cruz?

Visitors can enjoy all that Santa Cruz has to offer including its parks. In Santa Cruz, there are 37 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Santa Cruz.

What should I do while I'm visiting Santa Cruz?

A favorite place to visit is Parque Bernabela Ramos. You'll also find Casino Diria and Junquillal Beach in the area. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's Santa Cruz guide.

What's the weather like in Santa Cruz?

The hottest months are usually March and April with an average temp of 81°F, while the coldest months are December and January with an average of 78°F. The rainiest months in Santa Cruz are October, September, June, and August, with each month seeing an average of 20 inches of rainfall.