An aerial view of a coastal town with a beach, houses, and mountains in the background.

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Tonight
13 Oct - 14 Oct
Tomorrow
14 Oct - 15 Oct
This weekend
16 Oct - 18 Oct
Next weekend
23 Oct - 25 Oct

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Our top choices for Santa Cruz hotels

1. Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz

Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz
United States
Luis
£63
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz

2. Hotel Brisa Dorada Cabañas

Hotel Brisa Dorada Cabañas
Santa Cruz
£79
includes taxes & fees
10 Nov - 11 Nov
Hotel Brisa Dorada Cabañas

3. Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport
Liberia
United States
Laurel
£113
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

4. Hotel El Regalo

Hotel El Regalo
Nicoya
United States
Christopher
£81
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Hotel El Regalo

5. Conchal Hotel

Conchal Hotel
Cabo Velas
Canada
kismet
£54
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Conchal Hotel

6. Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport

Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport
Liberia
Mexico
Timothy
£113
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport

7. Seis Playas Hotel

Seis Playas Hotel
Tamarindo
United States
Enrique
£44
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Seis Playas Hotel

8. The Palms At Coco Beach

The Palms At Coco Beach
Sardinal
Canada
Michael Delacy
£45
includes taxes & fees
16 Oct - 17 Oct
The Palms At Coco Beach

9. Hotel Luna Azul

Hotel Luna Azul
Cuajiniquil
United States
Clint
£33
includes taxes & fees
26 Oct - 27 Oct
Hotel Luna Azul

10. Wyndham Tamarindo

Wyndham Tamarindo
Tamarindo
United States
Monica
£117
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Wyndham Tamarindo

11. Hotel Huacas

Hotel Huacas
Tamarindo
United States
Jose
£58
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Hotel Huacas

12. Hotel Villa del Sueño

Hotel Villa del Sueño
Sardinal
United States
Anjali
£81
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Hotel Villa del Sueño

13. Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa
Sardinal
United States
Yailiana
£204
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

14. Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
Cabo Velas
United States
Kelly
£162
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

15. Suitree Experience Hotel

Suitree Experience Hotel
Sardinal
United States
PHUONG
£240
includes taxes & fees
14 Oct - 15 Oct
Suitree Experience Hotel

16. Ten North Tamarindo Beach Hotel

Ten North Tamarindo Beach Hotel
Tamarindo
Canada
Sahar
£86
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Ten North Tamarindo Beach Hotel

17. Bahia del Sol Beach Front Boutique Hotel

Bahia del Sol Beach Front Boutique Hotel
Potrero
United States
Subham
£161
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Bahia del Sol Beach Front Boutique Hotel

18. Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort
Tamarindo
United States
Terry
£165
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

19. Condovac la Costa

Condovac la Costa
Sardinal
United States
Marvin
£133
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Condovac la Costa

20. RipJack Inn

RipJack Inn
Cabo Velas
United States
Susan
£123
includes taxes & fees
23 Oct - 24 Oct
RipJack Inn
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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

Parque Bernabela Ramos

2.0/10 (1 review)
Explore the great outdoors at Parque Bernabela Ramos, a lovely green space in Santa Cruz. Wander the beaches in this relaxing area.
See properties

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.

See all hotels in Santa Cruz
An aerial view of a coastal town with a beach, houses, and mountains in the background.

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa

The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa

8/10 Good
"NA Unfortunately our rooms were avaliable 2 hours after the check-in time, responses from the express service were slow, they tried compensating but it was still created uncomfort. Staff at the restaurants were very attentive."
Bianka 3-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa
Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

10/10 Excellent
"Margaritaville on Playa de Flamingo was great! Great food, drinks (try the Green Monster), comfortable room, local entertainment, walk to a beautiful beach, large pool, pool tables inside, local craft fairs, sunsets, short walk to shopping, restaurants, harbor, sailing, snorkeling, surfing, diving. Plan to stay put on Weekend Sunsets as the small dirt road get crowded with guests and locals. Enjoy you stay."
Larry 15-night trip
Posted 3 hours ago
Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

10/10 Excellent
"Wonderful stay at Bosque del Mar — friendly, helpful staff, beautiful well-kept grounds. We'd happily come back."
Christopher 1-night trip
Posted 10 hours ago
Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa
Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

10/10 Excellent
"I stayed at Secrets Papagayo in October when the resort was at 60% capacity, so it was pleasantly relaxed and never felt overcrowded. I’d read complaints about the shuttles, and it’s true that the steep layout makes walking around difficult. However, I never waited more than 10 minutes for a ride, even at 1 a.m. The facilities were clean and well maintained, and my room’s AC worked great. As a former military guy, I’m pretty easy to please: give me a clean room and cold air, and I’m happy! Pool chairs were limited, but we always found somewhere to leave our belongings. It wasn’t always within sight, though cameras covered the main pool area. I could see seating being a bigger issue during peak season. The food was good across the buffet, sushi restaurant, Seaside Grill, and Italian restaurant. Seaside Grill offers different lunch and dinner menus. My only minor gripe was having to wear long pants at the Italian restaurant in Costa Rica’s heat and humidity. As a single 36-year-old guy, I noticed most guests were couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries, or simply relaxing. Despite reviews mentioning a party atmosphere, I found it laid-back, although the off-season may explain that. The staff were attentive and even remembered my name. Special recognition goes to Dalay from the entertainment team! She led daily activities with infectious energy and personality and was genuinely one of the highlights of my stay. Overall, a great experience. I’d happily return!"
Patrick 7-night trip
Posted 23 hours ago
Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive
Wyndham Tamarindo

Wyndham Tamarindo

10/10 Excellent
"The Wyndham is a beautiful and well maintained hotel. The magnificent views from the room was breathtaking. The amenities such as timely shuttle service to the beach was immensely helpful. Breakfast was delicious."
Jacqueline 2-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Wyndham Tamarindo
Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Everything was perfect"
Frederick 4-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort
Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

10/10 Excellent
"Everything was nice and clean. Staff was very friendly!"
Tyra 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport
CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

10/10 Excellent
"This place is a little slice of heaven. Me and my husband absolutely fell in love with this place. From the amazing staff to the incredible food this place is the way to go. It’s more relaxed, family oriented. Perfect place to go and enjoy the beach in peace. The beach is just a very small walk from your room. We are already planning another visit in the future. We didn’t know what to expect our first time in Costa Rica but this place has got you covered. I’ll give Freddy’s Experiences a good shout out. They will get you into an amazing excursion. So don't worry about booking something till you get there. Love this place."
Kathleen 7-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Thank you very much to all the staff! Great service!! I’d like to mention especially Andreina, from the Pimento Restaurant and all staff there! Awesome service!!!"
Allan 3-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort & Spa

More cheap stays in Santa Cruz

Hermosa Paradise

Hermosa Paradise

Highway 159 behind Super Luperon Sardinal Guanacaste Province
£44
14 Oct - 15 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Hermosa Paradise
Bahia Esmeralda Boutique Hotel & Villas

Bahia Esmeralda Boutique Hotel & Villas

100 metros Este de la Plaza Deportiva Tempate Guanacaste
£55
2 Nov - 3 Nov
includes taxes & fees
Bahia Esmeralda Boutique Hotel & Villas
Hotel Villa Del Sol

Hotel Villa Del Sol

Barrio La Chorrera Sardinal
£64
28 Oct - 29 Oct
includes taxes & fees
9.4/10 Exceptional! (397 reviews)
Hotel Villa Del Sol
Hotel Mar Rey

Hotel Mar Rey

Playa Tamarindo Tamarindo Guanacaste
£68
17 Oct - 18 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (374 reviews)
Hotel Mar Rey
Toro Blanco Resort

Toro Blanco Resort

25 Metros Sur de la Iglesia Catolica Sardinal Guanacaste
£73
14 Oct - 15 Oct
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (180 reviews)
Toro Blanco Resort
Mono Luxe Villas

Mono Luxe Villas

75W4 47C Tamarindo Guanacaste Province
£77
14 Oct - 15 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Mono Luxe Villas

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

  • Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches with soft sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
  • Outdoor Adventures: The area offers various outdoor activities, including golfing and nature excursions, ideal for families and adventure seekers.
  • Rich Cultural Experience: Visitors can explore local churches and experience the vibrant culture of Santa Cruz through its friendly community.
  • Scenic Excursions: Nearby Santa Cruz Island provides opportunities for secluded adventures amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
  • Diverse Accommodations: A range of lodging options, from charming inns to well-equipped hotels, cater to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Discover a delightful range of accommodations in Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, ideal for every type of traveller. Whether you seek adventure, a relaxing beach getaway, or a family-friendly experience, the area's hotels and bed & breakfasts offer excellent services and facilities. From charming inns to well-appointed hotels, you'll find the best options to suit your needs and ensure a memorable stay in this beautiful Costa Rican destination.

  • The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa: This 4.5-star resort, rated 9.0, offers an exceptional all-inclusive experience set against the stunning backdrop of Guanacaste’s coastline. Perfect for beach and golf enthusiasts, guests can indulge in unlimited food and beverages, alongside amenities like a 24-hour room service, fitness facilities, and a variety of classes, including yoga and Pilates. The resort features direct beach access, a vibrant nightclub, and a golf course, ensuring a captivating and leisurely stay.
  • Wyndham Tamarindo: With a 3.5-star rating and a guest score of 8.4, Wyndham Tamarindo is an ideal retreat for those seeking a blend of beach relaxation and spa indulgence. Located just 27.4km from Santa Cruz, this property boasts direct beach access and offers a full-service spa alongside a refreshing pool. Guests can enjoy various treatments, from massages to facials, in a tranquil setting, making it a perfect spot for rejuvenation after a day of exploration.
  • Jardín del Edén Boutique Hotel - Adults Only: Rated 9.4 with a 4-star distinction, this boutique hotel is tailored for adults seeking adventure and relaxation. Situated 29.0km from Santa Cruz, it offers direct beach access and a plethora of onsite and nearby activities, such as hiking and horse riding. Guests can unwind in the outdoor pool or indulge in spa services, including deep tissue massages and body treatments, ensuring a harmonious blend of excitement and relaxation during their stay.

Where to stay near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and beach relaxation, making it perfect for family vacations. Explore the charming downtown, where friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere. Nearby, the stunning Santa Cruz Island invites excursions for those seeking seclusion and natural beauty. With its great location, Santa Cruz serves as an ideal base for discovering the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica.

  • Diriá: Situated a mere 6.4km from Santa Cruz, Diriá offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and family-friendly activities. With visitor numbers peaking from January to March, this city is a year-round attraction for those seeking a vibrant getaway. The area is known for its stunning golf courses and relaxing spas, making it ideal for both relaxation and recreation. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby beach, park, and nature reserve, all of which provide stunning landscapes and opportunities for exploration.
  • Veintisiete de Abril: Located 14.5km from Santa Cruz, Veintisiete de Abril is a charming city that attracts visitors throughout the year. With peak travel from January to March, it is particularly popular among families and couples seeking a romantic beach escape. The area boasts excellent golf facilities and luxurious resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay. Local attractions include stunning beaches, a majestic volcano, and picturesque mountains, making it a perfect destination for those looking to indulge in nature and relaxation.
  • El Guapote: A quaint village situated 16.1km from Santa Cruz, El Guapote is less frequented by tourists, yet it offers a unique charm for those who venture here. With stable visitor numbers throughout the year, this destination is ideal for business travellers, families, and beach enthusiasts alike. The village is primarily known for its close proximity to beautiful beaches, providing a serene environment for relaxation and leisure. El Guapote is a hidden gem that promises a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle.

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, is perfect for outdoor and family holidays, offering a variety of activities such as golfing at local courses and enjoying beach resorts. Tourists can explore popular attractions, including guided Santa Cruz tours, recreational centres, and scenic sightseeing spots. This vibrant area is ideal for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in a picturesque setting.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, explore local markets like the Mercado Municipal for handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Costa Rican goods. If you're up for a drive, visit Plaza Real in nearby Liberia, where you'll find a variety of shops and dining options for a pleasant shopping experience.

Recreation

The tranquil Zen Garden is a peaceful oasis offering yoga sessions and meditation classes amidst lush greenery. For relaxation, visit the Healing Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and massages, all designed to restore balance and harmony to your mind and body.

Adventure

In Santa Cruz, experience thrilling zip-lining through lush canopies at the Congo Trail Canopy Tour, offering breathtaking views. For a unique adventure, explore the Curu Wildlife Refuge, where you can hike scenic trails and spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

Nightlife

Santa Cruz boasts a lively nightlife, with venues like Bar El Tejano for vibrant live music and La Sazón for authentic Costa Rican cuisine. For a more relaxed evening, enjoy cocktails at the charming Café del Parque, perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Cruz

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Cruz are May and September to October, 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Santa Cruz is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • 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 wizard to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, is perfect for outdoor and family vacations, offering a blend of stunning beaches, national parks, and cultural sites. Visitors can explore various points of interest, including beautiful beaches and local churches, while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the area. Optional activities include discovering the Santa Cruz neighbourhood and the nearby Santa Cruz wharf, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

  • Tamarindo Beach: This vibrant beach, located 29.0km from Santa Cruz, offers a lively atmosphere perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and enjoying the local cuisine. With its stunning sunsets and various water sports, Tamarindo Beach is an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure.
  • Palo Verde National Park: Situated 29.0km from Santa Cruz, this national park is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Experience breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventures as you explore diverse ecosystems, birdwatch, and take guided boat tours through the wetlands.
  • Monkey Park: Just 17.7km away from Santa Cruz, Monkey Park is a delightful sanctuary where you can encounter friendly animals and learn about local wildlife. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with opportunities for excursions that educate visitors about conservation efforts.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is dependent 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 SunnyAverageSlightly High
May81.1°F (27.3°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
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 SunnyAverageAverage
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 have several airport options. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is 154.5km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen offering shuttle services. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is a more convenient 38.6km away, featuring luxury stays like the Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo and Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, both providing shuttle and transportation options. Lastly, Tamarindo (TNO) is just 25.7km away, with excellent resorts like JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, which also offer transport services to the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best family hotels in Santa Cruz?
For an excellent family hotel in Santa Cruz, consider the Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz.This 3-star hotel, with a rating of 8.2, is very well-suited for families. It offers a children's pool, and guests appreciate the complimentary cooked breakfast, free breakfast in general, and free toiletries. Additionally, the convenience of free self-parking and free WiFi throughout the property makes it a practical choice for families travelling by car.
What hotels in Santa Cruz offer free breakfast?
For hotels in Santa Cruz offering complimentary breakfast, the Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz is an excellent choice.This 3-star hotel, with a rating of 8.2, provides guests with free cooked breakfast daily, ensuring a great start to your day. It also offers complimentary toiletries, free self-parking, and free WiFi for added convenience. The hotel is situated just 0.9 km from Parque Bernabela Ramos, making it a good base for exploring the area.
What are the best budget hotels in Santa Cruz?
For a budget-friendly stay in Santa Cruz, Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz is an excellent choice.This 3-star hotel, with an 8.2 rating, offers complimentary breakfast, including cooked options, and free toiletries, ensuring a comfortable start to your day. Guests also benefit from free self-parking and free WiFi. It is conveniently located just 0.9 kilometres from Parque Bernabela Ramos.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in Santa Cruz.
How much is the nightly rate at a Santa Cruz hotel?
Prices for hotels in Santa Cruz often vary, but you can find a great deal from £44 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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