Find hotels in Santa Maria from £16

Top reasons to visit Santa Maria

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Santa Maria boasts breathtaking landscapes, including nearby national parks and picturesque waterfalls, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Relaxing Beaches: The pristine Praia de Santa Maria offers a tranquil escape with soft sands, ideal for those seeking relaxation.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in thrilling diving trips and excursions that cater to adventure seekers of all levels.
• Charming Local Culture: Explore delightful churches and enjoy the friendly atmosphere of this enchanting town.
• Diverse Accommodation: A range of comfortable options, from pet-friendly hotels to cosy guesthouses, ensures a pleasant stay.

Find great hotels near Santa Maria

Discover a charming selection of accommodations in Santa Maria, San José Province, where comfort meets adventure. From pet-friendly hotels to inviting guesthouses, there’s something to suit every traveller’s needs. Enjoy family-friendly amenities and explore the beauty of Costa Rica while staying at top-rated establishments like Hotel Mirabela. With a variety of options, you’re sure to find the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.

• Hyatt Place San José/Pinares: A 3.5-star hotel boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.2, Hyatt Place San José/Pinares is an ideal destination for families and business travellers alike, located 30.6km from Santa Maria. This pet-friendly property offers a range of amenities tailored for children, including complimentary cribs, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. With a welcoming atmosphere and convenient services, this hotel provides a great base for exploring the vibrant local area.
• Gaia Hotel And Reserve - Adults Only: Rated at 4.5 stars with an impressive guest rating of 9.6, Gaia Hotel And Reserve - Adults Only is a luxurious retreat situated 32.2km from Santa Maria. This accommodation is perfect for those seeking adventure, with a variety of thrilling activities available nearby, such as ziplining, parasailing, and mountain biking. The property also embraces a pet-friendly policy, allowing dogs and cats, making it a splendid choice for those travelling with their furry companions.
• Tulemar Resort: With a 4-star rating and a stellar guest rating of 9.6, Tulemar Resort is located 33.8km from Santa Maria and offers an exquisite beach-themed experience. Guests can enjoy direct access to the beach, along with a multitude of adventure activities like kayaking and fishing. For relaxation, the resort features a full-service spa and outdoor pool, ensuring that visitors can unwind after an active day in the sun. This resort is perfect for those seeking both adventure and luxury.

Where to stay in and around Santa Maria

Santa Maria, nestled in the picturesque San José Province, offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore nearby scenic regions, where you can unwind on beautiful sandy beaches and indulge in charming beach resorts. With its friendly atmosphere and family-friendly options, Santa Maria is an ideal destination for those seeking a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat. Embrace the great outdoors and create unforgettable memories in this enchanting part of Costa Rica.

• San Marcos: Located a mere 6.4km from Santa Maria, San Marcos is a vibrant city that offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors flock here year-round, with peak travel occurring from December to February. The city is perfect for those seeking outdoor activities, with various resorts and shopping centres to explore. Local landmarks include beautiful parks and nearby beaches, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and those looking to unwind in picturesque surroundings.
• San Rafael: Nestled within the Santa Maria area, San Rafael is a charming village that attracts travellers throughout the year, particularly during the December to February peak season. With its unique blend of beach and city-themed experiences, San Rafael is perfect for those who wish to enjoy both urban and coastal attractions. Visitors can relax at the local beach, stroll through urban parks, or admire the village's statues, making it an excellent destination for a laid-back day out.
• Jardín: Just 8.0km from Santa Maria, Jardín is another captivating city that invites those looking for outdoor adventures and breathtaking views. Like its neighbours, Jardín experiences steady visitor numbers year-round, with peak months being December through February. The city is well-equipped with educational and recreational centres, and its proximity to national parks and pristine beaches makes it a favourite among nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Enjoy a day of exploration and relaxation in this picturesque locale.

Things to do in Santa Maria

Santa Maria in San José Province offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventure and serene beauty. Visitors can indulge in relaxation at the Serenity Spa, explore the best scenic spots, and embark on thrilling diving trips and excursions. This charming destination is perfect for those seeking both excitement and tranquillity amidst stunning landscapes.

Shopping

The local shops in Santa Maria offer a delightful range of handmade souvenirs and artisan gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the nearby Mall San Pedro, about 19.3km away, for a wider selection of international brands and dining options.

Recreation

Experience revitalisation at the Santa Maria Wellness Retreat, where yoga sessions amidst nature harmonise body and mind. Indulge in holistic treatments using local ingredients, followed by nature walks to explore the lush surroundings, enhancing your wellness journey in this serene Costa Rican setting.

Adventure

Experience exhilarating white-water rafting on the Pacuare River, renowned for its stunning scenery and thrilling rapids. For a unique adventure, hike through the lush trails of Chirripó National Park, where you can explore diverse wildlife and enjoy breathtaking views from Costa Rica's highest peak.

Nightlife

In Santa Maria, the vibrant nightlife features lively bars like Bar El Cuento, where you can enjoy local drinks and music. For a more relaxed atmosphere, visit Café La Casona, known for its laid-back vibe and friendly service, perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Maria

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Maria are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Santa Maria 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 Maria is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Maria is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Moreover, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Santa Maria hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Santa Maria

Santa Maria, nestled in San José Province, Costa Rica, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Highlights include exploring the nearby national parks, breathtaking waterfalls, and charming churches. For those keen on relaxation, the picturesque Praia de Santa Maria offers a lovely escape. With a variety of attractions tailored for all types of travellers, your visit promises to be filled with unforgettable experiences in this beautiful region.

• Parque Nacional Los Quetzales: Located 12.9km from Santa Maria, this national park offers stunning scenery and outdoor adventure. Explore lush trails while searching for the elusive Quetzal bird, a true highlight for nature enthusiasts.
• Marina Pez Vela: Situated 32.2km away, this vibrant marina is perfect for those seeking beach adventures. Enjoy water sports, fishing, and the vibrant atmosphere, all while soaking in the beautiful coastal views.
• Don Manuel Lake: Just 6.4km from Santa Maria, this serene lake is ideal for a romantic day out. With its picturesque scenery and tranquil beaches, it’s a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying nature.

Best time to go to Santa Maria

The best time to visit Santa Maria is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. November is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	76.6°F (24.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
May	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
June	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	75.9°F (24.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	74.7°F (23.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Maria

For your visit to Santa Maria in San José Province, Costa Rica, the major airports are San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría International), Quepos (XQP), and Cóbano Airport (ACO). San José Airport is situated 48.3km from Santa Maria, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott, both offering shuttle services. Quepos Airport, located 29.0km away, features top hotels like the luxurious Makanda by the Sea, providing 24-hour shuttle options. Cóbano Airport is 123.9km from Santa Maria, with excellent accommodations such as Hotel Nantipa just a short distance away. Each airport ensures convenient access for your holiday.