Find hotels in Santa Cruz from CA $49

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 17 miles away from Santa Cruz. This hotel is ideal for travellers seeking a BeachTheme, BusinessTheme, and SpaTheme 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 18 miles from Santa Cruz. This adults-only hotel is perfect for those seeking a BeachTheme, AdventureTheme, and SpaTheme 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 17 miles from Santa Cruz. With a BeachTheme, AdventureTheme, and BusinessTheme 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 4 miles 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 9 miles 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 22 miles 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 14 miles from Santa Cruz. Explore the scenic Samara Trails, a hiking trail located 11 miles away, where you can immerse yourself in nature. For water sports enthusiasts, Safari Surf School awaits 23 miles from Santa Cruz.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Santa Cruz with a visit to Casino Diria, located 14 miles away, offering a romantic atmosphere and exciting gaming options. Alternatively, head to El Coco Casino, 21 miles 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 18 miles 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 11 miles 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 18 miles 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 Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	78.1°F (25.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	80.1°F (26.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.7°F (27.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	82.9°F (28.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	81.1°F (27.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately Low	Average
June	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
July	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
August	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
September	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
November	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	76.6°F (24.8°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly 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 24 miles away, with nearby hotels like the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 10 miles from the airport, and the all-inclusive Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, 9 miles away, both providing various transportation options. Tamarindo (TNO) is 16 miles distant and features excellent accommodations such as the W Costa Rica, 6 miles from the airport, and the JW Marriott Guanacaste, 5 miles away, offering shuttle services. Nosara (NOB), located 20 miles from Santa Cruz, has options like the Azura Beach Resort and Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge, both with shuttle services available.