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Our top choices for Santa Cruz hotels

Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive
4.0 star property
Sardinal
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (1,408 reviews)
"Had an amazing Stay, the staff was really great. "
United States
Virvioly
Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive

Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz

Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz
3.0 star property
Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (79 reviews)
"Very Nice Hotel"
United States
Federico
$79 nightly
The price is $90
Mar 4 - Mar 5
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz

Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive
3.5 star property
Sardinal
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,305 reviews)
"Room was clean, check in easy, staff was nice, and food was good. "
United States
Molly
Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive

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

The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa
4.5 star property
Cabo Velas
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,011 reviews)
"Had a great stay!"
Canada
Wendy
$796 nightly
The price is $899
Feb 10 - Feb 11
Total with taxes and fees
The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
3.5 star property
Cabo Velas
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,009 reviews)
"Great staff, great activities, great food, great pool, great beach"
Canada
Robert
$364 nightly
The price is $411
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Total with taxes and fees
Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
4.5 star property
Nacascolo
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (1,002 reviews)
"Food, drinks, pool, excursions were excellent."
United States
Jennifer
$499 nightly
The price is $499
Mar 3 - Mar 4
Total with taxes and fees
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

JW Marriott Guanacaste Beach Resort

JW Marriott Guanacaste Beach Resort
5.0 star property
Tamarindo
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (735 reviews)
"Beautiful property! Excellent service!!"
United States
LeAnne
$533 nightly
The price is $602
Feb 10 - Feb 11
Total with taxes and fees
JW Marriott Guanacaste Beach Resort

Occidental Tamarindo - All Inclusive

Occidental Tamarindo - All Inclusive
4.0 star property
Tamarindo
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,006 reviews)
"Food was good, drinks were good grounds were beautiful and location was great right outside of town."
Canada
Annalea
$218 nightly
The price is $246
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Total with taxes and fees
Occidental Tamarindo - All Inclusive

Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt

Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt
4.5 star property
Nacascolo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (424 reviews)
"everything was amazing from the food to the staff to the scenery"
United States
danny
$1,109 nightly
The price is $1,253
Feb 16 - Feb 17
Total with taxes and fees
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt

Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort
4.0 star property
Tamarindo
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,008 reviews)
"Excellent accommodations, location and ambience! "
United States
Lisa
$211 nightly
The price is $239
Feb 17 - Feb 18
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal

W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal
5.0 star property
Cabo Velas
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (351 reviews)
"The W was spectacular and the food & service was top tier!"
United States
Tracie
$724 nightly
The price is $818
Mar 11 - Mar 12
Total with taxes and fees
W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal

CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive
4.0 star property
Sardinal
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,001 reviews)
"Amazing beach, friendly staff, great food "
Canada
KEVIN
$660 nightly
The price is $746
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Total with taxes and fees
CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

Azura Beach Resort - All Inclusive - Adults Only

Azura Beach Resort - All Inclusive - Adults Only
4.0 star property
Sámara
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (668 reviews)
"Great stay, food is really good, staff always going above and beyond. Views from the hotel are exceptional "
United States
Althay
$506 nightly
The price is $572
Feb 12 - Feb 13
Total with taxes and fees
Azura Beach Resort - All Inclusive - Adults Only

Wyndham Tamarindo

Wyndham Tamarindo
3.5 star property
Tamarindo
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (1,008 reviews)
"Location of the hotel, staff and food. "
United States
Javier
$186 nightly
The price is $210
Mar 3 - Mar 4
Total with taxes and fees
Wyndham Tamarindo

Playa Junquillal Eco Resort

Playa Junquillal Eco Resort
3.0 star property
Santa Cruz
Playa Junquillal Eco Resort

Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive
4.5 star property
Sardinal
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (558 reviews)
"Helpful staff"
United States
David
$1,736 nightly
The price is $1,736
Mar 5 - Mar 6
Total with taxes and fees
Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

Hotel La Calle De Alcala

Hotel La Calle De Alcala
2.5 star property
Santa Cruz
Hotel La Calle De Alcala

Jardín del Edén Boutique Hotel - Adults Only

Jardín del Edén Boutique Hotel - Adults Only
4.0 star property
Tamarindo
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (989 reviews)
"Outstanding hotel. The hotel staff made everything easy. Easy walk to the private beach. I would stay here again. "
United States
william
$191 nightly
The price is $216
Feb 11 - Feb 12
Total with taxes and fees
Jardín del Edén Boutique Hotel - Adults Only

Condovac la Costa

Condovac la Costa
3.5 star property
Sardinal
7.0 out of 10, Good, (1,010 reviews)
"Great location, friendly staff, and good food for the price"
United States
Stephen
$184 nightly
The price is $207
Mar 10 - Mar 11
Total with taxes and fees
Condovac la Costa

Hotel El Regalo

Hotel El Regalo
3.0 star property
Nicoya
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (49 reviews)
"Hotel was clean and Staff was very nice. 👍 "
United States
Christopher
$70 nightly
The price is $79
Feb 13 - Feb 14
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel El Regalo
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Where to stay in Santa Cruz

Find the best Santa Cruz areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Santa Cruz
Learn more about Santa Cruz

Barrio Buenos Aires

Parque Bernabela Ramos is one noteworthy place to stop while you're exploring 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

Hotels in Santa Cruz with star-rating

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

  • Stunning Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts pristine beaches perfect for relaxation and sunbathing, ideal for family getaways.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy activities like golfing, exploring coastal trails, and excursions in the surrounding natural beauty.
  • Cultural Experiences: Discover local charm through historic churches and vibrant community interactions.
  • Family-Friendly Fun: The area is designed for family vacations with plenty of engaging activities for all ages.
  • Comfortable Accommodations: A variety of lodging options, from hotels to cozy bed & breakfasts, cater to different preferences.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, offers a diverse range of accommodations, including hotels and charming bed & breakfasts. Whether you're seeking adventure by the beach or a family-friendly vacation experience, you'll find options that cater to your needs. Notable choices like Hotel Diria Santa Cruz promise comfort and convenience. Explore reviews to ensure your stay meets your expectations and enjoy everything this beautiful area has to offer.

  • Wyndham Tamarindo: A 3.5-star hotel that caters to travelers seeking a spa-themed, pet-friendly experience. Located 17 miles from Santa Cruz, this property boasts exceptional business amenities, including multiple meeting rooms and a coworking space, perfect for professionals on the go. Guests can unwind with a full spa and pool service featuring massage options, a swim-up bar, and sun loungers by the pool. With a welcoming pet policy that accommodates dogs and service animals, Wyndham Tamarindo is an ideal choice for both relaxation and productivity.
  • Best Western Tamarindo Vista Villas: This 3-star hotel, also situated 17 miles from Santa Cruz, is perfect for beach lovers and business travelers who wish to bring their pets along. With direct beach access, guests can enjoy sunbathing and water activities at their leisure. The hotel provides essential business facilities, including a meeting room, and has a pet-friendly policy that allows dogs and cats in the rooms. The casual atmosphere and stunning ocean views create a laid-back environment for relaxation after a day of exploring the beach.
  • Hotel Arco Iris: A 3.5-star lodging located 18 miles from Santa Cruz, Hotel Arco Iris offers an adventurous twist with spa services to enhance your stay. Guests can indulge in various outdoor activities like parasailing, kayaking, and fishing, all available nearby. The hotel also features a full spa service, including manicures, aromatherapy treatments, and an outdoor pool for relaxation. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to combine adventure with comfort, ensuring a memorable and invigorating vacation experience.

Where to stay near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly fun. Explore the charming city center, where friendly locals create a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy beach getaways at nearby pristine shores, perfect for relaxation and soaking up the sun. With opportunities for excursions and experiencing the region's natural beauty, Santa Cruz stands out as an ideal destination for those seeking both tranquility and adventure in Costa Rica.

  • Diriá: Nestled just 4 miles from Santa Cruz, Diriá is a charming city that offers an ideal mix of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Visitors flock to this area for its beautiful beaches, stunning volcanoes, and lush national parks. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a perfect romantic getaway, particularly from January to March when traveler numbers peak. Spend your days hiking through vibrant landscapes or lounging on the beach, and don’t miss the opportunity to explore the local culture and cuisine.
  • Veintisiete de Abril: Located 9 miles from Santa Cruz, Veintisiete de Abril is a delightful city known for its picturesque beaches and family-centric activities. With golf courses and luxurious resorts, it’s a favored spot for romantic escapes, especially during the high season from January to March. The nearby mountains and volcanoes provide breathtaking backdrops for your adventures. Whether you're looking to hit the links or unwind by the sea, this area promises a vibrant yet relaxing vacation experience.
  • Tempate: Situated 14 miles from Santa Cruz, Tempate is a hidden gem that attracts visitors seeking beachside relaxation and outdoor activities. Known for its beautiful golf courses and luxurious resorts, this city is ideal for romantic outings and family adventures alike. The local landscape features gorgeous beaches, majestic volcanoes, and the nearby national park, making it a haven for nature lovers. Peak travel times occur from January to March, but the charm of Tempate is felt year-round.

Things to do near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, offers a perfect blend of outdoor family fun and beach relaxation. You can enjoy activities like golfing at scenic courses, exploring coastal trails, and visiting the local aquarium. Don’t miss the chance to see nesting grounds and unwind at a wellness center. With plenty of scenic adventures, Santa Cruz is an ideal destination for a memorable vacation.

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, enjoy local shopping at vibrant markets and shops. If you're up for a drive, visit Frog Pad, located 22 miles away, featuring unique gifts and souvenirs. It's a great spot to find something special to remember your trip to Costa Rica.

Recreation

At Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf with stunning views and outdoor vibes just 18 miles from Santa Cruz. Experience tranquility at Black Stallion Eco Park, a wellness-focused retreat 14 miles away, perfect for relaxation amidst nature. Don't miss the scenic Reserva Conchal Golf Course, located 17 miles away.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of surfing at Safari Surf School, located 23 miles from Santa Cruz, where you can embrace the outdoor vibes and catch some waves. For a scenic hike, explore Samara Trails, situated 11 miles away, offering breathtaking views and an adventurous atmosphere amidst nature.

Nightlife

Experience the lively nightlife in Santa Cruz at El Bar de La Gente, where you can enjoy vibrant cocktails and dance to local rhythms. For a more laid-back vibe, visit La Choza, offering delicious Costa Rican food and live music to keep the night entertaining.

*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 during your visit to Santa Cruz, consider traveling between September and November for lower accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals, and check for last-minute offers on sites like Expedia. Saturdays tend to be cheaper for stays than Mondays. Utilize Expedia's search tools to compare room rates and explore eco-friendly hotel options. You can also maximize savings by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities into a package. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can unlock exclusive discounts and help you earn cash for future bookings.

  • 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: 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired destination, and much more. You can organize the results by price, starting with the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll see a list of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, is perfect for outdoor and family beach vacations, offering a blend of relaxation and adventure. Popular attractions include stunning beaches, national parks, and historic churches, catering to those seeking cultural experiences. Whether you're interested in soaking up the sun or exploring nature, Santa Cruz has something for every traveler. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the local charm and vibrant atmosphere during your visit.

  • Tamarindo Beach: Enjoy the vibrant beach vibes at Tamarindo Beach, located 18 miles from Santa Cruz. This stunning stretch of sand is perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and soaking in the picturesque sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.
  • Monkey Park: Just 11 miles from Santa Cruz, Monkey Park offers a unique opportunity to connect with friendly wildlife. The relaxing atmosphere and excursions allow you to learn about local fauna while enjoying a peaceful day amidst nature.
  • Recaredo Briceno Park: Located 12 miles away, Recaredo Briceno Park is an inviting urban park ideal for families. Experience the outdoor city vibes with playgrounds, walking trails, and plenty of space for picnics and leisure activities.

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 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 planning your visit to Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, you have several airport options. Liberia Airport (LIR) is located 24 miles away and offers nearby hotels like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 10 miles from LIR, and the 4.5-star Secrets Papagayo, 7 miles away. Tamarindo Airport (TNO) is 16 miles from Santa Cruz, with excellent accommodations such as the 5-star JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, 5 miles away. Cóbano Airport (ACO) is 51 miles from Santa Cruz, featuring the 5-star Hotel Nantipa, 6 miles away. Each hotel provides various transportation services for convenient access to the airports.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Santa Cruz?
The best areas to stay in Santa Cruz, Guanacaste, are along the coast, particularly in Tamarindo or Flamingo, depending on your preferences.

Tamarindo is an excellent choice for couples and solo travelers looking for a lively beach town experience. This area is well-known for its beautiful crescent-shaped beach, ideal for surfing lessons and relaxing. The main street, Calle Central, runs parallel to the beach and is lined with a variety of restaurants, shops, and places for evening entertainment. It offers easy access to excursions like catamaran tours and estuary wildlife viewing.

For those seeking a more tranquil and upscale beach vacation, Flamingo is a superb option. This area is famed for its stunning white-sand beach and crystal-clear waters, great for swimming and snorkeling. Flamingo offers a more secluded feel with high-end resorts and private villas.
What are the best family hotels in Santa Cruz?
For a family-friendly hotel in Santa Cruz, consider the Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz.

This 3-star hotel with an 8.2 rating offers a range of features ideal for families, including a dedicated children's pool, free cooked breakfast, and complimentary toiletries. Guests also benefit from free self-parking and free WiFi, adding to the convenience and value of their stay.
What hotels in Santa Cruz offer free breakfast?
For a hotel in Santa Cruz that offers free breakfast, consider the Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz.

This 3-star hotel, with an 8.2 rating, provides a complimentary cooked breakfast, ensuring a great start to your day. Guests also benefit from amenities such as free toiletries, free self-parking, and free WiFi. The hotel is conveniently located about half a mile from Parque Bernabela Ramos.
What are the best budget hotels in Santa Cruz?
For a much-loved budget hotel in Santa Cruz, consider the Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz.

The 3-star Hotel Diriá Santa Cruz, with an 8.2 rating, offers a comfortable stay with several convenient amenities. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, including cooked options, as well as free toiletries and free self-parking. The hotel also provides free WiFi, ensuring connectivity during your stay. It is conveniently located just half a mile from Parque Bernabela Ramos, making it easy to explore a local point of interest.
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 can I save on a Santa Cruz hotel booking with Expedia?
With Expedia, you earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible Santa Cruz hotel bookings for every dollar you spend – just join our One Key™ travel rewards program to get started. It's free to join, and you'll unlock our lowest Member Prices as soon as you're signed in. On top of this, you could also save significantly by bundling your hotel and flights together on Expedia.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.
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 $76 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.