A coastal city with prominent mountains and a fortified island.

Santa Cruz Hotels near Rio de Janeiro

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Star rating

Guest rating

Selecting then applying a filter from this group will update the results on a new page

Our top choices for Santa Cruz hotels

1. Pousada e Alojamento do Engenho de Itaguai

Pousada e Alojamento do Engenho de Itaguai
2.5 star property
12.6 km from Santa Cruz
7.8 out of 10, Good, (6 reviews)
"Fomos muito bem recepcionados. "
Brazil
Jorge
The price is P1,543
P1,620 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Pousada e Alojamento do Engenho de Itaguai

2. Pousada Do Sol

Pousada Do Sol
3.0 star property
7.3 km from Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (17 reviews)
"Very careful and kind staff with a peaceful environment."
United States
Asnako
The price is P2,752
P2,890 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 15 - Sep 16
Pousada Do Sol

3. Cabana do Sol

Cabana do Sol
2.0 star property
7.3 km from Santa Cruz
The price is P1,968
P2,362 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 19 - Aug 20
Cabana do Sol

4. Tulip Inn Itaguai

Tulip Inn Itaguai
3.0 star property
9 km from Santa Cruz
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (363 reviews)
"otimo hotel "
Brazil
Josvander
The price is P4,711
P4,947 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Tulip Inn Itaguai

5. Suíte Brisa 202

Suíte Brisa 202
2.0 star property
7.1 km from Santa Cruz
The price is P1,806
P1,896 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 25 - Aug 26
Suíte Brisa 202

6. Hotel Pousada La Belle

Hotel Pousada La Belle
3.0 star property
10.3 km from Santa Cruz
The price is P3,955
P4,153 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 17 - Sep 18
Hotel Pousada La Belle

7. Promenade Fusion Itaguaí

Promenade Fusion Itaguaí
4.0 star property
10.2 km from Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (222 reviews)
"Great location!"
United States
Maria
The price is P5,128
P5,384 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Promenade Fusion Itaguaí

8. HOSPEDAGEM PEDRA DE GUARATIBA

HOSPEDAGEM PEDRA DE GUARATIBA
3.0 star property
10.4 km from Santa Cruz
7.6 out of 10, Good, (4 reviews)
"this was such a beautiful quiet stay! the owners are the nicest people and super caring! it is a bit away from the city area but it is close to beaches and walking distance from restaurants! there is also a pool to relax and get some sun as well as a hot tub and hammocks! it was very clean and beautiful! we loved our stay and the complementary breakfast in the morning was delicious! "
United States
Estefany
The price is P4,236
P4,447 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 19 - Aug 20
HOSPEDAGEM PEDRA DE GUARATIBA

9. IT Grande Hotel Itaguaí

IT Grande Hotel Itaguaí
3.0 star property
10.2 km from Santa Cruz
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (36 reviews)
"Café da manhã ruim, sem variedade, jantar idem"
Brazil
ALLAN DAVIDSON
The price is P4,259
P4,472 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 28 - Aug 29
IT Grande Hotel Itaguaí

10. SUITE BRISA 201

SUITE BRISA 201
2.5 star property
7.1 km from Santa Cruz
The price is P1,947
P2,515 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 29 - Aug 30
SUITE BRISA 201

11. My House Muriqui

My House Muriqui
3.0 star property
25.1 km from Santa Cruz
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (1 review)
The price is P1,444
P1,516 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 27 - Aug 28
My House Muriqui

12. Pousada Guimarães muriqui

Pousada Guimarães muriqui
25.4 km from Santa Cruz
The price is P1,311
P1,377 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 30 - Aug 31
Pousada Guimarães muriqui

13. Hotel Casa Bonita

Hotel Casa Bonita
3.0 star property
10.8 km from Santa Cruz
8.0 out of 10, Very Good, (2 reviews)
"Serviço excelente!!! Ainda fizeram uma surpresa para mim e a minha esposa que estávamos voltando do nosso casamento. Podem contratar o serviço que não vão se arrepender, nota 10!! "
Brazil
Thiago Matheus
The price is P3,805
P3,995 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 19 - Aug 20
Hotel Casa Bonita

14. Pousada La Brisa

Pousada La Brisa
3.0 star property
15 km from Santa Cruz
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (12 reviews)
"Tudo muito limpinho e cheiroso. Atendimento de qualidade. "
Brazil
Yasmim
The price is P3,605
P3,786 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 21 - Aug 22
Pousada La Brisa

15. Pousada e Bistrô Cinque Terre

Pousada e Bistrô Cinque Terre
3.0 star property
21 km from Santa Cruz
2.0 out of 10, (1 review)
The price is P4,765
P5,003 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 20 - Aug 21
Pousada e Bistrô Cinque Terre

16. Mar Premier Flats

Mar Premier Flats
3.0 star property
25.4 km from Santa Cruz
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (45 reviews)
"Great option for whoever is in greater Rio and on a budget. I was really lucky to find this nice huge tower in Queimados outskirts but which has everything included. Not feasible for intended beach goers though."
United States
Daniel
The price is P2,178
P2,287 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Mar Premier Flats

17. Pousada ilha Bella

Pousada ilha Bella
3.0 star property
20.7 km from Santa Cruz
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (8 reviews)
"The room was immaculate when we got there! Fresh linens/towels that smelt of detergent, perfect sized mini fridge in the room to hold a few grocery items. Access to the kitchen when we needed to make a “late night” snack (it was about 8pm). The best continental breakfast of our whole vacation, included with coffee/tea/fresh juice, eggs and sausages in a tomato sauce, fresh baked bread and pastries that were soft and oh so delicious. The biggest bonus? Being directly on the ocean with a small...
Canada
Anneleh
The price is P2,113
P2,806 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 19 - Aug 20
Pousada ilha Bella

18. House Monet

House Monet
3.0 star property
Recreio dos Bandeirantes, 24.6 km from Santa Cruz
The price is P3,428
P3,600 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 19 - Aug 20
House Monet

19. Hotel Avenida

Hotel Avenida
2.5 star property
35.5 km from Santa Cruz
6.6 out of 10, (38 reviews)
"It is a hotel Just to have “fun”, and the bed was uncomfortable "
Mexico
Frank
The price is P2,185
P2,294 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 21 - Aug 22
Hotel Avenida

20. Céu Beach club

Céu Beach club
3.0 star property
20 km from Santa Cruz
The price is P3,138
P3,294 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 23 - Aug 24
Céu Beach club
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Where to stay in Santa Cruz

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

Copacabana

Mingle with the local residents on one of the world’s most famous beaches, admire art deco buildings and party until dawn in this effervescent neighborhood.

Ipanema

Relax on beautiful beaches, shop for fashion and revel in the nightlife of one of Rio de Janeiro’s most stylish areas.

Barra da Tijuca

Rio de Janeiro’s longest beach, a sprawling shopping mall and some of the city’s best seafood restaurants and bars await in this relaxed neighborhood.

Botafogo

Botafogo is a destination travelers like for its beaches, and you might hop aboard the metro at Botafogo Station or Futura estação Morro de São João Station to explore sights like Botafogo Praia Shopping.

Leblon

Travelers choose Leblon for its beaches. Hop aboard the metro at Antero de Quental Station or Jardim de Alah - Leblon Station and check out top sights like Ipanema Beach.

Top Santa Cruz Hotel Reviews

Find out more about Santa Cruz

Top reasons to visit Santa Cruz

  • Stunning Local Beaches: Santa Cruz boasts beautiful beaches ideal for sunbathing and family outings, offering a perfect spot for relaxation.
  • Cultural Exploration: Visitors can delve into the local history at the Santa Cruz Museum and enjoy the vibrant cultural tapestry of the area.
  • Charming Neighbourhoods: Experience authentic Canarian hospitality while exploring the picturesque surroundings and friendly atmosphere.
  • Diverse Accommodation Options: From inviting hotels to cosy pousadas, there’s a perfect place for every traveller's needs.
  • Recreational Activities: Santa Cruz offers a range of outdoor experiences, ensuring adventure for all types of visitors.

Find great hotels near Santa Cruz

Discover the charm of Santa Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, with a variety of accommodation options tailored to suit every traveller's needs. From inviting hotels to cosy pousadas, you’ll find pet-friendly options perfect for family vacations or beach getaways. With an array of amenities and services, Santa Cruz hotels offer an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and adventure. Explore guest reviews to find the perfect place for your stay in this vibrant neighbourhood.

  • CDesign Hotel: Nestled 26km from Santa Cruz, the CDesign Hotel is a 4-star accommodation ideal for families seeking a beachside getaway. With a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this hotel offers direct access to the stunning beach, allowing guests to enjoy sun, sand, and surf. Families will appreciate the various amenities tailored for children, including a shared playground, toys, and supervised childcare services. The hotel ensures a delightful family vacation experience with a focus on comfort and convenience.
  • eSuites Hotel Recreio Shopping: Located 23km from Santa Cruz, eSuites Hotel Recreio Shopping is a 3.5-star establishment featuring a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This hotel caters to shoppers and business travellers alike, being situated in a vibrant shopping district. The property is pet-friendly, welcoming dogs and cats with specific amenities and policies in place. Guests can enjoy a blend of comfort and practicality while being close to shopping and business facilities, making it a suitable choice for those on the go.
  • Hotel Atlântico Sul: Situated 26km from Santa Cruz, Hotel Atlântico Sul boasts a 3.5-star rating and an impressive guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This hotel is perfect for beach lovers and business travellers, featuring direct beach access. The serene atmosphere combined with professional services creates a conducive environment for relaxation and work. With its emphasis on quality service and comfortable accommodation, Hotel Atlântico Sul presents itself as a distinguished choice for a refreshing stay.

Where to stay near Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, nestled in the vibrant Rio de Janeiro, offers a delightful blend of beach relaxation and cultural exploration. Enjoy the stunning local beaches, perfect for sunbathing and family outings. Nearby, the charming neighbourhoods invite you to savour authentic Canarian hospitality, while the rich history and friendly atmosphere make every visit memorable. Don't miss the chance to explore the lush surroundings and immerse yourself in the unique cultural tapestry that defines this captivating region.

  • Itaguai: Located approximately 11km from Santa Cruz, Itaguai is a vibrant city that offers a delightful blend of urban and coastal experiences. Visitors are drawn to its beautiful beaches and family-friendly atmosphere, particularly during peak months of January and March to April. The city boasts shopping centres and an arena entertainment facility, making it a great spot for those looking to shop or enjoy live events. Local attractions include stunning beaches and nearby islands, perfect for a day of relaxation or exploration.
  • Nova Sepetiba: Just 5km away from Santa Cruz, Nova Sepetiba is a charming neighbourhood known for its inviting beaches. Although the number of visitors remains relatively steady throughout the year, peak travel occurs from December to February when the beach scene comes alive. This area is ideal for those seeking a laid-back beach experience, offering opportunities to soak up the sun and enjoy the scenic coastline. The tranquil atmosphere makes it a fantastic spot for families and beach lovers alike.
  • Sepetiba: Situated about 6km from Santa Cruz, Sepetiba is a picturesque neighbourhood that attracts visitors looking for a romantic getaway or a family outing. The area witnesses a surge in tourism during March to April and July, making it a lively destination during these months. Guests can explore the local beach and visit the history museum to learn more about the region's rich cultural heritage. With its beautiful surroundings and welcoming community, Sepetiba promises a delightful experience for all types of travellers.

Things to do in Santa Cruz

Shopping

In Santa Cruz, visit Shopping Santa Cruz, a vibrant mall featuring diverse shops, eateries, and entertainment options. For a more local experience, explore the Santa Cruz Market, where you can find unique souvenirs and artisanal crafts that reflect the region's culture.

Recreation

The Santa Cruz Spa offers a tranquil environment with rejuvenating treatments, including massages and wellness therapies designed to refresh your body and mind. Nearby, the lush Parque Natural Municipal da Catacumba provides scenic trails and opportunities for meditation amidst nature’s beauty.

Adventure

Explore the stunning landscapes of Parque Natural Municipal de Santa Cruz, where you can hike scenic trails and observe local wildlife. For an adrenaline rush, try the thrilling zip-lining experience at nearby adventure parks, offering stunning views of the surrounding lush greenery.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar do Léo on Rua Barão de Santa Cruz, where you can enjoy traditional Brazilian drinks and lively conversations. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the local samba clubs, where the rhythms will draw you in and create a festive 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

For a budget-friendly trip to Santa Cruz, consider visiting between June and August, when accommodation prices dip. Wednesday is the most cost-effective day to stay, while Sundays tend to be pricier. Utilise Expedia's search tool to filter options by budget and location, and don't forget to sort by price for the best deals. Look out for hostel bargains and package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Exploring the area can also be done affordably via public transport, ensuring you enjoy your visit without overspending.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Santa Cruz are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to December to February, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Santa Cruz is Wednesday. The most expensive day to stay around Santa Cruz is Sunday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservation in Santa Cruz with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz in Rio de Janeiro is perfect for beach, family, and business-themed holidays. Visitors can explore captivating attractions such as the local beaches, islands, and capes, while enjoying cultural and outdoor experiences. Notable points of interest include the Santa Cruz Museum, the Santa Cruz Wharf, and the scenic beauty reminiscent of Santa Cruz de Tenerife. This vibrant area offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure for all travellers.

  • Cidade das Criancas: This charming attraction in Santa Cruz immerses visitors in a vibrant blend of culture and history. It's designed for families, offering engaging activities that celebrate Brazilian heritage, making it a delightful stop for both children and adults.
  • Sepetiba Beach: Located a mere 6km from Santa Cruz, Sepetiba Beach is a picturesque stretch of sand where visitors can bask in the sun and enjoy the refreshing ocean breeze. Its tranquil atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and casual beach activities.
  • Praia da Ilha da Madeira: Situated 16km away, this island beach offers stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures. With its pristine sands and clear waters, it's a wonderful destination for those seeking a serene escape into nature.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

The best time to visit Santa Cruz is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. February is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. July is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January80.1°F (26.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February80.2°F (26.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March78.6°F (25.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May72.0°F (22.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June70.3°F (21.3°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
July70.0°F (21.1°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
August70.5°F (21.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September72.9°F (22.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
November75.2°F (24.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Cruz

Accessing Santa Cruz from the major airports in Rio de Janeiro is quite convenient. The closest airport is Rio de Janeiro (RRJ-Jacarepaguá-Roberto Marinho), situated 34km away, with excellent hotel options like the Grand Hyatt Rio De Janeiro and Windsor Marapendi, both offering premium accommodations. Another option is Rio de Janeiro (GIG-Galeão - Antonio Carlos Jobim Intl.), located 47km away, where hotels such as Miramar by Windsor Copacabana provide airport transportation services. Lastly, Rio de Janeiro (SDU-Santos Dumont), 53km from Santa Cruz, features hotels like Sheraton Grand Rio Hotel & Resort, also offering transportation to the airport, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Frequently asked questions

What is Santa Cruz like?
You'll be sure to have fun visiting Rio de Janeiro's Santa Cruz neighborhood. Are you looking for Santa Cruz travel tips? Be sure to check out Centro Cultural Municipal de Santa Cruz Doutor Antonio Nicolau Jorge and Serra de Sao Tome while you're in the neighborhood.
How many hotels can I expect to find in the Santa Cruz area?
If you're searching for places to stay in Rio de Janeiro, choose from one of Expedia's 11 hotels and other accommodations in Santa Cruz.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Santa Cruz, will I receive a refund?
Yes, most hotel room reservations are fully refundable provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable reservation, it may still be possible to cancel it and be given a refund within 24 hours of your booking. Plug in your dates, click on "Search", then you can filter by "fully refundable" to review the best deals in Santa Cruz.
What can I see and do in this Rio de Janeiro neighborhood?
Centro Cultural Municipal de Santa Cruz Doutor Antonio Nicolau Jorge, Serra de Sao Tome, and Cidade das Criancas are just a few attractions to check out in Santa Cruz. You might also plan a visit to Pedra do Sino when you're sightseeing in Rio de Janeiro.
How can I get around Santa Cruz and the greater Rio de Janeiro area?
To venture out of town, take a train from Santa Cruz Station.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia