Santa Cruz Canton

Santa Cruz Canton is an administrative division in Guanacaste Province that spans across a large territory and encompasses nine districts, including the area around Tamarindo. The territory extends from Potrero Bay to the Montaña River and connects various communities and coastal sections.

The area became an official canton through a decree on December 7, 1848, and this marked an important step in how Costa Rica organized its territories. This administrative establishment helped shape how the Guanacaste region developed and was managed.

The area hosts festivals where locals participate in traditional bull events, and visitors can observe how these practices remain part of community life. Such celebrations reveal how people here connect with their regional customs.

The region connects to other parts of Costa Rica through national roads, making it easier to travel across the Nicoya Peninsula. Exploring on foot or with your own transport is helpful for visiting the different districts.

The territory includes Velas Cape, which marks the westernmost point of the entire Nicoya Peninsula. This geographical extremity is a rarely visited spot that offers hikers and nature enthusiasts special views.

Location: Guanacaste Province

Capital city: Santa Cruz

Elevation above the sea: 98 m

Shares border with: Carrillo Canton, Bagaces Canton, Nicoya Canton

Website: http://santacruz.go.cr

GPS coordinates: 10.26667,-85.65000

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:28