Hotels in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz: Where Architectural Wonders Meet Coastal Serenity

Nestled in the heart of Manila, Santa Cruz is a vibrant blend of history and culture, making it an unmissable destination. Explore the bustling streets of Manila’s Chinatown, where the rich aroma of local cuisine intertwines with centuries-old architecture. Discover iconic churches and monuments, including the stunning Santa Cruz Church and the captivating Fort Santiago. Stroll along the scenic banks of the Pasig River or unwind at nearby Sabang Beach. With its unique fusion of heritage and urban energy, Santa Cruz offers travelers a lively glimpse into the Philippines' rich past and dynamic present. For the best hotel rates in Santa Cruz, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Where to stay in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, Manila, offers vibrant attractions like SM Mall of Asia, Rizal Park, and Venice Grand Canal Mall. SM Mall of Asia is perfect for shopping and dining, while Rizal Park is great for leisurely strolls and historical insights. Venice Grand Canal Mall provides a unique Italian-inspired experience. For accommodations, you'll find cozy and budget-friendly hotels in each area, with varying room rates to suit different budgets. First-time visitors will especially enjoy SM Mall of Asia for its diverse offerings. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers in Santa Cruz:

1. Near SM Mall of AsiaOpens in a new window: For those looking for a blend of shopping, entertainment, and business, the area near SM Mall of Asia is a prime location. This bustling area offers a variety of dining and recreational options. Consider staying at Conrad ManilaOpens in a new window, a 5.0-star hotel perfectly suited for families and business travelers, with excellent amenities including a business center and child-friendly services. Another option is Golden Phoenix Hotel ManilaOpens in a new window, a 4.0-star hotel that caters to both business and shopping enthusiasts, featuring accessible business facilities. Lastly, Microtel by Wyndham Mall of AsiaOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star hotel, offers a comfortable stay with multiple meeting spaces and amenities for families.
2. Near Rizal ParkOpens in a new window: This area is perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The proximity to Rizal Park allows for leisurely walks and exploration of historical landmarks. The Plaza Hotel Balanga CityOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, provides guests with dining options and entertaining amenities like digital TV. Alternatively, Anton's Inn HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.0-star inn, is ideal for pet owners and features meeting rooms for business needs. Lastly, GAP Plaza HotelOpens in a new window, a cozy bed and breakfast, offers a welcoming atmosphere with diverse dining options.
3. Near Venice Grand Canal MallOpens in a new window: A vibrant destination for family fun and entertainment, the Venice Grand Canal Mall area features picturesque landscapes and diverse shopping experiences. Ted's Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star bed and breakfast, welcomes pets and offers a friendly atmosphere. NDN Grand HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel, is a great choice for business travelers with its conference space and professional amenities, making it a versatile option for guests.

What to do in Santa Cruz

Three days in Santa Cruz offers a delightful mix of stunning beaches, lush mountains, and vibrant parks. Travelers can enjoy outdoor activities like biking and hiking, explore trendy shopping districts, and immerse themselves in local cultural events. This charming destination promises an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and recreational fun. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Santa Cruz:

• Day 1: Begin your Manila exploration at Rizal Park, a historic site honoring national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, where you can enjoy leisurely walks and beautiful gardens. Next, visit San Agustin Church, the oldest stone church in the Philippines, renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status. Conclude your day at the Bonifacio and the Katipunan Revolution Monument, where you can learn about the pivotal events that led to Philippine independence and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the surrounding area.
• Day 2: Kick off your day at the Manila Cathedral, an iconic symbol of the city that boasts intricate architecture and rich history. Afterward, head over to Binondo Church, located in Manila's bustling Chinatown, where you can appreciate its beautiful façade and partake in local traditions. To wrap up your day, visit the Philippine Presidents' Gallery, where you can delve into the history of the nation's leaders through various exhibits and memorabilia, gaining insight into the Philippine political landscape.
• Day 3: Start your day at Baywalk, a picturesque promenade along Manila Bay, perfect for a refreshing morning stroll with views of the sea and sunset. Next, venture to Tomas Morato Avenue, a lively area filled with dining options and shopping spots. Afterward, make your way to Fort Santiago, a historic citadel that played a crucial role during the Spanish colonial period, where you can explore its well-preserved grounds and learn about the rich history of the Philippines.

5 tips to find a great Santa Cruz hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Santa Cruz is between September and November, when hotel prices are significantly lower. If you're an international traveler, it’s wise to book your flight at least one month in advance to secure the best deals. To fully appreciate the city's highlights, plan to stay for at least 3-4 days. Key attractions to explore include Chinatown, impressive churches, and historic architecture, all of which offer great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Santa Cruz, Hotels.com is a great resource. To explore these offers, head to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section on the site, where you could find discounted rates on nearby hotels as your travel date approaches. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, so you’re more likely to seize opportunities to save on your accommodations.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Santa Cruz.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your vacation, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience but usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in neighborhoods that are less central, allowing you to strike a balance between cost and easy access to the sites you want to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Santa Cruz and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Santa Cruz

Here are some top-rated dishes in Santa Cruz, Manila, National Capital Region, Philippines:

• Adobo: Often regarded as the unofficial national dish of the Philippines, adobo is a savory stew made from meat—commonly chicken or pork—marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. It's simmered until tender, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This dish is a staple in Filipino households and is perfect for sharing, often served with steamed rice during family gatherings.
• Sinigang: A beloved sour soup, sinigang showcases the use of tamarind or other souring agents like green mango or calamansi. Typically made with pork or shrimp, it’s filled with fresh vegetables like radish, eggplant, and kangkong (water spinach). This comforting dish is enjoyed at home and in restaurants, embodying the essence of Filipino hospitality.
• Halo-halo: A popular dessert, halo-halo is a colorful mix of crushed ice, sweetened fruits, jellies, and beans, topped with leche flan and ube ice cream. This refreshing treat is perfect for cooling off in the tropical heat and is often enjoyed during social gatherings, showcasing the Filipino spirit of community and celebration.

Best time to go to Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 78.1°F (25.6°C), while May is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 85.5°F (29.7°C). July is typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Santa Cruz, January, February, and July are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by dry to frequent rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, August to October are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by moderate to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.