Airports Near Santa Cruz
Looking for the nearest airport to Santa Cruz? Santa Cruz is served by several airports located in different directions around the city. With four airports within a 50-mile radius, you have plenty of options to choose from. Here's a quick guide to help you find the one that best suits your travel plans.
What Is the Closest Airport to Santa Cruz?
The closest airport to Santa Cruz is Nosara Airport (NOB), a medium-sized airport located approximately 20.2 miles (32.5 km) south of the city center. The driving distance is about 29.3 miles (47.2 km), which typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes by car.
If you're looking for better connectivity, the nearest major airport is Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR), located about 23.2 miles (37.3 km) north of Santa Cruz in a straight line. The driving distance is around 29.8 miles (48 km), with an average travel time of about 52 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
For better flight options, consider Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), which offers more connections. It's located 95.4 miles (153.5 km) east of Santa Cruz. The driving distance is approximately 130.9 miles (210.7 km), with a typical drive time of 4 hours and 2 minutes.
Nosara Airport (NOB)
IATA: NOB · ICAO: MRNS
Direct Distance 📏
20.2 miles
32.5 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
29.3 miles
47.2 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
1 h 25 min
Direction ➤
South
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR)
Located 23.2 miles (37.3 km) north of the city.
Direct Distance 📏
23.2 miles
37.3 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
29.8 miles
48 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
52 min
Direction ➤
North
Carrillo Airport (PLD)
Located 27.9 miles (44.8 km) south of the city.
Direct Distance 📏
27.9 miles
44.8 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
48 miles
77.2 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
1 h 41 min
Direction ➤
South
Punta Islita Airport (PBP)
Located 31.5 miles (50.7 km) southeast of the city.
Direct Distance 📏
31.5 miles
50.7 kilometers
Driving Distance 🚗
54.1 miles
87 kilometers
Driving Time 🕓
1 h 54 min
Direction ➤
Southeast
Nearby airports to Santa Cruz
| Airport | Iata Code | Location | Distance | Driving Distance | Driving Time | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nosara Airport | NOB | Nosara | 20.2 mi (32.5 km) | 29.3 mi (47.2 km) | 1 h 25 min | Medium-sized |
| Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport | LIR | Liberia | 23.2 mi (37.3 km) | 29.8 mi (48 km) | 52 min | Large |
| Carrillo Airport | PLD | Carrillo | 27.9 mi (44.8 km) | 48 mi (77.2 km) | 1 h 41 min | Small |
| Punta Islita Airport | PBP | Nandayure | 31.5 mi (50.7 km) | 54.1 mi (87 km) | 1 h 54 min | Small |
| Costa Esmeralda Airport | ECI | Tola | 86.2 mi (138.7 km) | 124.2 mi (199.9 km) | 3 h 5 min | Small |
| Juan Santamaría International Airport | SJO | San Jose | 95.4 mi (153.5 km) | 130.9 mi (210.7 km) | 4 h 2 min | Large |
| Tobías Bolaños International Airport | SYQ | San Jose | 100.5 mi (161.8 km) | 138.6 mi (223.1 km) | 4 h 13 min | Medium-sized |
| Quepos La Managua Airport | XQP | Quepos | 114 mi (183.5 km) | 165.7 mi (266.7 km) | 5 h 17 min | Medium-sized |
| Tortuguero Airport | TTQ | Roxana | 134.7 mi (216.8 km) | 240.3 mi (386.7 km) | 6 h 49 min | Small |
| Augusto C. Sandino International Airport | MGA | Managua | 135.8 mi (218.6 km) | 166.7 mi (268.3 km) | 4 h 5 min | Medium-sized |
| Barra del Colorado Airport | BCL | Barra del Colorado | 140.3 mi (225.8 km) | 246.8 mi (397.2 km) | 6 h 33 min | Medium-sized |
Closest Airports to Other Cities Near Santa Cruz
Planning to travel somewhere else in the region? Find the closest airport to these nearby cities:
General Airport Travel Tips
- Allow enough time: It's generally recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- Check your terminal: Confirm your departure terminal before heading to the airport, especially at larger airports.
- Airport selection: When choosing between multiple airports, consider flight availability, prices, and proximity to your final destination.
- Transportation options: Research transportation options to and from the airport including public transit, taxis, rideshares, or car rentals.
- Check flight status: Always verify your flight status before heading to the airport as schedules can change.
When planning your trip to Santa Cruz, choosing the right airport can help ensure a smoother travel experience. Consider all available options based on your specific needs.