Santa Cruz La Laguna is best known as Lake Atitlán’s diving destination. Whilst each of the towns around Lake Atitlán, Guatemala do have something that they’re known for, diving is still quite specific! Santa Cruz is quite a unique location because it’s not accessible by road, and therefore doesn’t have the same access to the materials and tools they need to develop as quickly as other places.
Instead, the quiet lakeside community in Santa Cruz, Lake Atitlán, is home to the lake’s main diving schools and some of the best underwater exploration spots. With depths reaching up to 300 metres, Lake Atitlán provides fascinating diving opportunities with its underwater volcanic formations, hot springs, and even a hotel that was submerged by rising water levels in the 1900s.
The lack of road access means you have to arrive by boat (regular “lanchas” run from Panajachel and other small towns around the lake), but this minor inconvenience is worth it for the direct access to the lake’s best diving spots and the peaceful atmosphere.
🇦🇷 Read more: A Travel Guide to Santa Cruz
Hostels in Santa Cruz La Laguna
Best for: Budget Divers & Lake Lovers
The hostel scene in Santa Cruz caters well to the diving community, with a few places offering special rates if you’re enrolled in a diving course. Most hostels are located right on the water, providing easy access to the dive school and, of course, the water!
Santa Cruz’s hostels really do focus more on water activities than partying (but that doesn’t mean they aren’t social or you won’t make friends). The exception to this rule is, of course, free cerveza, which you can probably gather means they have free beer between specific hours.
One thing to note is that these hostels tend to book up quickly during high season, so book in advance if you can.
Best Hostels in Santa Cruz
- La Iguana Perdida – Home to ATI Divers with special rates for students
- Free Cerveza – The aforementioned hostel with free beer!
Regular Hotels in Santa Cruz La Laguna
Best for: Mid-Range Comfort
Santa Cruz’s mid-range hotels are similarly prepared for diving enthusiasts. Many of them offer specific facilities for divers, like equipment storage, rinse tanks, and partnerships with local dive schools. These hotels typically sit on the hillside just above the lakeshore, offering the perfect balance of access to dive facilities, the water, and great views.
Many of these hotels also offer special packages that combine accommodation with diving courses or fun dives.
Best Regular Hotels in Santa Cruz
- Hotel Arca de Noé – Partner with local dive schools
- Casa Rosa – Dedicated dive equipment facilities
Upscale Hotels in Santa Cruz La Laguna
Best for: Luxury Diving Experience
The luxury hotels in Santa Cruz often cater to diving enthusiasts who prefer their underwater adventures with a side of comfort. They are usually a bit further out of town (but still walkable), each with their own private dock for easy access to the water, for many experiences beyond diving, if diving isn’t your thing. You’ll also find spa retreats, yoga classes, horseback riding, and much more.
Best Upscale Hotels in Santa Cruz
- Atitlán Sunset Lodge – Luxury apartments on the lake with amazing views
- Casa Prana Hotel in Atitlan – Either self-catered accommodation or hotel suites with a fitness centre, yoga studio and massage service
Dive Schools & Accommodation
Best for: Serious Divers & Course Students
Of course, being Atitlán’s diving capital, Santa Cruz has a lot of diving schools, shops and that kind of thing. If you’re going to Santa Cruz to dive, then talk to your dive school about choosing the right accommodation – if you stay where they recommend, that makes it easier to spend time with and make friends with your fellow divers, and you’ll have easy access to your dive school.
Dive School Options in Santa Cruz
- ATI Divers – ATI Divers is the only dive shop and dive school on Lake Atitlán, and it’s right here in Santa Cruz.
How Long to Stay in Santa Cruz
The ideal length of stay in Santa Cruz depends on your diving ambitions. If you’re just looking to do a few fun dives, 3-4 days might be enough (remember you need to do a certification in high altitude diving, first!). However, if you’re planning to complete a course or want to explore multiple dive sites, I’d recommend staying at least 5-7 days.
If you’re not going to Santa Cruz to dive and you’re just going to relax, then simply stay for as long as you want to relax for. There are other activities you can do like other water sports, horse riding, and hiking, but if you’re looking for other adventures I’d recommend staying somewhere else on Lake Atitlán.
🇦🇷 Read more: Things to Do in Santa Cruz
Frequently Asked Questions About Santa Cruz
Is Santa Cruz La Laguna accessible by road?
No, Santa Cruz La Laguna is only accessible by boat. Regular lanchas (water taxis) run from Panajachel and other towns around Lake Atitlán. This limited access contributes to the town’s peaceful atmosphere and pristine diving conditions.
How deep is Lake Atitlán for diving?
Lake Atitlán reaches depths of up to 300 metres. The lake features fascinating underwater attractions including volcanic formations, hot springs, and a submerged hotel from the 1900s, making it an excellent diving destination.
Do I need to book accommodation in advance in Santa Cruz?
Yes, especially during high season. The hostels and hotels in Santa Cruz La Laguna tend to book up quickly, particularly those offering special rates for diving students. It’s recommended to secure your accommodation well in advance.
What’s the best area to stay for diving in Santa Cruz?
The lakeside area offers the most convenient access to diving facilities. Many accommodations partner with ATI Divers, the local dive school, and offer specific amenities for divers such as equipment storage and rinse tanks.
How long should I stay in Santa Cruz La Laguna?
For diving enthusiasts, a 5-7 day stay is recommended, especially if you’re completing a course or want to explore multiple dive sites. For non-divers looking to relax, the length of stay can be flexible, though there are more adventure activities available in other Lake Atitlán towns.
Conclusion
Santa Cruz La Laguna offers a unique blend of accommodation options that cater especially well to diving enthusiasts, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious lodges. The town’s peaceful, boat-only access creates a special atmosphere that sets it apart from other Lake Atitlán destinations. Whether you’re planning to complete a diving course, explore the fascinating underwater landscape, or simply relax by the lake, Santa Cruz has accommodation to suit your needs and budget. Just remember to book in advance, particularly during peak seasons, and consider staying close to your chosen dive school for the most convenient experience.
