A beach with clear water, a sandy shore, and lush green trees.

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Our top choices for El Ocotal hotels

1. Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive
3.5 star property
Sardinal
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (634 reviews)
"Amazing stay"
United States
Jessica
Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive

2. Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive

Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive
4.0 star property
Sardinal
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (1,583 reviews)
"Beautiful, staff extremely helpful and friendly, food was great. Amazing for families!"
Canada
Ale
Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive

3. Condovac la Costa

Condovac la Costa
3.5 star property
Sardinal
6.4 out of 10, (1,006 reviews)
"Great place amazing people love the food"
United States
Fanny D
The price is CA $218
CA $246 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 30 - Jul 31
Condovac la Costa

4. Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive
4.0 star property
Sardinal
7.6 out of 10, Good, (1,000 reviews)
"Beautiful relaxing place to stay! Buffet food wasn't the best but other then that I enjoyed everything about my stay! The staff are very kind and helpful! I felt extremely safe here!"
United States
Christina
The price is CA $290
CA $328 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 22 - Jul 23
Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

5. Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo
3.5 star property
Cabo Velas
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (1,004 reviews)
"Very fun resort all inclusive drinks were fantastic"
United States
Princess
The price is CA $321
CA $363 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 21 - Jul 22
Margaritaville Beach Resort Playa Flamingo

6. Bahia Pez Vela Resort

Bahia Pez Vela Resort
3.5 star property
Sardinal
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (102 reviews)
"Best vacation ever. "
United States
Alistair
Bahia Pez Vela Resort

7. Hotel Pura Vista

Hotel Pura Vista
3.5 star property
Sardinal
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (119 reviews)
"Loved this place way up in the hills with fantastic views overlooking the ocean "
United States
Will
The price is CA $272
CA $307 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 25 - Jul 26
Hotel Pura Vista

8. Hotel Ocotal B&B

Hotel Ocotal B&B
3.0 star property
Sardinal
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (127 reviews)
"Great stay"
Canada
James
The price is CA $103
CA $116 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 20 - Jul 21
Hotel Ocotal B&B

9. CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive
4.0 star property
Sardinal
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (1,004 reviews)
"Nice property. Delicious food and staff amazing"
United States
Edwin Alonso Cornejo
The price is CA $535
CA $604 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 18 - Aug 19
CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

10. Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
4.5 star property
Nacascolo
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (1,004 reviews)
"We had the best vacation! Beautiful resort!"
United States
Jessica Ann
The price is CA $503
CA $503 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 11 - Aug 12
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

11. Villas Sol Beach Resort

Villas Sol Beach Resort
3.5 star property
Sardinal
7.8 out of 10, Good, (946 reviews)
"The Customer Service was excellent. From staff Maria from house keeping to Fred the front desk and how the best bartender Melvin. Forsure would come back to this properly for this great price."
United States
Mark
The price is CA $130
CA $147 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 4 - Aug 5
Villas Sol Beach Resort

12. The Palms At Coco Beach

The Palms At Coco Beach
3.0 star property
Sardinal
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (718 reviews)
"Loved staying here! I was traveling alone and it was the perfect location. Staff were very friendly and helpful. Room was clean and amenities were nice. Highly recommend and will definitely be coming back!"
United States
Verlin Lopez
The price is CA $81
CA $92 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 21 - Jul 22
The Palms At Coco Beach

13. Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa
3.5 star property
Sardinal
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (937 reviews)
"Rooms where clean and AC was perfect,nice beach 50 feet from our room."
United States
omar
The price is CA $405
CA $458 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 25 - Jul 26
Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

14. Hotel Colono Beach

Hotel Colono Beach
3.0 star property
Sardinal
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (458 reviews)
"Breakfast was excellent and staff lovely. AC was quiet and efficient and the whole hotel is spotlessly clean. "
United States
Julie
Hotel Colono Beach

15. Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique

Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique
5.0 star property
Sardinal
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (19 reviews)
"Great property, not far from airport, awesome service and a pleasant staff to be around. "
United States
James
The price is CA $968
CA $1,224 total
includes taxes & fees
Aug 17 - Aug 18
Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique

16. Tortuga Verde Glamping

Tortuga Verde Glamping
3.0 star property
Sardinal
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (61 reviews)
"Clean room, friendly staff, air conditioning was very cold, easy access to the beach"
United States
Tiffani
The price is CA $167
CA $188 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 23 - Jul 24
Tortuga Verde Glamping

17. Toro Blanco Resort

Toro Blanco Resort
2.5 star property
Sardinal
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (177 reviews)
"It was so close to the beach."
Canada
Gunwoo
The price is CA $120
CA $135 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 20 - Jul 21
Toro Blanco Resort

18. Siwõ Art Guesthouse

Siwõ Art Guesthouse
3.0 star property
Sardinal
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (22 reviews)
"Beach proximity and nearby snorkeling were great. The hotel has a lot of character and beautiful landscaping, but updates need to be finished."
United States
Catherine
The price is CA $95
CA $107 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 23 - Jul 24
Siwõ Art Guesthouse

19. Hotel Villa del Sueño

Hotel Villa del Sueño
3.0 star property
Sardinal
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (497 reviews)
"Great place , live music and dinner. Walkable distance for beach and the sunset is the best in costrica."
Canada
Mohammed abdul
The price is CA $132
CA $149 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 21 - Jul 22
Hotel Villa del Sueño

20. Finca Brisas de la Montaña

Finca Brisas de la Montaña
4.0 star property
Coco
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (13 reviews)
"Clean, comfortable beds, nice kitchen and close to town!"
Canada
Renee
The price is CA $197
CA $222 total
includes taxes & fees
Jul 21 - Jul 22
Finca Brisas de la Montaña
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.
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Stay near popular El Ocotal attractions

Learn more about El Ocotal

Snorkel the calm waters of Playa Ocotal where colourful fish dart around you in surprising numbers. Nearby Playas del Coco offers lively beachfront restaurants and shops perfect for evening entertainment after a day in the sun.

A beach with a large tree, people swimming, and boats in the water.

Top El Ocotal Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in El Ocotal

Find out more about El Ocotal

Top reasons to visit El Ocotal

  • Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the serene beauty of Playa Ocotal and nearby Coco Beach, perfect for relaxation and family fun.
  • Adventure Activities: Engage in various outdoor adventures, including golf, excursions, and exploring picturesque waterfalls.
  • Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture through nearby attractions and friendly interactions.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming hotels to luxurious all-inclusive resorts tailored to your vacation needs.
  • Family-Friendly Environment: El Ocotal offers a variety of family-friendly attractions, ensuring a memorable experience for all ages.

Find great hotels in and around El Ocotal

Explore a range of delightful hotel accommodations in El Ocotal, Sardinal, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where you can find the ideal spot for your beach getaway, family adventure, or relaxing vacation. From charming hotels to all-inclusive resorts, the area offers a variety of options tailored to meet your needs. Whether you're seeking a cozy bed at a local hotel or a luxurious stay at Ocotal Beach Resort, your perfect escape awaits in this tropical paradise.

  • Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive: This 4.5-star resort embodies luxury with a beach and spa theme, perfect for discerning travellers looking to unwind. Guests can indulge in unlimited food and drinks, with a variety of options including à la carte dining and buffet meals. For relaxation, the full-service spa offers treatments like body scrubs and hot tub access. Business travellers will appreciate the meeting room facilities, while leisure seekers can enjoy kayaking, surfing, and a stunning beach. With its elegant architecture and extensive amenities, this resort promises a rejuvenating escape.
  • Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive: A 4-star family-friendly resort, Hotel Riu Guanacaste provides an exciting adventure-filled vacation. With numerous all-inclusive activities such as snorkeling, windsurfing, and volleyball, there’s no shortage of fun for all ages. The property features a vibrant atmosphere with themed parties and entertainment, ensuring a lively stay. Children are well catered for with dedicated amenities such as a playground and water park. Guests can unwind at the spa or enjoy delicious meals at the onsite buffet and à la carte restaurants. This hotel strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure.
  • Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All Inclusive: Exclusively for adults, this 4-star resort is ideal for couples or groups seeking a serene beach getaway. With a focus on relaxation, it offers a variety of all-inclusive services, including fitness classes and gourmet dining options. The property, welcoming to the LGBTQIA community, features multiple meeting rooms for business needs, making it a great choice for work and leisure. With direct beach access and upscale amenities, guests can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere while still being close to adventure activities nearby.

Where to stay in El Ocotal

El Ocotal, nestled in the heart of Guanacaste, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for Canadian travellers. With easy access to the stunning Ocotal Beach, you can unwind in a serene atmosphere while enjoying family-friendly excursions or romantic getaways. Explore nearby attractions that highlight the friendly local culture and vibrant landscapes, making your vacation truly memorable. Whether you're seeking beach access or secluded spots, El Ocotal is an ideal destination to create unforgettable experiences.

  • Sardinal: Nestled in the heart of Guanacaste, Sardinal is a vibrant city that offers a blend of beach culture and outdoor adventure. El Ocotal is part of this lively community, which sees a steady flow of visitors year-round. The peak travel season from January to March brings beach lovers and adventure seekers eager to explore nearby attractions like the national state park and local volcanoes. Sardinal is also known for its golf courses and resorts, making it an ideal base for those looking to enjoy a mix of relaxation and excitement.
  • Coco: Located a mere 3.2km from El Ocotal, Coco is a charming village that buzzes with life and activity. With non-seasonal traveler arrivals, it’s particularly popular during the September and December to January peaks. Visitors flock to Coco for its stunning beaches and adventurous outdoor activities, including golf and exploring the nearby mountains. The village’s laid-back atmosphere, combined with its proximity to vibrant nightlife and dining options, makes it a perfect spot for both relaxation and fun.
  • Playa Hermosa: Just 6.4km from El Ocotal, Playa Hermosa is a picturesque village renowned for its beautiful beach and serene environment. While visitor numbers peak in March and December to January, the village maintains a steady flow of travelers seeking outdoor adventures and relaxation. Playa Hermosa offers a range of resorts and golf courses, all while being close to stunning natural landmarks such as national parks and volcanoes. This destination is perfect for those looking to unwind and soak in the beauty of Costa Rica.

Things to do near El Ocotal

El Ocotal, located in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is perfect for a beach and adventure getaway. Visitors can enjoy activities like golf at local courses, embark on travel excursions, and explore recreational spots. Highlights include picturesque waterfalls and opportunities for day trips or picnics. With its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures, El Ocotal promises an unforgettable vacation experience.

Shopping

In El Ocotal, you can explore local markets for unique souvenirs and crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Plaza Real in Liberia, about 30 minutes away, which offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and vibrant local culture perfect for gift shopping.

Recreation

Experience the stunning Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course, 35.4km from El Ocotal, where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by beautiful landscapes. For relaxation, visit Black Stallion Eco Park, 29.0km away, offering wellness activities. Alternatively, the Papagayo Golf and Country Club, only 11.3km distant, combines sport and outdoor charm.

Adventure

Samara Trails offers an exhilarating hiking experience with stunning scenery and a vibrant outdoor atmosphere. Located 46.7km from El Ocotal, this trail showcases the breathtaking beauty of Guanacaste's landscapes, making it perfect for adventure seekers looking to immerse themselves in nature.

Nightlife

The nightlife in El Ocotal offers a relaxed vibe with beachside bars like the popular Father Roosters, where you can enjoy live music and cocktails. For a more laid-back evening, visit the local eateries serving delicious Costa Rican cuisine under the stars.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Ocotal

El Ocotal is a budget-friendly destination with free entry and activities such as Coco Beach and Playa Hermosa. To save on transport, consider using the local bus system, which is cost-effective. The best time to visit is from September to November, when accommodation prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and look for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays offer the lowest hotel prices while Mondays are typically the most expensive. Combining hotel, flight, and activity bookings can also lead to significant savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in El Ocotal are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in El Ocotal is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in El Ocotal is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in El Ocotal is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your El Ocotal hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around El Ocotal

El Ocotal, located in Sardinal, Guanacaste, is perfect for beach and adventure vacations. With stunning beaches like Playa Ocotal and nearby Coco Beach, it offers a variety of family-friendly attractions and entertainment options. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or outdoor activities, El Ocotal has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable getaway for all types of travellers.

  • Coco Beach: Just 3.2km from El Ocotal, Coco Beach boasts stunning sandy shores and vibrant beach vibes. It's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying local cuisine at beachside restaurants, providing a quintessential tropical experience.
  • Diamante Eco Adventure Park: Situated within El Ocotal, this theme park offers thrilling family entertainment. Experience ziplining, wildlife encounters, and interactive exhibits that cater to all ages, making it a fun-filled day for everyone.
  • Haras del Mar Equestrian Center: Located 4.8km away, this serene attraction offers horseback riding excursions in a tranquil setting. With friendly staff and a focus on relaxation and recreation, it's perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.

Best time to go to El Ocotal

The best time to visit El Ocotal can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in El Ocotal falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in El Ocotal falls in November, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February80.4°F (26.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
March81.7°F (27.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April83.3°F (28.5°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
May82.2°F (27.9°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June80.1°F (26.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July79.7°F (26.5°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September79.2°F (26.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October78.3°F (25.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November78.1°F (25.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December78.4°F (25.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to El Ocotal

When planning your trip to El Ocotal, Guanacaste, you have several airport options. The nearest is Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.), situated 20.9km away. Recommended hotels nearby include the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 16.1km from the airport, and Secrets Papagayo, 11.3km away, both offering various transportation services. Tamarindo (TNO) is another option, located 111.3km from El Ocotal, with excellent accommodations such as the W Costa Rica and JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort, each offering shuttle services. For a more distant option, Nosara (NOB) is located 62.8km away, with hotels like Azura Beach Resort providing shuttle access.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in El Ocotal?
The best area to stay in El Ocotal is directly on Ocotal Beach, as this is where the main amenities and activities are located.

This area offers direct access to the beach, which is known for its dark sand and calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkelling. The beachfront itself is relatively small and can be walked end-to-end in about 15-20 minutes. There are a few restaurants and dive shops clustered near the centre of the beach.

Couples often find this area great for a relaxing getaway. You're steps away from the ocean, and many accommodations offer ocean views and direct beach access. It's a peaceful spot for enjoying sunsets and water activities without the crowds found in larger towns.

For families, staying near Ocotal Beach is also a great option. The calm waters are suitable for children, and the proximity to the beach means less travel time and more time for fun.
When is the best time to go to El Ocotal?
The best time to visit El Ocotal, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

During these months, you'll experience consistently sunny weather with very little rain, making it superb for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. The average daily temperature hovers around 30°C, with cool breezes often coming in from the Pacific. This period is ideal for those looking to relax by the ocean or explore the natural beauty of the region without interruption from downpours.

For travellers looking for a balance between good weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder months of May and November are also excellent. While you might encounter occasional afternoon showers, these are usually brief, and the landscape is lusher.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in El Ocotal.
How much is the nightly rate at a El Ocotal hotel?
Prices for hotels in El Ocotal often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $90 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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