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Our top choices for Santa Elena hotels

A wooden cabin with large windows, a fireplace, and a seating area with chairs and a table.
A wooden interior with a bench, a chair, and a table.
A room with a ceiling fan, two chairs, a bench, and large windows with a view of trees.
A wooden interior with large windows, a ceiling fan, and a caution sign.

1. Santa Elena Lodge

Santa Elena Lodge
Santa Elena
United States
Bruce
CA $81
CA $146 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Santa Elena Lodge
A wooden cabin room with a bed, a window with curtains, and a wooden shelf.
A pathway leading to a house surrounded by lush greenery and a lake in the background.
A modern room with a wooden ceiling, a sofa, a bed, and a dining area.
A beach with clear waters, a sandy shore, and lush greenery.

2. Blue Dream Kiteboarding Resort

Blue Dream Kiteboarding Resort
La Cruz
United States
carl
CA $41
CA $62 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Blue Dream Kiteboarding Resort
A resort pool area with a thatched-roof structure, palm trees, and lounge chairs.
An aerial view of a resort with multiple bungalow-style buildings, a central pool area, and a beachside location.
A hotel with a two-story structure, a covered outdoor seating area, and a well-maintained lawn with palm trees.
A wooden dining area with a table and chairs, large windows, and a red patterned sofa.

3. Nandel Beach Resort

Nandel Beach Resort
La Cruz
United States
Marshall
CA $170
CA $192 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Nandel Beach Resort
A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a view of a swimming pool and outdoor seating area.
A modern house with a glass facade, a staircase leading to a deck, and a well-maintained lawn.
A wooden cabin with a glass door, a massage chair, a massage table, an ice box, and a wall-mounted dreamcatcher.
A beach with a rocky outcrop in the distance, clear skies, and green foliage in the foreground.

4. Esencia de Miel Villas & Boutique Safari

Esencia de Miel Villas & Boutique Safari
La Cruz
United States
Oscar
CA $225
CA $282 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Esencia de Miel Villas & Boutique Safari
A person meditating on a wooden deck with a view of mountains and trees.
A kitchenette with a wooden cabinet, a sink, a small refrigerator, and a stone wall.
A dining area with a table set for two, surrounded by chairs, a hanging light fixture, and a potted plant.
A room with a bed, a window, and a stone wall.

5. Casa Paz by Otium

Casa Paz by Otium
La Cruz
CA $58
CA $66 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 15 - Sep 16
Casa Paz by Otium
A modern living room with a sofa, ottomans, a coffee table, and a dining area with chairs and tables.

6. JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa

JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa
La Cruz
CA $844
CA $844 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa
A woman sitting by a clear pool with a stone wall and lush greenery in the background.
A woman in a floral dress standing on a wooden bridge surrounded by lush greenery.
A spacious restaurant with wooden walls and large windows, offering a view of lush greenery. Tables are set with chairs and dining essentials.
A two-story house with a front porch, a covered patio, and a well-maintained garden.

7. Buena Vista del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa

Buena Vista del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa
Canas Dulces
United States
Amanda
CA $111
CA $126 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 21 - Sep 22
Buena Vista del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa
A cozy lounge area with plush seating, a wooden table, and various potted plants.
A two-story building with a restaurant named 'Mirador Bar Restaurant' at the ground level.
A sunset view with a cross and palm trees.
A bedroom with two beds, a wooden ceiling, and a small table.

8. Hotel Punta Descartes

Hotel Punta Descartes
La Cruz
Canada
Susan
CA $105
CA $119 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 9 - Oct 10
Hotel Punta Descartes
A clear blue pool surrounded by tropical vegetation and a thatched-roof structure.
A wooden cabin with a wooden deck, surrounded by dense tropical foliage.
A spacious hallway with wooden flooring, a central wooden table, and a chandelier.
A person standing on a wooden deck with a metal railing, overlooking a lush landscape with trees and hills.

9. Borinquen Thermal Resort

Borinquen Thermal Resort
Canas Dulces
Canada
Raaya
CA $263
CA $298 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 9 - Oct 10
Borinquen Thermal Resort
A person sitting by a clear water body surrounded by rocks and trees.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a gazebo.
A bar area with a wooden bar counter, multiple stools, and hanging wicker lamps.
A modern bathroom with a freestanding bathtub, a mounted TV, and a view of an outdoor pool area.

10. Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
Curubandé
United States
Alicia
CA $180
CA $204 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 9 - Oct 10
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
A lobby with a reception desk, two lamps, a stone wall, and a television.
A hotel lobby with seating areas, a reception desk, and a chandelier.
An outdoor patio area with wicker furniture, glass tables, and a view of a well-maintained garden.
A hotel with a swimming pool, sun loungers, and palm trees.

11. Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport

Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport
Liberia
Canada
Amara-Dawn
CA $187
CA $211 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 10 - Sep 11
Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport
A modern bar area with a long wooden counter, multiple bar stools, and hanging decorative lights.
A buffet area with a central serving station, multiple food stations, and a coffee machine.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a bar area, surrounded by a modern building with large windows and a covered seating area.
A bar area with a long counter, multiple stools, and shelves stocked with bottles.

12. Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport
Liberia
Canada
Stephen
CA $176
CA $198 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 5 - Oct 6
Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport
A building with a sign that reads "Hotel Santa Ana."
A building with a sign reading "Hotel Santa Ana."
A bedroom with a wooden bed, a nightstand, a chair, and a door with the number 20.
A hotel reception desk with a man on the phone, framed pictures on the wall, and flower arrangements.

13. Hotel Santa Ana Liberia Airport

Hotel Santa Ana Liberia Airport
Liberia
United States
Frank
CA $83
CA $93 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 15 - Sep 16
Hotel Santa Ana Liberia Airport
A small kitchen with a dining table and chairs, a potted orchid, and a sink.
A building with a tiled roof, large windows, and a sign that reads "COFFEE".
A bedroom with a wooden bed, a wardrobe with hanging items, a bedside table, and a wall-mounted air conditioner.
A bathroom with a shower curtain featuring a tropical leaf pattern, a toilet, a bidet, and a trash bin.

14. Karao - Guancaste Airport

Karao - Guancaste Airport
Liberia
Canada
Kimberly
CA $75
CA $84 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Karao - Guancaste Airport
A wooden cabin with a porch, surrounded by greenery.
A room with two beds, a desk, a chair, a TV, and a window with curtains.
A natural hot spring surrounded by lush greenery and trees.
A wooden deck with tables and chairs, overlooking a natural landscape with trees and a rock formation.

15. Canon de La Vieja Lodge

Canon de La Vieja Lodge
Curubandé
United States
Timothy
CA $183
CA $207 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Canon de La Vieja Lodge
A wooden outdoor seating area with a table and benches, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue sky.
A wooden pergola overlooking a swimming pool with a stone structure in the background.
A wooden cabin bedroom with a bed, nightstand, lamp, and large windows overlooking a forest.
A wooden pedestrian bridge with metal railings, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.

16. Cabañas Don Ramiro

Cabañas Don Ramiro
Guayabo
United States
Grant
CA $123
CA $160 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 12 - Sep 13
Cabañas Don Ramiro
A poolside setting with a drink garnished with fruit and a hibiscus flower, a plate of sliced fruits, and a pool in the background.
A spacious kitchen with wooden cabinets, a stone wall, and a dining area with a table and chairs.
A balcony with a table and chairs, overlooking a lush garden with palm trees and a view of a building with a tiled roof.
A spacious living area with a wooden ceiling, a stone wall, a TV, and a dining set.

17. Hotel Villa del Sueño

Hotel Villa del Sueño
Sardinal
Canada
Amara-Dawn
CA $130
CA $147 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 11 - Sep 12
Hotel Villa del Sueño
A wooden cabin with a porch, a bed, and a small table.
A rustic wooden building with a tiled roof, surrounded by lush greenery and a dirt path.
A room with a wooden ceiling, a window with a grid pattern, and a white sofa.
A wooden cabin with a porch, a chair, and a small garden area.

18. Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge
Guayabo
United States
Ryan
CA $77
CA $87 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 13 - Sep 14
Santa Maria Volcano Lodge
A hotel lobby with a central atrium, a staircase, and hanging plants.
A hotel named Hotel Del Rio with a red roof, a reception desk, and a parking area.
A restaurant interior with multiple tables and chairs, ceiling fans, and large windows allowing natural light.
A hotel room with a bed, a TV, a refrigerator, and a door.

19. Hotel del Rio

Hotel del Rio
Liberia
United States
Christopher
CA $97
CA $109 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 14 - Sep 15
Hotel del Rio
A covered garden area with various potted plants and a metal structure.
A room with a bed, a TV mounted on the wall, a small table, a shelf with hanging items, and a bathroom with a sink and mirror.
A long, narrow hallway with white walls, potted plants, and barred windows.
A covered corridor with potted plants, a rocking chair, and a view of a red building in the distance.

20. Hotel Del Aserradero

Hotel Del Aserradero
Liberia
United States
Marianna
CA $92
CA $104 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 9 - Sep 10
Hotel Del Aserradero
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Stay near popular Santa Elena attractions

Junquillal Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Junquillal Beach during your trip to Santa Elena?
See properties

Maritza Biological Station

Explore the great outdoors at Maritza Biological Station, a lovely green space in Santa Elena. Discover the area's mountain views and hot springs.
See properties

Playa Blanca

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Playa Blanca during your trip to Santa Elena?
See properties

Coronado Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Coronado Beach during your trip to Cuajiniquil?
See properties

Playa Cuajiniquil

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Playa Cuajiniquil during your trip to Cuajiniquil?
See properties

Sector Murciélago

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Sector Murciélago during your trip to Santa Elena?
See properties

Pitilla Biological Station

Explore the great outdoors at Pitilla Biological Station, a lovely green space in Santa Elena. Discover the area's mountain views and spas.
See properties

Playa Guaria

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Playa Guaria during your trip to Cuajiniquil?
See properties

Learn more about Santa Elena

Check out the local area in Santa Elena—home to attractions like Santa Rosa National Park and Maritza Biological Station.

See all hotels in Santa Elena
A boat on calm water near a sandy beach with a large rock formation in the background.
Photo by Sha

Top Santa Elena Hotel Reviews

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

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

10/10 Excellent
"Gran estadía, muy buenas habitaciones, staff de primera (Javier de la cafeteria FUEL, Enrique del el snack bar y el bar de star plus, Daniel, asesor Star plus, Paola del bar de la piscina, Randall de los restaurantes/sports bar, Thor del restaurant de carnes y Deadpool de la piscina entre muchos otros). Se recomienda tomar el paquete con Star Plus."
Maria Francisca Dussaillant 7-night trip
Posted 8 hours ago
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
El Mangroove Papagayo, Autograph Collection

El Mangroove Papagayo, Autograph Collection

10/10 Excellent
"We had a great time at El Mangrove. Amazing staff who were all very friendly, helpful and respectfully attentive without being intrusive. We stayed at the end of August, start of September which is supposed to be rainy season so the resort was very very quiet. Lucky for us. Room was a king deluxe with balcony and forest view. The resort itself had multiple pools, as is beach front although we didn’t move far from the main one. Almost none of the rooms have ocean view but we spent most our time at the pool area. Lunch menu from the bar / pool menu was more basic and we found was better prepared by that kitchen. The more elaborate menu from the main evening restaurant was a little hit and miss on quality of execution of the dishes. We found much of the seafood to be over cooked for our liking. By the time we had been there a week we were mostly ordering off the more basic menu. Breakfasts were great with fresh fruit etc. We took a jet ski tour with and an ATV tour. Jet skis were fun but would probably give the ATV a miss if we were to return. Can’t say enough good things about the staff! 10/10"
Carl 5-night trip
Posted 11 hours ago
El Mangroove Papagayo, Autograph Collection
Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

10/10 Excellent
"It was my best stay ever at a Hampton - the room was clean, modern and perfect. The staff at the front desk were helpful and welcoming. The food at the restaurant was expensive and forgettable for what it was, but the great thing is there’s several options within close walking distance. The complementary shuttle was fantastic. If you’re looking between this and the Hilton Garden Inn - this is a winner!"
Cara 1-night trip
Posted 16 hours ago
Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport
Best Western El Sitio Hotel

Best Western El Sitio Hotel

8/10 Good
"Hotel viejo pero bonito, buena atención, habitaciones limpias, muy buena ubicación si te hospedas en Liberia."
Manuel 2-night trip
Posted 16 hours ago
Best Western El Sitio Hotel
Condovac la Costa

Condovac la Costa

8/10 Good
"Our room was nice and spacious but lacking the basics such as cups/mugs, face towels, and bath mats. We had to frequently request for these items. The place is so very charming and the staff are amazing!! However the lack of food options (with no snacks in between meals, especially for young children) was a big problem. They also ran out of alcohol and had no dessert for 2 nights. If they improve on a few things, I would definitely consider returning!"
Christine 5-night trip
Posted 18 hours ago
Condovac la Costa
Villas Sol Beach Resort

Villas Sol Beach Resort

10/10 Excellent
"I loved my room; the view was amazing! I already miss it; this place was truly magical. I can't wait to go back."
Shelly 11-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Villas Sol Beach Resort
Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

8/10 Good
"Overall, we had a really nice stay at the hotel. The property was beautiful, our room was comfortable, and for the most part, everything was great. The biggest issue we experienced was with the staff during meal times. Unfortunately, several interactions felt rude and unwelcoming, which took away from an otherwise enjoyable experience. Hospitality really makes a difference, especially when you’re staying somewhere for a vacation. We also had a significant issue with the outdoor pool area. There were a tremendous number of bees around the pool and especially near the outdoor bar, which was the only outdoor bar available. I am deathly allergic to bees, so this made it extremely difficult for me to enjoy that area and made me feel unsafe. I understand that bees are difficult to control outdoors, but given the number of them, I do think the hotel should look into ways to address the problem or at least provide an alternative for guests with severe allergies. Aside from those issues, we genuinely enjoyed the hotel and thought it was a beautiful property. With some improvements to the staff’s approach during meal times and better management of the bee situation around the pool/bar, I would consider booking again."
Lisa 6-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive
CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

10/10 Excellent
"Fantastic place to stay. We were so close to all the excursions we wanted to do. And the beach is literally right there! Pools were clean and fun! Would 100% go back!"
Jessica 7-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive
Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

8/10 Good
"Great staff, beautiful pool. Incredible food in the restaurant. But the elevator is broken (and apparently has been for months). Looks like they have no plans to fix it, since we noticed the staff storing cleaning supplies in it. We had to move to a first floor room (from the Nyuri Penthouse Suite) when my husband got into an accident in Costa Rica and could no longer use the stairs. Very disappointing that the management company doesn't consider this a priority."
Emily 7-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

More cheap stays in Santa Elena

Hotel Primavera

Hotel Primavera

Costado sur del parque central Liberia Guanacaste
CA $47
CA $53 total
Oct 9 - Oct 10
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Primavera
Hermosa Paradise

Hermosa Paradise

Highway 159 behind Super Luperon Sardinal Guanacaste Province
CA $64
CA $72 total
Sep 27 - Sep 28
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (126 reviews)
Hermosa Paradise
Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge

Colonia Blanca Guayabo
CA $77
CA $87 total
Sep 13 - Sep 14
includes taxes & fees
Santa Maria Volcano Lodge
Hotel Del Aserradero

Hotel Del Aserradero

200 Metros Morte de Burger King Liberia Guanacaste
CA $92
CA $104 total
Sep 9 - Sep 10
includes taxes & fees
8.6/10 Excellent! (74 reviews)
Hotel Del Aserradero
Hotel Villa Del Sol

Hotel Villa Del Sol

Barrio La Chorrera Sardinal
CA $100
CA $113 total
Sep 24 - Sep 25
includes taxes & fees
9.4/10 Exceptional! (391 reviews)
Hotel Villa Del Sol
Toro Blanco Resort

Toro Blanco Resort

25 Metros Sur de la Iglesia Catolica Sardinal Guanacaste
CA $131
CA $147 total
Oct 6 - Oct 7
includes taxes & fees
Toro Blanco Resort

Find out more about Santa Elena

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

  • Outdoor Adventures: Santa Elena is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering thrilling activities like hiking, skywalking, and exploring diverse wildlife in nature reserves.
  • Breathtaking Scenery: The region boasts stunning landscapes, from lush rainforests to picturesque beaches, perfect for relaxation and photography.
  • Cozy Accommodations: A variety of lodging options cater to all budgets, ensuring a comfortable stay amid Costa Rica's natural beauty.
  • Rich Wildlife: Visitors can encounter captivating wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and photographers.
  • Local Culture: Experience the charm of Costa Rican culture through local cuisine, traditions, and friendly hospitality.

Find great hotels in Santa Elena

Discover the charm of Santa Elena, Guanacaste, where a diverse selection of accommodations awaits to suit every traveller's needs. From cozy budget lodgings to luxurious resorts, this vibrant area offers everything from adventure-themed experiences to family-friendly amenities. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an action-packed getaway, Santa Elena's hotels promise a memorable stay in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning natural beauty.

  • Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: Experience a blend of glamour and relaxation at Planet Hollywood Costa Rica. This 4.5-star all-inclusive resort is designed for those seeking a vibrant escape, featuring a beautiful beach setting perfect for romantic getaways and family adventures. With direct beach access, guests can indulge in unlimited food and drinks, including 24-hour room service for those intimate evenings. Families will appreciate the amenities tailored for children, including a shared playground and a free kids' club. For couples, the resort offers exclusive romance packages, while the on-site spa with massage treatment rooms and an outdoor pool provides the perfect atmosphere for relaxation. Located 29.0km from Santa Elena, this resort is ideal for a fun-filled vacation experience.
  • Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive: Embrace luxury and tranquility at Occidental Papagayo, a 4-star adults-only resort that caters to both leisure and business travellers. Situated 33.8km from Santa Elena, this all-inclusive haven offers direct beach access, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a beach-themed getaway. Guests can enjoy a wide range of amenities, including multiple meeting rooms for business needs and a variety of entertainment options. Each stay includes unlimited food and drinks, with a well-stocked minibar and diverse dining choices. The resort's atmosphere is designed for relaxation and rejuvenation, making it a great choice for couples and professionals looking for a serene escape.
  • Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica - All Inclusive: Nestled 17.7km from Santa Elena, Dreams Las Mareas is a luxurious 4.5-star all-inclusive resort that offers a delightful blend of adventure and relaxation. With direct access to the beach, guests can engage in a variety of exciting activities such as snorkeling, windsurfing, and hiking, making it ideal for adventure-seekers. The resort also welcomes pets, allowing families to include their furry friends in the vacation fun. Enjoy unlimited food and drinks, with a wide selection of dining options available. This property is perfect for those looking for a unique getaway, balancing leisure with a touch of adventure, all while being surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is a stunning destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery. This charming city offers a serene atmosphere ideal for romantic getaways, family-friendly activities, and secluded retreats. Explore nearby attractions, including lush rainforests, captivating wildlife, and cozy cabins that provide a unique Costa Rican experience. Whether you're hiking through nature or enjoying the local culture, Santa Elena promises an unforgettable vacation filled with relaxation and exploration.

  • La Cruz: Located 19.3km from Santa Elena, La Cruz is a vibrant city that offers a blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. With a steady influx of visitors, particularly peaking in July and during the December to January holiday season, La Cruz is a great destination for those seeking relaxation and activity. You'll find numerous resorts and spas to unwind, while golf enthusiasts can enjoy the nearby courses. Local attractions such as beautiful beaches, impressive volcanoes, and national parks allow nature lovers to immerse themselves in Costa Rica's diverse ecosystems.
  • Cuajiniquil: Nestled within the Santa Elena area, Cuajiniquil is a charming village that boasts a welcoming atmosphere and an array of outdoor experiences. With visitor numbers peaking in March through April and during the summer months of July, this hidden gem is perfect for adventure seekers. Enjoy the local golf courses and nearby spas, or take a leisurely stroll to explore the picturesque beaches and national parks that surround the village. Cuajiniquil is an ideal spot for those wanting to connect with nature while enjoying the warmth of Costa Rican hospitality.
  • Puerto Soley: Just 16.1km from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a quaint village known for its stunning beaches and vibrant outdoor scene. This destination sees seasonal visitors, particularly from December to February, making it a popular choice for those seeking sun, sand, and adventure. The nearby national parks offer incredible opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting, while the pristine beaches provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation. Puerto Soley is a fantastic spot for tourists eager to experience Costa Rica's natural beauty and diverse recreational activities.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery for visitors. Enjoy private tours, exhilarating skywalk experiences, and hiking trips that showcase the region's diverse wildlife. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the popular golf courses and relax at local resorts. A trip to Santa Elena guarantees a memorable vacation filled with natural beauty and exciting activities.

Recreation

Experience the Papagayo Golf and Country Club, located 43.5km from Santa Elena, where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning landscapes. The outdoor atmosphere promotes relaxation and rejuvenation, making it a perfect spot for wellness enthusiasts and sports lovers alike.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Santa Elena by visiting El Coco Casino, located 38.6km away. Enjoy the romantic atmosphere, try your luck at the casino, and soak in the lively city vibes for an unforgettable night out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

To save money on your vacation in Santa Elena, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May and September to October, when accommodation prices drop. Booking your hotel a month in advance often yields the best rates, and Saturday is typically the cheapest day to stay. Explore free activities like Playa Copal and Playa Puerto Soley, and utilize public transport options like bicycles to get around. For added savings, look for package deals on Expedia that combine hotels with flights and activities, and keep an eye out for last-minute offers to snag a great deal.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Elena are May and September to October, 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: Booking a hotel in Santa Elena about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Elena is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Elena is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel reservation in Santa Elena with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and national parks, catering to those seeking thrilling experiences. Key attractions include the Santa Elena Reserve and nearby beaches like Playas del Golfo Santa Elena. Travellers will also find ample accommodations and landmarks to enhance their stay, ensuring a memorable Costa Rican getaway.

  • Santa Rosa National Park: Located a mere 4.8km from Santa Elena, this national park offers breathtaking scenery and a wealth of adventure opportunities. Explore diverse ecosystems, hike scenic trails, and witness remarkable wildlife in their natural habitat.
  • Junquillal Beach: Nestled within Santa Elena, Junquillal Beach boasts a laid-back atmosphere perfect for soaking up the sun. Enjoy swimming, beachcombing, or simply relaxing on the soft sands while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
  • Maritza Biological Station: This secluded reserve is a gem within Santa Elena, ideal for those seeking tranquility and recreation. Engage in birdwatching, nature walks, and educational tours to learn about the region's unique biodiversity.

Best time to go to Santa Elena

Visitor numbers in Santa Elena is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Santa Elena can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Elena falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Elena falls in October and November. November has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January78.6°F (25.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
February80.1°F (26.7°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
March81.7°F (27.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April83.3°F (28.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
May81.9°F (27.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
June79.2°F (26.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July78.8°F (26.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August78.8°F (26.0°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September78.3°F (25.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October77.2°F (25.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November77.2°F (25.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December77.7°F (25.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

To reach Santa Elena, Guanacaste, you can fly into two major airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber International) is situated 35.4km away, with excellent accommodation options like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 16.1km from the airport, and Secrets Papagayo, a 4.5-star resort just 11.3km away. Both offer various transportation services. Alternatively, Tamarindo (TNO) is 66.0km from Santa Elena, featuring hotels such as the luxurious W Costa Rica - Reserva Conchal and JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, both within a 9.7km radius of the airport, providing convenient shuttle services. Choose the airport that best suits your travel plans for a memorable Costa Rican getaway.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Santa Elena?
The best area to stay in Santa Elena is the town centre, particularly around the main street, for convenient access to amenities and tour departures.The town centre of Santa Elena is the main hub, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and tour operators. The area around the main street, which runs through the centre, is where you'll find most of the action. It's relatively compact and walkable, making it easy to get around on foot.For families, staying in the town centre is a practical choice. Many hotels here offer family-friendly amenities, and being close to tour operators means less travel time to meet for excursions to the cloud forest or other attractions. You'll also find a good selection of eateries suitable for all ages.Couples looking for a balance of convenience and a pleasant setting might consider accommodations slightly off the main street but still within walking distance of the centre.
What are the best hotels in Santa Elena that travellers recommend?
For an excellent hotel in Santa Elena that travellers consistently recommend, consider the Santa Elena Lodge.The Santa Elena Lodge, with an outstanding rating of 9.8, is frequently praised for its comfortable and clean rooms, great location, and incredible service. Guests benefit from complimentary breakfast, including local options, and a variety of free parking facilities such as off-street, covered, and accessible parking, along with an electric car charging station. The lodge is conveniently located near Playa Cuajiniquil, just 1.3 km away, and Junquillal Beach, which is 2.0 km away.
What hotels in Santa Elena offer free breakfast?
The Santa Elena Lodge in Santa Elena offers complimentary breakfast.The Santa Elena Lodge, which boasts an outstanding 9.8 rating, provides guests with both free breakfast and free local breakfast daily. This lodge also offers free WiFi and complimentary self-parking, including covered parking, accessible parking, and an electric car charging station. Guests consistently praise the comfortable and clean rooms, the great location, and the incredible service. The lodge is conveniently situated near Playa Cuajiniquil, which is 1.3 km away, and Junquillal Beach, 2.0 km away.
What are the best budget hotels in Santa Elena?
For a top-rated budget hotel in Santa Elena, the Santa Elena Lodge is an excellent option.This hotel, with an outstanding 9.8 rating, is highly praised by guests for its comfortable and clean rooms, great location, and incredible service. It offers a complimentary local breakfast and free WiFi, along with various parking options including free self-parking and accessible parking. The Santa Elena Lodge is conveniently located near Playa Cuajiniquil, just 1.3 km away, and Junquillal Beach, 2.0 km away.
What are the best hotels in Santa Elena near Junquillal Beach?
For a highly-rated hotel near Junquillal Beach in Santa Elena, consider the Santa Elena Lodge.The Santa Elena Lodge, with an exceptional 9.8 rating, is located just 2.0 km from Junquillal Beach, making it a convenient choice for beach-goers. Guests consistently praise the comfortable and clean rooms, the great location, and the incredible service. The lodge offers a variety of complimentary amenities, including free breakfast, free local breakfast, and free WiFi. For those travelling by car, there is ample free parking available, including self-parking, accessible parking, and even an electric car charging station.
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 Santa Elena.
How much is the nightly rate at a Santa Elena hotel?
Prices for hotels in Santa Elena often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $53 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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