Find hotels in Santa Elena from CA $56

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 Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	78.6°F (25.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	80.1°F (26.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.7°F (27.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	83.3°F (28.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	78.8°F (26.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	78.8°F (26.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	77.2°F (25.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	77.2°F (25.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	77.7°F (25.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly 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.