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Our top choices for El Castillo hotels

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga
3.0 star property
Peñas Blancas
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (48 reviews)
"Perfect sanctuary! A place to disconnect from the noise and tourism. Morning yoga! Guided evening nature walk! Hot tub! The food is excellent and the staff were super friendly and helpful. A true blessing! 🙏❤️🇨🇷🕉️ Pura Vida!"
United States
James
The price is CA $95
CA $108 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 18 - Feb 19
Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Arenal cautiva

Arenal cautiva
2.0 star property
El Millon
The price is CA $105
CA $119 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 24 - Feb 25
Arenal cautiva

Natural Green Lodge

Natural Green Lodge
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (27 reviews)
"It was an amazing stay in Natural Green Lodge, "
United States
Melinda
The price is CA $242
CA $274 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 3 - Mar 4
Natural Green Lodge

Serene Hills Arenal

Serene Hills Arenal
4.0 star property
Monterrey
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (10 reviews)
"Clean room and view"
United States
Steven
The price is CA $567
CA $640 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 2 - Mar 3
Serene Hills Arenal

Campos Arenal Hotel

Campos Arenal Hotel
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (68 reviews)
"Staff was great. Great location. If you want a very laidback hotel this is a great place. "
United States
Beth
The price is CA $145
CA $164 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 18 - Mar 19
Campos Arenal Hotel

Arenal Montechiari Hotel

Arenal Montechiari Hotel
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (336 reviews)
"Very good location, good breakfast! "
Canada
Olena
Arenal Montechiari Hotel

Hotel Las Colinas

Hotel Las Colinas
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (309 reviews)
"Fantastic hotel and excellent staff! The breakfast was amazing. I really appreciated the laundry services as well. The location and views of the Arenal Volcano from the dining area is amazing!"
United States
Sanjida
The price is CA $104
CA $118 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 19 - Feb 20
Hotel Las Colinas

Le Petit Hotel

Le Petit Hotel
2.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.0 out of 10, Very good, (20 reviews)
"This is a quaint little place which offers the minimum necessary accommodations. The kitchen in back was well set up to cook/make coffee or tea."
United States
Patrick
The price is CA $63
CA $72 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 1 - Mar 2
Le Petit Hotel

Hotel Las Orquideas

Hotel Las Orquideas
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (141 reviews)
"Nice place family friendly "
United States
Randall
The price is CA $122
CA $138 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 18 - Feb 19
Hotel Las Orquideas

Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm
3.0 star property
Santa Rosa
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (212 reviews)
"Great location and food. "
United States
PANKAJ
The price is CA $132
CA $149 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 17 - Feb 18
Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

Yellow Tree Suites

Yellow Tree Suites
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (79 reviews)
"The room was clean. The nicest part of the stay was the beautiful grounds with lots of birds, beautiful plants, etc."
United States
Lenard
The price is CA $155
CA $175 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 17 - Feb 18
Yellow Tree Suites

La Fortuna Lodge by Treebu Hotels

La Fortuna Lodge by Treebu Hotels
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (264 reviews)
"Clean, great breakfast with friendly staff"
United States
Avninder
The price is CA $114
CA $129 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 28 - Mar 1
La Fortuna Lodge by Treebu Hotels

Sangregado Lodge

Sangregado Lodge
4.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (195 reviews)
"it was the best place of our trip, nice, clean, spacious, quiet, the view was super!"
Canada
Martin
The price is CA $295
CA $334 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 18 - Feb 19
Sangregado Lodge

Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio

Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (459 reviews)
"great stay"
Canada
Jung Ho
The price is CA $340
CA $385 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 23 - Feb 24
Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio

Aunty Arenal Lodge

Aunty Arenal Lodge
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (227 reviews)
"Friendly staff and super clean room."
United States
Jody
The price is CA $107
CA $121 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 4 - Mar 5
Aunty Arenal Lodge

Confort Arenal

Confort Arenal
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (131 reviews)
"Nice location and great Host"
Canada
Kartheek
The price is CA $96
CA $109 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 22 - Feb 23
Confort Arenal

Hotel Faro Arenal

Hotel Faro Arenal
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (256 reviews)
"Place was great, staff was very friendly "
Canada
Loet
The price is CA $112
CA $127 total
includes taxes & fees
Feb 17 - Feb 18
Hotel Faro Arenal

Eco Arenal Hotel

Eco Arenal Hotel
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (155 reviews)
"Yes the room was amazing and the staff as well"
United States
Scott
The price is CA $126
CA $143 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 2 - Mar 3
Eco Arenal Hotel

Arenal Country Inn

Arenal Country Inn
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (355 reviews)
"Breakfast was great and location is ideal too for all the activities"
United States
Sanjay
Arenal Country Inn

Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis

Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (560 reviews)
"Clean room and we had a great view "
United Kingdom
Mark
The price is CA $516
CA $583 total
includes taxes & fees
Mar 8 - Mar 9
Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis
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 Castillo attractions

Learn more about El Castillo

Check out the local area in El Castillo—home to attractions like Lake Arenal and Butterfly Conservatory.

Scenic view of colorful houses and fortress of El Castillo village along the San Juan river in Nicaragua

Top El Castillo Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in El Castillo

Find out more about El Castillo

Top reasons to visit El Castillo

  • Outdoor Adventures: El Castillo offers thrilling activities like ziplining and exploring lush nature reserves, perfect for adventure seekers.
  • Hot Springs: Relax in nearby natural hot springs, providing a soothing experience amidst stunning landscapes.
  • Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking ocean views and the picturesque charm of the surrounding Alajuela Province.
  • Luxurious Accommodations: Stay in boutique resorts like Las Cabanitas, which offer spa services and family-friendly amenities.
  • Welcoming Local Culture: Experience the warmth of friendly locals, enhancing your stay and making memorable connections.

Find great hotels near El Castillo

Discover the charm of El Castillo, a picturesque destination in Costa Rica that offers a variety of lodging options, including hotels and lodges tailored for adventurers and families alike. With hot spring-themed amenities and access to stunning natural landscapes, you'll find the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration. Whether you're seeking the best hotels or unique family vacation experiences, El Castillo has something to suit every traveller's needs.

  • Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort: Embrace a family-friendly retreat at Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort, a 3.5-star haven located 11.3km from El Castillo. This property seamlessly blends a hot spring theme with a spa experience, making it ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. Guests can enjoy the natural hot springs on-site, complemented by a full spa service that includes hot stone massages and poolside lounging. Children are well catered for with amenities such as a dedicated children's pool and a first aid kit for peace of mind. The pool area features umbrellas and a bar, creating the perfect atmosphere for a family getaway.
  • Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience: A 4-star gem, Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience is also situated 11.3km from El Castillo, catering to adventurers and business travellers alike. The lodge offers an array of exciting activities, including rafting, cave exploring, and horseback riding, ensuring a thrilling stay. Business facilities are available, making it a suitable choice for those blending work with leisure. Families will appreciate the arcade game room, free cribs, and a shared playground, making it an all-encompassing destination for both fun and productivity.
  • The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only: For those seeking a tranquil escape, The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only stands out with its 4.5-star rating, just 11.3km from El Castillo. This luxurious retreat offers a serene spa experience complete with hot tubs, body scrubs, and relaxing cabanas. Ideal for nature lovers and business travellers, the property features a business centre included in the resort fee. The emphasis on adult relaxation ensures a peaceful atmosphere for unwinding in style, making it a perfect getaway for couples and solo travellers alike.

Where to stay in El Castillo

El Castillo, nestled in the Alajuela Province of Costa Rica, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Experience stunning ocean views and immerse yourself in the charm of this boutique retreat, where friendly locals enhance your stay. With luxurious accommodations and a natural getaway atmosphere, El Castillo promises a family-friendly vibe and unforgettable memories, making it a must-visit destination for your Costa Rican vacation.

  • La Fortuna: Nestled approximately 12.9km from El Castillo, La Fortuna is a vibrant city renowned for its breathtaking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Visitors flock here year-round, with peak travel periods in January and from March to April. The area is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, zip-lining, and relaxing in hot springs. Key attractions include the majestic Arenal Volcano and the stunning Arenal National Park, making it a must-visit for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
  • Monterrey: Located around 22.5km from El Castillo, Monterrey is a charming city that captivates visitors with its lush landscapes and thrilling activities. This city sees a steady flow of travellers, particularly peaking in March and during the holiday season in December and January. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the water parks and adventure resorts that cater to families and thrill-seekers alike. With nearby national parks and the awe-inspiring volcanoes adding to its allure, Monterrey is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in Costa Rica's natural wonders.
  • Peñas Blancas: El Castillo is situated within the scenic confines of Peñas Blancas, a city that attracts outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. The travel experience here is enriched by the surrounding mountains and national parks, with visitor numbers peaking in March and from December to January. Activities such as hiking and wildlife watching are easily accessible, and local resorts and spas provide a perfect retreat after a day of exploration. Peñas Blancas is an excellent base for discovering the natural beauty of Costa Rica.

Things to do near El Castillo

El Castillo in Peñas Blancas offers an exciting blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for adventurous travellers. You can enjoy thrilling activities like zipline courses and explore the natural beauty through alfresco adventures. The Las Cabanitas resort also provides a relaxing retreat with spa services, making it an ideal spot for both adventure and relaxation. Experience the best of Costa Rica's outdoor offerings in this picturesque destination.

Shopping

In El Castillo, you can shop at El Pilon Station, a vibrant shopping area 41.8km away offering a mix of family and city vibes. If you're up for a drive, visit the San Ramon Municipal Market, located 48.3km away, where you'll find a bustling atmosphere perfect for local goods and souvenirs.

Recreation

At Termales Los Laureles, enjoy soothing thermal springs surrounded by nature, perfect for relaxation. Wellness Park Costa Rica offers rejuvenating wellness activities amidst lush landscapes, promoting tranquility and harmony. For sports enthusiasts, Guillermo Vargas Roldan Stadium provides an energetic atmosphere for various sporting events, just a short drive away.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at Costa Rica Sky Adventures, located 3.2km from El Castillo, where you can soar through the treetops. Selvatura Adventure Park, 9.7km away, offers an exhilarating ropes course, while Ecoglide Arenal Park, 11.3km distant, provides more ziplining excitement amidst nature.

Nightlife

In El Castillo, the nightlife is vibrant and inviting, with local bars offering live music and traditional Costa Rican dances. Enjoy the warm atmosphere at nearby venues, where you can savour tropical cocktails and mingle with friendly locals under the starry sky.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Castillo

To save money on your trip to El Castillo, consider visiting during the off-peak months of September to November, when prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturday is the most affordable day to stay, while Thursday tends to be pricier. Use Expedia's search tools to filter by budget and find package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to look for limited-time offers to snag the best prices.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in El Castillo are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in El Castillo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in El Castillo is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in El Castillo is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at El Castillo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near El Castillo

El Castillo, nestled in the scenic Alajuela Province of Costa Rica, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, wellness, and relaxation. Visitors can explore nearby hot springs, volcanoes, and nature reserves that cater to various interests. Whether you're seeking thrilling activities or a tranquil getaway, El Castillo has something for everyone. For a comfortable stay, consider the best hotels in the area to enhance your vacation experience.

  • Arenal Volcano National Park: Experience the thrill of exploring one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes, surrounded by lush rainforests and diverse wildlife. With stunning views and hiking trails, it's perfect for adventure seekers.
  • Tabacon Hot Springs: Indulge in relaxation at the natural hot springs, where mineral-rich waters flow amidst beautiful gardens. This tranquil oasis is ideal for rejuvenation after a day of exploring.
  • La Fortuna Waterfall: Marvel at the breathtaking 70-metre waterfall cascading into a crystal-clear pool. A short hike leads you to this romantic spot, perfect for swimming and enjoying nature's beauty.

Best time to go to El Castillo

The best time to visit El Castillo is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. November is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February80.6°F (27.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
March81.9°F (27.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May81.3°F (27.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June79.9°F (26.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
September79.3°F (26.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October78.6°F (25.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November78.3°F (25.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to El Castillo

To visit El Castillo, you can fly into several major airports in Costa Rica. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is situated 77.2km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, both offering convenient airport shuttles. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is 86.9km away, featuring excellent accommodations such as the 5-star Four Seasons Resort and 4.5-star Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, both providing accessible shuttle services. For the closest airport, La Fortuna (FON-Arenal) is only 14.5km away, with top options like The Springs Resort and Nayara Springs, which also offer reliable transportation services to the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in El Castillo?
The best area to stay in El Castillo is within the main village itself, or just a short distance along the road towards La Fortuna.

Staying in the main village of El Castillo puts you right at the heart of this small community. You'll find a few local shops, restaurants, and the main bus stop here. The layout is quite simple, with the main road, Route 702, running through it. This area offers convenient access to local activities and a genuine feel for village life.

For couples and solo travellers looking for a tranquil escape with stunning views, properties located slightly outside the main village, but still within easy reach, are ideal. Many of these offer elevated positions with direct views of Lake Arenal and the Arenal Volcano. They often boast private balconies, infinity pools, and high-end fitness equipment, making them great for a relaxing and comfortable stay.
When is the best time to go to El Castillo?
The best time to visit El Castillo is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April.

During these months, you'll experience more sunshine and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the area. The trails around Arenal Volcano and the Hanging Bridges are much more enjoyable when dry.

For those who prefer a slightly quieter experience with occasional showers, the shoulder months of May, June, and November can also be a good option. You might find fewer crowds and some excellent value on accommodation during these times, though you should be prepared for some rain.
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 Castillo.
How can I save on a El Castillo hotel booking with Expedia?
Members always get our best prices. Find our best El Castillo hotel deals by joining Expedia's free travel rewards program today. As a member, you can unlock instant savings and member perks when you're logged in to your account. Another tip is to book your hotel and flights together on Expedia, where bundling can result in significant savings.
How much is the nightly rate at a El Castillo hotel?
Prices for hotels in El Castillo often vary, but you can find a great deal from CA $71 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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