Find hotels in Santa Elena from NT$1,351

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Adventure Activities: Santa Elena is perfect for thrill-seekers, offering ziplining, nature walks, and exhilarating outdoor experiences.
• Stunning Natural Scenery: Explore beautiful beaches, lush reserves, and captivating national parks that showcase Costa Rica's diverse landscapes.
• Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a range of hotels and resorts, from cozy stays to upscale options, enhancing your vacation experience.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Santa Elena caters to all ages, making it an ideal destination for family trips and romantic getaways.
• Memorable Excursions: Discover exceptional campsites and picturesque terraces, perfect for creating unforgettable memories in a tranquil setting.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover a range of exceptional hotel accommodations in Santa Elena, Guanacaste, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re looking for a cozy hotel or an upscale resort, you’ll find the ideal lodging to enhance your beach vacation experience. Explore the best hotels in the area, offering top-notch services and facilities to ensure a memorable stay in this beautiful Costa Rican destination.

• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: Experience a luxurious family getaway at Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, where fun meets relaxation. This 4.5-star all-inclusive resort, located 29.0km from Santa Elena, offers an array of amenities for guests of all ages. Indulge in unlimited food and drinks, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, and take advantage of the children’s club and playground. The resort features a full-service spa, poolside bar, and sauna, ensuring relaxation at every turn. Perfect for families looking for a memorable vacation experience, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
• Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All Inclusive: Escape to a serene adults-only oasis at Secrets Papagayo, situated 32.2km from Santa Elena. This 4.5-star all-inclusive resort offers a luxurious beachside experience, complete with direct access to the ocean. Guests can enjoy unlimited food, drinks, and a variety of activities, from yoga classes to snorkeling. With its elegant ambiance and top-notch service, it's ideal for couples and travelers seeking a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat. Dance the night away with entertainment options that ensure a vibrant yet relaxing stay.
• Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt: Nestled in a stunning location just 27.4km from Santa Elena, Andaz Peninsula Papagayo offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. This 4.5-star resort is perfect for those seeking a spa-themed vacation with direct beach access. Engage in thrilling activities like surfing, hiking, and sailing or unwind at the full-service spa. With its focus on wellness and adventure, this resort is ideal for thrill-seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike, ensuring a well-rounded getaway amidst Costa Rica's natural beauty.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Explore nearby serene parks and picturesque terraces offering breathtaking views that embody rustic elegance. Enjoy a refreshing experience in this family-friendly destination, where you can relax and indulge in romantic getaways. Discover the charm of Santa Elena and its surrounding areas, perfect for creating unforgettable memories in a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere.

• El Jobo: Nestled approximately 16.1km from Santa Elena, El Jobo is a charming village that attracts travelers year-round, with peak visits occurring between January and April. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, romantic getaways, and city-themed experiences, El Jobo offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure. Visitors can indulge in luxurious resorts, splash around at water parks, or unwind at soothing spas. The nearby attractions, including beautiful beaches and national parks, provide ample opportunities for exploration and outdoor activities, making El Jobo a perfect getaway for those seeking a mix of leisure and excitement.
• Cuajiniquil: Located within the vicinity of Santa Elena, Cuajiniquil is a picturesque village popular among adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. While visitor numbers peak from March to April and July, this hidden gem remains inviting throughout the year. Travelers flock here for its stunning scenery and thrilling experiences. With access to resorts and rejuvenating spas, Cuajiniquil serves as an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty, including pristine beaches and breathtaking national parks. Whether you're hiking, swimming, or simply soaking in the views, Cuajiniquil promises a memorable escape into nature.
• Puerto Soley: Situated about 16.1km from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a vibrant village renowned for its beach-centric charm. Its travel seasons peak from December to February, attracting families and those looking for a city-themed experience. Visitors can enjoy the sun-soaked beaches and the nearby national parks, which offer fantastic opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures. With a selection of local eateries and family-friendly activities, Puerto Soley is perfect for travelers seeking a fun and relaxing beach vacation.

Things to do near Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers a fantastic getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. You can enjoy thrilling activities like ziplining, explore beautiful nature walks, and stay at charming resorts with outdoor seating. For those looking for memorable excursions, the area features some of the best campsites, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of Guanacaste. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, Santa Elena has something for everyone.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, you can explore local markets like the Santa Elena Artisan Market for unique souvenirs and crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Liberia Mall, located about 30 minutes away, where you’ll find a variety of shops and dining options.

Recreation

Experience the Papagayo Golf and Country Club, where you can enjoy a challenging round of golf amid lush landscapes. Embrace the outdoor vibes while participating in various sports activities, ensuring a rejuvenating day filled with fresh air and relaxation.

Adventure

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve offers breathtaking hikes through misty trails, showcasing diverse wildlife and stunning plant life. Experience thrilling zip-lining at Sky Adventures, gliding above the canopy, or embark on a horseback riding tour to explore hidden waterfalls and scenic vistas.

Nightlife

In Santa Elena, the nightlife is vibrant, with venues like The Tree House offering a relaxed atmosphere and live music. For a lively experience, check out Bar El Jardin, where you can enjoy cocktails and dance the night away under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

To save money during your visit to Santa Elena, travel during the off-peak months of May and September to October when prices are lower. Enjoy free activities like Playa Copal and Playa Puerto Soley. Opt for economical transport options like biking or shuttles. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Saturday is the cheapest day to stay, while Monday tends to be the most expensive. Consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings.

• 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: Book your hotel in Santa Elena about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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 Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel style. To find the most affordable prices and best deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Santa Elena with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, lush reserves, and captivating national parks, catering to travelers looking for a blend of relaxation and excitement. Whether you're drawn to the coastline or the rich natural landscapes, Santa Elena offers a variety of attractions that promise an unforgettable vacation experience.

• Santa Rosa National Park: Located only 4.8km from Santa Elena, this national park offers stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Explore diverse ecosystems, hike scenic trails, and spot wildlife, all while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Costa Rica.
• Maritza Biological Station: Nestled within Santa Elena, this biological reserve provides a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Enjoy recreational activities like birdwatching and hiking in a secluded environment, where you can connect with the rich biodiversity that Costa Rica has to offer.
• Junquillal Beach: This beautiful beach, located in Santa Elena, is perfect for unwinding and soaking up the sun. Experience the laid-back beach vibes, swim in clear waters, and enjoy stunning sunsets along the picturesque coastline.

Best time to go to Santa Elena

The best time to visit Santa Elena is dependent 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 sunny with no rain. October and November are its coolest month on average. At the time of November, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	78.6°F (25.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	80.1°F (26.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.7°F (27.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	83.3°F (28.5°C)	No Rain	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	Slightly High	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	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

Traveling to Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica is convenient with two major airports nearby. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is located 35.4km from Santa Elena, with excellent hotels such as the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo and the 4.5-star Secrets Papagayo, both offering various transportation services, including 24-hour airport shuttles. Alternatively, Tamarindo (TNO) is 67.6km away, with luxury options like the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa and the Westin Reserva Conchal, both providing shuttle services to the airport for a seamless travel experience. Whether you choose Liberia or Tamarindo, accessing Santa Elena is straightforward and comfortable.