Find hotels in Santa Elena from NT$1,271

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Outdoor Adventures: Santa Elena is perfect for thrill-seekers with its scenic trails and adventure activities.
• Beautiful Reserves: Visit the Santa Elena Reserve to experience stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife.
• Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant downtown, featuring art galleries, local cuisine, and nightlife.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Enjoy a welcoming environment ideal for family recreation, romance, and relaxation.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy hotels to luxurious resorts that cater to all types of travelers.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, offers a variety of hotel accommodations perfect for family adventures and beach vacations. Whether you’re seeking a cozy hotel or a luxurious resort, you'll find numerous options to enhance your stay. With a focus on family-friendly services and thrilling activities, Santa Elena's hotels cater to all types of travelers. Explore hotel reviews and discover the ideal lodging choice for your unforgettable Costa Rican getaway.

• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive: Nestled along the stunning coastline, Occidental Papagayo is a 4-star adults-only resort that emphasizes relaxation and luxury. The all-inclusive experience allows guests to indulge in unlimited food and drinks, with a variety of dining options available. With direct beach access, this accommodation is ideal for travelers seeking a beach getaway or a business trip with a touch of leisure. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including fitness facilities, aerobics classes, and engaging entertainment activities, making it a well-rounded choice for a rejuvenating vacation.
• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: This 4.5-star resort captures the spirit of Hollywood glamour while providing family-friendly amenities. Located 29km from Santa Elena, the resort features direct beach access and a range of activities designed for all ages. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere complemented by unlimited food and drinks as part of the all-inclusive package. The property includes a children’s club, playground, and pool for kids, ensuring that families can enjoy a fun-filled and memorable stay.
• JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, All-Inclusive: Situated 18km from Santa Elena, this 4.5-star resort offers a perfect blend of luxury and adventure. The JW Marriott boasts an all-inclusive experience that includes exquisite dining options and a full-service spa. Guests can unwind at the outdoor pool or indulge in various adventure sports such as snorkeling and hiking nearby. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, the resort provides a tranquil escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure in a stunning coastal setting.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the vibrant downtown, where you can enjoy local cuisine and nightlife. Just a stone's throw away, stunning sunset views and captivating attractions await. Embrace the family-friendly atmosphere in nearby neighborhoods, perfect for recreation and romance. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor activities or scenic landscapes, Santa Elena is an ideal base for an unforgettable vacation experience.

• El Jobo: Located approximately 16km from Santa Elena, El Jobo is a charming village that offers travelers a blend of outdoor adventure and beach relaxation. This destination sees a steady flow of visitors year-round, with peaks during January and March to April. Here, you can indulge in activities like golfing at local courses or unwind at nearby resorts. The stunning beaches and the lush landscapes of national parks and state parks make it a perfect spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
• Cuajiniquil: Nestled in the vicinity of Santa Elena, Cuajiniquil is a quaint village that attracts visitors year-round, especially during March to April and July. Known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities, this area provides a perfect backdrop for adventure enthusiasts. You can find resorts that cater to your comfort while being close to beautiful beaches and national parks. Cuajiniquil is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the breathtaking views that Costa Rica is famous for.
• Puerto Soley: Just 16km from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a vibrant village that experiences seasonal tourist influx, particularly from December to February. This area is renowned for its picturesque beaches and outdoor adventure opportunities. Visitors can explore the nearby national state parks and national parks, perfect for hiking and wildlife observation. Puerto Soley is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a thrilling beach getaway combined with the beauty of Costa Rica's natural landscapes.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Shopping

In Santa Elena, explore local artisan shops for unique souvenirs and gifts. If you're up for a drive, consider visiting the larger shopping malls in nearby towns for a wider variety of options, including clothing and local crafts that reflect Costa Rican culture.

Recreation

At the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, immerse yourself in lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Enjoy guided hikes and meditation sessions surrounded by nature. For relaxation, visit local wellness centers offering yoga classes and holistic treatments that promote rejuvenation and balance amidst tranquil settings.

Adventure

In Santa Elena, explore the breathtaking Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can hike through lush trails and spot diverse wildlife. Experience thrilling zip-lining at Selvatura Park, soaring above the canopy for stunning views of the forest. Don't miss the chance to visit local coffee plantations for an immersive tour.

Nightlife

Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere at the Tree House Restaurant and Café, known for its lively music and delicious cocktails. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the Monteverde Beer House, where you can sample local brews while relaxing with friends in a cozy setting.

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 Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is an ideal destination for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and various activities. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, reserves, and state parks nearby. Key points of interest include the Santa Elena Reserve and its proximity to Medellín. Whether you're seeking a beach getaway or an outdoor experience, Santa Elena has something to offer every traveler.

• Maritza Biological Station: Explore the serene beauty of Maritza Biological Station, a vibrant nature reserve nestled in Santa Elena. This secluded spot offers a tranquil environment where you can connect with Costa Rica’s diverse flora and fauna. It’s an ideal location for nature enthusiasts, providing opportunities for recreation, hiking, and birdwatching.
• Junquillal Beach: Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Junquillal Beach, a stunning stretch of coastline near Santa Elena. With its soft sands and gentle waves, this beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply relaxing while soaking in the picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean.
• La Casona: Immerse yourself in Costa Rican culture at La Casona, a historical monument that reflects the region's rich heritage. This site offers a glimpse into local traditions and architectural styles, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs and cultural explorers.

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	Slightly High	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	Average
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	Slightly Low
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 is convenient with access to several airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber International) is 35km away, with great hotel options including the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 16km from the airport, and the 4.5-star Secrets Papagayo, 11km away, both offering various airport transportation services. Cóbano Airport (ACO) is located 146km from Santa Elena, with nearby hotels like the 5-star LALOON Luxury Suites, 8km away, and Barceló Tambor, 10km away. Nosara (NOB), about 101km from Santa Elena, features hotels such as the 4-star Azura Beach Resort, 19km from the airport, providing shuttle services for guests.