Find hotels in Santa Elena from Rp363.089

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Thrilling Adventure Activities: Experience exhilarating zipline courses and exciting skywalk tours, perfect for adrenaline seekers.
• Stunning Natural Reserves: Explore the Santa Elena Reserve, offering lush hiking trails and a chance to immerse in diverse wildlife.
• Charming Local Community: Discover the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Santa Elena, filled with friendly locals and unique art galleries.
• Beautiful Flower Gardens: Enjoy eco-friendly experiences amidst exquisite gardens that showcase Costa Rica's rich flora.
• Varied Accommodation Options: Choose from delightful hotels and cosy bed and breakfasts tailored for adventurers and nature lovers.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers a delightful selection of accommodations, from charming hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, catering to adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you prefer the comfort of a family-friendly hotel or the laid-back atmosphere of a hostel like Casa Tranquilo, the area is brimming with options that promise a memorable stay amidst Costa Rica's stunning landscapes. Explore the various choices, including Hotel Claro and other delightful lodgings in this enchanting region.

• Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails: Situated approximately 19km from Santa Elena, the Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails offers a unique experience for those seeking a hot spring-themed retreat. This 3-star lodge, with a commendable guest rating of 9.6, is ideal for families looking to enjoy a vacation filled with natural wonders. The property features a natural hot spring nearby, allowing guests to unwind in a serene environment. Children are well catered for with amenities such as an arcade game room, a playground, and various games, creating an engaging atmosphere for younger guests.
• El Establo Mountain Hotel: Located a mere 966m from Santa Elena, the El Establo Mountain Hotel is a 3.5-star property that boasts a guest rating of 8.2. This family-centric hotel is also suitable for business travellers, providing a blend of comfort and convenience. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, including a dedicated children’s pool and a shared playground. In addition, the hotel offers babysitting services for those wanting a little time alone, ensuring both relaxation and enjoyment are on the cards.
• Hotel Linda Vista: Approximately 14km from Santa Elena, Hotel Linda Vista presents a delightful blend of comfort and scenic beauty with a guest rating of 9.0. This 3-star hotel features a restaurant and bar, where guests can savour local flavours, as well as complimentary breakfast options. Entertainment is plentiful with satellite television in the rooms, allowing for a cosy night in. The stunning rural and mountain views, alongside nearby river activities, make it an inviting choice for nature enthusiasts and those looking to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, a charming village in Monteverde, offers a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibrant local atmosphere, exploring downtown Santa Elena and its friendly community. With opportunities for outdoor recreation, from hiking to wildlife spotting, this tropical haven embodies the pura vida spirit. Nearby attractions also enhance the experience, making Santa Elena an ideal destination for families and adventure seekers alike.

• Monteverde: Nestled in the lush cloud forests of Costa Rica, Monteverde is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. As the main hub for visitors, it offers a range of outdoor adventures, from hiking in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve to zip-lining through the treetops. The area is not overly seasonal, with peaks in visitor numbers from January to March, making it an ideal destination for year-round exploration. Don't miss the local attractions, including the Arenal Volcano and stunning beaches along the Pacific coast, which are easily accessible from Monteverde.
• Valle Bonito: Situated a mere 1km from Santa Elena, Valle Bonito is a charming neighbourhood that offers a serene escape with its picturesque landscapes. Visitors flock here for outdoor activities, including thrilling zipline courses and rejuvenating spa experiences. Like its neighbour Monteverde, Valle Bonito sees a rise in tourist numbers from March and December to January, providing a vibrant atmosphere during these months. The nearby nature reserves and volcanic landmarks promise an unforgettable adventure, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
• San Luis: Located 3km from Santa Elena, San Luis is a quaint village that captivates visitors with its rustic charm and striking natural surroundings. This destination is ideal for those seeking adventure and scenic vistas, with numerous opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation in the nearby national parks. Similar to Monteverde and Valle Bonito, San Luis experiences peak tourist seasons in March and December to January, ensuring a lively atmosphere filled with outdoor pursuits. The village's proximity to volcanic landscapes adds an extra layer of allure for those eager to explore Costa Rica's stunning geography.

Things to do near Santa Elena

Shopping

In Santa Elena, visit the local artisan shops for unique gifts and souvenirs, showcasing Costa Rican crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to the Monteverde Market, about 16km away, where you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere with local produce and handmade items.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Wellness Center in Santa Elena, where you can enjoy yoga classes amidst lush greenery and indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. For nature enthusiasts, nearby hiking trails offer immersive experiences in the biodiverse cloud forest, allowing for both relaxation and exploration.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Selvatura Adventure Park, located 5km from Santa Elena, featuring an exhilarating zipline and ropes course set amidst stunning natural beauty. Alternatively, Costa Rica Sky Adventures, 16km away, offers another exciting zipline experience. Sky Adventures Monteverde Park, just 3km from Santa Elena, also invites adventure seekers with its thrilling zipline course.

Nightlife

Visit the Tree House Restaurant and Café for a unique dining experience within a stunning tree setting, offering live music and vibrant atmosphere. For a lively pub scene, head to the Monteverde Beer House, where you can savour local brews and engage with fellow travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers numerous ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free entry to the Curi-Cancha Reserve and other attractions. For transport, consider walking, cycling, or using taxis sparingly. The best times to visit for lower prices are May and September to October, while Saturday is typically the least expensive night to stay. Book your accommodation a month in advance through platforms like Expedia, utilising filters for eco-friendly options and sorting by price for the best deals. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for greater 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 July, 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 Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, 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.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and adventure activities. Key attractions include the Santa Elena Reserve, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature, and exhilarating zipline courses for thrill-seekers. Additionally, the area is home to beautiful flower gardens, making it perfect for eco-friendly experiences. Whether you're hiking through lush reserves or enjoying the local flora, Santa Elena promises an unforgettable vacation.

• Monteverde Orchid Garden: Nestled within Santa Elena, this enchanting garden showcases a diverse array of orchids, creating a vibrant outdoor setting ideal for families. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while learning about the unique characteristics of these exquisite flowers.
• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: Located 3km from Santa Elena, this stunning reserve offers a remarkable opportunity to explore one of the world's most diverse ecosystems. Visitors may encounter a wealth of flora and fauna, including rare bird species, all set amidst a mystical cloud forest environment.
• Monteverde Butterfly Gardens: Situated 805m away from Santa Elena, this private garden invites guests to wander through a captivating habitat filled with colourful butterflies. It's a delightful experience for nature lovers and those keen to observe these delicate creatures in their natural surroundings.

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 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.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.2°F (26.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	80.6°F (27.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.9°F (27.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
June	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
August	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
September	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

Accessing Santa Elena is straightforward via the major airports in Costa Rica. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría International) is approximately 77km away, with nearby hotel options such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica, located 8km from the airport, and the 4.5-star Hilton San Jose La Sabana, 13km away, both offering airport shuttle services. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber International) is about 84km from Santa Elena, with luxurious accommodations like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort, 16km from the airport, providing accessible shuttle services. Quepos (XQP) is further at 124km, featuring hotels like the 5-star Makanda by the Sea, 5km from Quepos, also offering transport services.