Find hotels in Santa Elena from Rp1.173.712

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Outdoor Adventures: Santa Elena is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering numerous trails and adventure activities amidst stunning landscapes.
• Beautiful Nature Reserves: Explore the nearby Santa Elena Reserve, showcasing Costa Rica's rich biodiversity and breathtaking scenery.
• Charming Downtown: Stroll through the vibrant downtown, where you can enjoy local shops, art galleries, and lively nightlife.
• Relaxing Accommodations: Choose from a variety of hotels and resorts, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
• Romantic Sunsets: Experience breathtaking sunset views over the lush landscape, perfect for a romantic evening.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover a variety of hotel accommodations in Santa Elena, Guanacaste, perfectly suited for families and adventure seekers alike. Whether you prefer a charming hotel or a luxurious resort, the area offers options to enhance your beach vacation experience. With a wealth of facilities and amenities designed to meet your needs, you’ll find the perfect place to unwind after exploring the stunning natural beauty of Costa Rica.

• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive: Nestled 34km from Santa Elena, Occidental Papagayo is a 4-star adults-only resort that caters to those seeking a tranquil beach getaway. This all-inclusive property provides guests with unlimited food and drinks, including a variety of dining options and 24-hour room service. With direct beach access, it is ideal for both relaxation and business travels. The resort features a range of amenities including fitness facilities, entertainment options, and aerobics classes, ensuring guests have plenty to do during their stay.
• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: Situated 29km from Santa Elena, this 4.5-star resort offers a vibrant atmosphere that combines luxury with entertainment. With a guest rating of 8.4, it provides all-inclusive packages that include gourmet dining and romantic experiences. Couples can indulge in spa treatments or share moments by the pool, while the property features direct access to the beach. Its romantic packages and 24-hour room service ensure an intimate experience, perfect for a getaway with a loved one.
• JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, All-Inclusive: Located 18km from Santa Elena, the JW Marriott Costa Elena is a 4.5-star resort that seamlessly blends adventure and luxury. With a guest rating of 8.4, this all-inclusive resort offers unlimited dining and a host of onsite activities. Guests can partake in adventure sports such as snorkelling and hiking, or unwind with spa services. The resort’s direct beach access provides a beautiful backdrop for both relaxation and exploration, making it a great choice for those looking for a balance of leisure and excitement.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking breathtaking scenery. Stroll through the charming downtown, where vibrant nightlife awaits, or enjoy romantic sunset views over the lush landscape. With its family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to various attractions, Santa Elena offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Explore nearby nature reserves and indulge in memorable experiences that showcase the region's stunning beauty.

• El Jobo: Situated 16km from Santa Elena, El Jobo is a charming village known for its serene ambience and outdoor adventures. Though visitor numbers remain steady year-round, the peak seasons in January and March to April draw those seeking beach and adventure experiences. Guests can indulge in activities at local resorts and golf courses, while the nearby beaches and national parks offer stunning natural beauty and opportunities for exploration. El Jobo promises a relaxing getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
• Cuajiniquil: Nestled within the vicinity of Santa Elena, Cuajiniquil is another delightful village appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and those in search of scenic vistas. With visitor peaks in March to April and July, this area offers a variety of engaging activities, mostly centred around resorts. The proximity to pristine beaches and national parks enhances the allure of Cuajiniquil, making it an excellent choice for travellers eager to immerse themselves in Costa Rica's rich landscapes and biodiversity.
• Puerto Soley: Located 16km from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a vibrant village where seasonal tourism thrives, particularly from December to February. Known for its stunning beaches and adventurous outdoor activities, Puerto Soley draws visitors looking for a lively coastal experience. The nearby national parks and state parks provide ample opportunities for exploration and wildlife observation. Whether lounging on the beach or embarking on a thrilling adventure, Puerto Soley offers an unforgettable escape for holidaymakers.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Shopping

In Santa Elena, you can shop at local artisan markets for unique crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Monteverde Marketplace, which offers a variety of local goods and fresh produce, or head to the nearby town of Tilaran for more extensive shopping options.

Recreation

Experience tranquillity at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, where guided nature walks immerse you in lush biodiversity. Visit a local wellness centre for yoga and meditation sessions, allowing you to rejuvenate while surrounded by serene landscapes. Explore nearby hiking trails for invigorating outdoor adventures in the fresh mountain air.

Adventure

Explore Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can trek through lush trails, spot diverse wildlife, and experience the unique cloud forest ecosystem. For adrenaline, try the Zip Line Tour, soaring above the canopy and enjoying stunning views of the forest below.

Nightlife

In Santa Elena, the lively atmosphere features local bars like The Tree House, where you can enjoy live music and vibrant cocktails. Nearby, the Monteverde Beer House offers a relaxed setting with craft brews, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

For a budget-friendly trip to Santa Elena, consider visiting free attractions like Playa Copal and Playa Puerto Soley. Travel during May or September to October for lower accommodation rates, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals. Saturdays tend to be the least expensive days to stay, while Mondays are the priciest. Use Expedia to filter your preferences and find great package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Don't forget to check for last-minute offers to secure a better price.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Santa Elena 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 Santa Elena is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Elena is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel accommodation in Santa Elena with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is ideal for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and various attractions. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches and nearby nature reserves, such as the Santa Elena Reserve, which is approximately km from the town. For those seeking a unique experience, a trip to Santa Elena Medellín adds to the allure, making it a perfect destination for those who appreciate both relaxation and adventure in a picturesque setting.

• Maritza Biological Station: Nestled within Santa Elena, this reserve offers a tranquil escape into nature, where visitors can enjoy recreational activities amidst lush surroundings. The secluded atmosphere allows for intimate encounters with diverse flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.
• Junquillal Beach: A stunning beach located in Santa Elena, Junquillal Beach is known for its serene vibe. The pristine sands and gentle waves provide a perfect setting for relaxation, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery.
• La Casona: This cultural monument in Santa Elena embodies the rich heritage of the area. A visit to La Casona offers insights into local history and traditions, making it a rewarding experience for those interested in the cultural narrative of Costa Rica.

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

Travelling to Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is convenient via three major airports. Liberia Airport (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is 35km away, with excellent hotels like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo and the 4.5-star Secrets Papagayo, both offering various transportation services. Cóbano Airport (ACO) is located 146km from Santa Elena, with luxury options such as LALOON Luxury Suites and Hotel Nantipa nearby. Nosara Airport (NOB) is 101km away, featuring hotels like the 4-star Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge, which provides shuttle services. Each airport offers a range of accommodations for a comfortable stay.