Find hotels in Santa Elena from SAR 166

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Adventure Activities: Santa Elena offers thrilling experiences like ziplining and ropes courses for adrenaline seekers.
• Stunning Nature Trails: Explore lush trails and picturesque scenery, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
• Charming Accommodations: Enjoy a range of hotels, from cozy lodgings to luxurious resorts tailored for all types of travelers.
• Rich Biodiversity: Discover local wildlife in nearby nature reserves and national parks, ideal for nature lovers.
• Beautiful Terraces: Relax in scenic terraces that provide breathtaking views and serene spots for unwinding.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover the charm of Santa Elena, Guanacaste, where a variety of hotel accommodations await to enhance your vacation experience. Whether you're seeking family-friendly resorts or adventurous getaways, the area's hotels cater to all travelers. From cozy lodgings to luxurious star-rated options, Santa Elena offers a perfect blend of comfort and accessibility, making it an ideal destination for your beach vacation. Explore the best hotels tailored to your needs and immerse yourself in this stunning locale.

• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive: This 4-star adults-only resort is perfect for travelers seeking a vibrant beach vacation experience. Located 33.8km from Santa Elena, it offers a comprehensive all-inclusive package that includes unlimited food and drinks, fitness facilities, and entertainment options. Guests can enjoy direct beach access, making it an ideal choice for those looking to unwind in a serene environment. The property is LGBTQIA welcoming, providing a thoughtful travel experience for all guests, with a commitment to inclusivity and comfort.
• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: This 4.5-star resort, situated 29.0km from Santa Elena, combines luxury with a fun, Hollywood-themed atmosphere. Ideal for beach lovers and shoppers, the resort includes a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and diverse dining options. Guests appreciate the all-inclusive offerings, which extend to spa services and poolside relaxation. With its prime location in a shopping district and a vibrant ambiance, this resort is perfect for those looking to blend relaxation with entertainment.
• CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive: A charming 4-star hotel located 33.8km from Santa Elena, CC Beach Front Papagayo is an excellent choice for families, couples, and pet owners. The resort features family-friendly amenities, including a children’s pool, playground, and engaging games. Romantic packages are available for couples seeking a special getaway. Guests can enjoy stunning views from the restaurant and partake in spa services for a relaxing experience. With a welcoming policy for pets, it ensures everyone in the family has a delightful stay.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, beckons adventure seekers and nature lovers with its stunning landscapes and serene parks. Explore the charming terraces that offer breathtaking views, perfect for a refreshing escape. Experience the rustic elegance of the region while enjoying family-friendly activities and romantic spots. Whether you're hiking through lush trails or relaxing in secluded areas, Santa Elena promises an unforgettable vacation filled with excitement and tranquility.

• El Jobo: Nestled approximately 16.1km from Santa Elena, El Jobo is a charming village that offers a delightful beach experience year-round. Although traveler arrivals are not highly seasonal, peak visits occur from January to April, making it an ideal time to enjoy its stunning scenery. Visitors flock to El Jobo for its outdoor activities, featuring beautiful beaches and nearby national parks. Popular attractions include resorts, a water park, and a spa, ensuring a well-rounded vacation filled with relaxation and adventure.
• Cuajiniquil: Located conveniently within the Santa Elena area, Cuajiniquil is a quaint village that attracts visitors year-round, peaking in March to April and during the summer months. Known for its adventurous spirit, this destination is perfect for those seeking outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes. With nearby resorts and spas, travelers can indulge in relaxation after a day of exploration. Cuajiniquil's proximity to stunning beaches and national parks makes it an excellent base for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
• Puerto Soley: Situated about 16.1km from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a vibrant village that experiences seasonal visitor peaks from December to February. Travelers are drawn to its beautiful beaches and outdoor scenery, making it a perfect spot for sun-seekers and nature lovers. The area boasts easy access to national parks and state parks, ideal for hiking and wildlife watching. With a range of local attractions nearby, Puerto Soley is a fantastic choice for those looking to immerse themselves in Costa Rica's natural beauty.

Things to do near Santa Elena

Santa Elena is perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering exciting activities like zipline ropes courses and various excursions. Visitors can enjoy memorable stays at local resorts, explore the best campsites, and take in the stunning scenery through nature walks. With plenty of outdoor seating options, Santa Elena invites you to embrace its beautiful landscapes and thrilling adventures while creating lasting memories.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, you can explore local markets like the Santa Elena Artisan Market for unique souvenirs and gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Monteverde Shopping Center, about 16.1km away, which offers a variety of shops and dining options for a more extensive shopping experience.

Recreation

At Papagayo Golf and Country Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by stunning landscapes and vibrant outdoor vibes. This 45.1km escape from Santa Elena offers not only a challenging course but also a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Experience exhilarating zip-lining through the lush canopy of Monteverde Cloud Forest, where breathtaking views and wildlife await. Explore the enchanting trails of Arenal Volcano National Park, offering stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems for hiking enthusiasts.

Nightlife

In Santa Elena, the nightlife is vibrant with options like the Tree House Restaurant and Bar, where you can enjoy live music and a lively atmosphere. Nearby, the Monteverde Beer House offers craft brews in a cozy setting, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventures.

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 the cheaper months of May or September to October, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Utilize last-minute deals on Expedia and combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings. For transport, consider bicycles or shuttles to save money. Check for special offers, and remember that Saturday is typically the least expensive day to stay, while Monday is the priciest.

• 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 customize your travel options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can 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 perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and a rich cultural experience. Popular attractions include beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and national parks, catering to travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun or explore the local wildlife, Santa Elena has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable vacation.

• Santa Rosa National Park: Located 4.8km from Santa Elena, this stunning national park offers outdoor adventures amidst lush scenery. Explore hiking trails, spot diverse wildlife, and enjoy the park's rich history, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers.
• Maritza Biological Station: Situated within Santa Elena, this secluded biological reserve is a haven for relaxation and recreation. Discover its unique ecosystems, engage in guided tours, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature.
• La Casona: This cultural monument in Santa Elena reflects the region's heritage. Visit to appreciate its historical significance and learn about Costa Rica’s past, enhancing your understanding of the local culture.

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 via two major airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is 35.4km away, with excellent nearby hotels like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, located 16.1km from the airport, and the 4.5-star Secrets Papagayo, just 11.3km away. Both offer various transportation services, including scheduled airport shuttles. Alternatively, Tamarindo (TNO) is 67.6km from Santa Elena, featuring luxury accommodations such as the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, 8.0km from the airport. Hotels near Tamarindo also provide transportation options, making access to both airports seamless for travelers.