Santa Elena Hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Outdoor Adventures: Santa Elena is a haven for thrill-seekers, offering ziplining and nature walks amidst breathtaking scenery.
• Stunning Landscapes: The region boasts picturesque views, perfect for exploration and relaxation.
• Charming Nearby Towns: Discover rustic elegance and serene parks in the quaint towns surrounding Santa Elena.
• Diverse Accommodation: Enjoy a variety of lodging options, from luxurious resorts to cosy retreats, catering to all travellers.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The refreshing environment is ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover an array of delightful hotel accommodation options in Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Whether you're seeking family-friendly resorts or adventure-filled retreats, this charming destination offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. From luxurious star hotels to cosy lodgings, you'll find the ideal base for your beach vacation experience amidst the stunning natural beauty of the area.

• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All Inclusive: Nestled amidst the stunning scenery of Guanacaste, Occidental Papagayo offers a serene retreat exclusively for adults. This 4-star all-inclusive resort is perfect for those seeking a beach vacation while enjoying unlimited food and drinks. With amenities such as a fully stocked minibar, fitness facilities, and a variety of entertainment options, guests can indulge in a truly relaxing experience. The property is LGBTQIA welcoming and provides direct access to the beach, catering to both business travellers and leisure seekers alike, just 33.8km from Santa Elena.
• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: A luxurious 4.5-star resort, Planet Hollywood Costa Rica is designed for those dreaming of a romantic getaway. Located 29.0km from Santa Elena, this all-inclusive haven offers unique romance packages, ensuring an unforgettable experience. Guests can savour 24-hour room service and unwind at the full-service spa, which boasts outdoor pools, hydrotherapy treatments, and massage services. This resort seamlessly combines relaxation and excitement, making it an ideal choice for couples looking to escape and reconnect.
• CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive: For adventure enthusiasts and pet lovers, CC Beach Front Papagayo is a delightful 4-star accommodation option. Situated 33.8km from Santa Elena, this LGBTQIA-friendly hotel offers a range of exciting activities such as horse riding, snorkeling, and fishing. With pet-friendly policies, guests can bring their furry companions along for the adventure. The hotel provides a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement, making it a great choice for those seeking a memorable and dynamic vacation experience.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Your holiday in Santa Elena, Guanacaste, promises an unforgettable adventure amidst stunning landscapes. Explore the charming towns nearby, where rustic elegance meets serene parks and terraces with breathtaking views. Delight in the refreshing atmosphere perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. Whether you're seeking thrilling outdoor activities or simply wish to unwind in nature, Santa Elena offers a delightful blend of recreation and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for your Costa Rican escape.

• El Jobo: Nestled approximately 16.1km from Santa Elena, El Jobo is a charming village that offers a delightful blend of family-friendly, romantic, and city-themed experiences. The village sees a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peaks in January and from March to April. El Jobo is renowned for its stunning beaches, national state parks, and a variety of activities, including access to resorts, a water park, and relaxing spas. This destination is perfect for those seeking both leisure and adventure amidst natural beauty.
• Cuajiniquil: Located in the vicinity of Santa Elena, Cuajiniquil is a quaint village that invites outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers. Visitor numbers peak during March to April and July, with quieter months in May and from October to November. The village offers a scenic backdrop with easy access to beautiful beaches and national parks. Popular activities include visiting resorts and indulging in spa treatments. Cuajiniquil is ideal for travellers looking to immerse themselves in Costa Rica’s lush landscapes while enjoying thrilling outdoor activities.
• Puerto Soley: Situated around 16.1km from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a vibrant village that offers a seasonal influx of visitors, especially from December to February. This destination is perfect for families and beach lovers, providing a city-themed experience with close proximity to stunning beaches and national parks. The area is known for its inviting atmosphere and diverse attractions, making it a wonderful spot for relaxation and exploration. Puerto Soley promises memorable moments by the coast while embracing the rich biodiversity of Costa Rica.

Things to do near Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy exhilarating activities such as ziplining and exploring scenic nature walks. The area offers memorable stays with excellent excursion options, outdoor seating, and the best campsites, ensuring a delightful experience for all who venture into this beautiful region of Costa Rica.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, explore local markets for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Plaza Centro Comercial, a shopping mall offering a variety of shops and dining options, or the nearby Monteverde Shopping Centre for more eclectic finds.

Recreation

Enjoy a round of golf at Papagayo Golf and Country Club, located 45.1km from Santa Elena. Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes and outdoor vibes while perfecting your swing. The club offers a relaxing atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after a day of recreational activities.

Adventure

In Santa Elena, explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can hike through lush greenery and spot diverse wildlife. Experience the thrill of zip-lining above the treetops, or embark on a night walk to discover the forest's nocturnal wonders.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Elena is vibrant and inviting. Start your evening at the lively Tree House Restaurant and Cafe for a drink, then wander over to the local bars where live music fills the air, creating a festive atmosphere perfect for mingling and enjoying the local culture.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Costa Rica, is budget-friendly for travellers, with free activities like Playa Copal and Playa Puerto Soley. To save on accommodation, visit during May or September to October, and book about a month in advance for the best rates. Saturdays are typically cheaper for stays, while Mondays are more expensive. Use Expedia to find last-minute deals and refine searches by budget, preferences, and eco-certified options. Consider package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for additional savings. Always check for special offers and breakfast inclusions to maximise your budget.

• 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: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• 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, Guanacaste, is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. With a wealth of attractions such as beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and national parks, the area offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers. Whether you’re keen on exploring stunning landscapes or enjoying outdoor activities, Santa Elena promises an unforgettable holiday filled with natural beauty and adventure.

• Santa Rosa National Park: Located 4.8km from Santa Elena, this national park offers breathtaking scenery and a wealth of outdoor adventures. Wander through diverse ecosystems, spot unique wildlife, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Costa Rica.
• Maritza Biological Station: Nestled within Santa Elena, this reserve provides a secluded atmosphere perfect for recreation and relaxation. Explore its tranquil surroundings, engage in birdwatching, or take part in guided tours that highlight its rich biodiversity.
• Junquillal Beach: Situated within Santa Elena, this picturesque beach invites you to bask in the sun and enjoy the soothing sound of waves. Ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply unwinding, it embodies the quintessential beach vibes of Costa Rica.

Best time to go to Santa Elena

The best time to visit Santa Elena can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Elena falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Elena falls in October and November. November has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

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

For your visit to Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, the nearest major airport is Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber International), located 35.4km away. Recommended hotels nearby include the 4.5-star Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, 14.5km from Liberia, and the Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, 12.9km away. Both offer airport transportation services for a fee. Alternatively, Tamarindo (TNO) is 67.6km from Santa Elena, with excellent options like the 5-star JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, just 8.0km from Tamarindo, providing transfers and airport shuttles for a fee. Enjoy your stay in this beautiful region.