Santa Elena Hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Santa Elena boasts breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
• Santa Elena Reserve: Explore this rich biodiversity hotspot with numerous trails and viewpoints, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• Charming Downtown: Enjoy vibrant shops and delightful eateries, offering a taste of local life and culture.
• Relaxation and Wellness: Indulge in luxurious resorts and spas, ensuring a rejuvenating experience after your adventures.
• Diverse Activities: From lively nightlife to family-friendly options, Santa Elena caters to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover the charm of Santa Elena, Guanacaste, where a variety of hotels and resorts await your arrival. Whether you seek family-friendly accommodations or thrilling adventure experiences, this vibrant destination offers options to suit every traveler's needs. Enjoy the beauty of beach vacations while indulging in exceptional services and facilities. Explore the diverse range of Santa Elena hotels, complete with reviews to guide your selection for an unforgettable stay.

• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive: Located 34km from Santa Elena, the Occidental Papagayo is a sophisticated 4-star adults-only resort that offers a tranquil beachside retreat. This all-inclusive accommodation features a plethora of amenities designed for relaxation and leisure, including unlimited food and drinks, fitness facilities, and entertainment options. With direct access to the beach, guests can unwind by the ocean or engage in various activities. Ideal for business and leisure travellers alike, this resort encapsulates a laid-back yet luxurious atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for those looking to recharge.
• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: Just 29km from Santa Elena, this 4.5-star resort promises a unique cinematic experience. The property features direct beach access and is renowned for its romantic packages, perfect for couples seeking a dreamy getaway. Guests can indulge in 24-hour room service, relax by the outdoor pool, or enjoy rejuvenating treatments at the full-service spa. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, the resort seamlessly combines entertainment and luxury, creating an inviting atmosphere for those in search of romance and relaxation.
• JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, All-Inclusive: Situated 18km from Santa Elena, the 4.5-star JW Marriott Costa Elena offers an exciting blend of adventure and comfort. This all-inclusive resort is pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their furry companions along on their travels. With a focus on adventure sports, visitors can partake in activities like fishing, hiking, and snorkelling nearby. The resort's elegant accommodations and extensive amenities, including superb dining options, ensure a delightful experience for those looking to explore Costa Rica's natural beauty while enjoying top-notch facilities.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, nestled in the stunning Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, offers an enchanting blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the vibrant downtown, where charming shops and delightful eateries await. Experience the lively nightlife, bask in breathtaking sunset views, and venture to nearby attractions that promise unforgettable memories. Whether you seek romance, family-friendly activities, or serene seclusion, Santa Elena is the perfect base for your Costa Rican adventure.

• El Jobo: Nestled approximately 16km from Santa Elena, El Jobo is a charming village that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and beach experiences. While visitor numbers remain relatively steady year-round, the peak seasons are January and March to April, making it an ideal time for travellers seeking vibrant activity. El Jobo is renowned for its stunning beaches and the nearby national parks, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. Popular activities here include lounging at luxurious resorts and enjoying a round of golf, catering to both relaxation and adventure enthusiasts alike.
• Cuajiniquil: Located within the Santa Elena area, Cuajiniquil is a quaint village that invites visitors to explore its outdoor and scenic offerings. Similar to El Jobo, traveller arrivals are consistent throughout the year, with peaks in March to April and July. This village is an ideal spot for those yearning for adventure and picturesque vistas. With easy access to resorts and proximity to beautiful beaches and national parks, Cuajiniquil provides a perfect backdrop for both relaxation and exhilarating outdoor activities, ensuring a memorable experience amid Costa Rica's natural beauty.
• Puerto Soley: Situated 16km away from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley stands out with its seasonal visitor trends, attracting the most tourists from December to February. Known for its stunning beach landscapes and adventurous outdoor activities, this village offers a vibrant atmosphere for exploration. The nearby national parks and breathtaking beaches serve as key attractions, making Puerto Soley an excellent destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're lounging on the beach or exploring the natural wonders, Puerto Soley is sure to enhance your Costa Rican vacation.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Shopping

In Santa Elena, you can explore local shops and artisan markets for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the Monteverde Artisan Market for handcrafted goods or visit the Plaza Monteverde for a variety of shops and eateries that showcase the local culture.

Recreation

The Wellness Resort Santa Elena offers tranquil yoga sessions amidst lush gardens, allowing guests to rejuvenate their minds and bodies. Nearby, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve invites you to explore scenic hiking trails, vibrant wildlife, and breathtaking views, providing a refreshing escape into nature's embrace.

Adventure

In Santa Elena, explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can hike through lush trails and spot unique wildlife. Experience thrilling zip-lining at Selvatura Park, soaring above the canopy with breathtaking views, or take a canopy tour for an exhilarating perspective of the forest.

Nightlife

In Santa Elena, the nightlife is vibrant and inviting, with venues like Café Monteverde offering live music and a laid-back atmosphere. Nearby, the Tree House Restaurant is known for its unique setting and lively bar scene, perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travellers.

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 Santa Elena

Santa Elena in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a perfect destination for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore the Santa Elena Reserve and nearby national parks, making it ideal for those seeking beach and nature experiences. With many points of interest, such as Santa Elena Medellín, travellers can enjoy diverse activities to make the most of their visit.

• Maritza Biological Station: Nestled within Santa Elena, this reserve offers a tranquil escape into nature, where you can immerse yourself in the region's rich biodiversity. With opportunities for guided tours, you can explore various ecosystems and observe unique wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Junquillal Beach: A picturesque stretch of coastline, Junquillal Beach is ideal for soaking up the sun and enjoying the soothing sounds of the waves. The beach offers a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for relaxation or a leisurely stroll along the shore.
• La Casona: This cultural monument reflects the rich history of the area and offers insights into local traditions. A visit here provides an opportunity to appreciate the architectural heritage and the stories that shape Santa Elena's identity.

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

Flying into Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is convenient via major airports such as Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.), located 35km away. Nearby hotel options include the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 16km from the airport, and the all-inclusive Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, situated 14km away. Both offer various transportation services, including 24-hour airport shuttles. For those considering Cóbano Airport (ACO), 146km away, options like LALOON Luxury Suites and Hotel Nantipa are available within 10km. Nosara Airport (NOB), located 101km from Santa Elena, is also accessible, with nearby hotels such as Azura Beach Resort and Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge, both offering shuttle services.