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Our top choices for El Castillo hotels

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga
3.0 star property
Peñas Blancas
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (46)
"Perfect sanctuary! A place to disconnect from the noise and tourism. Morning yoga! Guided evening nature walk! Hot tub! The food is excellent and the staff were super friendly and helpful. A true blessing! 🙏❤️🇨🇷🕉️ Pura Vida!"
United States
James
$70 nightly
The price is $79
Dec 29 - Dec 30
Total with taxes and fees
Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Chateau Arenal

Chateau Arenal
3.0 star property
Peñas Blancas
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (77)
"Excellent 👍"
United States
nathalie
$175 nightly
The price is $198
Jan 9 - Jan 10, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Chateau Arenal

Ficus Sunset Suites

Ficus Sunset Suites
4.0 star property
Monteverde
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (351)
"Very nice hotel with good views "
United States
Nilanjana
$332 nightly
The price is $375
Jan 8 - Jan 9, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Ficus Sunset Suites

Nayara Springs - Adults only

Nayara Springs - Adults only
5.0 star property
La Fortuna
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (401)
"Staff was great, room was wonderful, property was beautiful!"
United States
mary
$1,257 nightly
The price is $1,420
Jan 6 - Jan 7, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Nayara Springs - Adults only

Monteverde Lodge

Monteverde Lodge
4.0 star property
Monteverde
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (455)
"Everything was wonderful! Staff were super friendly and helpful. Hotel was very clean with beautiful views. "
Canada
Ryan
$459 nightly
The price is $518
Jan 14 - Jan 15, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Monteverde Lodge

The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal

The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal
5.0 star property
Monterrey
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (1001)
"Great clean spacious room, great place for family traveling with kids "
United States
Jannet
$844 nightly
The price is $953
Jan 7 - Jan 8, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal

Los Pinos Cabanas y Jardines

Los Pinos Cabanas y Jardines
3.0 star property
Monteverde
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (404)
"Very nice place and quiet. The cabin was well equipped. The team very friendly and cooperative "
United States
Alberto
$130 nightly
The price is $147
Jan 15 - Jan 16, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Los Pinos Cabanas y Jardines

Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio

Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (425)
"We had a great stay, loved the room and whole resort."
Canada
Kim
$257 nightly
The price is $290
Jan 2 - Jan 3, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio

Rancho de Lelo Ecolodge

Rancho de Lelo Ecolodge
2.5 star property
Monteverde
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (304)
"Everything about this place is superb. The family are so friendly and helpful, the Rancho is relaxing, the food was great and the room perfect. You have to make this part of your stay in Monteverde "
United Kingdom
David
$52 nightly
The price is $59
Dec 25 - Dec 26
Total with taxes and fees
Rancho de Lelo Ecolodge

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (984)
"Great place overall"
United States
JOSE
$492 nightly
The price is $556
Jan 7 - Jan 8, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa

Lost Iguana Resort and Spa

Lost Iguana Resort and Spa
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1000)
"Wonderful place to visit! "
United States
Philip
$253 nightly
The price is $286
Dec 31 - Jan 1, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Lost Iguana Resort and Spa

Serene Hills Arenal

Serene Hills Arenal
4.0 star property
Monterrey
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (6)
"This is a beautiful property outside of the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas. It offers excellent amenities and ample space for multiple people. The only thing I recommend is that, if you plan to cook meals while there, check the kitchen before starting. We had some items we had to improvise for, but the things in place were fantastic. "
Mexico
April
$387 nightly
The price is $437
Jan 24 - Jan 25, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Serene Hills Arenal

Macadamia - Monteverde

Macadamia - Monteverde
3.5 star property
Monteverde
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (62)
"We had to change last minute and the Villas Macadamia had a casita. Turned out to be the best place we have stayed. Plenty of space for the whole family, close to town and quiet. "
United States
Laura
$145 nightly
The price is $164
Dec 31 - Jan 1, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Macadamia - Monteverde

Hotel Lomas del Volcán

Hotel Lomas del Volcán
4.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1000)
"Everything from checkin, to service to breakfast was very good. Loved our stay there. Excellent view of Arenal volcano from the property. "
United States
Vrishali
$279 nightly
The price is $315
Jan 11 - Jan 12, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Lomas del Volcán

Casa Luna Hotel & Spa

Casa Luna Hotel & Spa
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (996)
"Great room and great breakfast. Very clean place "
United States
Trent
$235 nightly
The price is $249
Jan 1 - Jan 2, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa

Sangregado Lodge

Sangregado Lodge
4.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (174)
"Our stay was super nice, clean, and very peaceful! "
United States
Brandon
$200 nightly
The price is $226
Jan 11 - Jan 12, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Sangregado Lodge

Hotel Heliconias Nature Inn & Hot Springs

Hotel Heliconias Nature Inn & Hot Springs
3.0 star property
Peñas Blancas
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (417)
"beautiful property and great restaurant. the server tuesday and wednesday this week was out of this world incredible!!!!"
United States
Maximiliano
$190 nightly
The price is $214
Jan 8 - Jan 9, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Heliconias Nature Inn & Hot Springs

Hotel de Montana Monteverde

Hotel de Montana Monteverde
3.0 star property
Monteverde
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (260)
"This place is so welcoming, comfortable, and accommodating. I had the best vacation I’ve had in a decade. Ulysses was amazing and helping me find things to do and relax with my pet. I will definitely be back. This is my go to place in Monteverde! I live in Costa Rica and highly recommend"
United States
Michelle
$86 nightly
The price is $97
Dec 30 - Dec 31
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel de Montana Monteverde

Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis

Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (553)
"Room was secluded and relaxing. Lots of nature to see and listen to at night. The food and pool area were great."
United States
William
$377 nightly
The price is $426
Jan 8 - Jan 9, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis

Hotel Mountain Paradise

Hotel Mountain Paradise
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (859)
"The staff was friendly, hotel grounds were beautiful and very clean. Our villa was spacious and had a great view of the volcano. "
United States
Maureen
$161 nightly
The price is $182
Jan 9 - Jan 10, 2026
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Mountain Paradise
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Stay near popular El Castillo attractions

Learn more about El Castillo

Check out the local area in El Castillo—home to attractions like Lake Arenal and Arenal Eco Zoo.

Scenic view of colorful houses and fortress of El Castillo village along the San Juan river in Nicaragua

Top El Castillo Hotel Reviews

More cheap stays in El Castillo

Hotels in El Castillo with star-rating

Find out more about El Castillo

Top reasons to visit El Castillo

  • Outdoor Adventures: El Castillo is perfect for thrill-seekers, featuring zipline courses and various outdoor excursions.
  • Stunning Scenery: The area boasts breathtaking landscapes, including majestic volcanoes and beautiful nature reserves.
  • Relaxation Options: Enjoy relaxing spa days or unwind in beach chairs while soaking in the picturesque surroundings.
  • Hot Springs: Visit nearby hot springs for a rejuvenating experience amid nature.
  • Charming Accommodations: Choose from luxurious boutique hotels to cozy lodges, catering to all types of travelers.

Find great hotels near El Castillo

Explore an array of lodging options in El Castillo, Costa Rica, where adventure meets relaxation. From luxurious boutique hotels to charming lodges, you'll find accommodations that cater to families and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you're seeking a hot spring retreat or a star-rated hotel experience, El Castillo offers a variety of choices to ensure a memorable vacation in this picturesque destination.

  • Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort: Nestled 7 miles from El Castillo, Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort is a family-friendly retreat that combines relaxation with adventure. This 3.5-star hotel boasts its own natural hot springs, allowing guests to soak in therapeutic waters right on the premises. The resort features a full-service spa offering treatments like manicures, reflexology, and aromatherapy, alongside an indoor pool for year-round enjoyment. Families will appreciate the dedicated amenities for children, including a children's pool and first aid kits, ensuring a safe and entertaining environment for younger guests.
  • Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience: Also located 7 miles from El Castillo, Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience is a perfect choice for adventure seekers and families alike. This 4-star lodge features onsite natural hot springs and offers a range of exciting activities such as mountain biking, cave exploring, and rafting in the surrounding areas. Children can enjoy a shared playground and an arcade game room, while parents relax in the comfort of the lodge. With a strong focus on creating memorable experiences, this lodge is ideal for families looking to mix relaxation with outdoor fun.
  • The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only: For a luxurious getaway, The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort is a sophisticated choice situated 7 miles from El Castillo. This 4.5-star adults-only resort emphasizes romance and relaxation, featuring stunning views from its poolside and garden-view restaurants. Guests can indulge in exclusive spa services, including thalassotherapy and body treatments, or unwind in the hot tub. The property offers unique romance packages, ensuring a perfect setting for couples looking to reconnect amidst the serene beauty of Costa Rica.

Where to stay in El Castillo

El Castillo, nestled in the heart of Alajuela Province, offers an unforgettable vacation experience filled with natural beauty and adventure. This charming village is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking ultimate relaxation and friendly getaways. Explore the nearby scenic landscapes, enjoy casual elegance in local accommodations, and embrace the welcoming atmosphere. With everything within walking distance, El Castillo promises a memorable escape for families and adventurers alike, making it a must-visit destination in Costa Rica.

  • La Fortuna: Located 8 miles from El Castillo, La Fortuna is a vibrant city known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. The area is particularly popular among travelers looking for thrilling experiences, such as zip-lining and hot springs relaxation. Key attractions include Arenal Volcano, the surrounding national parks, and various resorts and spas that offer a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. Peak visitor times are January and March to April, making it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy nature at its finest.
  • Monterrey: Situated 14 miles from El Castillo, Monterrey offers a captivating blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty. This city attracts visitors year-round, with peak travel seasons occurring in March and December to January. Monterrey is home to delightful resorts and a water park, providing fun for families and adventure seekers alike. The nearby national and state parks, along with the majestic volcanoes, create a stunning backdrop for hiking and exploration, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.
  • Peñas Blancas: As the city where El Castillo is located, Peñas Blancas serves as a gateway to adventure and outdoor experiences. The area witnesses consistent travel throughout the year, with peak seasons in March and December to January. Visitors flock to Peñas Blancas for its beautiful mountains, national parks, and various adventure activities. The local resorts and spas offer relaxation, while the breathtaking landscape invites exploration and discovery, ensuring a memorable vacation experience.

Things to do near El Castillo

El Castillo offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery for vacationers. Enjoy alfresco adventures, zipline courses, and relaxing spa days. For golf enthusiasts, there's a nearby golf course featuring breathtaking ocean views. Don't forget to take advantage of outdoor excursions and unwind in beach chairs while soaking in the beautiful surroundings. Whether you're seeking thrills or relaxation, El Castillo has something for everyone.

Shopping

For some local shopping, visit the San Ramon Municipal Market, located 30 miles away, offering a vibrant atmosphere with family-run businesses. If you're up for a drive, check out El Pilon Station, 26 miles away, where you'll find a mix of shops in a welcoming environment.

Recreation

Termales Los Laureles, located 7 miles from El Castillo, offers soothing thermal springs and relaxation areas in a lush setting. Wellness Park Costa Rica, 5 miles away, provides serene spaces for yoga and meditation. For sports enthusiasts, Guillermo Vargas Roldan Stadium, 30 miles distant, hosts various athletic events.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of ziplining at Costa Rica Sky Adventures, located 2 miles from El Castillo, surrounded by stunning nature. For more excitement, Selvatura Adventure Park offers a zipline course 6 miles away, while Sky Adventures Monteverde Park, 7 miles from El Castillo, promises unforgettable adventure vibes.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Casona in El Castillo, where you can savor local cuisine and enjoy live music. For a laid-back vibe, visit El Castillo Lounge, perfect for cocktails and mingling with locals while soaking in the stunning views of Lake Arenal.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Castillo

To save money during your trip to El Castillo, visit between September and November for lower prices and book your hotel about a month in advance. Look for Saturday stays, as they are typically cheaper than Thursdays. Utilize Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly accommodations, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for extra savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and cashback on future stays. Additionally, take advantage of free activities in the area to further stretch your budget while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in El Castillo are September to November, 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: Booking a hotel in El Castillo about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in El Castillo is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in El Castillo is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to customize your travel experience by choosing your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to narrow down your choices by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter, for instance, will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your El Castillo hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

Find the best attractions near El Castillo

El Castillo, located in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore stunning hot springs, majestic volcanoes, and beautiful nature reserves, making it ideal for those looking to relax or engage in thrilling activities. Whether you're after wellness, adventure, or simply soaking in breathtaking scenery, El Castillo has something to offer every traveler.

  • Arenal Volcano National Park: Explore the majestic Arenal Volcano, a stunning natural wonder located only 4 miles from El Castillo. The park offers breathtaking views and a range of outdoor adventures, including hiking trails that wind through lush rainforests and diverse wildlife.
  • Tabacon Hot Springs: Relax and rejuvenate at Tabacon Hot Springs, situated 5 miles away. These natural hot springs provide a tranquil wellness experience, surrounded by beautiful gardens and tropical scenery, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
  • La Fortuna Waterfall: Experience the romantic and adventurous vibe of La Fortuna Waterfall, located 6 miles from El Castillo. A short hike leads you to this spectacular 70-meter waterfall, where you can swim in its refreshing waters or simply enjoy the stunning natural beauty.

Best time to go to El Castillo

The best time to visit El Castillo 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.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February80.6°F (27.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
March81.9°F (27.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May81.3°F (27.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June79.9°F (26.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
September79.3°F (26.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October78.6°F (25.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November78.3°F (25.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to El Castillo

To visit El Castillo in Costa Rica, you can fly into two major airports: San José International Airport (SJO) and Liberia International Airport (LIR). San José (SJO) is located 48 miles away, with nearby hotel options like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, both offering convenient transportation services to the airport. Liberia (LIR), situated 54 miles from El Castillo, features luxurious hotels such as the 5-star Four Seasons Resort and the 4.5-star Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, which also provide shuttle services to the airport. Cóbano Airport (ACO), about 55 miles away, is another option with nearby 5-star hotels like Hotel Nantipa.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in El Castillo?
El Fosforo is the best area to stay in El Castillo, a captivating destination in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica. This vibrant neighborhood is favored by most of our travelers for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes. With easy access to local attractions, including the enchanting La Fortuna Waterfall and the breathtaking Arenal Volcano, El Fosforo serves as a great launching pad for adventure seekers.

For couples looking to reconnect amidst nature's beauty, El Fosforo provides a tranquil escape. Picture serene evenings spent enjoying romantic dinners at charming local restaurants, where you can savor delicious Costa Rican cuisine while surrounded by the sounds of nature.

Families will also find El Fosforo appealing, thanks to its family-friendly hotels and proximity to various outdoor activities. Exciting excursions like zip-lining, horseback riding, and hiking create lasting memories for all ages while ensuring everyone stays engaged and entertained.
When is the best time to go to El Castillo?
The most popular time to visit El Castillo is during January, when the region is alive with vibrant local festivities and cultural events. This is the peak season, which runs from January to March, offering visitors a delightful climate characterized by average temperatures around 75°F. Such pleasant weather is great for outdoor activities like exploring the stunning natural landscapes and enjoying leisurely strolls through the charming town.

During this time, travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture, experiencing traditional celebrations that showcase the rich heritage of the area. Whether you're wandering through colorful markets or participating in unique local events, January provides a lively atmosphere that truly enhances your visit.

For those who prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting in October. This month offers the advantage of fewer tourists, allowing for a more intimate connection with the surroundings while still enjoying the wonderful sights and sounds of El Castillo. The weather remains inviting, making it suitable for outdoor adventures and sightseeing without the hustle and bustle of the peak season.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if canceled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in El Castillo.
How can I save on a El Castillo hotel booking with Expedia?
One Key™ - Expedia's free travel rewards program - gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on El Castillo hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.

*OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo.
How much is the nightly rate at a El Castillo hotel?
Prices for hotels in El Castillo often vary, but you can find a great deal from $49 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for the cheapest rate.

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