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Our top choices for El Castillo hotels

Arenal cautiva

Arenal cautiva
3.0 star property
El Millon
$81 nightly
The price is $92
Apr 9 - Apr 10
Total with taxes and fees
Arenal cautiva

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga
3.0 star property
Peñas Blancas
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (52 reviews)
"Friendly staff, great view, many fun and educational activities, food is delicious and healthy."
United States
Yang
$70 nightly
The price is $79
Mar 28 - Mar 29
Total with taxes and fees
Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (956 reviews)
"It was a wonderful stay. Clean, great bed, attentive and helpful staff, food was excellent, massage was great too!"
United States
Todd
$135 nightly
The price is $153
Apr 10 - Apr 11
Total with taxes and fees
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm
3.0 star property
Santa Rosa
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (224 reviews)
"Great typical Costa Rican family run hotel - no bells & whistles but good value for money & great food - just nestled into surrounding nature with it's own farm & brewery & extremely relaxing with great staff "
United Kingdom
Gary
$97 nightly
The price is $110
Mar 28 - Mar 29
Total with taxes and fees
Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

Tityra Lodge

Tityra Lodge
2.0 star property
Monteverde
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (52 reviews)
"The views from our little lodge were incredible. Was very comfortable and the breakfast was great. Truly amazing place to stay. "
Canada
Julie
$72 nightly
The price is $82
Apr 8 - Apr 9
Total with taxes and fees
Tityra Lodge

Junglo Resort and Spa

Junglo Resort and Spa
3.0 star property
Peñas Blancas
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (49 reviews)
"It was very clean and friendly "
United States
Jamal
$145 nightly
The price is $164
Apr 26 - Apr 27
Total with taxes and fees
Junglo Resort and Spa

Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs

Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs
4.0 star property
Peñas Blancas
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (410 reviews)
"Amazing hot springs, great respite from touristy areas, fantastic coffee and chocolate tour."
Canada
Wojtek
$253 nightly
The price is $286
Apr 11 - Apr 12
Total with taxes and fees
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs

Serene Hills Arenal

Serene Hills Arenal
4.0 star property
Monterrey
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (10 reviews)
"It's an amazing place to spend your days! Stunning view, comfortable beds, a jacuzzi, and a large pool. Definitely, we'd like to stay there again!"
United States
Natallia
$387 nightly
The price is $437
Apr 11 - Apr 12
Total with taxes and fees
Serene Hills Arenal

Lands in Love Hotel

Lands in Love Hotel
3.0 star property
San Lorenzo
7.8 out of 10, Good, (29 reviews)
"The place is very, very special, a hotel in the rainforest, the staff is really lovely, we probably arrived at a bad time, the room was very humid, the blankets were so damp that they were wet, it was not pleasant to sleep there, we were supposed to stay for 2 nights, but unfortunately we chose to leave after the first night"
United States
Avinoam
$71 nightly
The price is $81
Mar 29 - Mar 30
Total with taxes and fees
Lands in Love Hotel

Hotel Heliconias Nature Inn & Hot Springs

Hotel Heliconias Nature Inn & Hot Springs
3.0 star property
Peñas Blancas
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (433 reviews)
"Great staff, Beautiful grounds"
United States
Joya
$235 nightly
The price is $266
Apr 12 - Apr 13
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Heliconias Nature Inn & Hot Springs

Hotel Laguna Arenal

Hotel Laguna Arenal
3.0 star property
Arenal
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (163 reviews)
"Stunning views, lovely setting, modern architecture, luscious breakfast"
United States
Heidi
$208 nightly
The price is $235
Apr 9 - Apr 10
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Laguna Arenal

Sangregado Lodge

Sangregado Lodge
4.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (209 reviews)
"The staff was very friendly and parking was secure"
United States
Maria
$166 nightly
The price is $187
Apr 7 - Apr 8
Total with taxes and fees
Sangregado Lodge

Arenal Roca Lodge

Arenal Roca Lodge
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.4 out of 10, Very Good, (185 reviews)
"Breakfast was good and customers service was great."
United States
Nafasi
$90 nightly
The price is $102
Mar 30 - Mar 31
Total with taxes and fees
Arenal Roca Lodge

La Mansion Inn Arenal

La Mansion Inn Arenal
3.5 star property
Arenal
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (622 reviews)
"Lovely place! Friendly staff, gorgeous views, quaint. Will recommend to friends for sure."
United States
Diana
$144 nightly
The price is $163
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Total with taxes and fees
La Mansion Inn Arenal

Hospedaje Mariposa

Hospedaje Mariposa
2.5 star property
Monteverde
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (109 reviews)
"Our room was clean and the staff was awesome. We saw wildlife and the most beautiful sunsets. Breakfast was a very good vegetarian breakfast. Sophia was amazing and the gentleman who served breakfast was delightful."
United States
Sherrie
$56 nightly
The price is $63
Apr 22 - Apr 23
Total with taxes and fees
Hospedaje Mariposa

Finca Sunset Monteverde

Finca Sunset Monteverde
2.0 star property
Monteverde
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (42 reviews)
"Amazing place and Andrea was the perfect host!"
United Kingdom
Peter
$216 nightly
The price is $245
Apr 26 - Apr 27
Total with taxes and fees
Finca Sunset Monteverde

Trapp Family Lodge

Trapp Family Lodge
3.0 star property
Monteverde
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (621 reviews)
"The staff were extremely friendly and helpful! "
United States
Lia
$162 nightly
The price is $183
Mar 28 - Mar 29
Total with taxes and fees
Trapp Family Lodge

Valle Escondido Nature Reserve Hotel & Farm

Valle Escondido Nature Reserve Hotel & Farm
4.0 star property
Monteverde
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (508 reviews)
"The staff was wonderful, the room was lovely, the property and trails were fantastic. "
United States
Jennifer
$160 nightly
The price is $181
Apr 1 - Apr 2
Total with taxes and fees
Valle Escondido Nature Reserve Hotel & Farm

Arenal Volcano Inn

Arenal Volcano Inn
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.2 out of 10, Wonderful, (292 reviews)
"We had a lovely stay, rooms clean, staff very pleasant! Great location."
Canada
Diane
$77 nightly
The price is $88
Apr 26 - Apr 27
Total with taxes and fees
Arenal Volcano Inn

Arenal Oasis

Arenal Oasis
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (146 reviews)
"Near a National Park"
United States
Alvaro
$77 nightly
The price is $87
Apr 10 - Apr 11
Total with taxes and fees
Arenal Oasis
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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?
The best area to stay in El Castillo is directly within the village itself, particularly along the main road that runs through it.

El Castillo is a small, spread-out village situated on a hill overlooking Lake Arenal. The "main road" isn't a bustling street but rather the central artery that connects the various accommodations, restaurants, and local shops. Staying here places you within walking distance of most of the village's amenities and offers direct views of the lake and Arenal Volcano.

This area is ideal for couples seeking a tranquil and scenic getaway. Many accommodations offer private balconies or terraces with stunning views, great for enjoying the natural surroundings. The pace of life is relaxed, and you'll find charming local eateries for a quiet dinner.

Families will also find this area suitable due to the proximity to nature-based activities.
When is the best time to go to El Castillo?
The best time to go to El Castillo is during the dry season, which runs from December to April.

During these months, you'll experience more sunshine and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities like exploring the Arenal Volcano National Park and enjoying the various adventure tours available. The trails are less muddy, and the views of the volcano and Lake Arenal are typically clearer.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will appreciate the pleasant weather for activities like ziplining, hiking to waterfalls, and relaxing in hot springs. The drier conditions ensure a more comfortable and predictable experience for these excursions.

For families, the dry season provides excellent conditions for enjoying the area's natural attractions without the disruptions of heavy rainfall.
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?
With Expedia, you earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible El Castillo hotel bookings for every dollar you spend – just join our One Key™ travel rewards program to get started. It's free to join, and you'll unlock our lowest Member Prices as soon as you're signed in. On top of this, you could also save significantly by bundling your hotel and flights together on Expedia.

*Excludes taxes and fees. 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 $45 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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