Find hotels in San Rafael from $22

Top reasons to visit San Rafael

• Urban Parks and Museums: San Rafael features beautiful parks and cultural museums perfect for family outings and educational experiences.
• Shopping and Dining: Explore vibrant shopping areas and local cuisine in charming neighborhoods like San Francisco.
• Outdoor Adventures: Experience exciting outdoor activities that cater to adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.
• Vibrant Nightlife: Unwind at local venues offering a lively nightlife scene after a day of exploration.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy bed and breakfasts to full-service hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travelers.

Find great hotels near San Rafael

San Rafael, located in the picturesque San José Province of Costa Rica, offers a delightful selection of accommodations for every traveler. Whether you prefer a cozy bed and breakfast or a full-service hotel, you'll find options that cater to families, business travelers, and even pet owners. With various room rates and friendly reviews, you're sure to discover the perfect place to unwind and explore the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of the area.

• Barceló San José: Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and business at Barceló San José, a 4-star hotel located 2 miles from San Rafael. This property is ideal for travelers seeking a spa-themed getaway that is also LGBTQIA welcoming. Enjoy a full-service spa with body treatments and pool access, alongside a poolside bar for refreshing drinks. Business travelers will appreciate the comprehensive amenities, including a conference center, meeting rooms, and an accessible business center, ensuring a productive stay while enjoying the comforts of luxurious accommodations.
• Studio Hotel Boutique: Just 4 miles from San Rafael, Studio Hotel Boutique is a unique 4-star haven for those seeking a boutique experience. With its distinctive Art Deco design and creative decor, this hotel offers a family-friendly atmosphere that doesn’t skimp on business amenities, featuring multiple meeting rooms and a 24-hour business center. Families will find thoughtful touches such as mini-golf and child safety features, making it a great choice for guests traveling with children, while still catering to business needs.
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, San Jose Aeropuerto, Costa Rica: Located 3 miles from San Rafael, the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson offers a welcoming environment for families and business travelers, along with LGBTQIA inclusivity. This 3.5-star property boasts a range of amenities including a conference center and multiple meeting rooms. Families will enjoy child-friendly facilities such as a children’s pool and free cribs. With its convenient location near the airport, guests can easily explore the beauty of Costa Rica while enjoying comfortable accommodations.

Where to stay in San Rafael

San Rafael, nestled in the heart of San José Province, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and urban exploration. Stroll through downtown San Rafael, where friendly locals and vibrant businesses create a welcoming atmosphere. Just a short distance away, the charming neighborhoods of San Francisco invite you to discover local culture and cuisine. With convenient access to nearby attractions, San Rafael is an ideal base for your Costa Rican adventure.

• San José: As the bustling capital city of Costa Rica, San José is a vibrant metropolis that serves as a gateway to the country’s rich culture and stunning landscapes. Situated in the heart of the San José Province, it offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and urban experiences. Visitors can explore local markets, indulge in shopping at modern centers, or unwind at luxurious spas. The city's proximity to natural landmarks, including beaches, national parks, and volcanoes, makes it an ideal base for excursions. With peak tourist seasons in February to March and December, San José promises memorable experiences year-round.
• Escazú: Located a mere 0.7 miles from San Rafael, Escazú is a charming city known for its upscale atmosphere and family-friendly environment. This area is perfect for those looking to enjoy city-themed adventures while also relishing outdoor activities. Escazú is home to various shopping malls and centers, making it a shopping paradise for visitors. Attractions like urban parks and nearby beaches provide ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation. With peak travel times in March, July, and September, Escazú’s welcoming vibe ensures a delightful experience for all.
• Guachipelin: Nestled within the San Rafael area, Guachipelin is a quaint village that offers a more intimate travel experience. This destination draws families and city explorers alike, boasting a range of outdoor activities and local attractions. Visitors can enjoy nearby shopping centers and malls, while the natural beauty of the surrounding area, including beaches and national parks, adds to its charm. With high visitor numbers seen in March to April and July, Guachipelin presents a perfect mix of tranquility and adventure for those looking to connect with nature.

Things to do in and around San Rafael

San Rafael in San José Province, Costa Rica, is a perfect destination for families and business travelers alike. Enjoy a variety of activities including shopping at local malls and centers, exploring vibrant shopping areas, and finding ideal picnic spots. For adventure seekers, there are exciting opportunities to explore the outdoors, while those looking for nightlife can indulge in the local scene to unwind after a day of exploration.

Shopping

For a vibrant shopping experience, visit Mercado Borbón, just 4 miles away, where you can find local goods and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, Multiplaza Mall Escazu and Avenida Escazú Shopping Center offer a mix of entertainment and shopping options in a lively atmosphere.

Recreation

Explore the National Stadium of Costa Rica for an invigorating experience filled with sports vibes, just 2 miles from San Rafael. For golf enthusiasts, the Cariari Golf Course, located 3 miles away, offers a picturesque outdoor setting perfect for relaxation and recreation amidst nature.

Adventure

At Cariari Bowling Center, enjoy a fun-filled bowling experience just 4 miles from San Rafael. For thrill-seekers, Tropical Bungee offers an exhilarating bungee jumping experience 15 miles away, while Colinas del Poas features an exciting zipline ropes course 16 miles away, perfect for outdoor adventure lovers.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Rafael with a visit to the National Theater, Melico Salazar Theatre, or Studio Cinemas, all just 4 miles away. Enjoy a mix of culture, romance, and entertainment that caters to all ages for a memorable evening out.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Rafael

San Rafael, Costa Rica, provides numerous ways to save money during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Sabana Park, Morazan Park, and Pueblo Antiguo, and opt for budget-friendly public transport like buses. The most economical months to visit are August to October, with Sundays typically offering the cheapest lodging rates. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices, book package deals for flights and activities, and filter for eco-friendly options. Consider joining Expedia's One Key membership for exclusive discounts and earn OneKeyCash for future stays, enhancing your travel experience while keeping costs low.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Rafael are August to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Rafael is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in San Rafael is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy to customize your travel experience by allowing you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotel options first. Additionally, you have the ability to narrow down your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in San Rafael 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 San Rafael

San Rafael, located in Costa Rica's San José Province, offers a variety of attractions perfect for family vacations, business trips, or city-themed getaways. Visitors can explore urban parks, museums, and convention centers that cater to those seeking cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Whether you're interested in immersing yourself in local culture or enjoying the vibrant city atmosphere, San Rafael has something for everyone.

• Sabana Park: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this urban park, located 2 miles from San Rafael. It’s perfect for families, offering ample outdoor space to relax, play, or enjoy a picnic amidst the city vibes.
• Costa Rica Convention Center: Situated 3 miles away, this convention center is a hub for business activities. It hosts various events and exhibitions, providing a unique glimpse into the professional landscape of Costa Rica.
• Museum of Costa Rican Art: Just 3 miles from San Rafael, this art museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Costa Rica through its diverse collection of artworks, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.

Best time to go to San Rafael

The best time to visit San Rafael can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San Rafael falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in San Rafael falls in December, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	65.5°F (18.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
February	66.7°F (19.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
March	67.8°F (19.9°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	69.1°F (20.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
June	68.0°F (20.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	67.1°F (19.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
September	66.9°F (19.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	66.4°F (19.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	65.5°F (18.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	65.1°F (18.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Rafael

When planning your trip to San Rafael, Costa Rica, you'll find convenient access through two major airports. San José (SJO - Juan Santamaría Intl.) is located 7 miles away and offers nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, both providing airport shuttle services. Alternatively, San José (SYQ - Tobías Bolaños Intl.) is just 2 miles from San Rafael, with options like the 4-star Barceló San José and DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari, which also offer shuttle services. Either airport ensures a comfortable start to your Costa Rican adventure.