Find hotels in Santa Elena from $38

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Outdoor Adventures: Santa Elena is perfect for thrill-seekers, offering activities like hiking, golfing, and nature walks in stunning landscapes.
• Breathtaking Scenery: The region features picturesque beaches, lush reserves, and national parks, ideal for soaking in natural beauty.
• Diverse Wildlife: Visitors can encounter vibrant wildlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
• Relaxing Accommodations: Choose from cozy hotels to luxurious resorts, catering to every traveler's needs for a memorable stay.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Explore nearby towns for fun family outings and romantic getaways in a serene atmosphere.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover a range of hotel accommodations in Santa Elena, Guanacaste, ideal for family adventures and beach vacations. From cozy hotels to luxurious resorts, you'll find options that cater to every traveler's needs. Explore the best hotels in the area, complete with essential amenities and services, ensuring a memorable experience in this beautiful Costa Rican destination.

• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All Inclusive: Nestled along the stunning coastline of Guanacaste, Occidental Papagayo offers a serene adults-only retreat perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. As a 4-star all-inclusive resort, guests can indulge in unlimited food and drinks, complemented by a range of amenities such as fitness facilities and entertainment options. The property is LGBTQIA welcoming and designed with business travelers in mind, featuring multiple meeting rooms. With direct beach access, you can enjoy sun-soaked days and vibrant nights just 21 miles from Santa Elena.
• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: Experience luxury like never before at Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, a 4.5-star all-inclusive resort that promises an unforgettable family vacation. Located 18 miles from Santa Elena, this beachside paradise offers a dazzling array of amenities, including a dedicated children’s club, playground, and a pool just for kids, ensuring fun for all ages. With unlimited dining options and a focus on entertainment, this resort provides a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement for families looking to make memories together.
• CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive: For families seeking adventure, CC Beach Front Papagayo is a 4-star hotel designed for those who love the great outdoors. Located 21 miles from Santa Elena, this all-inclusive hotel offers exciting activities like horse riding and windsurfing, along with amenities tailored for children, including shared playgrounds and games. The property’s stunning beachfront location allows guests to enjoy a variety of water sports and swimming opportunities, making it an ideal choice for adventurous families looking to bond in nature.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes, the region offers stunning terraces with views, serene parks, and a rustic elegance that invites relaxation. Explore nearby towns for family-friendly activities or romantic getaways, all while enjoying a refreshing experience in nature. Whether you're hiking through lush trails or unwinding in secluded spots, Santa Elena promises unforgettable memories in a captivating atmosphere.

• La Cruz: Situated 12 miles from Santa Elena, La Cruz is a vibrant city that attracts visitors year-round, particularly peaking in July and during the holiday season from December to January. Known for its breathtaking outdoor scenery, La Cruz offers a wealth of adventure opportunities. Visitors can indulge in activities at local resorts and spas, or enjoy a round of golf with stunning views. Notable nearby attractions include beautiful beaches, an impressive volcano, and a national state park, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
• Cuajiniquil: Nestled within the Santa Elena area, Cuajiniquil is a charming village that welcomes travelers throughout the year, with peak visits occurring in March to April and July. This destination is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Visitors can access various resorts and spas, as well as indulge in a round of golf. The surrounding landscapes boast stunning beaches and both national and state parks, providing a wealth of opportunities for exploration and relaxation in a tranquil setting.
• Puerto Soley: Located 10 miles away from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a quaint village popular for its seasonal visitor influx, especially between December and February. Travelers are drawn here for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, making it a perfect getaway for sun-seekers and nature lovers. With proximity to both a national park and a national state park, Puerto Soley offers ample opportunities to immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s stunning natural beauty while enjoying a serene beach atmosphere.

Things to do near Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers an exciting blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it perfect for an unforgettable vacation. Enjoy activities like golfing at local courses, exploring nature walks, and relaxing at resorts with outdoor seating. With various excursion options and some of the best campsites in the area, you'll have plenty of memorable experiences to choose from while soaking in the stunning surroundings of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, you can explore local shops offering handcrafted souvenirs and Costa Rican coffee. If you're up for a drive, check out the nearby Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can find charming artisan markets with unique gifts and eco-friendly products.

Recreation

Experience the Papagayo Golf and Country Club, located 28 miles from Santa Elena, where you can enjoy a round of golf surrounded by lush scenery. The club offers a vibrant outdoor atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and recreational activities while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Costa Rica.

Adventure

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve offers breathtaking trails through lush greenery, where you can spot diverse wildlife and enjoy spectacular views. For adrenaline seekers, try zip-lining through the canopy at Selvatura Park, soaring above the treetops while experiencing the thrill of Costa Rica's natural beauty.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Tree House Restaurant and Café, where you can enjoy tasty cocktails and a lively atmosphere. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the Café La Fortuna for delicious coffee and local treats while mingling with fellow travelers and locals.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

To save money during your visit to Santa Elena, consider exploring free attractions like Playa Copal and Playa Puerto Soley. Travel during the cheaper months of May or September to October, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Saturdays, which tend to be the least expensive days to stay. Use Expedia’s tools to compare prices and consider bundling your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Joining the One Key membership can also unlock exclusive discounts and rewards.

• 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, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Santa Elena 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 in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its stunning beaches, lush reserves, and national parks, visitors can immerse themselves in breathtaking scenery and thrilling activities. From exploring vibrant wildlife to soaking up the sun on beautiful shores, Santa Elena offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to those seeking both adventure and relaxation in this picturesque Costa Rican destination.

• Santa Rosa National Park: Located 3 miles from Santa Elena, this national park offers a blend of adventure and stunning scenery. Explore its diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, and wildlife while enjoying the great outdoors in a pristine environment.
• Maritza Biological Station: Nestled within Santa Elena, this reserve provides a tranquil escape for nature lovers. Experience recreational activities in a secluded setting, perfect for birdwatching and observing Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.
• La Casona: Situated in Santa Elena, this historic monument showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region. Explore its architecture and learn about the area's history, making it an enriching stop on your journey.

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	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

To visit Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, you can fly into two major airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is 22 miles away, with excellent hotel options like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo and the 4.5-star Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only, both offering shuttle services. Alternatively, Tamarindo (TNO) is 42 miles from Santa Elena, featuring upscale accommodations such as the 5-star JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa. Hotels near Tamarindo also provide transportation services, making access straightforward. Enjoy your stay in this beautiful region of Costa Rica.