Find hotels in Santa Elena from $39

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Outdoor Adventures: Santa Elena is a paradise for adventure lovers, offering activities like zip-lining and hiking in lush landscapes.
• Sky Adventures Park: Experience thrilling rides and breathtaking views at this popular adventure park.
• Explora Park: Discover diverse wildlife and stunning scenery while exploring this captivating nature reserve.
• Charming Center: Enjoy cozy accommodations and delightful dining options in the heart of Santa Elena.
• Relaxation Options: Unwind at tranquil spas and serene beach resorts for a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover the perfect getaway in Santa Elena, Guanacaste, where a variety of accommodations await to suit your vacation needs. Whether you're seeking family-friendly hotels, adventure-focused lodges, or serene beach resorts, you'll find an array of options tailored for every traveler. Explore the best hotels in Santa Elena and enjoy a memorable stay surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and exciting activities.

• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive: Nestled along the stunning coastline, Occidental Papagayo is a 4-star adults-only resort, perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway. Located 21 miles from Santa Elena, this all-inclusive property ensures a worry-free vacation with unlimited food and drinks, including a well-stocked minibar. Guests can indulge in a variety of entertainment options, fitness classes, and direct beach access, making it ideal for both relaxation and adventure. The resort's serene ambiance and comprehensive amenities cater to those looking for a blend of beach tranquility and vibrant social experiences.
• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: Located 18 miles from Santa Elena, this 4.5-star resort combines Hollywood glamour with family-friendly amenities. With a guest rating of 8.2, the resort offers an exciting atmosphere with direct beach access and a variety of dining options. Families will appreciate the children’s amenities, including a kids' pool and a free children’s club. Guests can enjoy unlimited food and drinks, ensuring that everyone has a memorable experience. The perfect blend of entertainment, relaxation, and family fun makes it an ideal choice for travelers of all ages.
• CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive: This 4-star gem, with a stellar guest rating of 9.0, is situated 21 miles from Santa Elena and is tailored for those seeking a romantic escape. CC Beach Front Papagayo offers direct beach access and captivating ocean, pool, and garden views. The property features exclusive romance packages and rejuvenating spa services, including massages and body wraps, perfect for couples looking to unwind together. With its exquisite setting and intimate atmosphere, this hotel is a delightful choice for a dreamy getaway.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for tourists. Nestled in lush landscapes, it’s an ideal starting point for exploring nearby natural wonders and engaging in outdoor activities. The charming center of Santa Elena boasts cozy accommodations and delightful dining options, while hidden gems like tranquil spas provide a serene escape. Whether you seek family-friendly fun or a romantic getaway, Santa Elena is a fantastic destination for every traveler.

• El Jobo: Located approximately 10 miles from Santa Elena, El Jobo is a charming village known for its outdoor and adventure offerings. The travel experience here is quite unique, as visitor numbers remain steady throughout the year, with peaks occurring from January to April. Travelers flock to El Jobo for its stunning beaches and nearby national parks, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Popular activities include golfing and resort experiences, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement.
• Cuajiniquil: Nestled within the Santa Elena area, Cuajiniquil is another picturesque village that attracts visitors year-round. Its peak season falls between March to April and July, drawing those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. The village offers access to beautiful beaches and national parks, perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and water activities. With resorts available nearby, Cuajiniquil is a great base for exploring the natural beauty of Guanacaste while enjoying a laid-back village atmosphere.
• Puerto Soley: Also located about 10 miles from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a vibrant village known for its seasonal tourism, peaking from December to February. This destination is a paradise for beach enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike, offering easy access to beautiful coastlines and national parks. Visitors can indulge in outdoor activities such as swimming, surfing, and exploring the natural wonders of the area. Puerto Soley’s unique charm and scenic views make it a must-visit location during your trip to Guanacaste.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offers an exciting blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore nature excursions, enjoy thrilling activities at the Sky Adventures Park, and discover the attractions of Explora Park. With options for relaxation at resorts and spas, Santa Elena is perfect for those seeking both adventure and tranquility in a beautiful natural setting.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, explore local shops for unique souvenirs and gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Monteverde Artisan Market for handcrafted items, or head to the Santa Elena Mall for a mix of local and international brands.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, where guided nature walks and yoga sessions deepen your connection with nature. Engage in rejuvenating spa treatments at local wellness centers and savor organic meals featuring fresh, local ingredients to nourish your body and soul.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the lush cloud forest of Santa Elena, where you'll soar above treetops and take in breathtaking views. Explore the diverse wildlife and stunning scenery on guided hikes, or embark on a night tour to witness the vibrant nocturnal ecosystem come alive.

Nightlife

Experience vibrant nightlife at The Treehouse, where you can enjoy cocktails and dance to live music. For a more laid-back vibe, visit the Café Monteverde for local brews and cozy conversations. Don’t miss the chance to mingle with locals and fellow travelers alike.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

• 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: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and type of hotel you’re looking for. For instance, if you select the Eco-certified filter, you’ll find a range of sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the best prices and deals, simply adjust the price filter from low to high.
• 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 deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is perfect for outdoor and adventure lovers, offering stunning scenery and a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, nature reserves, and national parks, providing a rich blend of cultural and scenic experiences. Whether you're soaking up the sun on the beach or immersing yourself in the lush landscapes of the nearby reserves, Santa Elena promises an unforgettable getaway filled with adventure and natural beauty.

• Maritza Biological Station: Nestled in Santa Elena, this reserve offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature. Explore its diverse ecosystems and engage in recreational activities while enjoying the tranquil vibes of this secluded paradise.
• La Casona: This cultural monument in Santa Elena showcases the rich history of the region. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture and heritage, making it a perfect spot for those interested in the stories behind Costa Rica's past.
• Santa Rosa National Park: Located 3 miles from Santa Elena, this national park boasts stunning scenery and exhilarating outdoor adventures. Hike through varied landscapes and experience the thrill of wildlife watching in this beautiful natural setting.

Best time to go to Santa Elena

The best time to visit Santa Elena can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Elena falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Elena falls in October and November. November has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

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	Slightly High	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	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	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

Traveling to Santa Elena, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is convenient with several nearby airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is the closest, situated 22 miles away. Recommended hotels include the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 10 miles from the airport, and El Mangroove Papagayo, located 7 miles away, both offering various transportation services. Cóbano Airport (ACO) is 91 miles from Santa Elena, with top hotels like Hotel Nantipa and LALOON Luxury Suites, both about 6 miles away. Nosara Airport (NOB) is 63 miles away, featuring hotels such as Azura Beach Resort and Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge, ensuring easy access to the airport with convenient shuttle services.