Find hotels in El Castillo from $49

  • Upfront pricing

    Our total price for your stay includes taxes and fees
  • Treat yourself

    Save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with Member Prices
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Filter by

Guest rating
Guest rating
Star rating

Our top choices for El Castillo hotels

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga
3.0 star property
El Millon
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (47 reviews)
"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
Jan 22 - Jan 23
Total with taxes and fees
Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Arenal cautiva

Arenal cautiva
2.0 star property
El Millon
$86 nightly
The price is $97
Jan 23 - Jan 24
Total with taxes and fees
Arenal cautiva

La Fortuna Lodge

La Fortuna Lodge
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (255 reviews)
"Clean room, staff super friendly, fresh breakfast "
United States
Silvia
$84 nightly
The price is $95
Jan 23 - Jan 24
Total with taxes and fees
La Fortuna Lodge

Hotel Arenal Lodge

Hotel Arenal Lodge
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (1,000 reviews)
"Great hotel, quiet, beautiful grounds. "
United States
john
$194 nightly
The price is $219
Jan 23 - Jan 24
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Arenal Lodge

Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm
3.0 star property
Santa Rosa
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, (205 reviews)
"Great location and food. "
United States
PANKAJ
$97 nightly
The price is $110
Jan 28 - Jan 29
Total with taxes and fees
Lake Arenal Hotel, Brewery & Farm

Hotel Las Orquideas

Hotel Las Orquideas
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (137 reviews)
"Nice place family friendly "
United States
Randall
$90 nightly
The price is $101
Jan 27 - Jan 28
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Las Orquideas

Natural Green Lodge

Natural Green Lodge
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (24 reviews)
"It was an amazing stay in Natural Green Lodge, "
United States
Melinda
$180 nightly
The price is $204
Jan 26 - Jan 27
Total with taxes and fees
Natural Green Lodge

Nayara Springs - Adults only

Nayara Springs - Adults only
5.0 star property
La Fortuna
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (406 reviews)
"The room and private pool were stunningly beautiful! Everyone was helpful and friendly. We enjoyed our stay!"
United States
Laurie
$1,209 nightly
The price is $1,367
Feb 19 - Feb 20
Total with taxes and fees
Nayara Springs - Adults only

Arenal Country Inn

Arenal Country Inn
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (350 reviews)
"Breakfast was great and location is ideal too for all the activities"
United States
Sanjay
$121 nightly
The price is $137
Feb 3 - Feb 4
Total with taxes and fees
Arenal Country Inn

Sangregado Lodge

Sangregado Lodge
4.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (187 reviews)
"Very friendly staff Perfect location in think of rain forest"
United States
Yogendra
$200 nightly
The price is $226
Feb 8 - Feb 9
Total with taxes and fees
Sangregado Lodge

Arenal Montechiari Hotel

Arenal Montechiari Hotel
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (331 reviews)
"Very good location, good breakfast! "
Canada
Olena
$95 nightly
The price is $107
Jan 24 - Jan 25
Total with taxes and fees
Arenal Montechiari Hotel

Arenal Roca Suites

Arenal Roca Suites
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (45 reviews)
"Great views"
United States
Kent
$213 nightly
The price is $240
Jan 22 - Jan 23
Total with taxes and fees
Arenal Roca Suites

Montaña de fuego Mountain Resort & Spa

Montaña de fuego Mountain Resort & Spa
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
7.8 out of 10, Good, (407 reviews)
"The staff at this resort were incredibly helpful and friendly. The food was top notch, and the rooms were spotless. "
United States
Jesse
$397 nightly
The price is $449
Jan 22 - Jan 23
Total with taxes and fees
Montaña de fuego Mountain Resort & Spa

Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis

Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (556 reviews)
"We loved our stay here. The staff was so amazing and knowledgeable and showed us so many animals right on the property. The property is so special and unique. We thoroughly enjoyed our time and can’t wait to come back! "
United States
Marissa
$289 nightly
The price is $326
Jan 23 - Jan 24
Total with taxes and fees
Tifakara Boutique Hotel & Birding Oasis

Lost Iguana Resort and Spa

Lost Iguana Resort and Spa
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (1,000 reviews)
"Wonderful place to visit! "
United States
Philip
$262 nightly
The price is $296
Jan 23 - Jan 24
Total with taxes and fees
Lost Iguana Resort and Spa

Eco Arenal Hotel

Eco Arenal Hotel
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (152 reviews)
"Yes the room was amazing and the staff as well"
United States
Scott
$117 nightly
The price is $133
Feb 1 - Feb 2
Total with taxes and fees
Eco Arenal Hotel

Yellow Tree Suites

Yellow Tree Suites
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (78 reviews)
"The room was clean. The nicest part of the stay was the beautiful grounds with lots of birds, beautiful plants, etc."
United States
Lenard
$114 nightly
The price is $129
Feb 3 - Feb 4
Total with taxes and fees
Yellow Tree Suites

Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio

Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (440 reviews)
"great stay"
Canada
Jung Ho
$270 nightly
The price is $305
Jan 23 - Jan 24
Total with taxes and fees
Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio

Campos Arenal Hotel

Campos Arenal Hotel
3.0 star property
La Fortuna
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (62 reviews)
"Great breakfast and views. Clean, large rooms. "
United States
Jennifer
$113 nightly
The price is $128
Feb 16 - Feb 17
Total with taxes and fees
Campos Arenal Hotel

Noah's Forest by Tifakara

Noah's Forest by Tifakara
3.5 star property
La Fortuna
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (346 reviews)
"The staff were amazingly pleasant. The rooms cleaned- best feature ( water pressure in the bathroom). Try the breakfast - it was delish. "
United States
Altagracia
$413 nightly
The price is $466
Jan 22 - Jan 23
Total with taxes and fees
Noah's Forest by Tifakara
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.
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

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 $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.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia