Find hotels in El Ocotal from $68

Top reasons to visit El Ocotal

• Stunning Beaches: El Ocotal features beautiful beaches like Ocotal Beach and nearby Coco Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
• Adventure Activities: Thrilling excursions such as golfing, horseback riding at Haras del Mar, and visiting Turicentro Salto El Perol offer excitement for all ages.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The area is perfect for families, with a variety of entertainment and activities suitable for children and adults alike.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Explore the rich culture and traditions of the Sardinal region, enhancing your travel experience.
• Varied Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options from family-friendly hotels to serene resorts, catering to all preferences.

Find great hotels in and around El Ocotal

El Ocotal, nestled in the beautiful Sardinal region of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offers a variety of lodging options, including hotels and resorts that cater to beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly environment or a serene escape, the accommodations in El Ocotal provide ideal settings for unforgettable vacations. Discover the perfect hotel that meets your needs and enjoy all the charm this coastal paradise has to offer.

• Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive: This 4.5-star resort is a family-friendly paradise located in El Ocotal, offering an all-inclusive experience that caters to guests of all ages. With direct beach access, this luxurious property features unlimited food and drinks, ensuring a carefree vacation. Guests can enjoy a variety of amenities, including a water park for children, supervised childcare, and business facilities like a meeting room. Whether you’re looking to relax by the beach or indulge in a buffet feast, the Hotel Riu Palace is perfect for families and business travelers alike.
• Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive: A 4-star gem, the Hotel Riu Guanacaste is designed for adventure seekers and families. Situated in El Ocotal, this lively resort offers an array of activities, including snorkeling, windsurfing, and themed parties. The all-inclusive plan features numerous dining options and entertainment, making it an exciting destination for guests. Families will appreciate the kid-friendly amenities, including a water park and shared playground. After a day full of adventure, unwind at the full-service spa or enjoy a refreshing drink at the beachside bar.
• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive: Perfect for couples and adults, the Occidental Papagayo is a 4-star resort offering an exclusive, serene atmosphere. Located 5 miles from El Ocotal, this adults-only sanctuary features direct beach access and a variety of all-inclusive services. Guests can indulge in fitness activities, enjoy gourmet dining, and unwind with entertainment options tailored for adults. The property is LGBTQIA-friendly, ensuring a welcoming environment for all. With multiple meeting rooms available, this resort is also suitable for business travelers seeking a tranquil getaway.

Where to stay in El Ocotal

El Ocotal, nestled in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Visitors can explore stunning beaches, nearby cascades, and vibrant local culture. With its family-friendly atmosphere and romantic vibes, El Ocotal serves as a gateway to exciting excursions and secluded spots. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor activities or a peaceful retreat, El Ocotal and its surrounding areas promise unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

• Sardinal: Nestled in the heart of Guanacaste, Sardinal is a charming city that serves as a gateway to the vibrant beach culture of the region. With El Ocotal located within its bounds, visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor adventures and relaxation. Sardinal's prime geography makes it easy to access stunning beaches, lush volcanic landscapes, and the nearby national park. Peak travel months from January to March promise an exhilarating experience filled with activities like golfing and exploring local resorts. The city's welcoming atmosphere and variety of attractions make it a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts.
• Coco: Just 2 miles from El Ocotal, the village of Coco is a lively destination known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. With a steady influx of travelers, especially from September to January, Coco is perfect for those seeking adventure and relaxation in equal measure. Visitors can partake in golfing, enjoy the local resorts, and explore the stunning nearby mountains and volcanoes. The vibrant nightlife and dining options along the beachfront create an inviting atmosphere, making Coco an ideal spot for those looking to immerse themselves in Costa Rican culture while enjoying the sun.
• Playa Hermosa: Located 4 miles from El Ocotal, Playa Hermosa is a picturesque village celebrated for its pristine beaches and serene environment. Known for its outdoor adventures, this charming destination attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in March and December to January. The area is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and engaging in water sports, while nearby resorts offer relaxation and luxury. With easy access to national parks and volcanic landscapes, Playa Hermosa is an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience both tranquility and adventure in a stunning coastal setting.

Things to do near El Ocotal

El Ocotal in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offers a perfect blend of beach, outdoor, and adventure activities. Visitors can enjoy golfing at local courses, embark on travel excursions, and experience the thrilling Turicentro Salto El Perol. Additionally, the Haras del Mar Equestrian Center provides horseback riding opportunities, making it ideal for those seeking adventure and relaxation in a beautiful coastal setting.

Shopping

In El Ocotal, you can explore local boutiques for unique souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to the Auto Mercado in Liberia for groceries and gifts, or visit the Plaza Cariari in Heredia for a variety of shopping options, including clothing and crafts.

Recreation

At Papagayo Golf and Country Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes, just 7 miles from El Ocotal. For a serene experience, visit Black Stallion Eco Park, located 18 miles away, where you can relax and rejuvenate amidst nature's beauty. Reserva Conchal Golf Course, 11 miles away, offers another fantastic golfing experience.

Adventure

Embark on a thrilling hike at Samara Trails, located 29 miles from El Ocotal. Experience stunning scenery and the great outdoors while navigating diverse trails that offer adventure and breathtaking views, making it a perfect outing for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Nightlife

In El Ocotal, the nightlife buzzes with vibrant beach bars like Father Roosters, where you can enjoy live music and tropical cocktails. Nearby, the lively atmosphere at Coco Beach offers a variety of clubs and restaurants, perfect for dancing and mingling until the early hours.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Ocotal

To save money on your trip to El Ocotal, consider visiting during the off-peak months of September to November for lower hotel rates. Free attractions like Coco Beach and Ocotal Beach provide budget-friendly entertainment. For transportation, use the local bus system instead of renting a car. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best prices, and check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Saturdays, which are cheaper than Mondays. You can also save by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through Expedia's package deals and joining their One Key membership for exclusive discounts.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in El Ocotal are September to November, 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: Booking a hotel in El Ocotal 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 Ocotal is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in El Ocotal is Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your El Ocotal 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 in and around El Ocotal

El Ocotal in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is perfect for beach and adventure vacations, offering attractions like Ocotal Beach and nearby Coco Beach. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly activities and entertainment, making it a great destination for all ages. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or explore local points of interest, El Ocotal has something for everyone seeking an unforgettable experience.

• Coco Beach: Located just 2 miles from El Ocotal, Coco Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere with stunning views and warm sand. It's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying beach activities.
• Diamante Eco Adventure Park: Situated within El Ocotal, this family-friendly theme park is packed with entertainment options, including zip-lining, animal encounters, and a beautiful botanical garden, making it ideal for all ages.
• Haras del Mar Equestrian Center: About 3 miles away, this secluded gem offers horseback riding excursions in a serene environment. With friendly staff and beautiful trails, it's perfect for relaxation and recreation.

Best time to go to El Ocotal

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

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.2°F (26.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	80.4°F (26.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	81.7°F (27.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	83.3°F (28.5°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	79.7°F (26.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
August	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
December	78.4°F (25.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to El Ocotal

To visit El Ocotal, you can fly into several major airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is located 13 miles away, with nearby hotels like the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 10 miles from the airport, offering various transportation services. Tamarindo (TNO) is another option, situated 17 miles from El Ocotal, with hotels such as JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, 5 miles away, providing shuttle services. Nosara (NOB) is further at 39 miles, featuring accommodations like Azura Beach Resort, 12 miles from the airport, which also offers transportation options. Each airport provides convenient access to El Ocotal for an enjoyable vacation experience.