Find hotels in El Ocotal from $72

Top reasons to visit El Ocotal

• Stunning Beaches: Enjoy the pristine sands and clear waters of Playa Ocotal, perfect for sunbathing and water sports.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in hiking, golfing, and jungle tours for an active and thrilling experience.
• Rich Cultural Experience: Explore local churches and the vibrant community atmosphere of nearby Sardinal.
• Unique Accommodations: Choose from a range of lodging options, including glamping and luxurious resorts.
• Breathtaking Views: Take excursions to enjoy stunning vistas of the Gulf of Papagayo and nearby attractions.

Find great hotels in El Ocotal

El Ocotal is a picturesque destination in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offering a diverse selection of accommodations from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts, all rated between 2 to 5 stars. Whether you're seeking adventure, a romantic getaway, or a business retreat, you'll discover various facilities tailored to enhance your vacation experience, including room service and proximity to beautiful beaches. Explore the perfect place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica in El Ocotal.

• Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica - All Inclusive: Experience the ultimate beach getaway at Hotel Riu Palace Costa Rica, a luxurious 4.5-star all-inclusive resort. This family-friendly paradise features unlimited food and drinks, including options like kayaking, surfing, and a full-service spa. Guests appreciate the direct beach access and kid-friendly amenities such as a supervised childcare program and a free water park. The resort's elegant pools and swim-up bar create a serene atmosphere, making this an ideal choice for families and couples seeking a relaxing vacation with top-notch service.
• The Westin Reserva Conchal, an All-Inclusive Golf Resort & Spa: Nestled along the stunning coastline, The Westin Reserva Conchal offers a blend of luxury and adventure with its 4.5-star all-inclusive status. Perfect for golf enthusiasts, this resort features a challenging course along with beach access and an array of activities, such as snorkeling and kayaking. Guests rave about the 24-hour room service, themed parties, and wellness programs like yoga and Pilates. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, this resort delivers an unforgettable experience with exceptional amenities and services.
• Hotel Riu Guanacaste - All Inclusive: Hotel Riu Guanacaste is a vibrant 4-star all-inclusive resort that caters to families and adventure seekers alike. With unlimited food and drinks, guests can indulge in a variety of culinary delights while enjoying activities like windsurfing and snorkeling. Located directly on the beach, the hotel offers thrilling adventure sports and a free water park for children. Families appreciate the shared playground and family-friendly services, making this resort a fun and exciting choice for those looking to explore the beautiful Costa Rican coast.

Discover the best areas to stay in El Ocotal

El Ocotal offers an enchanting blend of beach relaxation and outdoor adventure. Couples can enjoy romantic sunsets at Playa Ocotal, while families can explore the vibrant atmosphere of nearby Sardinal. Don’t miss the chance to take excursions to the breathtaking views of El Salvador or engage in recreational activities along the stunning Costa Rican coastline. With friendly locals and a welcoming vibe, your vacation in this beautiful region will be truly memorable.

• Tamarindo: Located 19 miles from El Ocotal, Tamarindo is a vibrant beach town known for its lively atmosphere and diverse activities. The city attracts visitors year-round, peaking in March and during the holiday season from December to January. Ideal for romance, family trips, or city exploration, Tamarindo offers a blend of relaxation and excitement. Enjoy world-class golf courses, luxurious resorts, and stunning beaches. Notable attractions include the nearby national parks and the awe-inspiring Rincon de la Vieja volcano, making it a perfect spot for both adventure and leisure.
• Sardinal: As the municipality where El Ocotal is situated, Sardinal is a hidden gem for travelers seeking beach and outdoor adventures. Visitor numbers rise from January to March, with a slight dip in September to November. Sardinal showcases beautiful beaches and lush landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include golfing and relaxing at resorts, while the proximity to national parks and volcanoes offers opportunities to explore Costa Rica's rich biodiversity. Experience the local culture and enjoy the laid-back vibe of this charming town.
• Coco: Just 2 miles from El Ocotal, Coco is an inviting beach town that attracts visitors for its outdoor adventures and vibrant atmosphere. With a consistent influx of travelers, especially in September and during the holiday season, Coco is perfect for those looking to enjoy the sun and surf. The area is known for its excellent resorts and golf courses, along with easy access to beautiful beaches. Explore the nearby national parks and volcanic landscapes, making Coco a fantastic base for both relaxation and adventure on your Costa Rican getaway.

Things to do in El Ocotal

El Ocotal in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offers a fantastic blend of beach and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy activities such as golfing at local courses, exploring hiking trails, and taking jungle tours. Playa Ocotal is a must-visit for sunbathing and water sports. For those seeking unique experiences, options like glamping and camping in the nearby forest provide a chance to connect with nature while enjoying the beauty of this tropical paradise.

Food and drinks

For a taste of local cuisine in El Ocotal, visit Rocio's Kitchen, located 4 miles away. Enjoy traditional dishes like Casado and Ceviche in a charming setting perfect for families and romantic dinners. Don't miss their outdoor dining and expertly brewed coffee.

Recreation

At Reserva Conchal Golf Course, enjoy a vibrant outdoor atmosphere while playing on a stunning 18-hole course, located 11 miles from El Ocotal. Meanwhile, Papagayo Golf and Country Club, just 7 miles away, offers a similar sports vibe. For relaxation, visit Black Stallion Eco Park, 18 miles away, featuring serene wellness experiences.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Canopy Vista Tamarindo, a zipline and ropes course located 18 miles from El Ocotal. Soar through the treetops and navigate challenging obstacles, all set against the stunning backdrop of Costa Rica's lush landscape. It's an exhilarating adventure for adrenaline seekers!

Nightlife

In El Ocotal, the nightlife is vibrant and exciting. The El Coco Casino, located 2 miles away, offers a romantic atmosphere with thrilling gaming options. For a broader experience, Casino Diria, 19 miles from El Ocotal, combines city vibes with engaging entertainment and romance.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Ocotal

To save money on your vacation to El Ocotal, travel between September and November for lower rates on accommodations. Use public transport, like buses, for affordable travel within the area. Take advantage of free activities at nearby beaches such as Coco Beach and Ocotal Beach. When booking your hotel, consider using Expedia to find last-minute deals and package options that combine flights and accommodations for extra savings. Join Expedia’s One Key membership for exclusive discounts and refine your search for eco-friendly hotels to save while being sustainable.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in El Ocotal 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.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy for you to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can organize your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, helping you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your options by hotel category—just check the "Eco-certified" filter to discover sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at El Ocotal 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 El Ocotal

El Ocotal, in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is perfect for beach and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, national parks, and local churches, offering a rich cultural experience. Key attractions include Parque El Ocotal, the stunning Gulf of Papagayo, and the nearby El Mozote. With its blend of relaxation and adventure, El Ocotal is an ideal spot for travelers seeking both leisure and exploration.

• Coco Beach: Just 2 miles from El Ocotal, Coco Beach offers a quintessential beach experience with its soft sands and vibrant beach vibes. It's perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying stunning sunsets.
• Diamante Eco Adventure Park: Located within El Ocotal, this family-friendly theme park provides a fun-filled day with various attractions, including zip-lining and wildlife encounters, ensuring entertainment for all ages.
• Haras del Mar Equestrian Center: Situated 3 miles away, this serene equestrian center is ideal for relaxing horseback excursions. Enjoy friendly staff and secluded trails that let you connect with nature while riding through picturesque landscapes.

Best time to go to El Ocotal

Visitor numbers in El Ocotal is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit El Ocotal is dependant 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 light rain. November is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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 (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	80.4°F (26.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
March	81.7°F (27.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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 (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to El Ocotal

For travelers heading to El Ocotal, the closest major airport is Liberia's Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR), located 13 miles away. Nearby hotel options include the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 10 miles from LIR, offering various transportation services including scheduled airport shuttles. Planet Hollywood Costa Rica and Secrets Papagayo are also excellent choices, situated 9 and 7 miles from the airport, respectively. Alternatively, Tamarindo Airport (TNO) is 17 miles from El Ocotal, with upscale accommodations like JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, 5 miles from TNO, providing shuttle services. Nosara Airport (NOB) is further away at 39 miles, with several hotels offering limited shuttle services.