Find hotels in Santa Elena from $16

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Adventure Activities: Experience thrilling ziplining and family-friendly excursions amidst breathtaking landscapes.
• Natural Beauty: Explore stunning reserves, vibrant flower gardens, and serene private gardens in a tropical paradise.
• Charming Village Atmosphere: Enjoy the friendly and cozy vibe of downtown Santa Elena, perfect for relaxation.
• Proximity to Cloud Forests: Venture into nearby cloud forests for unforgettable scenic views and wildlife encounters.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from cozy bed & breakfasts to comfortable hotels catering to adventure seekers and families.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover a range of hotel accommodations in Santa Elena, Monteverde, Costa Rica, perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts alike. From cozy bed & breakfasts to comfortable hotels, you'll find options that cater to families and those looking to immerse themselves in the lush surroundings. Explore the best hotels and services tailored to create an unforgettable vacation experience in this beautiful region.

• Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails: Experience the thrill of adventure and the beauty of nature at Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails, located 12 miles from Santa Elena. This 3-star lodge is perfect for thrill-seekers and those who appreciate the great outdoors. Guests can engage in a variety of adventure sports such as ziplining, kayaking, and hiking, all facilitated by the lodge's prime location. After a day of excitement, unwind at the full-service spa, offering treatments like deep tissue massages and aromatherapy. With stunning views of the surrounding landscape, this lodge is a nature lover's dream.
• El Establo Mountain Hotel: Just 0.6 miles from Santa Elena, El Establo Mountain Hotel is a 3.5-star retreat ideal for families and business travelers alike. The hotel features a range of amenities designed for comfort and convenience, including a full business center and multiple meeting rooms. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities, such as a playground and an arcade game room, ensuring a fun stay for younger guests. For relaxation, indulge in spa treatments or take a dip in the outdoor pool. With its blend of leisure and business facilities, this hotel caters to all types of visitors.
• Hotel Linda Vista: Located 9 miles from Santa Elena, Hotel Linda Vista offers a delightful mix of comfort and scenic views. This 3-star hotel features complimentary breakfast options and a cozy bar and lounge for guests to unwind. Enjoy entertainment amenities like satellite TV while taking in the beautiful rural, river, and mountain surroundings. Perfect for travelers seeking a laid-back experience, Hotel Linda Vista allows guests to savor the natural beauty of Costa Rica while enjoying essential comforts during their stay.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, a charming village in Monteverde, Costa Rica, offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore the lush surroundings and indulge in outdoor activities, all within walking distance from cozy downtown Santa Elena. With its friendly atmosphere and family-friendly vibe, this destination is ideal for unforgettable vacations. Venture into the nearby cloud forests for stunning scenery, or enjoy recreational activities that highlight the beauty of this tropical paradise.

• Monteverde: Nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, Monteverde is renowned for its stunning cloud forests and rich biodiversity. As a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers a plethora of adventure activities, including ziplining and hiking through scenic trails. The area is home to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and numerous national parks, making it a prime spot for nature lovers. Visitors can indulge in various local resorts and spas, ensuring a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure during their stay.
• San Lorenzo: Located 16 miles from Santa Elena, San Lorenzo is a charming city that captures the essence of Costa Rica's natural beauty. With its lush landscapes and proximity to majestic volcanoes, it attracts those seeking outdoor adventures. Popular activities include ziplining and exploring national parks, all while enjoying the serene scenery. The city features several resorts and spas, providing comfortable accommodations for travelers looking to unwind after a day of exploration.
• Peñas Blancas: Just 9 miles from Santa Elena, Peñas Blancas is a delightful city surrounded by breathtaking mountains and rich wildlife. This area is perfect for travelers eager to experience outdoor adventures, with activities ranging from hiking to spa retreats. The nearby national state parks offer a chance to immerse oneself in nature, with stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Peñas Blancas is an ideal destination for those wanting a blend of excitement and relaxation amid Costa Rica's natural wonders.

Things to do in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena in Monteverde, Costa Rica, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Visitors can enjoy thrilling activities such as ziplining, exploring the stunning scenery, and participating in family-friendly excursions. The area boasts various outdoor seating options and the renowned Explora Park, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and adventure. Santa Elena is an ideal destination for a memorable vacation filled with excitement and exploration.

Shopping

For a local experience, visit the San Ramon Municipal Market, located 29 miles away, where you'll find vibrant local goods and crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to El Pilon Station, 30 miles away, offering a mix of family-friendly shops and unique souvenirs.

Recreation

Termales Los Laureles, 16 miles from Santa Elena, offers a tranquil environment with hot springs and relaxation amenities, perfect for unwinding. Wellness Park Costa Rica, 13 miles away, features serene walking paths and wellness programs. For sports enthusiasts, Guillermo Vargas Roldan Stadium, 28 miles from town, provides an energetic atmosphere.

Adventure

At Selvatura Adventure Park, experience thrilling zipline courses surrounded by lush canopies, located 3 miles from Santa Elena. Sky Adventures Monteverde Park offers an exhilarating zipline experience 2 miles away, while Ficus La Raiz invites you to enjoy outdoor activities right in Santa Elena's vibrant landscape.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife in Santa Elena by visiting the Tree House Restaurant, where you can enjoy live music under the stars. For a lively atmosphere, check out the Monteverde Beer House for local brews and friendly vibes, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

To save money during your visit to Santa Elena, consider taking advantage of the free entry to local attractions like the Curi-Cancha Reserve. Opt for walking, biking, or taxis for affordable transport. The best time to visit is from September to November when prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance for better deals, particularly on Saturdays, and explore last-minute offers on Expedia. Joining Expedia’s One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts. Always compare prices and consider package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Elena 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: 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 Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to customize your options based on 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 booking an Expedia package that combines your Santa Elena hotel with flights and activities.
• 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 Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers an incredible vacation experience for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With its beautiful reserves, vibrant flower gardens, and serene private gardens, there's something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with family or looking for thrilling activities, the attractions in and around Santa Elena promise unforgettable experiences amidst stunning scenery.

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: Immerse yourself in a breathtaking ecosystem teeming with diverse flora and fauna. This reserve, just 2 miles from Santa Elena, offers a unique opportunity to explore lush trails, hanging bridges, and vibrant wildlife, including rare bird species like the resplendent quetzal.
• Monteverde Butterfly Gardens: Located only 0.5 miles from Santa Elena, this enchanting private garden features a variety of butterfly species fluttering among colorful plants. Enjoy guided tours that educate visitors on the life cycle of butterflies and the importance of conservation.
• Friends Meeting House: A charming church situated 1 mile from Santa Elena, the Friends Meeting House offers a peaceful retreat with cultural vibes. Experience the welcoming atmosphere and learn about the Quaker principles that guide this community.

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 mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Elena falls in November, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.2°F (26.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	80.6°F (27.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.9°F (27.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	82.2°F (27.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
May	81.3°F (27.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
August	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
September	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

To reach Santa Elena, Costa Rica, you can fly into three major airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is about 48 miles away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Hilton San Jose La Sabana offering airport shuttle services. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is located around 52 miles from Santa Elena, featuring hotels such as the luxurious Four Seasons Resort and the 4.5-star Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, both of which provide convenient shuttle options. Cóbano Airport (ACO) is the closest at 47 miles away, with excellent accommodations like the 5-star Hotel Nantipa and LALOON Luxury Suites, ensuring easy access to your destination.