Find hotels in Santa Elena from $23

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Thrilling Outdoor Adventures: Experience adrenaline-pumping activities like ziplining through the lush canopy and hiking scenic trails such as Senda Monteverde.
• Stunning Natural Landscapes: Enjoy breathtaking views and vibrant wildlife in the picturesque surroundings of Santa Elena.
• Relaxation and Wellness: Unwind with rejuvenating spa treatments and tranquil walks in the lush environment.
• Rich Local Culture: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of nearby towns like Santa Cruz and Alajuela.
• Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from a range of lodgings, from budget-friendly to luxurious stays, catering to every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels in Santa Elena

Discover an array of hotel accommodations in Santa Elena, Monteverde, ranging from budget-friendly lodges to luxurious five-star options. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or pet-friendly stays, this vibrant area has something for everyone. Explore popular choices like Hotel Don Taco and Sibu Lodge, and enjoy the unique experiences that Santa Elena has to offer, making it an ideal destination for your Costa Rican getaway.

• Fiesta Resort Central Pacific - All Inclusive: Experience a family-friendly paradise at Fiesta Resort Central Pacific, located 24 miles from Santa Elena. This all-inclusive resort boasts a vibrant beach theme, offering unlimited food and drinks, exciting activities like tennis and cooking classes, and entertainment for every age. With a dedicated children’s club and supervised childcare, families can relax while kids enjoy the pool and activities. The full-service spa and fitness facilities provide the perfect balance of relaxation and recreation, making it an ideal choice for beach lovers and families alike.
• Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort: Nestled 15 miles from Santa Elena, Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort is a haven for those seeking relaxation in natural hot springs. This family-oriented retreat features an on-site hot spring, offering rejuvenating experiences like hot stone massages and aromatherapy treatments. Kids can splash around in the children’s pool while adults unwind in the spa or enjoy the lush surroundings. Perfect for families and spa enthusiasts, this resort ensures a soothing escape into the heart of nature.
• The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only: Retreat to romance and adventure at The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, located 15 miles from Santa Elena. This adults-only oasis is designed for couples seeking a blend of hot spring relaxation and thrilling outdoor activities like ziplining and kayaking. Guests can indulge in romantic dining experiences and unwind with luxurious spa services, including detoxification wraps and outdoor pools. With stunning views and a serene atmosphere, this resort is perfect for a romantic getaway or an adventurous escape.

Discover the best areas to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Monteverde, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Nestled in lush landscapes, visitors can explore enchanting trails, experience vibrant local culture, and enjoy stunning scenery. Discover the charm of nearby towns like Santa Cruz and Alajuela, or unwind in the family-friendly atmosphere of Peninsula Papagayo. With its mix of recreation and relaxation, Santa Elena offers a unique blend of adventure, colonial décor, and warm hospitality that will make your vacation unforgettable.

• La Fortuna: Located 16 miles from Santa Elena, La Fortuna is a vibrant city renowned for its stunning outdoor experiences. This destination sees year-round visitors, with peak seasons in January and March to April. Adventurers flock here for thrilling activities such as hiking, zip-lining, and hot springs visits, all set against the backdrop of the majestic Arenal Volcano. The town is also home to several resorts and spas, making it a perfect spot for relaxation after a day of exploration. Nearby, you'll find Arenal Volcano National Park and scenic waterfalls, providing ample opportunities for breathtaking views and memorable experiences.
• Monteverde: As the very region where Santa Elena is situated, Monteverde is a natural paradise that attracts visitors throughout the year. Peak travel occurs between January and March, with a slightly lower influx during the off-peak months. Known for its lush cloud forests and rich biodiversity, Monteverde offers numerous outdoor activities, including canopy tours and birdwatching. The area is also famous for its nature reserves and national parks, such as Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the stunning scenery and unique wildlife that Costa Rica is known for.
• Monterrey: About 22 miles from Santa Elena, Monterrey is a charming city that showcases Costa Rica's natural beauty and adventure opportunities. This destination experiences moderate seasonal tourism, peaking in March, July, and December. Outdoor enthusiasts are drawn to Monterrey for activities like hiking and exploring national parks, including nearby volcanoes. With various resorts and spas available, visitors can unwind after a day of excitement. The picturesque landscapes and vibrant local culture make Monterrey a must-visit for those looking to experience the essence of Costa Rica.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Santa Elena in Monteverde, Costa Rica, is an ideal destination for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy thrilling activities like ziplining and explore scenic trails such as Senda Monteverde. For relaxation, the spa at Arenal offers rejuvenating treatments, while short walks in the lush surroundings provide a tranquil escape. With its stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities, Santa Elena promises an unforgettable vacation experience.

Food and drinks

In Santa Elena, try the local favorite, Gallo Pinto, at Restaurante de la Tierra. For a buffet breakfast, head to Café Monteverde. If you're in the mood for gourmet dining, visit The Green Restaurant, known for its innovative vegetarian dishes. Enjoy a taste of Costa Rica!

Recreation

At Termales Los Laureles, unwind in natural hot springs surrounded by lush landscapes, perfect for rejuvenation. Wellness Park Costa Rica offers tranquil trails and holistic treatments, ideal for relaxation. Go Adventure Park provides thrilling activities amidst serene settings, combining adventure with wellness for a balanced experience.

Adventure

At Selvatura Adventure Park, experience thrilling ziplining and a ropes course surrounded by lush nature, located 3 miles from Santa Elena. Enjoy the Costa Rica Chocolate Tour, 15 miles away, to indulge in delightful chocolate making. Explore the breathtaking treeTopWalk at Puentes Colgantes del Arenal, situated 16 miles away.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

To save money on your trip to Santa Elena, Costa Rica, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February and October for lower accommodation rates. Utilize public transport options like walking, biking, or taxis to get around. Enjoy free activities such as Arenal Volcano National Park and Curi-Cancha Reserve. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, or check Expedia's last-minute deals for discounts. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive savings on your bookings.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Elena are January to February and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and June to 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.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool gives you the flexibility to choose your budget, desired location, and more. You can easily sort the results to view the lowest prices first, helping you find the most affordable hotels. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type—if you check the "Eco-certified" filter, you'll see a selection of sustainable and eco-friendly hotels available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Santa Elena 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 Santa Elena

Santa Elena in Monteverde, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With stunning scenery, you can explore reserves and preserves, relax in hot springs, and enjoy nearby beaches. Don't miss attractions like Trópico Monteverde and Montaña Monteverde for an unforgettable experience. Santa Elena offers a perfect blend of nature and adventure that will surely enhance your vacation.

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: Immerse yourself in the lush biodiversity of the Monteverde Cloud Forest. With over 2.5% of the world's biodiversity, you'll encounter unique wildlife, including quetzals and howler monkeys, as you wander through the misty trails.
• Arenal Volcano National Park: Experience the breathtaking scenery and thrilling adventure at Arenal Volcano. Hike through lush trails, soak in natural hot springs, and capture stunning views of the iconic volcano surrounded by diverse flora and fauna.
• Monteverde Orchid Garden: Delight in the beauty of hundreds of orchid species at this enchanting garden. Perfect for families, you'll enjoy guided tours showcasing these exquisite flowers, all while soaking up the serene outdoor atmosphere.

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 moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

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

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

Traveling to Santa Elena in Monteverde, Costa Rica, can be done via several major airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is approximately 48 miles away, with nearby accommodations like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, which is 5 miles from the airport, and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, just 2 miles away. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is about 52 miles from Santa Elena, with hotel options such as the luxurious 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo located 10 miles from the airport. Additionally, La Fortuna (FON-Arenal), just 17 miles away, offers hotels like the 5-star Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal, 4 miles from the airport.