Find hotels in Malpais from £29

Top reasons to visit Malpais

• Stunning Beaches: Malpais boasts pristine beaches like Malpais Beach, perfect for relaxation and breathtaking sunsets.
• Surfing Paradise: Renowned for its surf spots, Malpais attracts thrill-seekers eager to ride the enchanting waves.
• Natural Attractions: Explore captivating waterfalls and nearby islands, immersing yourself in the region's beauty.
• Outdoor Adventures: Engage in various outdoor activities, from hiking to exciting tours showcasing the local landscape.
• Charming Accommodations: Choose from an array of delightful lodgings, from luxurious resorts to inviting beach houses.

Find great hotels near Malpais

Discover a range of delightful accommodations in Malpais, where adventure meets the serene beauty of the Costa Rican coast. From charming hotels and luxurious resorts to inviting beach houses and vacation rentals, there's something for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly experience or a tranquil getaway by the beach, Malpais offers the perfect base for your unforgettable holiday.

• Hotel Tropico Latino: Hotel Tropico Latino is a charming 3-star resort hotel boasting a guest rating of 8.4. Located 1.6km from Malpais, it caters to families and adventure seekers alike. With direct access to the beach, guests can indulge in a variety of adventure sports, including onsite surfing and nearby activities such as snorkelling and horse riding. The hotel prioritises family comfort, offering amenities like childcare services and a special breakfast for children, making it an excellent choice for those travelling with little ones.
• Hotel Santa Teresa by the Beach: Rated at 9.4, this 3.5-star hotel embodies a nature-themed, pet-friendly retreat just 1.6km from Malpais. Hotel Santa Teresa by the Beach features direct beach access and welcomes pets, allowing guests to enjoy a seamless blend of relaxation and nature. The hotel focuses on wellness, offering a tranquil atmosphere complemented by its natural surroundings. With specific pet policies and amenities in place, it’s perfect for travellers looking to unwind in a serene environment while bringing their furry friends along.
• Banana Beach Hotel: With a guest rating of 8.6, Banana Beach Hotel is a delightful 3.5-star property situated 3.2km from Malpais. This hotel seamlessly combines beach access with adventure, offering various activities such as fishing and hiking nearby. It also welcomes pets, ensuring that your furry companions can join you on holiday. Guests appreciate the lively atmosphere and the opportunity to explore the surrounding natural beauty while enjoying comfortable accommodations that cater to both adventure and relaxation.

Where to stay in Malpais

Malpais, a charming village in Costa Rica, is perfect for those seeking a tranquil beach escape or an adventurous outdoor experience. Visitors can unwind on the pristine Malpais Beach, renowned for its stunning sunsets and relaxing atmosphere. Explore the nearby Terrace Malpais for a taste of local culture, or embark on thrilling activities in the surrounding tropical landscapes. This secluded destination promises a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, making it an ideal spot for your holiday.

• Cóbano: Cóbano is a vibrant city where Malpais is nestled. This area enjoys a steady influx of travellers year-round, with peak visitation occurring from December to February. Cóbano is renowned for its beach and outdoor adventure experiences. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as golfing at local courses and relaxing in nearby resorts. The surrounding attractions include stunning beaches, national parks, and the majestic volcanoes that punctuate the landscape, making it an ideal base for exploring the natural beauty of the region.
• Santa Teresa: Located approximately 4.8km from Malpais, Santa Teresa is a charming village that attracts visitors seeking a laid-back beach lifestyle. The peak travel season falls between January and March, drawing in those eager for sun, surf, and outdoor adventures. Santa Teresa offers access to several resorts and golf courses, along with breathtaking beaches. The nearby national parks and volcanic landscapes provide ample opportunities for exploration and connection with nature, ensuring a memorable stay for all who visit.
• Carmen: Just 1.6km from Malpais, Carmen is a quaint village that welcomes a consistent stream of visitors throughout the year. It experiences peak arrivals in January and during the summer months of July and August. Travellers flock here for beach activities and outdoor adventures, with local attractions including shopping centres and golf courses. The stunning beaches, along with the impressive volcanoes and mountains in the vicinity, offer a backdrop that enhances the laid-back vibe of Carmen, making it a delightful spot to unwind.

Things to do in Malpais

Malpais is a fantastic destination for beach and adventure holidays, offering a range of activities such as surfing at popular spots, exploring natural attractions, and enjoying enchanting waves. Visitors can indulge in resort amenities and play golf at local courses. Don't miss the various tours available, which showcase the vibrant outdoor scene and many other exciting activities in this beautiful coastal region of Costa Rica.

Shopping

In Malpais, you can find charming local shops offering handmade crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit the Auto Mercado in Cóbano, about 24.1km away, for a wider selection of groceries and gifts, or explore the shops in Santa Teresa for unique beachwear and artwork.

Recreation

In Malpais, the Pranamar Villas offer yoga classes and holistic wellness treatments surrounded by lush gardens. Nearby, the Anamaya Resort features rejuvenating spa services and nutritious cuisine, allowing you to relax and recharge while enjoying stunning ocean views.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of surfing at Malpais Beach, renowned for its consistent waves. Explore the natural beauty with a hike in Cabo Blanco Nature Reserve, where you can encounter diverse wildlife and stunning coastal views. Don't miss the vibrant sunset horseback ride along the shoreline for a memorable end to your day.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife in Malpais by visiting The Bakery for delightful cocktails and a laid-back vibe. For a lively atmosphere, head to La Esquina for dancing and live music, where you can enjoy local rhythms and mingle with fellow travellers.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Malpais

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Malpais are May, September and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Malpais 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 Malpais is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Malpais is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to identify the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel category—selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Malpais with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near Malpais

Malpais is an idyllic destination for beach and adventure holidays, offering stunning beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and nearby islands. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful Malpais Beach and the surrounding scenic outdoor experiences. With its captivating landscape, Malpais caters to those seeking relaxation and adventure alike, making it an ideal spot for an unforgettable getaway in Costa Rica.

• Montezuma Beach: A stunning stretch of golden sand located 9.7km from Malpais, Montezuma Beach offers a laid-back atmosphere perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying picturesque sunsets. The vibrant beach vibes make it an ideal spot for relaxation and socialising.
• Montezuma Falls: Nestled 9.7km away, Montezuma Falls is a breathtaking waterfall that provides an adventurous escape. With its lush surroundings, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking hiking trails and romantic picnic spots amidst nature's beauty.
• Cabuya Island: Just 8.0km from Malpais, Cabuya Island is a tranquil paradise boasting pristine beaches and stunning views. This idyllic island is perfect for outdoor activities like snorkelling and exploring the rich marine life, all while soaking up the sun.

Best time to go to Malpais

The best time to visit Malpais 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.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	78.8°F (26.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
February	80.2°F (26.8°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.3°F (27.4°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
April	81.5°F (27.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	80.2°F (26.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
June	78.8°F (26.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
July	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
September	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
November	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Malpais

To reach Malpais, you can fly into three major airports. San José (SJO - Juan Santamaría International) is 111.0km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, both offering airport shuttle services. Liberia (LIR - Daniel Oduber International) is 117.5km from Malpais, featuring luxurious options such as the Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo and Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, both providing scheduled shuttle services. Lastly, Quepos (XQP) is 112.7km away, with excellent hotels like the 5-star Makanda by the Sea, also offering convenient transportation options. Each airport provides various shuttle services to facilitate your journey.