Find hotels in San Carlos from £40

Top reasons to visit San Carlos

• Stunning Natural Scenery: San Carlos boasts breathtaking landscapes, including enchanting waterfalls and the tranquil Lake Nicaragua, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
• Outdoor Adventures: Ideal for thrill-seekers, visitors can engage in a variety of activities such as hiking, water sports, and exploring nearby national parks.
• Charming Neighbourhoods: Explore inviting local areas that offer a unique blend of culture and relaxation, perfect for family getaways or romantic retreats.
• Delightful Accommodations: A range of lodging options caters to diverse preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay for all types of travellers.
• Relaxing Spa Treatments: Indulge in luxurious spa experiences that allow visitors to unwind and rejuvenate amidst the region's natural beauty.

Find great hotels near San Carlos

Discover a range of delightful accommodations in San Carlos, San José Province, where adventure meets relaxation. From charming guesthouses to well-appointed hotels, you'll find options that cater to families, pet lovers, and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you’re seeking the best San Carlos hotels for a memorable getaway or a comfortable base for exploring nearby Nicaragua, you’re sure to enjoy a warm and inviting stay in this beautiful region of Costa Rica.

• Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio: Nestled 9.3km from San Carlos, Shana by the Beach Manuel Antonio offers a luxurious 4.5-star experience perfect for those seeking a beach and spa-themed getaway. This LGBTQIA-welcoming property boasts direct beach access, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the stunning coastal environment. The full-service spa provides a range of treatments, including massages and body wraps, complemented by a serene pool area with sun loungers and umbrellas for relaxation. Ideal for travellers looking for a blend of leisure and inclusivity, Shana ensures a memorable stay for all.
• La Mariposa Hotel: Located 9.3km from San Carlos, La Mariposa Hotel is a charming 3.5-star accommodation that caters to both business and family travellers. This hotel offers comprehensive amenities for business needs, including multiple meeting rooms and a coworking space, making it a suitable choice for corporate guests. Families will appreciate the child-friendly services such as babysitting, highchairs, and strollers. With its welcoming atmosphere, La Mariposa creates an environment where work and family can harmoniously coexist.
• Makanda by the Sea: Just 8.1km from San Carlos, Makanda by the Sea is a stunning 5-star resort designed for those seeking a romantic escape in nature. With direct beach access and breathtaking views, this property offers exclusive romance packages that enhance the intimate experience. Guests can indulge in limited-hour room service and enjoy romantic dining with pool views. The spa facilities, including outdoor treatment rooms and hot stone massages, provide the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation, making it an ideal retreat for couples.

Where to stay near San Carlos

San Carlos, nestled in the heart of Costa Rica, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking scenic beauty. Explore the tranquil oasis of Lake Nicaragua, where you can indulge in water activities or simply relax by the shore. The city's friendly atmosphere is perfect for family getaways or romantic retreats. Nearby, discover charming neighbourhoods that offer a unique blend of adventure and relaxation, making your visit to San Carlos truly unforgettable.

• Quepos: Nestled approximately 8.1km from San Carlos, Quepos is a vibrant city renowned for its captivating outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. With visitor numbers peaking from January to March, this destination offers a plethora of activities, including access to recreational areas, resorts, and spas. The nearby beaches and the renowned Manuel Antonio National Park serve as local highlights, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.
• Manuel Antonio: Located about 9.3km from San Carlos, the charming village of Manuel Antonio is a superb getaway for those seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking views. The peak travel periods in January and June to July draw visitors to its beautiful beaches and the adjacent national state park, where you can explore diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. With its array of recreational areas and high-quality resorts, Manuel Antonio is perfect for both relaxation and adventure.
• Llano Bonito: Just 2.5km from San Carlos, Llano Bonito is a delightful city that offers a more laid-back experience. While its visitor numbers are relatively stable throughout the year, the peak season occurs from January to March. Travellers flock here for its idyllic beach, making it an ideal spot for those wishing to unwind and enjoy a tranquil atmosphere. Whether you're soaking up the sun or exploring the local surroundings, Llano Bonito provides a serene escape.

Things to do near San Carlos

San Carlos offers an ideal escape for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, featuring stunning scenery and a range of activities. Visitors can indulge in relaxing spa treatments, enjoy luxurious resorts, and explore recreational areas that showcase the region's natural beauty. With its diverse attractions, San Carlos promises an unforgettable vacation experience for those looking to connect with nature and unwind.

Shopping

In San Carlos, visit Mercado Central for a vibrant public market experience with local goods. If you're up for a drive, Multiplaza del Este Mall and Escazú Village, both 21 and 13.7km away respectively, offer diverse shopping, dining, and entertainment options for the whole family.

Recreation

Manuel Antonio Nature Park & Wildlife Refuge, located 8.7km from San Carlos, offers a tranquil setting for nature walks and wildlife observation. Brisas Wellness Center, 9.9km away, provides rejuvenating spa treatments. Mirador Orosi, 13.7km distant, boasts stunning views and serene trails for relaxation and reflection.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Costa Rica Stand Up Paddle Boarding, located 18.6km from San Carlos, where you can enjoy the vibrant waters and scenic surroundings. Titi Canopy, a treetop walk 7.5km away, offers breathtaking views. For more adventure, visit Mountain Top Park, situated 9.3km away, featuring exhilarating activities.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in San Carlos with a visit to the National Theatre and Melico Salazar Theatre for captivating performances. For a more relaxed evening, catch a film at Studio Cinemas, where you can enjoy entertainment in a family-friendly atmosphere filled with culture and romance.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Carlos

To save money on your trip to San Carlos, consider visiting between September and November for lower accommodation rates. Booking your hotel about a month in advance or exploring last-minute deals on Expedia can yield savings, particularly on Fridays, which are the cheapest days to stay. Use Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly options and sort by price for the best deals. Combining your hotel with flights and activities through a package can also reduce costs, helping you enjoy a budget-friendly holiday in Costa Rica.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Carlos are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in San Carlos is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in San Carlos is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in San Carlos is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To uncover the most affordable prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your San Carlos hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near San Carlos

San Carlos, located in San José Province, Costa Rica, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery for visitors. With its captivating beaches, enchanting waterfalls, and nearby national parks, the area is ideal for those seeking thrilling experiences amidst nature. Whether you're looking to relax by the coast or embark on an adventurous hike, San Carlos has a variety of attractions that cater to every type of traveller.

• Manuel Antonio Beach: Located 10.6km from San Carlos, this stunning beach offers vibrant beach vibes, where you can relax on golden sands, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy breathtaking sunsets. It's an ideal spot for sunbathing and unwinding.
• Marina Pez Vela: Just 8.7km away, this marina is a hub of adventure and outdoor activities. Here, you can engage in water sports, go fishing, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere while sipping a drink at one of the nearby eateries.
• Parque Nacional Los Quetzales: Situated 9.9km from San Carlos, this national park is a paradise for nature lovers. With its rich biodiversity, stunning scenery, and numerous hiking trails, it offers an exhilarating experience for those seeking adventure and wildlife observation.

Best time to go to San Carlos

The best time to visit San Carlos can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in San Carlos falls in April and April. April has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather. The coolest average temperature in San Carlos falls in November and November. November has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
January	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately High	Average
February	76.6°F (24.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
February	76.6°F (24.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
March	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
March	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
April	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
April	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly High
May	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	77.5°F (25.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
June	77.0°F (25.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	76.5°F (24.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
August	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
August	76.1°F (24.5°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average
September	75.9°F (24.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
September	75.9°F (24.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
October	75.0°F (23.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
November	74.7°F (23.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
November	74.7°F (23.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	74.8°F (23.8°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Carlos

San Carlos, located in Costa Rica, is accessible via major airports including San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.), which is 16.8km away. Notable hotels near SJO include the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica, 3.1km away, and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, 1.2km away, both offering airport shuttle services. Additionally, San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.) is 14.9km away, with nearby hotels such as the 4-star Radisson San Jose, 2.5km away, providing various transport options. For a closer option, Quepos (XQP) is just 11.2km from San Carlos, featuring hotels like the 5-star Makanda by the Sea, 1.2km away, with on-request shuttle services.