Find hotels in Santa Elena from £38

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Adventure Activities: Experience thrilling ziplining and scenic trails, perfect for adrenaline seekers.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: Explore the Santa Elena Reserve and enjoy breathtaking views and enchanting landscapes.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Discover charming shops, local cuisine, and lively nightlife in the downtown area.
• Relaxing Resorts: Choose from a variety of accommodations, including luxurious resorts and family-friendly hotels.
• Proximity to Beaches and National Parks: Enjoy easy access to beautiful beaches and nearby national parks for relaxation and exploration.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Santa Elena, Guanacaste, where adventure meets family-friendly hospitality. Whether you seek a charming hotel or a resort for a beach vacation, you'll find options that cater to your needs. From luxurious amenities to comfortable stays, Santa Elena offers some of the best hotels for an unforgettable getaway in Costa Rica.

• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive: This 4-star resort is designed exclusively for adults, ensuring a tranquil and sophisticated atmosphere for guests seeking a romantic beach getaway. Located 33.8km from Santa Elena, the resort boasts direct beach access and a plethora of all-inclusive services, including unlimited food and drinks, fitness facilities, and entertainment options. Guests can indulge in a variety of culinary experiences with à la carte dining, all while enjoying the stunning coastal views. Perfect for those combining business and leisure, Occidental Papagayo promises a relaxing stay surrounded by natural beauty.
• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: Rated 4.5 stars with a guest rating of 8.2, this resort is a haven for couples seeking a romantic escape. Situated 29.0km from Santa Elena, it features direct beach access and offers exclusive romance packages to enhance your stay. Guests can enjoy 24-hour room service and unwind with spa treatments, including massages and manicures. The vibrant atmosphere of Planet Hollywood, combined with luxurious amenities, creates the perfect backdrop for a memorable holiday filled with relaxation and intimacy.
• CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive: With a stellar guest rating of 9.0, this 4-star accommodation is an ideal choice for families seeking a fun-filled beach vacation. Located 33.8km from Santa Elena, CC Beach Front Papagayo provides direct access to the beach and a variety of family-friendly amenities, including shared playgrounds and games for children. The all-inclusive offerings ensure that both parents and kids can enjoy a stress-free holiday, allowing families to create unforgettable memories in a beautiful setting.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, offers an unforgettable blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty. Explore the vibrant downtown filled with charming shops and local cuisine, and enjoy the lively nightlife that brings the town to life after dark. With breathtaking sunset views and a variety of attractions nearby, Santa Elena is perfect for families and couples seeking relaxation or recreation in a secluded setting. Discover the enchanting landscapes and immerse yourself in the region's natural wonders.

• El Jobo: Nestled approximately 16.1km from Santa Elena, El Jobo is a charming village that offers a serene escape for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike. The travel experience here is marked by a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities. Visitors can indulge in thrilling adventures such as golf, while the nearby beach and national parks provide stunning landscapes and opportunities for exploration. The peak travel months from January and March to April see an influx of visitors, making it an ideal time to enjoy its vibrant community and outdoor offerings.
• Cuajiniquil: Situated in close proximity to Santa Elena, Cuajiniquil is another quaint village that attracts travellers year-round. Known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor adventures, this destination is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. The area boasts lovely resorts and is conveniently located near beautiful beaches and national parks, offering a multitude of experiences. Peak tourist seasons occur in March to April and July, making these months lively times to discover the rich natural beauty and local charm of Cuajiniquil.
• Puerto Soley: Just 16.1km away from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a vibrant village renowned for its seasonal appeal. The peak travel season from December to February brings a lively atmosphere, ideal for those seeking beach and outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy the stunning coastal views and partake in various water activities. The nearby national parks and beautiful beaches enhance the charm of this destination, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and adventure during its busier months.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste is perfect for an adventurous getaway, offering activities such as ziplining and exploring scenic trails. Visitors can enjoy local tours, discover the best viewpoints, and immerse themselves in art galleries. The area also boasts relaxing resorts and spas, making it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to unwind.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, explore local artisan markets for unique souvenirs like handcrafted jewellery and traditional Costa Rican coffee. If you're up for a drive, visit the Monteverde Mall for a broader selection of shops and dining options.

Recreation

Experience the serene atmosphere at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can unwind amidst lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Join a yoga class at a local retreat to rejuvenate your mind and body while enjoying the tranquil surroundings of this beautiful region.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the cloud forest canopy at Selvatura Park, where you'll soar over breathtaking landscapes. For a unique perspective, explore the hanging bridges, offering stunning views of the lush flora and fauna of Santa Elena's enchanting environment.

Nightlife

In Santa Elena, the vibrant nightlife features the Tree House, renowned for its lively atmosphere and live music. For a more relaxed evening, head to the Café de Paris, where you can enjoy cocktails and conversation in a charming setting amidst the lush surroundings.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Elena are May and September to October, 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: Book your hotel in Santa Elena about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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 Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear at the top. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your Santa Elena hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Popular attractions include beautiful beaches and national parks, making it perfect for those desiring both relaxation and excitement. While exploring, consider visiting the Santa Elena Reserve and its surrounding areas. Additionally, travellers can find helpful information on distances, such as how far Santa Elena is from Medellín, enhancing your experience in this picturesque destination.

• Maritza Biological Station: Nestled in the heart of Santa Elena, this reserve offers a tranquil escape into nature. With opportunities for recreation and a serene atmosphere, visitors can immerse themselves in the rich biodiversity of the region, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
• Junquillal Beach: Experience the stunning coastline at Junquillal Beach, where the soft sands and gentle waves create a perfect setting for relaxation. The beach vibes invite you to unwind, swim, or partake in water sports while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
• La Casona: A cultural gem in Santa Elena, La Casona stands as a monument steeped in history. Visitors can delve into the local heritage, experiencing the vibrant culture and traditions that shape this captivating region.

Best time to go to Santa Elena

The best time to visit Santa Elena 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 sunny with no rain. October and November are its coolest month on average. At the time of November, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

When travelling to Santa Elena, Guanacaste, the major airport options include Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.), located 35.4km away, and Tamarindo (TNO), situated 67.6km distant. Near Liberia, you can find the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo and the all-inclusive Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, both offering convenient shuttle services. Tamarindo is home to the esteemed JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, providing transportation services as well. Additionally, La Fortuna (FON-Arenal), 120.7km from Santa Elena, features top-rated hotels like The Springs Resort and Spa, also offering airport transfers. Each location ensures hassle-free access for your visit to the enchanting Santa Elena.