Find hotels in Santa Elena from £42

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Stunning Natural Beauty: Santa Elena is surrounded by lush cloud forests and vibrant wildlife, perfect for nature lovers.
• Adventure Activities: Enjoy thrilling experiences like hiking, zip-lining, and exploring the breathtaking scenery.
• Charming Local Towns: Explore nearby Monteverde and Santa Ana for a romantic, family-friendly atmosphere.
• Relaxing Resorts: A variety of hotels and resorts cater to families and beach seekers with essential amenities.
• Proximity to National Parks: Access to beautiful beaches and nature reserves enhances your outdoor adventures.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover the charm of Santa Elena, Guanacaste, where a variety of hotels and resorts await to enhance your Costa Rican adventure. Perfect for families and those seeking a beach getaway, these accommodations offer essential amenities and services tailored to your needs. Whether you're after the best hotels or unique Santa Elena lodging options, you're sure to find the ideal base for exploring this picturesque region.

• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All Inclusive: Embrace a serene beach vacation at Occidental Papagayo, a 4-star adults-only resort designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Located 13.0km from Santa Elena, this LGBTQIA-friendly property offers a plethora of all-inclusive services, ensuring that you can indulge in unlimited food and drinks throughout your stay. Guests can enjoy direct beach access, a variety of fitness facilities, and entertainment options, all tailored to create a welcoming atmosphere. With multiple meeting rooms available, it also caters to business travellers seeking a blend of work and leisure amidst stunning coastal views.
• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: Experience the glamour and excitement of Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, situated 11.2km from Santa Elena. This 4.5-star resort is perfect for families and beach lovers alike, featuring direct access to the beach and a host of child-friendly amenities, including a dedicated children’s club and playground. With unlimited dining options included in your booking, relish in a culinary adventure while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. This resort combines a fun family experience with luxurious comfort, ensuring memorable moments for guests of all ages.
• Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica - All Inclusive: Discover luxury at Dreams Las Mareas, a 4.5-star all-inclusive resort located 6.8km from Santa Elena. This property is ideal for those seeking a spa-themed getaway, offering a full-service spa with an array of treatments, including deep tissue massages and aromatherapy. With business facilities available, it caters to professional travellers while also providing a tranquil setting for relaxation. Guests can enjoy unlimited dining options, making it the perfect retreat to unwind and indulge in a lavish vacation experience.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, nestled in the scenic Monteverde region of Costa Rica, offers an enchanting escape for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. Surrounded by lush cloud forests and vibrant wildlife, you'll find ample opportunities for hiking, zip-lining, and exploring the breathtaking scenery. Nearby attractions, such as the charming town of Monteverde and the serene atmosphere of Santa Ana, provide a romantic and family-friendly experience. Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this captivating area during your stay.

• La Cruz: Located approximately 7.5km from Santa Elena, La Cruz is a vibrant city that offers an array of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. The region is known for its welcoming atmosphere, with travel experiences peaking in July and during the December to January festive season. Visitors can indulge in activities such as golfing, relaxing at local resorts and spas, and exploring nearby national parks and beaches. The area's striking landscapes, including views of volcanoes, make La Cruz a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
• Cuajiniquil: Nestled within the vicinity of Santa Elena, Cuajiniquil is a charming village that attracts travellers looking for immersive outdoor experiences and breathtaking scenery. The village sees a rise in visitor numbers during the months of March to April and July. Here, you can enjoy activities such as golfing, unwinding in luxurious resorts and spas, and exploring nearby national and state parks. Cuajiniquil's natural beauty, particularly its stunning beaches, offers a perfect backdrop for a relaxing getaway while still providing opportunities for adventure.
• Puerto Soley: Located about 6.2km from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a picturesque village renowned for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. The peak travel season runs from December to February, attracting those looking for sun-soaked relaxation. Visitors can explore local national parks and enjoy the scenic coastline. Puerto Soley is ideal for beach lovers seeking tranquillity, while the surrounding natural wonders provide ample opportunities for exploration and adventure, making it a splendid addition to your Costa Rican itinerary.

Things to do near Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure amidst stunning scenery. Popular activities include enjoying the local golf course and relaxing at nearby resorts. Whether you fancy a round of golf or simply wish to soak in the natural beauty, Santa Elena offers a delightful escape for those looking to unwind and explore the great outdoors.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, you can explore quaint local shops offering handmade souvenirs and artisan crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to the larger Monteverde Market for a wider variety of gifts and local produce, or visit the nearby Plaza Monteverde for a vibrant shopping experience.

Recreation

The Papagayo Golf and Country Club, located 17.4km from Santa Elena, offers a rejuvenating experience amidst stunning landscapes. Enjoy a round of golf in a tranquil atmosphere, complemented by outdoor sports facilities, perfect for unwinding and embracing the natural beauty of Costa Rica.

Adventure

In Santa Elena, explore the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, home to unique flora and fauna, with thrilling canopy tours and suspension bridges. Experience the adrenaline of zip-lining through the treetops or embark on a guided night walk to witness the vibrant nocturnal wildlife.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Elena is vibrant yet laid-back, with places like the Tree House Restaurant and Bar offering a lively atmosphere and delicious cocktails. For a more relaxed vibe, visit Café Monteverde, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Costa Rica, offers numerous ways to save on your trip. Enjoy free access to local attractions like Playa Copal and Playa Puerto Soley. For budget-friendly travel, consider visiting in May or September to October when rates are lower. Book your accommodation about a month in advance or look for last-minute deals on Expedia, especially on Saturdays for the best prices. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and combine bookings for flights, hotels, and activities to maximise savings. Keep an eye out for deals marked with a green banner for additional discounts.

• 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: Booking a hotel in Santa Elena about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Santa Elena with flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is a perfect destination for those seeking adventure and stunning scenery. With its beautiful beaches, national parks, and nature reserves, it offers a wealth of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun on the beach or embark on thrilling adventures, Santa Elena has something for everyone. Be sure to explore the local points of interest to make the most of your visit.

• Santa Rosa National Park: Located a mere 1.9km from Santa Elena, this national park offers breathtaking scenery and thrilling outdoor adventures. Explore diverse ecosystems, spot exotic wildlife, and hike through lush trails that reveal the area's rich history and natural beauty.
• Junquillal Beach: Nestled within Santa Elena, Junquillal Beach is a tranquil paradise perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the serene coastal vibes. The golden sands and gentle waves create an idyllic setting for relaxation and beach activities.
• Maritza Biological Station: This secluded biological station serves as a sanctuary for researchers and nature lovers alike. Engage in recreational activities while surrounded by stunning flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and connection with nature.

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 sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature in Santa Elena falls in October and November. November has slightly low visitor numbers and mostly sunny weather.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	78.6°F (25.9°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	80.1°F (26.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
March	81.7°F (27.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	83.3°F (28.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
May	81.9°F (27.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	79.2°F (26.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	78.8°F (26.0°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
August	78.8°F (26.0°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	77.2°F (25.1°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	77.2°F (25.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
December	77.7°F (25.4°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

To reach Santa Elena, Guanacaste, you can fly into either Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber International Airport), located 13.7km away, or Tamarindo (TNO), which is 26.1km distant. Near Liberia, notable hotels include the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 6.2km from the airport, and the adults-only Secrets Papagayo, 4.3km away, both offering various transportation services. Tamarindo features excellent options like the JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, only 3.1km from the airport. Hotels near Tamarindo also provide convenient transport services, ensuring easy access to both airports for a seamless travel experience.