Find hotels in Santa Elena from £14

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Stunning Natural Reserves: Explore the Santa Elena Reserve, showcasing Costa Rica's rich biodiversity and breathtaking scenery.
• Adventure Activities: Engage in exhilarating skywalk tours and nature walks, perfect for thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts.
• Charming Downtown: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Elena's downtown, where friendly locals embody the spirit of pura vida.
• Family-Friendly Attractions: Enjoy a variety of activities suitable for families, ensuring fun for all ages.
• Comfortable Accommodations: Choose from a range of inviting hotels and bed & breakfasts, offering a unique blend of comfort and adventure.

Find great hotels in and around Santa Elena

Discover a variety of charming accommodations in Santa Elena, Monteverde, perfect for every type of traveller. From adventurous explorers to families and business travellers, the hotels and bed & breakfasts offer spacious rooms and inviting pool areas. Experience the unique blend of comfort and adventure that Santa Elena has to offer, ensuring a memorable vacation in the heart of Costa Rica.

• El Establo Mountain Hotel: A family-friendly haven, El Establo Mountain Hotel is a delightful 3.5-star accommodation rated 8.2, located a mere 966m from Santa Elena. This hotel is perfect for families and business travellers alike, offering a range of amenities designed for children, including a children's pool, a shared playground, and onsite babysitting services. Guests appreciate the inviting atmosphere alongside a stunning mountain backdrop, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural wonders while ensuring the little ones are well catered for.
• Hotel Linda Vista: With a guest rating of 9.0, Hotel Linda Vista is a charming 3-star establishment located 14.5km from Santa Elena. Known for its picturesque mountain views, this hotel offers a delightful blend of relaxation and culinary experiences with a restaurant and a bar. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast each day and a variety of entertainment options, including satellite television. Its serene rural setting provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration of the nearby river, making it a fantastic choice for those seeking both comfort and adventure.
• Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast: Rated 9.4, Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast is a cosy 3-star lodging situated in the heart of Santa Elena. This property embraces a nature-themed experience, perfect for travellers looking to unwind and reconnect with the environment. With a focus on wellness, guests can enjoy the outdoor terrace, which offers a peaceful space to soak in the natural beauty surrounding the area. The charming atmosphere and personalised service make this bed and breakfast a wonderful retreat for nature enthusiasts.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, nestled in the lush landscapes of Monteverde, offers a delightful blend of adventure and natural beauty. Explore the vibrant downtown, where friendly locals embody the spirit of pura vida. Venture into nearby attractions that showcase the region's stunning scenery, making it perfect for family-friendly outings or thrilling escapades. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Santa Elena promises an unforgettable experience in one of Costa Rica's most enchanting areas.

• Monteverde: Nestled within the lush cloud forests of Puntarenas Province, Monteverde is a vibrant city that serves as the gateway to adventure and natural beauty. With a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, particularly peaking from January to March, this destination is renowned for its outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery. Expect to find a range of resorts and spas that offer relaxation after a day of exploration. Notable attractions include the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the stunning Arenal Volcano, making it a perfect base for eco-tourists and adventure seekers alike.
• San Luis: A charming village located a mere 3.2km from Santa Elena, San Luis offers a serene escape for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. With visitor numbers peaking in March and the holiday season, this village provides a lovely blend of outdoor adventures and picturesque landscapes. Explore nearby national parks and volcanos, or wander through the scenic trails that characterise this area. San Luis is ideal for travellers wishing to experience the tranquillity of Costa Rica's rural life while still being close to the excitement of Monteverde.
• La Lindora: Situated 4.8km from Santa Elena, La Lindora is a quaint village that attracts visitors with its eco-friendly ethos and outdoor experiences. With a moderate flow of travellers, particularly in March and the festive season, this area is perfect for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. La Lindora is home to various shopping centres and areas, allowing for a delightful blend of leisure and exploration. The proximity to nature reserves and stunning beaches adds to its charm, making it a wonderful spot for those looking to connect with Costa Rica's rich biodiversity.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for a memorable holiday. Visitors can explore art galleries, embark on exhilarating skywalk tours, and enjoy engaging nature walks. Families will find plenty of fun activities to partake in, alongside opportunities for relaxation at local resorts and spas. This charming destination truly caters to those seeking both excitement and tranquility amidst Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, you can explore various local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs, including artisan crafts and coffee. If you're up for a drive, visit Multiplaza Escazú, a larger mall with international brands and dining options, located about 48.3km away in San José.

Recreation

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve offers tranquil walks through lush greenery, where you can reconnect with nature. For a rejuvenating experience, visit the Monteverde Wellness Centre, featuring yoga classes and holistic treatments that promote relaxation and well-being amidst stunning views of the forest.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the lush canopy at Sky Adventures Monteverde, where you'll soar above the treetops. For a unique perspective, explore the hanging bridges at Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, offering stunning views of the rainforest and its diverse wildlife.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Santa Elena by visiting the Tree House Restaurant & Café for a unique dining atmosphere amidst the trees. For a lively evening, head to the Morpho’s Bar, where you can enjoy cocktails and local music, creating a perfect blend of entertainment and relaxation.

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 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. 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 Santa Elena is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Elena is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred destination, and additional criteria. You can arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Moreover, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, 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 stay in Santa Elena with your flights and activities by booking an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena in Monteverde is perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering breathtaking scenery and eco-friendly experiences. Key attractions include the Santa Elena Reserve, which showcases the region's lush biodiversity, as well as charming flower and private gardens. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature while exploring these reserves, making it an ideal destination for those seeking adventure amidst stunning landscapes.

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: A stunning natural sanctuary, this reserve showcases a rich biodiversity, including countless species of birds, insects, and plants. The cloud forest environment creates a mystical atmosphere, perfect for hiking and birdwatching, just 3.2km from Santa Elena.
• Curi-Cancha Reserve: A hidden gem only 1.6km away, Curi-Cancha offers well-maintained trails amidst lush greenery. It's renowned for its wildlife, including the elusive resplendent quetzal, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
• Monteverde Orchid Garden: Located within Santa Elena, this enchanting garden features a diverse array of orchids, showcasing the beauty of Costa Rica’s floral diversity. With a family-friendly atmosphere, it's perfect for leisurely strolls and educational experiences.

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 average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.2°F (26.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Moderately High	Average
February	80.6°F (27.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.9°F (27.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
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	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
June	79.9°F (26.6°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
July	79.5°F (26.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	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	Slightly Low
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	Average	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

To reach Santa Elena, you can fly into two major airports: San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) and Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.). San José Airport is approximately 77.2km away, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall and the 4.5-star Hilton San Jose La Sabana, both offering shuttle services. Liberia Airport, located about 83.7km from Santa Elena, features hotels like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, which also provides transportation options. Additionally, Quepos Airport (XQP) is situated 123.9km away, with luxurious hotels like Makanda by the Sea, offering convenient shuttle services for guests.