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17 Oct - 18 Oct
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18 Oct - 19 Oct
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23 Oct - 25 Oct
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Our top choices for Santa Elena hotels

A wooden cabin with large windows, a fireplace, and a seating area with chairs and a table.
A room with two beds, wooden walls, and large windows with curtains.
A room with a ceiling fan, two chairs, a bench, and large windows with a view of trees.
A wooden interior with a bench, a chair, and a table.

1. Santa Elena Lodge

Santa Elena Lodge
Santa Elena
United States
Bruce
฿1,952
฿3,376 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Oct - 1 Nov
Santa Elena Lodge
Restaurant
A modern reception area with curved wooden panels, a central seating area, and a reception desk.
A modern living room with a sofa, ottomans, a coffee table, and a dining area with chairs and tables.
Meeting facility

2. JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, All-Inclusive

JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, All-Inclusive
La Cruz
฿22,060
฿22,060 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, All-Inclusive
A resort pool area with a thatched-roof structure, palm trees, and lounge chairs.
A hotel with a two-story structure, a covered outdoor seating area, and a well-maintained lawn with palm trees.
An aerial view of a resort with multiple bungalow-style buildings, a central pool area, and a beachside location.
A wooden dining area with a table and chairs, large windows, and a red patterned sofa.

3. Nandel Beach Resort

Nandel Beach Resort
La Cruz
United States
Marshall
฿4,366
฿4,934 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Nandel Beach Resort
A modern living room with a sofa, a coffee table, and a view of a swimming pool and outdoor seating area.
A modern house with a glass facade, a staircase leading to a deck, and a well-maintained lawn.
A wooden cabin with a glass door, a massage chair, a massage table, an ice box, and a wall-mounted dreamcatcher.
A compact kitchen with a wooden table, a wicker chair, and a hanging light fixture.

4. Esencia de Miel Villas & Boutique Safari

Esencia de Miel Villas & Boutique Safari
La Cruz
United States
Oscar
฿5,431
฿6,805 total
includes taxes & fees
31 Oct - 1 Nov
Esencia de Miel Villas & Boutique Safari
A modern bar area with a long wooden counter, multiple bar stools, and hanging decorative lights.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a bar area, surrounded by a modern building with large windows and a covered seating area.
A modern reception desk with a curved design, a flat-screen TV, and a sign indicating the location as Hampton Guanacaste Airport, Costa Rica.
A bar area with a long counter, multiple stools, and shelves stocked with bottles.

5. Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport

Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport
Liberia
United States
Laurel
฿4,404
฿4,976 total
includes taxes & fees
25 Oct - 26 Oct
Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport
A wooden cabin room with a bed, a window with curtains, and a wooden shelf.
A pathway leading to a house surrounded by lush greenery and a lake in the background.
A beach with clear waters, a sandy shore, and lush greenery.
A modern room with a wooden ceiling, a sofa, a bed, and a dining area.

6. Blue Dream Kiteboarding Resort

Blue Dream Kiteboarding Resort
La Cruz
United States
carl
฿1,162
฿1,692 total
includes taxes & fees
13 Nov - 14 Nov
Blue Dream Kiteboarding Resort
A lobby with a reception desk, two lamps, a stone wall, and a television.
A hotel with a swimming pool, sun loungers, and palm trees.
A hotel lobby with seating areas, a reception desk, and a chandelier.
A bar area with wooden flooring, bar stools, and a long counter with a television.

7. Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport

Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport
Liberia
Mexico
Timothy
฿4,404
฿4,976 total
includes taxes & fees
23 Oct - 24 Oct
Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport
A person meditating on a wooden deck with a view of mountains and trees.
A kitchenette with a wooden cabinet, a sink, a small refrigerator, and a stone wall.
A dining area with a table set for two, surrounded by chairs, a hanging light fixture, and a potted plant.
Front of property

8. Casa Paz by Otium

Casa Paz by Otium
La Cruz
Canada
David
฿1,766
฿1,996 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Casa Paz by Otium
A pool area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, a reflection pool, and a view of hotel buildings with balconies.
A modern hotel room with a large bed, a sofa, a TV, and a balcony with a view of the hills.
A spacious hotel lobby with a modern design, featuring a large seating area, a bar, and a view of the outdoors.
A rooftop terrace with a view of a lake and hills, featuring a seating area with tables and chairs, and a fire pit.

9. Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
Nacascolo
United States
Brittney
฿12,407
฿12,407 total
includes taxes & fees
27 Oct - 28 Oct
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
A clear blue pool surrounded by tropical vegetation and a thatched-roof structure.
A spacious hallway with wooden flooring, a central wooden table, and a chandelier.
A wooden cabin with a wooden deck, surrounded by dense tropical foliage.
A person standing on a wooden deck with a metal railing, overlooking a lush landscape with trees and hills.

10. Borinquen Thermal Resort

Borinquen Thermal Resort
Canas Dulces
Canada
Raaya
฿5,682
฿6,421 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Nov - 18 Nov
Borinquen Thermal Resort
A cozy lounge area with plush seating, a wooden table, and various potted plants.
A bedroom with two beds, a wooden ceiling, and a small table.
A sunset view with a cross and palm trees.
A two-story building with a restaurant named 'Mirador Bar Restaurant' at the ground level.

11. Hotel Punta Descartes

Hotel Punta Descartes
La Cruz
Canada
Susan
฿2,678
฿3,027 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Nov - 10 Nov
Hotel Punta Descartes
A resort with a pool, lounge chairs, umbrellas, and a stone wall.
A pool area with lounge chairs and umbrellas, surrounded by lush greenery and a building with a wooden facade.
A modern building with large arched windows and a balcony.
A wooden deck with two massage tables, a small round table with candles, and a view of a body of water and trees.

12. Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt

Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt
Nacascolo
United States
Dianelys
฿19,219
฿24,646 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt
A woman sitting by a clear pool with a stone wall and lush greenery in the background.
A woman in a floral dress standing on a wooden bridge surrounded by lush greenery.
A spacious bedroom with a large bed, a wooden ceiling, and a view of the outdoors through a sliding door.
A two-story house with a front porch, a covered patio, and a well-maintained garden.

13. Buena Vista del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa

Buena Vista del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa
Canas Dulces
United States
Amanda
฿3,060
฿3,458 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Buena Vista del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa
A swimming pool with a rock waterfall feature surrounded by lush greenery.
A corridor with tiled flooring, black railings, and potted plants.
A hotel room with a large bed, a desk, a chair, a wardrobe, a TV, a mirror, and a bathroom with a shower and sink.
A spacious lobby with red sofas and a black coffee table, featuring a large pillar and a tiled floor.

14. Best Western El Sitio Hotel

Best Western El Sitio Hotel
Liberia
Canada
Gwendolyn
฿3,906
฿4,413 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Best Western El Sitio Hotel
A bar area with a wooden bar counter, multiple stools, and hanging wicker lamps.
A couple sitting by a clear, rocky pool with a stone wall and a pipe.
A swimming pool with lounge chairs and a gazebo.
A person performing a yoga pose on a wooden deck with a view of mountains and greenery.

15. Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
Curubandé
United States
Chad
฿4,712
฿5,324 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
A swimming pool with a sandy edge, a building with a flat roof, and trees in the background.
A restaurant with a bar area, multiple tables and chairs, and large windows offering a view of the outdoors.
A campfire with people around it, a grassy area, and a fence in the background.
A reception area with a sign indicating it is a no-smoking zone and a sign for 'RECEPCION' which suggests a reception desk.

16. www.elcocobolofoodanrest.com

www.elcocobolofoodanrest.com
Canas Dulces
฿2,130
฿2,407 total
includes taxes & fees
20 Oct - 21 Oct
www.elcocobolofoodanrest.com
A infinity pool with a thatched roof structure, a view of the ocean, and a rocky shoreline.
A couple in a swimming pool holding drinks, with a bar and other people in the background.
A couple seated at a table with a view of a lake and hills.
A reception area with a wooden reception desk labeled "Coudovac," a ceiling fan, and a view of lush greenery and hills.

17. Condovac la Costa

Condovac la Costa
Sardinal
United States
Marvin
฿5,285
฿5,972 total
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov
Condovac la Costa
A multi-level building with balconies, large pillars, and indoor seating areas.
A modern living room with a sofa, coffee table, and a ceiling fan. There is a kitchen area with wooden cabinets and a glass door leading outside.
A pool area with wooden deck, lounge chairs, and umbrellas.
A lobby with a reception desk, seating area, and a large wooden ceiling structure.

18. Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa
Sardinal
United States
Christopher
฿7,700
฿8,701 total
includes taxes & fees
19 Oct - 20 Oct
Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa
A swimming pool with a tropical gazebo, surrounded by trees and a view of the sea.
A restaurant with outdoor seating, a covered patio, and a stone pathway leading to the entrance.
A restaurant with a central bar area, multiple seating options, and large windows providing views of greenery.
A tree with a yellow net swing attached to it.

19. CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive
Sardinal
United States
Carlos
฿11,462
฿12,952 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive
A pool area with a slide, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue pool.
A corridor with chairs and tables, surrounded by lush green plants.
A wooden bench and table on a balcony overlooking a pool area.
A hotel room with two beds, a wooden headboard, a nightstand, a telephone, and a view of a balcony with a tree and a pool.

20. Hotel Boyeros

Hotel Boyeros
Liberia
Canada
Maureen
฿3,560
฿4,023 total
includes taxes & fees
18 Oct - 19 Oct
Hotel Boyeros
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Stay near popular Santa Elena attractions

Coronado Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Coronado Beach during your trip to Cuajiniquil?
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Junquillal Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Junquillal Beach during your trip to Santa Elena?
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Playa Blanca

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Playa Blanca during your trip to Santa Elena?
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Maritza Biological Station

Explore the great outdoors at Maritza Biological Station, a lovely green space in Santa Elena. Discover the area's mountain views and hot springs.
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Playa Guaria

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Playa Guaria during your trip to Cuajiniquil?
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Sector Murciélago

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Sector Murciélago during your trip to Santa Elena?
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Playa Cuajiniquil

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Playa Cuajiniquil during your trip to Cuajiniquil?
See properties

Pitilla Biological Station

Explore the great outdoors at Pitilla Biological Station, a lovely green space in Santa Elena. Discover the area's mountain views and spas.
See properties

Learn more about Santa Elena

Explore attractions like Santa Rosa National Park and Sector Murciélago as you discover things to see and do in Santa Elena.

See all hotels in Santa Elena
A boat on calm water near a sandy beach with a large rock formation in the background.
Photo by Sha

Top Santa Elena Hotel Reviews

Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt

Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt

8/10 Good
"We had an incredible stay at Andaz Costa Rica Resort at Peninsula Papagayo! The property is absolutely stunning, surrounded by lush nature, breathtaking views, and a peaceful atmosphere. Every detail of the resort is thoughtfully designed, offering the perfect balance of luxury, relaxation, and Costa Rica’s Pura Vida spirit. The staff was warm, welcoming, and attentive throughout our stay, making the experience even more special. We visited to celebrate my husband’s birthday, and it was truly the perfect getaway. We left feeling refreshed and already looking forward to returning. Highly recommend this beautiful resort to anyone visiting Costa Rica!"
Paola 4-night trip
Posted 5 hours ago
Andaz Peninsula Papagayo Resort, Costa Rica, by Hyatt
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort

10/10 Excellent
"We had a fantastic family vacation at Planet Hollywood Resort – Costa Rica. Our Star Class Director’s Suite (two-bedroom unit) was perfect for our family of four with two teens. The suite was clean, fresh, and clearly recently updated. A real highlight was our personal host, Justin. He was personable, attentive, and genuinely accommodating—always ready to help with the little things that made the stay even better. Thank you, Justin! The property overall looked well maintained and inviting. The specialty restaurants served good food. We weren’t fans of the buffet, but that wasn’t an issue since we had no trouble securing reservations (the Star Class upgrade clearly helped with that). Staff throughout the resort were consistently friendly—everyone greeted us with a smile and offered to help. If you’re interested in tours, Planet Hollywood partners with Nexus and offers plenty of solid options. We did three excursions and all were excellent: a day of offshore fishing with convenient beach pickup in front of the hotel, a whitewater rafting trip that exceeded expectations, and a nearby adventure park featuring an impressive zip-line course and animal sanctuary. Overall, we had a great week. Thanks to the Planet Hollywood team for an amazing family vacation."
Jerry 6-night trip
Posted 7 hours ago
Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort
The Palms At Coco Beach

The Palms At Coco Beach

10/10 Excellent
"The rooms were clean the staff was great."
Tina LaRae 5-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
The Palms At Coco Beach
Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa

10/10 Excellent
"Wonderful stay at Bosque del Mar — friendly, helpful staff, beautiful well-kept grounds. We'd happily come back."
Christopher 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Hotel Bosque del Mar, Playa Hermosa
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin

Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin

10/10 Excellent
"Simple 10 of 10"
Oscar 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin
Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

10/10 Excellent
"I stayed at Secrets Papagayo in October when the resort was at 60% capacity, so it was pleasantly relaxed and never felt overcrowded. I’d read complaints about the shuttles, and it’s true that the steep layout makes walking around difficult. However, I never waited more than 10 minutes for a ride, even at 1 a.m. The facilities were clean and well maintained, and my room’s AC worked great. As a former military guy, I’m pretty easy to please: give me a clean room and cold air, and I’m happy! Pool chairs were limited, but we always found somewhere to leave our belongings. It wasn’t always within sight, though cameras covered the main pool area. I could see seating being a bigger issue during peak season. The food was good across the buffet, sushi restaurant, Seaside Grill, and Italian restaurant. Seaside Grill offers different lunch and dinner menus. My only minor gripe was having to wear long pants at the Italian restaurant in Costa Rica’s heat and humidity. As a single 36-year-old guy, I noticed most guests were couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries, or simply relaxing. Despite reviews mentioning a party atmosphere, I found it laid-back, although the off-season may explain that. The staff were attentive and even remembered my name. Special recognition goes to Dalay from the entertainment team! She led daily activities with infectious energy and personality and was genuinely one of the highlights of my stay. Overall, a great experience. I’d happily return!"
Patrick 7-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Secrets Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive
CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive

10/10 Excellent
"This place is a little slice of heaven. Me and my husband absolutely fell in love with this place. From the amazing staff to the incredible food this place is the way to go. It’s more relaxed, family oriented. Perfect place to go and enjoy the beach in peace. The beach is just a very small walk from your room. We are already planning another visit in the future. We didn’t know what to expect our first time in Costa Rica but this place has got you covered. I’ll give Freddy’s Experiences a good shout out. They will get you into an amazing excursion. So don't worry about booking something till you get there. Love this place."
Kathleen 7-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive
Hotel Boyeros

Hotel Boyeros

10/10 Excellent
"Was a perfect place to stay. Execellent for everything"
Maureen 1-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
Hotel Boyeros
Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

10/10 Excellent
"Loved all the employees they are all so nice and very helpful"
Chris 6-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive

More cheap stays in Santa Elena

Hotel Primavera

Hotel Primavera

Costado sur del parque central Liberia Guanacaste
฿1,159
฿1,310 total
18 Oct - 19 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Primavera
Hotel Guanacaste

Hotel Guanacaste

Avenida 1 y 3, Calle 12 Liberia Guanacaste
฿1,304
฿1,474 total
19 Oct - 20 Oct
includes taxes & fees
7/10 Good! (283 reviews)
Hotel Guanacaste
Hermosa Paradise

Hermosa Paradise

Highway 159 behind Super Luperon Sardinal Guanacaste Province
฿1,730
฿1,955 total
29 Oct - 30 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Hermosa Paradise
Hotel Del Aserradero

Hotel Del Aserradero

200 Metros Morte de Burger King Liberia Guanacaste
฿2,145
฿2,424 total
18 Oct - 19 Oct
includes taxes & fees
8.8/10 Excellent! (76 reviews)
Hotel Del Aserradero
Hotel Villa Del Sol

Hotel Villa Del Sol

Barrio La Chorrera Sardinal
฿2,654
฿2,999 total
30 Oct - 31 Oct
includes taxes & fees
9.4/10 Exceptional! (397 reviews)
Hotel Villa Del Sol
Toro Blanco Resort

Toro Blanco Resort

25 Metros Sur de la Iglesia Catolica Sardinal Guanacaste
฿2,858
฿3,229 total
18 Oct - 19 Oct
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (180 reviews)
Toro Blanco Resort

Find out more about Santa Elena

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

  • Outdoor Adventures: Santa Elena boasts breathtaking trails and scenic viewpoints, ideal for hiking and exploring nature.
  • Santa Elena Reserve: A key attraction, this reserve offers a rich biodiversity and opportunities for wildlife observation.
  • Cultural Experiences: Engage with local art galleries and vibrant downtown culture, showcasing the region's artistic heritage.
  • Tranquil Atmosphere: Enjoy romantic sunsets and a serene environment perfect for relaxation and escape.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from charming hotels to relaxing resorts, catering to all types of travellers.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover an array of delightful hotel options in Santa Elena, Guanacaste, perfect for families and adventure seekers alike. Whether you prefer a charming hotel or a relaxing resort, the area offers a variety of accommodations to suit your beach vacation needs. Explore reviews to find the ideal place for your stay and immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Costa Rica.

  • Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive: Nestled 34km from Santa Elena, Occidental Papagayo is a luxurious 4-star adults-only resort designed for those seeking a tranquil beach getaway. This all-inclusive haven offers an array of amenities, including unlimited food and beverage options, fitness facilities, and entertainment activities. Guests can indulge in à la carte dining or enjoy refreshments from the minibar. With direct beach access, it provides an ideal setting for relaxation, business trips, or romantic escapes.
  • Planet Hollywood Costa Rica by Royalton, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: Located 29km from Santa Elena, this 4.5-star resort combines the excitement of Hollywood with a family-friendly atmosphere. Guests can enjoy an all-inclusive experience featuring diverse dining options and a range of services tailored for children, including a kids' club and playground. With direct beach access, Planet Hollywood is perfect for families seeking a fun-filled holiday while enjoying the sun and sand in a vibrant setting.
  • JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa, All-Inclusive: Situated 18km from Santa Elena, the JW Marriott Costa Elena Resort & Spa offers a premium 4.5-star experience for those seeking adventure and luxury. With its all-inclusive package, guests can relish a variety of dining options while enjoying various adventure sports nearby, such as fishing, snorkelling, and hiking. This resort features direct access to the beach and caters to both leisure and business travellers, providing an ideal balance of relaxation and exploration.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking tranquil beauty. Stroll through the vibrant downtown, where local culture thrives, or enjoy the lively nightlife that brings the town to life after dark. Witness breathtaking sunset views from various vantage points, and explore nearby attractions that cater to families and adventurers alike. With its romantic and secluded atmosphere, Santa Elena promises a memorable escape into nature and adventure.

  • El Jobo: Nestled approximately 16km from Santa Elena, El Jobo is a quaint village that offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. With its visitor numbers peaking between January and April, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking outdoor experiences, particularly around the stunning coastline. The area is renowned for its beautiful beaches and nearby national parks, making it a haven for nature lovers. Popular activities include golfing at local courses and unwinding at resorts that provide a taste of local hospitality. El Jobo's tranquil ambiance and engaging outdoor activities make it a must-visit for any traveller.
  • Cuajiniquil: Situated within the Santa Elena area, Cuajiniquil is another charming village that attracts visitors year-round. Its peak seasons are during March to April and July, drawing adventurers keen on discovering scenic landscapes and outdoor activities. The village features easy access to resorts and offers proximity to beautiful beaches and national parks, making it an exceptional choice for those who appreciate nature. Cuajiniquil is perfect for travellers looking to explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica while enjoying a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Puerto Soley: Located about 16km from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a vibrant village known for its seasonal visitor influx, particularly from December to February. This destination is ideal for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike, offering stunning coastal views and opportunities for outdoor exploration. The village is surrounded by beautiful beaches and is near national parks, providing a rich environment for wildlife enthusiasts. Puerto Soley’s lively atmosphere and access to nature make it a delightful stop for those looking to immerse themselves in Costa Rica's beauty.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Shopping

In Santa Elena, you can explore local shops offering handmade crafts and souvenirs, perfect for gifts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Monteverde Marketplace, located 18km away, where you can find a variety of local products and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

At the Harmony Hotel, indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments using natural ingredients. Participate in yoga classes amidst lush surroundings, and explore tranquil gardens for a peaceful retreat. Nearby, the Monteverde Cloud Forest offers serene hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife observation, enhancing your connection with nature.

Adventure

Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve offers enchanting trails through misty forests, showcasing diverse flora and fauna. For thrill-seekers, try zip-lining above the treetops or tackling the hanging bridges for breathtaking views. Nearby, the La Fortuna Waterfall provides a refreshing swim after an exhilarating hike through nature.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Elena offers a laid-back vibe, ideal for enjoying local bars and eateries. Visit the lively Tree House Restaurant and Café for a relaxed atmosphere, or explore the vibrant nightlife at the nearby Luna Nueva Lodge, where you can unwind with drinks and live music.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, offering stunning scenery and attractions like beaches, reserves, and national parks. Key points of interest include the Santa Elena Reserve and the nearby Medellín area, providing an ideal setting for a memorable vacation experience immersed in nature and adventure.

  • Maritza Biological Station: Nestled within Santa Elena, this reserve offers a tranquil escape into nature. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich biodiversity, enjoying recreational activities while surrounded by lush flora and fauna, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts seeking seclusion.
  • Junquillal Beach: This picturesque beach boasts soft sands and inviting waters, creating a serene atmosphere for relaxation and sunbathing. The beach vibes are perfect for unwinding while taking in the stunning coastal scenery and perhaps even spotting local wildlife.
  • La Casona: A cultural monument in Santa Elena, La Casona showcases the region's rich heritage. Visitors can explore its historical significance and architectural beauty, offering a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.

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.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January78.6°F (25.9°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February80.1°F (26.7°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
March81.7°F (27.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April83.3°F (28.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
May81.9°F (27.7°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June79.2°F (26.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July78.8°F (26.0°C)Moderate RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August78.8°F (26.0°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September78.3°F (25.7°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October77.2°F (25.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November77.2°F (25.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December77.7°F (25.4°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

Reaching Santa Elena in Guanacaste, Costa Rica is convenient via several nearby airports. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is situated 35km from Santa Elena, with luxurious accommodations like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo and the 4.5-star Secrets Papagayo, both within a short distance. Cóbano Airport (ACO), located 146km away, features top hotels such as LALOON Luxury Suites and Hotel Nantipa, both offering premium experiences. Nosara (NOB) is another option, 101km from Santa Elena, with notable establishments like the 4-star Azura Beach Resort. Each airport offers various transportation services, ensuring easy access to Santa Elena and its stunning surroundings.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place to stay in Santa Elena?
Located 23.5 mi (37.8 km) from the heart of Santa Elena, Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport is a top choice for your stay, based on our traveller data. Other good options for your stay in the area are Condovac la Costa and CC Beach Front Papagayo All Inclusive. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Santa Elena.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Santa Elena, will I receive a refund?
Yes, the majority of room reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which is usually within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. If you booked a non-refundable reservation, you may still be able to cancel and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Santa Elena.
What's the best dog-friendly accommodation option in Santa Elena?
Hacienda Casa del Viento is a top hotel for people travelling with their pets and offers free WiFi for its human guests. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Santa Elena.
What's the best accommodation option for a beach holiday in Santa Elena?
Buddha Retreat Hotel is a top beachfront hotel with free WiFi and free parking, and it's located close to Playa Cuajiniquil . See more stays near the beach in Santa Elena.
What are some accommodation options with pools in Santa Elena?
Hampton By Hilton Guanacaste Airport: Features a snack bar/deli, an outdoor pool and buffet. Condovac la Costa and Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All inclusive are two additional hotels that feature an on-site pool. View all hotels with pools in Santa Elena.
What is staying in Santa Elena like?
Travellers to Santa Elena will find plenty to explore and enjoy. In Santa Elena, there are 6 hotels and other accommodation options to choose from. Find out more about Santa Elena.
What should I do while I'm visiting Santa Elena?
Favourite places to visit include Santa Rosa National Park, Sector Murciélago and Playa Cuajiniquil. A couple of additional sights to add to your itinerary are Coronado Beach and Area de Conservación Guanacaste. Take a look at what more there is to see and do in Expedia's Santa Elena guide.
What's the seasonal weather in Santa Elena?
The hottest months are usually April and March, with an average temperature of 28°C, while the coldest months are November and December, with an average of 26°C. The rainiest months in Santa Elena are October, September, June and August, with each month seeing an average of 375 mm of rainfall.