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Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Stunning Natural Reserves: Explore the breathtaking Monteverde Cloud Forest and Santa Elena Reserve, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• Adventure Activities: Experience thrilling zip-lining and nature walks, catering to outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
• Charming Local Towns: Discover the quaint towns like Los Héroes, ideal for a romantic escape or family fun.
• Relaxing Spa Experiences: Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments amidst tranquil surroundings.
• Beautiful Beaches: Enjoy the nearby picturesque beaches, perfect for relaxation and adventure.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Santa Elena, nestled in the beautiful Guanacaste region of Costa Rica, offers a variety of hotel accommodations ideal for families, adventure seekers, and beach lovers alike. Whether you're searching for the best hotels or specific options in Santa Elena, you'll discover a range of resorts and hotels that cater to your holiday needs, ensuring a memorable experience in this stunning tropical paradise.

• Occidental Papagayo - Adults Only - All Inclusive: Nestled along the stunning Pacific coast, Occidental Papagayo offers a serene escape tailored for adults seeking a beach-themed getaway. This 4-star all-inclusive resort is just 33.8km from Santa Elena, featuring unlimited food and drinks to ensure a carefree holiday. With amenities like a fully stocked minibar, fitness facilities, and a range of entertainment options, guests can indulge in a truly relaxing experience. The property is LGBTQIA welcoming, with dedicated services for business travellers, making it perfect for those seeking both leisure and professional amenities.
• Planet Hollywood Costa Rica, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort: Situated 29.0km from Santa Elena, this vibrant 4.5-star resort offers a unique blend of family fun and romantic experiences. With special amenities for children such as a shared playground and children’s club, it’s ideal for families. Couples can enjoy spa treatments and romantic dining options, including 24-hour room service, all while surrounded by Hollywood-themed décor. The property’s luxurious pool area and wellness facilities provide a perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Dreams Las Mareas Costa Rica - All Inclusive: Located a mere 17.7km from Santa Elena, Dreams Las Mareas is a 4.5-star luxury resort that promises a pet-friendly beach escape. With direct beach access, guests can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere while indulging in unlimited gourmet dining and drinks. The resort’s elegant facilities cater to both luxury seekers and pet owners, ensuring a memorable stay for everyone. Relax in style with a mix of a la carte dining options and exceptional service, making this property a top choice for discerning travellers.

Where to stay in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, nestled in the stunning Guanacaste region, offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Explore the breathtaking Monteverde Cloud Forest, where adventure awaits at every turn, from zip-lining to serene hiking trails. Delight in the surrounding charming towns, like Los Héroes, perfect for a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family holiday. With its tranquil atmosphere and spectacular scenery, Santa Elena is the ideal base for your Costa Rican adventure.

• La Cruz: Located approximately 19.3km from Santa Elena, La Cruz is a vibrant city that offers a captivating blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. With visitor numbers peaking in July and during the festive months of December to January, La Cruz provides a unique travel experience year-round. Adventurers can explore nearby beaches, marvel at the majestic volcanoes, or enjoy the serenity of the national state park. Popular activities include relaxing at resorts, indulging in spa treatments, and playing a round of golf, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.
• Cuajiniquil: Nestled within the Santa Elena area, Cuajiniquil is a charming village that attracts visitors throughout the year, with peak seasons in March to April and July. This location is perfect for those who appreciate outdoor activities and breathtaking landscapes. The village is surrounded by beautiful beaches and is close to both national parks and state parks, offering ample opportunities for exploration and adventure. Visitors can unwind at local resorts, indulge in spa treatments, or enjoy a round of golf while soaking in the stunning natural beauty that Cuajiniquil has to offer.
• Puerto Soley: Situated about 16.1km from Santa Elena, Puerto Soley is a quaint village known for its seasonal visitor influx, with peak times from December to February. This picturesque locale is perfect for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, providing easy access to stunning coastlines and national parks. The village's inviting beaches and the surrounding natural state parks offer a plethora of recreational activities, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and adventure. Enjoy the tranquillity of the area as you explore its scenic beauty, creating memorable experiences during your stay.

Things to do near Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for a memorable holiday. Visitors can enjoy nature walks through lush landscapes, indulge in a relaxing spa experience, and partake in traditional flamenco performances. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the local area and its renowned golf courses, making Santa Elena a fantastic destination for both relaxation and adventure.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, you can visit local shops for unique souvenirs like handmade crafts and coffee. If you're up for a drive, the Monteverde Cloud Forest Market, about 16.1km away, offers a vibrant atmosphere with artisan goods and delicious local food.

Recreation

At the Papagayo Golf and Country Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes and vibrant outdoor vibes. This 45.1km retreat offers a perfect blend of sport and relaxation, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while engaging in recreational activities.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the lush canopy of Monteverde Cloud Forest, where stunning views and diverse wildlife await. For hiking enthusiasts, the trails of Arenal Volcano National Park offer breathtaking scenery and the chance to witness volcanic activity up close.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Santa Elena by visiting the Tree House Restaurant, where you can enjoy delicious food and live music. For a more laid-back vibe, check out the local cafes offering artisanal coffee and desserts, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, offers plenty of budget-friendly options for tourists. Enjoy free activities at Playa Copal and Playa Puerto Soley, and take advantage of the cheaper travel months of May and September to October. For accommodation, book a month in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for the best rates. Saturdays are the least expensive nights to stay, while Mondays are pricier. Use Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly options and package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for extra savings. Make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

• 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: 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 Monday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make use of Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your Santa Elena hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Guanacaste, offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can explore beautiful beaches, reserves, and national parks, catering to those seeking adventure and natural beauty. Notable attractions include the Santa Elena Reserve, the charming town itself, and the Santa Elena Canyon, along with numerous accommodation options. Whether you're keen on hiking, relaxing by the beach, or immersing yourself in nature, Santa Elena has something for everyone.

• Santa Rosa National Park: Located 4.8km from Santa Elena, this national park offers a stunning blend of adventure and scenic beauty. Explore diverse ecosystems, spot unique wildlife, and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and birdwatching in a pristine environment.
• Junquillal Beach: Situated within Santa Elena, Junquillal Beach boasts a relaxed beach vibe, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The tranquil atmosphere and beautiful sunsets make it an ideal spot for unwinding and enjoying the coastal beauty of Costa Rica.
• Maritza Biological Station: This secluded biological reserve within Santa Elena provides a unique recreational experience. Engage with nature through guided tours, learn about local flora and fauna, and relish the peaceful surroundings that make it a hidden gem for nature lovers.

Best time to go to Santa Elena

The best time to visit Santa Elena is dependant 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 Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	78.6°F (25.9°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	80.1°F (26.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.7°F (27.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
April	83.3°F (28.5°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly High
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	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

Accessing Santa Elena, Guanacaste is convenient with two major airports nearby. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber International) is 35.4km away, with excellent accommodation options like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, located 16.1km from the airport. They offer various transportation services, including airport shuttles available on request. Alternatively, Tamarindo (TNO) is 67.6km from Santa Elena, with notable hotels such as the 5-star JW Marriott Guanacaste Resort and Spa, just 8.0km from the airport. Hotels near Tamarindo also provide shuttle services and transport options for guests. Both airports offer a range of flight connections, making your journey to Santa Elena seamless.