Rolling hills, dense greenery, and a prominent red rock formation.

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
6 Oct - 7 Oct
Tomorrow
7 Oct - 8 Oct
This weekend
9 Oct - 11 Oct
Next weekend
16 Oct - 18 Oct

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Our top choices for Santa Elena hotels

1. Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast

Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast
Monteverde
United States
Caryssa
NZ$97
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast

2. Hotel con Corazón Monteverde

Hotel con Corazón Monteverde
Monteverde
United Kingdom
Rick
NZ$123
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Hotel con Corazón Monteverde

3. Cala Lodge

Cala Lodge
Monteverde
United States
David
NZ$173
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Cala Lodge

4. Monteverde Lodge by Böëna

Monteverde Lodge by Böëna
Monteverde
United States
Elizabeth
NZ$653
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Monteverde Lodge by Böëna

5. Hotel Claro de Luna

Hotel Claro de Luna
Monteverde
Switzerland
Sonja
NZ$172
includes taxes & fees
12 Oct - 13 Oct
Hotel Claro de Luna

6. Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco

Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco
Monteverde
Canada
Corey
NZ$479
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco

7. Monteverde Country Lodge

Monteverde Country Lodge
Monteverde
United States
Ganesh
NZ$217
includes taxes & fees
15 Oct - 16 Oct
Monteverde Country Lodge

8. Casa Jungle Monteverde Bed & Breakfast

Casa Jungle Monteverde Bed & Breakfast
Monteverde
United States
TABATHA
NZ$80
includes taxes & fees
17 Oct - 18 Oct
Casa Jungle Monteverde Bed & Breakfast

9. VISTA AL GOLFO

VISTA AL GOLFO
Monteverde
United States
Andrea
NZ$91
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
VISTA AL GOLFO

10. Hotel El Atardecer

Hotel El Atardecer
Monteverde
United States
Sreenivasan
NZ$153
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Hotel El Atardecer

11. Pensión Santa Elena

Pensión Santa Elena
Monteverde
Canada
Freya
NZ$73
includes taxes & fees
23 Oct - 24 Oct
Pensión Santa Elena

12. OutBox Inn

OutBox Inn
Monteverde
Canada
Konrad
NZ$68
includes taxes & fees
30 Oct - 31 Oct
OutBox Inn

13. Hotel El Amanecer

Hotel El Amanecer
Monteverde
Canada
Stephen
NZ$91
includes taxes & fees
10 Oct - 11 Oct
Hotel El Amanecer

14. Cabinas Selva Verde

Cabinas Selva Verde
Monteverde
United States
Arvind
NZ$82
includes taxes & fees
8 Oct - 9 Oct
Cabinas Selva Verde

15. Casa Madonna Hotel

Casa Madonna Hotel
Monteverde
United States
Daniel
NZ$74
includes taxes & fees
2 Nov - 3 Nov
Casa Madonna Hotel

16. hotel rey

hotel rey
Santa Elena
NZ$73
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
hotel rey

17. Orquid Lodge Monteverde

Orquid Lodge Monteverde
Monteverde
NZ$143
includes taxes & fees
9 Oct - 10 Oct
Orquid Lodge Monteverde

18. Hotel la Puesta del Sol

Hotel la Puesta del Sol
Monteverde
Denmark
Marianne
NZ$102
includes taxes & fees
10 Oct - 11 Oct
Hotel la Puesta del Sol

19. Hostel Cattleya

Hostel Cattleya
Monteverde
United States
Divya
NZ$36
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Hostel Cattleya

20. Hotel las Orquideas Monteverde

Hotel las Orquideas Monteverde
Santa Elena
NZ$98
includes taxes & fees
30 Oct - 31 Oct
Hotel las Orquideas Monteverde
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Stay near popular Santa Elena attractions

Monteverde Orchid Garden

9.2/10 (91 reviews)
Home to over 460 orchid species, including the world's smallest, this garden showcases Costa Rica's cloud forest biodiversity. Take a guided tour to appreciate the intricate details of these delicate blooms.
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Jardín de Orquídeas

Home to over 425 native orchid species, this garden showcases Costa Rica's botanical treasures up close. Take a guided tour to see miniature blooms through magnifying glasses while learning from passionate experts.
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Ficus La Raiz

9.6/10 (5 reviews)
This natural wonder showcases a ficus tree's massive roots forming a bridge over a flowing creek. Explore the serene cloud forest setting and capture unique photographs from viewing platforms above and below.
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Mundo de los Insectos

Explore Costa Rica's diverse insect world through captivating guided exhibits at Mundo de los Insectos. Morning visits offer the best chance to observe butterflies, beetles, and arachnids at their most active.
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Centro Comercial Monteverde

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Centro Comercial Monteverde during your visit to Santa Elena. You can seek out the local tours while in the area.
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Learn more about Santa Elena

Cloud forests reveal their secrets on guided night walks where red-eyed tree frogs and sloths emerge. Zip through the forest canopy on thrilling lines, then visit the butterfly gardens in nearby Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

See all hotels in Santa Elena
Rolling hills, dense greenery, and a prominent red rock formation.

Top Santa Elena Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Santa Elena

Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort

Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Our stay at the hotel was lovely! All of the staff were incredibly friendly and welcoming throughout our stay. We had decorated the room for a friend who was celebrating, and when we came back after housekeeping had passed by, we were so pleasantly surprised. They had folded the towels into the shape of a cake and even used some of our balloons to complete the decoration. 🎂🎈 It was such a thoughtful and creative gesture and made the celebration feel even more special. We really appreciated the extra effort and attention to detail. Thank you for making our stay so memorable! ❤️"
Stephanie 4-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs

Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs

10/10 Excellent
"We staying in the hotel for my husband birthday, highly recommend!"
Elena 1-night trip
Posted 19 hours ago
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs
Koora Hotel by Sandglass

Koora Hotel by Sandglass

10/10 Excellent
"Staff were great. We booked the plunge pool suite which unfortunately did not have any desk so we had to downgrade to a junior suite. The plunge pool was quite cold and dirty though anyways so we wouldn't have used it. Location is nice. The pool is small like a 1-2 person max with 2 loungers. Hotel overall is clean and it's a steep walk to town but a taxi is around 2500 CRC. They did provide a dining credit for the 2 meals I had with my wife at the restaurant, which is fair since it was my fault for booking the plunge pool room without confirming it had a desk. Restaurant is really nice, a bit pricey but quality wholesome food. We don't drink so we avoid all inclusives."
Yaqoob 3-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Koora Hotel by Sandglass
Hotel Rancho Cerro Azul

Hotel Rancho Cerro Azul

10/10 Excellent
"Beautiful lush foliage, friendly staff, great location."
Kelly 5-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Hotel Rancho Cerro Azul
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only

The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only

10/10 Excellent
"It was a wonderful experience. Front desk staff were very helpful throughout our stay here. We had to check out very early before the breakfast time and they packed us sandwiches and fruits for the road. Very nice and considerate staff."
Joyce 3-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco

Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco

8/10 Good
"Great experience here. Only reason for the 4 star overall was because the price is high for what you get, the free breakfast was very limited due to the season we went and the jacuzzi’s were under maintenance so couldn’t be used."
Corey 2-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa

Casa Luna Hotel & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent place! Everything is wonderful except the weak internet connection in the room"
Mengyu 3-night trip
Posted 6 days ago
Casa Luna Hotel & Spa
Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa

Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Room was spacious with a nice balcony although we had a parking lot view. The property was beautiful and all the pools-spa were worth the drive ."
Nalinda 1-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Baldi Hot Springs Hotel and Spa
Lost Iguana Resort and Spa

Lost Iguana Resort and Spa

10/10 Excellent
"This is our second time staying at this resort! The staff is very friendly and helpful! The grounds and amenities are clean and well kept And the price is affordable! I would recommend this place 10/10"
Cory 3-night trip
Posted 3 weeks ago
Lost Iguana Resort and Spa

More cheap accommodation in Santa Elena

Viajero La Fortuna Hostel

Viajero La Fortuna Hostel

Av. 325 La Fortuna Provincia de Alajuela
NZ$73
18 Oct - 19 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Viajero La Fortuna Hostel
Arenal Xilopalo

Arenal Xilopalo

Calle 478 La Fortuna Alajuela
NZ$114
8 Oct - 9 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Arenal Xilopalo
Hotel Villas Vilma

Hotel Villas Vilma

3 Km West From Fortuna Central Park La Fortuna Alajuela
NZ$184
9 Oct - 10 Oct
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (126 reviews)
Hotel Villas Vilma
Tityra Lodge

Tityra Lodge

Ruta Nacional Treciaria 606 Monteverde Puntarenas
NZ$214
25 Oct - 26 Oct
includes taxes & fees
Tityra Lodge
BAUMA

BAUMA

Zeta Trece La Fortuna Provincia de Alajuela
NZ$375
7 Oct - 8 Oct
includes taxes & fees
BAUMA
Hostel La Choza Inn

Hostel La Choza Inn

Avenue 331 La Fortuna Alajuela
Get rates
7.8/10 Good! (232 reviews)
Hostel La Choza Inn

Find out more about Santa Elena

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

  • Breathtaking Nature: Explore the stunning landscapes of the Santa Elena Reserve and immerse yourself in lush cloud forests.
  • Adventure Activities: Experience exhilarating zip-lining courses and skywalk tours for an adrenaline rush.
  • Vibrant Downtown: Stroll through the lively streets and enjoy the friendly atmosphere and local culture.
  • Family-Friendly Fun: Enjoy a variety of activities suitable for all ages, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from charming bed and breakfasts to comfortable hotels, catering to every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Explore a range of accommodation options in Santa Elena, Monteverde, where adventure seekers and nature lovers will find their ideal getaway. From charming bed and breakfasts to comfortable hotels like Hotel Claro and Casa Tranquilo Hostel, there’s something for every traveller. Experience the unique blend of family-friendly services and thrilling outdoor activities that this stunning destination has to offer.

  • Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails: Located 19.3km from Santa Elena, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is a 3-star lodge that offers a unique hot spring-themed experience, ideal for families. With a guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, this property features a natural hot spring nearby, providing a relaxing retreat amidst stunning natural surroundings. Families can enjoy a variety of children’s amenities, including a shared playground, a dedicated children’s pool, and an arcade game room, ensuring that younger guests have plenty of activities to keep them entertained while adults unwind.
  • El Establo Mountain Hotel: Just 966m from Santa Elena, El Establo Mountain Hotel boasts a 3.5-star rating with a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This hotel is designed for families seeking a spa-themed getaway. The property features a full-service spa, offering a range of treatments including outdoor therapy options and couples' treatment rooms. Children’s amenities are also available, such as a shared playground and an arcade game room, making it a convenient choice for families wanting to relax and rejuvenate while enjoying the beautiful mountain views.
  • Hotel Linda Vista: Situated 14.5km from Santa Elena, Hotel Linda Vista is a charming 3-star accommodation with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Guests can indulge in a complimentary breakfast and enjoy on-site dining at the restaurant. The hotel’s rooms are equipped with satellite television for entertainment. Visitors can explore the surrounding rural landscapes, mountains, and rivers, making it an excellent base for nature enthusiasts and those looking to immerse themselves in the local scenery.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, nestled in the heart of Costa Rica’s Monteverde region, invites adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts to revel in its breathtaking scenery. Stroll through the vibrant downtown, where friendly locals embody the essence of pura vida. Discover nearby attractions, from lush cloud forests to exhilarating zip-line tours, all while enjoying a relaxing atmosphere perfect for families. Experience the natural beauty and recreational opportunities that make Santa Elena a must-visit destination on your Costa Rican adventure.

  • Monteverde: Nestled in the cloud forests of Costa Rica, Monteverde is a vibrant city renowned for its lush landscapes and biodiversity. As the gateway to Santa Elena, it attracts adventurers year-round, with peak visitor numbers from January to March. The area offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from zip-lining through the treetops to scenic hikes in the nearby national parks. The rich ecosystem, complete with unique flora and fauna, provides a stunning backdrop for exploration. Don’t miss a visit to the local resorts and spas that offer relaxation after a day of adventure.
  • Valle Bonito: Located a mere 1.1km from Santa Elena, Valle Bonito is a charming neighbourhood that embodies the spirit of adventure. Visitors flock here for its thrilling zipline ropes course and serene spa experiences, particularly during March and the holiday season in December and January. The stunning views of the surrounding nature reserves and volcanoes make it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Valle Bonito’s welcoming atmosphere and proximity to natural attractions create a perfect blend of excitement and tranquillity.
  • San Luis: Just 3.2km from Santa Elena, San Luis is a quaint village that offers a peaceful retreat amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica. Popular with travellers seeking outdoor adventures, San Luis boasts easy access to national parks and volcanoes, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting. With visitor numbers peaking in March and the festive season, this village is an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural wonders while soaking in the local culture. Its charming community and scenic vistas promise an unforgettable experience.

Things to do near Santa Elena

Shopping

In Santa Elena, explore local shops offering unique crafts and souvenirs, perfect for capturing your Costa Rican experience. If you're up for a drive, visit the Puntarenas Shopping Centre, about 16.1km away, which features a variety of shops and eateries in a vibrant atmosphere.

Recreation

Explore the serene atmosphere at the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, where guided meditation sessions amidst lush greenery foster relaxation. For physical wellness, join yoga classes at local studios, enhancing your flexibility while enjoying the tranquil surroundings of Monteverde.

Adventure

At Selvatura Adventure Park, located 4.8km from Santa Elena, experience exhilarating ziplining through lush canopies and tackle a thrilling ropes course. Costa Rica Sky Adventures, 16.1km away, offers stunning views and adrenaline-pumping ziplines, while Sky Adventures Monteverde Park, just 3.2km distant, immerses you in adventure amidst nature.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant atmosphere at Bar Amigos in Santa Elena for cocktails and a lively crowd. For a taste of local culture, visit the Monteverde Beer House, where you can enjoy craft brews and occasional live music, creating a relaxed yet engaging nightlife experience.

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

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena is a fantastic destination for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and eco-friendly experiences. Popular attractions include the Santa Elena Reserve, where visitors can immerse themselves in nature, as well as exhilarating ziplining courses and beautiful flower gardens. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping activities or tranquil walks in lush surroundings, Santa Elena caters to all types of travellers looking to connect with Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.

  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: Located 3.2km from Santa Elena, this lush reserve offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems. Experience the enchanting misty trails, abundant wildlife, and vibrant flora, including rare birds and exotic plants in their natural habitat.
  • Children's Eternal Rain Forest Bajo del Tigre: Just 1.3km away, this reserve is dedicated to conservation and education. Wander through its extensive trails and immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity, while learning about the importance of preserving these vital ecosystems for future generations.
  • Monteverde Orchid Garden: Situated in Santa Elena, this charming garden showcases a stunning variety of orchids. Enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere as you stroll through the vibrant displays and discover the intricate beauty of these delicate flowers.

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 iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February80.6°F (27.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
March81.9°F (27.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May81.3°F (27.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
June79.9°F (26.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
September79.3°F (26.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October78.6°F (25.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November78.3°F (25.7°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December78.4°F (25.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

Flying to Santa Elena in Monteverde, Costa Rica is convenient from several major airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría International) is approximately 77.2km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel, both offering various airport transportation services. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber International) is around 83.7km from Santa Elena, featuring luxurious options such as the Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, which provides accessible shuttle services. Quepos (XQP) is further at 123.9km, with hotels like the 5-star Makanda by the Sea offering on-request airport shuttles. Each airport provides ample transportation options for a seamless journey to Santa Elena.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Santa Elena?
The best area to stay in Santa Elena is within the town centre itself, or just a short distance from it, as this provides the most convenient access to amenities and activities.Santa Elena town centre is a compact area with a main street, often bustling with activity, particularly around the bus stop and the central square. Here you'll find a concentration of local eateries, shops selling souvenirs and essentials, and tour operators. It's the hub for most of the region's activities and where you'll arrange your excursions.For couples, staying in or very close to the town centre is ideal. You'll appreciate being able to walk to dinner in the evenings, browse the local shops, and easily access shuttle services for cloud forest tours or adventure activities. Many hotels in this area offer comfortable stays with good access to restaurants and cafes.Families often find the areas just outside the immediate town centre, but still within a 5-10 minute walk, to be a good fit. These spots often provide a slightly more relaxed setting while still offering easy access to town. Some accommodations here might have more spacious grounds or amenities like a small pool, which can be a bonus for families with children.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to 'My Trips' and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by 'Fully refundable property' for hotels in Santa Elena.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Santa Elena with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Santa Elena hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Santa Elena?
Prices for hotels in Santa Elena often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$36 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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