Santa Elena Hotels

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Thrilling Ziplining: Experience exhilarating zipline courses that soar through the lush canopy of Monteverde, offering breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush.
• Stunning Cloud Forests: Explore the enchanting cloud forests, teeming with diverse flora and fauna, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting.
• Charming Boulevard: Stroll along Boulevard Santa Elena, where friendly locals welcome you to delightful shops and eateries.
• Serene Gardens: Discover vibrant flower gardens and tranquil private gardens, perfect for families and nature lovers.
• Welcoming Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from cosy bed & breakfasts to comfortable hotels, catering to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Experience the charm of Santa Elena, Monteverde, with a variety of accommodation options tailored for every type of traveller. From adventurous families to business visitors, the local hotels and bed & breakfasts offer essential amenities such as accessible parking, air conditioning, and breakfast services. Discover the perfect base for your Costa Rican adventure amidst the lush landscapes and vibrant culture of Puntarenas Province.

• Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails: Nestled 19.3km from Santa Elena, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is an adventurer's paradise, perfect for those seeking an exhilarating vacation experience. This 3-star lodge welcomes travellers from all walks of life, including the LGBTQIA community, making it a diverse and inclusive choice. The property boasts a plethora of adventure sports options, including rafting, fishing, kayaking, and hiking, ensuring that thrill-seekers have plenty to enjoy. Onsite and nearby recreational activities allow guests to immerse themselves in the stunning natural surroundings, making this lodge a top pick for those craving excitement in Costa Rica.
• El Establo Mountain Hotel: Located a mere 966m from Santa Elena, El Establo Mountain Hotel offers a luxurious family retreat with a spa theme. Rated at 3.5 stars, this hotel is perfect for families looking to unwind together. Young guests will appreciate the range of amenities designed specifically for children, including a pool, playground, and arcade game room. The full-service spa provides relaxation options such as facial treatments and couples' treatment rooms, ensuring that parents can indulge while children are entertained. With stunning mountain views and relaxing facilities, this hotel creates a perfect blend of leisure and luxury.
• Hotel Linda Vista: Positioned 14.5km from Santa Elena, Hotel Linda Vista is a charming 3-star hotel that offers a delightful retreat. Guests can start their day with a complimentary breakfast and enjoy dining options including a bar and restaurant. The hotel provides entertainment amenities such as television and satellite TV for relaxing evenings. With breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and rivers, guests can partake in nearby rural activities. Whether you're looking to explore or simply unwind in a picturesque setting, Hotel Linda Vista ensures a comfortable stay with all the essentials.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, nestled in the heart of Monteverde, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking natural beauty. Experience the vibrant atmosphere along Boulevard Santa Elena, where friendly locals welcome you to explore charming shops and eateries. Venture into the lush cloud forests, perfect for hiking and wildlife spotting, or indulge in thrilling adventures like zip-lining. This tropical paradise promises relaxation and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for all types of travellers.

• Monteverde: Nestled in the lush mountains of Puntarenas Province, Monteverde is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and rich biodiversity. As the main hub for outdoor enthusiasts, visitors flock here for thrilling adventures such as zip-lining, hiking through cloud forests, and bird watching. The area boasts a range of accommodations, from charming inns to luxurious resorts, making it an ideal base for exploration. Key highlights include the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the stunning Arenal Volcano nearby, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure.
• San Lorenzo: Just 25.7km from Santa Elena, San Lorenzo is a captivating city that draws visitors seeking outdoor escapades amidst its picturesque landscapes. The region is perfect for adventurers, featuring zipline courses that soar through the treetops and hiking trails that reveal the area's stunning flora and fauna. Popular attractions include the surrounding national parks, where one can immerse themselves in Costa Rica’s vibrant ecosystems. With a blend of resorts and local eateries, San Lorenzo promises a delightful experience for those looking to unwind and connect with nature.
• Peñas Blancas: Located 14.5km from Santa Elena, Peñas Blancas offers a serene getaway surrounded by the enchanting beauty of Costa Rica’s mountains and national parks. This city is a haven for outdoor lovers, providing ample opportunities for adventure activities such as rafting and hiking. The scenic landscapes are complemented by picturesque resorts and spas, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploration. Not to be missed is the nearby national state park, where visitors can discover the diverse wildlife and stunning vistas that make this region truly special.

Things to do in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena is an ideal destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including exhilarating zipline courses through the lush canopy and other adventurous pursuits that showcase the region's natural beauty. With its charming resorts and vibrant atmosphere, Santa Elena promises an unforgettable experience for all who venture there.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, enjoy local shopping at quaint artisan shops and markets. If you're up for a drive, visit the San Ramon Municipal Market, located 46.7km away, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with local produce and crafts. El Pilon Station, 48.3km away, is another fantastic family-friendly shopping area.

Recreation

Termales Los Laureles is a tranquil retreat 25.7km from Santa Elena, offering soothing thermal springs and lush surroundings for relaxation. Wellness Park Costa Rica, located 20.9km away, provides a serene environment with wellness activities that rejuvenate the mind and body. For sports enthusiasts, Guillermo Vargas Roldan Stadium, 45.1km away, offers vibrant sporting events.

Adventure

At Selvatura Adventure Park, embark on an exhilarating zipline experience through the lush canopy, located 4.8km from Santa Elena. Ficus La Raiz offers a tranquil outdoor setting to connect with nature. Meanwhile, 100% Aventura Adventure Park, situated 3.2km away, promises thrilling activities for all adventure enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Santa Elena offers a vibrant nightlife with venues like the lively Tree House Restaurant & Café, where you can enjoy live music and cocktails. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the cozy Café Orchid for a casual drink and friendly conversation, making it perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

To save money during your visit to Santa Elena, consider travelling between September and November when prices are lower. Walking is a cost-effective way to explore, while bicycles and taxis are also available. For accommodation, book about a month in advance and look for Saturday stays, which are cheaper than Thursdays. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices, refine searches by budget and preferences, and take advantage of package deals that combine flights and activities for further savings. Don't miss free attractions like the Curi-Cancha Reserve to enhance your experience 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 September to November, 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: Book your hotel in Santa Elena about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
• 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 feature enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that you see the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Santa Elena hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Elena

Santa Elena, a gem in Monteverde, offers a plethora of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore the lush reserves, vibrant flower gardens, and serene private gardens, perfect for families seeking adventure and nature experiences. Whether hiking through breathtaking landscapes or enjoying the rich biodiversity, Santa Elena presents an unforgettable getaway for those eager to embrace the great outdoors.

• Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: Located 3.2km from Santa Elena, this stunning reserve offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse ecosystem filled with lush vegetation, exotic wildlife, and breathtaking viewpoints. The enchanting cloud forest is perfect for hiking and birdwatching, showcasing species like the resplendent quetzal.
• Monteverde Butterfly Gardens: Just 805m away from Santa Elena, this private garden is a delight for nature lovers. Wander through beautifully designed habitats that host a variety of butterfly species, and learn about their life cycles in an immersive, tranquil setting.
• Monteverde Orchid Garden: Situated within Santa Elena, this garden is a family-friendly destination showcasing a wide array of orchids. Enjoy the vibrant outdoor space and discover the fascinating world of these exquisite 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 Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	79.2°F (26.2°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Average
February	80.6°F (27.0°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Average	Average
March	81.9°F (27.7°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly 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	Average	Average
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	Slightly Low	Average
September	79.3°F (26.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
October	78.6°F (25.9°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
November	78.3°F (25.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
December	78.4°F (25.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

When planning your visit to Santa Elena, Costa Rica, you can fly into several major airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is approximately 77.2km away, with nearby hotels such as the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is situated around 83.7km from Santa Elena, offering excellent accommodation options like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort. Cóbano Airport (ACO) is the closest, located 75.6km away, with luxurious hotels such as Hotel Nantipa. Each airport provides convenient transportation services to their respective hotels, ensuring a smooth journey to your destination.