Hotels in Santa Elena

Santa Elena: A Blossoming Haven of Enchantment and Adventure

Nestled in the lush cloud forests of Costa Rica, Santa Elena in Monteverde is a nature lover's paradise. This charming destination offers breathtaking landscapes, vibrant flora, and thrilling adventures. Explore the enchanting Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where you can hike among towering trees and spot exotic wildlife. Experience the thrill of zip-lining through the treetops or stroll along hanging bridges for panoramic views. Immerse yourself in the local culture with visits to cozy cafes and artisan shops. With its cool climate and stunning gardens, Santa Elena promises a refreshing escape for those seeking tranquility and adventure off the beaten path. For the best hotel rates in Santa Elena and to enhance your stay, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Santa Elena

Some of the best places to stay in Santa Elena are Puerto Viejo and La Fortuna. Puerto Viejo and La Fortuna are both fantastic destinations for travelers. Puerto Viejo offers a vibrant Caribbean vibe with stunning beaches and diverse wildlife, ideal for relaxation and adventure. La Fortuna, home to the Arenal Volcano, is perfect for thrill-seekers, featuring hot springs and lush rainforests. Accommodations range from charming lodges to friendly hostels, providing options for every budget. For first-time visitors, La Fortuna is particularly inviting due to its array of activities and accessibility. Here are some of the best hotels in Santa Elena that our travelers love:

1. Puerto ViejoOpens in a new window: Puerto Viejo is a vibrant destination known for its stunning beaches and adventurous outdoor activities. It attracts travelers seeking a mix of relaxation and excitement, with beautiful spots like Playa Coronado, Playa Bajo Negro, and Playa Torres. For accommodations, consider Punta Islita, Autograph CollectionOpens in a new window, a 4.5-star resort offering direct beach access and family-friendly amenities, including a children’s pool and adventure sports like hiking and horse riding. Another option is LALOON Luxury Suites - Adults OnlyOpens in a new window, a luxurious 5.0-star hotel perfect for those looking for a high-end experience. For a romantic getaway, Hotel Nantipa - A Tico Beach ExperienceOpens in a new window offers beachfront access and special romance packages, along with various adventure sports nearby.
2. La FortunaOpens in a new window: La Fortuna is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, featuring breathtaking attractions like Arenal Volcano National Park and Tabacon Hot Springs. It’s ideal for those seeking scenic beauty and adventure activities. The Springs Resort and Spa at ArenalOpens in a new window is a 5.0-star resort that boasts natural hot springs and offers a range of adventure sports, including ziplining and fishing. Another excellent choice is Nayara Springs - Adults onlyOpens in a new window, also a 5.0-star hotel, which provides hot spring access and various outdoor activities for thrill-seekers. For a well-rounded experience, Tabacón Thermal Resort & SpaOpens in a new window offers luxurious amenities and adventure options like rafting and rock climbing, making it perfect for both relaxation and excitement.

Things to do in Santa Elena for first time

Three days in Santa Elena offer an unforgettable experience amidst lush forests, vibrant gardens, and breathtaking mountains. Travelers can enjoy birdwatching, hiking through scenic trails, and exploring the rich biodiversity, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Santa Elena:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve, where you can immerse yourself in the lush biodiversity and experience the enchanting trails surrounded by misty forests. Afterward, make your way to the Friends Meeting House, a unique spot to reflect and appreciate the tranquil surroundings. Conclude your day with a visit to the Curi-Cancha Reserve, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, where you can spot colorful birds and other fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
• Day 2: Start your exploration at Arenal Volcano National Park, where you can marvel at the majestic volcano and enjoy hiking the scenic trails. Next, venture to Chato Volcano for a more rugged experience, offering stunning views and a chance to see the beautiful lagoon at its summit. Wrap up your day with a refreshing dip at La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of this iconic Costa Rican landmark.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Reserva Biológica Bosque Nuboso Monteverde, where you can stroll through the cloud forest and witness the incredible flora and fauna. Following that, head to the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, a delightful sanctuary showcasing a variety of butterfly species, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike. Finally, conclude your trip with a visit to Arenal Volcano, where you can enjoy one last breathtaking view of this stunning natural wonder before departing.

5 tips to find a great Santa Elena hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Santa Elena is during January, February, and October, when hotel prices tend to be more affordable. For international travelers looking for great value for money, it’s advisable to book flights at least eight months in advance to secure lower fares. To fully appreciate the beautiful flowers, gardens, and lush forests, a stay of at least 2-3 days is ideal for exploring the main attractions in this charming destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Santa Elena, Hotels.com is a great place to start. Check out the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section to potentially find discounted hotel rates close to your travel date. You may discover great options with good availability at competitive prices. To enhance your chances of finding the best offers, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for updates on flash sales and special promotions, ensuring you stay informed about any savings opportunities.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could increase the chances that you may save on hotel expenses in Santa Elena.
4. Consider your location: Staying near the city center and local attractions in Santa Elena is usually more expensive. If you decide to stay farther from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like walking, taxis, or bicycles to explore the area while potentially saving money.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your hotel in Santa Elena and join Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program, enabling members to earn and enjoy reward points for hotel reservations. Progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers and access perks such as room upgrades when available, exclusive discounts, and unique member offers. Join today.

What to eat in Santa Elena

Here are a few popular dishes in Santa Elena, Monteverde, Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica:

• Gallo Pinto: A beloved Costa Rican staple, gallo pinto is a vibrant mix of rice and black beans, often seasoned with spices and served with a side of eggs for breakfast. This dish reflects the country's agricultural heritage and is a must-try for its comforting flavors and hearty nature.
• Casado: A traditional meal that showcases the diversity of Costa Rican cuisine, casado typically features a protein such as chicken, beef, or fish, accompanied by rice, beans, fried plantains, and a fresh salad. It represents the daily life of Costa Ricans, highlighting the importance of fresh, local ingredients in their culinary practices.
• Ceviche: A refreshing dish made from fresh fish or seafood marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, cilantro, and peppers, ceviche is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike. It's often enjoyed as a light meal or appetizer, embodying the coastal flavors of Costa Rica.

Best time to go to Santa Elena

Santa Elena experiences its lowest average temperature in November, at 78.3°F (25.7°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.2°F (27.9°C). October is usually the wettest month. March, July, and December are the peak travel months in Santa Elena, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly cloudy, with dry to frequent rainfall. On the other hand, September to November tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by moderate to frequent rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.