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Santa Elena holiday rentals

We found 27 holiday rentals — enter your dates for availability
Discover a selection of holiday rentals in Santa Elena that are perfect for your trip. Whether you're travelling with your children and pets, with friends or just your children, holiday rentals have the amenities that you expect for your stay, which might include parking and a washer and dryer. You'll be able to choose a property to rent for everyone's needs, including options that are accessible or non-smoking.

  • Peace of mind

    Our Book with Confidence Guarantee gives you 24/7 support

  • More quality time

    From booking to staying, the whole process is simple and enjoyable

  • All the privacy of home

    Enjoy full kitchens, laundry, pools, gardens and more

  • More for less

    More space, more privacy, more amenities — more value

Find the perfect holiday rental for your Santa Elena getaway

Learn about the unique charm of Santa Elena with a stay in a holiday home rental. This city has something for everyone. Whether you're planning a family holiday, a trip with friends or a romantic retreat, HomeAway has a great selection of holiday homes. Many rentals come with a full kitchen and separate dining area, perfect if you need a space for entertaining.

Activities and attractions in and around Santa Elena

Are you looking for top things to see and do while you're in the area? Venture out of your cosy holiday rental and check out everything that makes Santa Elena a one-of-a-kind holiday spot. These are some of the most popular attractions to put on your list, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Ericka's Fruit Stand (21.2 mi / 34.2 km)
  • Go Adventures (22.2 mi / 35.7 km)

Exploring the natural landscape of Santa Elena

Whether you're looking for adventure or just want to spend some time taking in the scenery, Santa Elena is a great place to spend some time outside. These are a few of the area's most stunning natural features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city centre:

  • Santa Rosa National Park (2.7 mi / 4.3 km)
  • Playa Copal (9.4 mi / 15.1 km)
  • Playa Jobo (9.9 mi / 16 km)
  • Playa Coco (10.8 mi / 17.4 km)
  • Playa Nacascolo (18.5 mi / 29.7 km)
  • Playa Virador (19.5 mi / 31.3 km)

Transport to and around Santa Elena

Fly into Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.), the closest airport, located 23 mi (37 km) from the city centre.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Santa Elena when booking a holiday rental?
When considering where to stay in Santa Elena, Guanacaste, one of the best areas to book a holiday rental is within the vicinity of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. This remarkable location offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the lush, biodiverse environment that Costa Rica is renowned for. The area features a variety of properties, ranging from charming cabins to luxurious villas, suiting different preferences and budgets.In addition to the stunning natural beauty, visitors can explore attractions such as the hanging bridges, which provide breathtaking views of the forest canopy, and the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, where you can learn about and observe these fascinating creatures up close. The vibrant community and the ease of access to outdoor activities, including hiking and birdwatching, make this area a delightful choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
What is the most popular type of holiday rental accomodation in Santa Elena?
In Santa Elena, holiday houses are the most popular type of holiday rental, with several available throughout the area. These properties typically offer spacious interiors, multiple bedrooms, and fully equipped kitchens, making them ideal for families or groups. Many of these houses are set in tranquil locations, providing a peaceful retreat while being close to local attractions such as the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and various hiking trails.
Are there any remote work holiday rentals in Santa Elena?
In Santa Elena, Guanacaste, there are several remote work holiday rentals available, making it an ideal spot for those looking to blend work with leisure. Many of these properties come equipped with reliable internet services, allowing for productive working conditions while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Accommodations often feature spacious living areas, dedicated workspaces, and comfortable furnishings to ensure a pleasant stay.The area offers easy access to stunning natural attractions such as the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, where visitors can engage in the lush biodiversity and enjoy hiking trails. Additionally, the local community is vibrant, with markets and restaurants nearby where you can experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine. To help narrow your search, insert your dates and apply the "WiFi" filter on Stayz.
What are popular rental amenities in Santa Elena?
In Santa Elena, Guanacaste, a popular amenity among holiday rentals is WiFi, which is essential for travellers looking to stay connected during their visit. Many rentals in this area, which is known for its lush cloud forests and proximity to adventure activities, typically feature comfortable living spaces equipped with modern conveniences. Guests can expect a variety of accommodations, from cosy cabins to spacious villas, often providing additional amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, outdoor seating areas, and sometimes even communal spaces for relaxation.
When is the best time to visit Santa Elena for a holiday rental?
The best time to visit Santa Elena for a holiday rental is during the peak season from July to September. This period attracts a vibrant crowd of travellers eager to experience the lush beauty of Guanacaste, making it an ideal time for those looking to immerse themselves in the stunning natural surroundings. With temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, the climate is pleasantly warm, superb for outdoor activities such as hiking in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve or exploring the rich biodiversity of the area.July stands out as the most popular month to visit, offering lively options filled with diverse events and opportunities for adventure. Visitors can enjoy everything from canopy tours to wildlife spotting, providing a fantastic way to connect with nature while enjoying the comfort of well-equipped holiday rentals.For those seeking a more budget-friendly option, consider visiting in November, when the tourist crowds thin out and the region offers its own charm. During this time, you can enjoy the tranquillity of the cloud forest while still experiencing the beauty of the landscape, often enhanced by the remnants of the rainy season.
What are the top attractions in Santa Elena?
In Santa Elena, Guanacaste, visitors can take part in the breathtaking natural beauty and rich biodiversity of the area. One of the main attractions is the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, renowned for its lush vegetation and diverse wildlife, including numerous bird species such as the resplendent quetzal. The reserve offers various trails for hiking and guided tours, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the unique ecosystem.The nearby Monteverde Biological Reserve is another highlight, where travellers can discover the wonders of the cloud forest through well-maintained paths and suspension bridges that provide stunning views of the canopy. For those interested in adventure, activities like zip-lining and horseback riding are popular in this region, providing exhilarating ways to explore the landscape.Café culture thrives in Santa Elena, with numerous local coffee farms offering tours that showcase the coffee production process and provide tastings of some of the finest brews in the country. The charming town itself features a range of shops, eateries, and art galleries, making it a delightful spot to experience local culture.
Are all fees included in the Santa Elena holiday homes prices shown on Stayz?
Stayz provides upfront pricing from the moment you start your search. There are no hidden fees added during the check-out process. This allows you to compare properties with ease and plan your trip with confidence.
Are there any Santa Elena holiday homes with parking?
Stayz offers a wide selection of holiday homes in Santa Elena with parking available—perfect for families or travellers who value the convenience of having a car during their stay. To easily find these properties, simply enter your travel details and use the "Parking available" filter under the amenities section. This makes it quick and easy to browse listings that suit your needs, whether you're planning a short city break or a longer stay.
Are there any discounts for Santa Elena holiday homes?
You can find great discounts on holiday homes in Santa Elena on Stayz, including special rates on new listings and savings for weekly or monthly stays with top amenities such as a pool or parking. There are several discounts for last-minute bookings, and early-bird bookings too. The best part is, there's no need for a discount code—just enter your travel dates and apply the discount filters to view the top rates.
Can I change or cancel my Santa Elena holiday home booking on Stayz?
To find Santa Elena holiday rentals with free cancellation, just use Stayz's handy "Free cancellation" search filter. We get that plans can change, so it's easy to filter properties that give you flexibility. If you need to make changes to an existing booking, drop your host a message. Go to "My Trips" in your account, click "Change or Cancel" and then "Message Host". Whether you're adjusting your plans or looking for flexible payment options, Stayz makes it easy to book with confidence.
Can I find long-stay holiday homes in Santa Elena?
A long-stay holiday home in Santa Elena is the best way to experience local living. Plus, you can make the most of long-stay discounts. Long-stay discounts are applied automatically when you enter your vacation dates into the search tool, or you can use the "Weekly stay" and "Monthly stay" filters in your search.
Can I plan a group trip on Stayz?
Stayz's Trip Planner makes organising group trips easy and stress-free. Whether you're planning with friends or coordinating a large group, you can collaborate in one place, save and share properties, vote on favourites, and build the perfect itinerary together.
How early should I book a Santa Elena holiday home?
Book your Santa Elena holiday home at least two months before you travel for the best selection of properties.* Plus, you'll typically find that the earlier you book your vacation rental, the better the price. *Based on analysis of Stayz booking and occupancy data for 2024 stays.
How much does it cost to rent a holiday home in Santa Elena?
Prices for holiday homes in Santa Elena vary based on factors like travel dates, length of stay, accommodation type, and location. Simply enter your trip details to explore a wide range of options—whether you're travelling solo, as a couple, with family, or in a group. Stayz offers something for every taste and budget, from affordable homes in Santa Elena to more spacious homes.
What can I expect from Stayz customer service and StayzCare™ support?
Your peace of mind is our priority. Whether you're planning your trip or have already finished your stay, StayzCare™ is here to support you every step of the way. For urgent situations, such as last-minute cancellations, booking issues, or potential fraud, StayzCare™ customer service is available 24/7 to support you every step of the way. Stayz also offers support via live chat through our Help Centre, where you can find helpful resources on bookings, payments, property management, and safety, making it easy to get instant answers to many common questions.
What is StayzCare™ and how does it work?
Stayz's mission is to help guests relax, reconnect, and enjoy precious time together. With StayzCare™, you can have peace of mind knowing you're protected and that if something goes wrong, we will do our best to make it right as applicable. If a significant issue arises that your host can't resolve, we'll help you address it, find a similar property, or get your reservation refunded if applicable. That's our promise. If a home is significantly different than listed, we'll get you into a new space that meets your needs and makes it right, or if a host cancels before your stay, you have a dedicated support team to get you into a similar home as applicable.
Why should I join Stayz as a host?
Joining Stayz as a host opens the door to a global community of travellers seeking unique stays, giving you the opportunity to earn income from your property on your terms. With user-friendly tools, dedicated support, and exposure on major travel sites, Stayz makes it easy to list, manage, and succeed. Whether it's a cosy cabin or a beach house, you can turn your space into a standout destination, become a host and let Stayz handle the heavy lifting to help you thrive. Earn a Premier Host badge by providing quick, reliable communication and consistently delivering outstanding guest experiences.