Search Hotels in Santa Elena

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

• Stunning Beaches: Santa Elena boasts beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
• Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy thrilling excursions and eco-tours in the Santa Elena Cloud Forest and other natural reserves.
• Vibrant Local Culture: Experience the lively local nightlife and friendly atmosphere, with opportunities to encounter wildlife.
• Diverse Accommodations: Choose from a range of lodging options, from cozy beachfront hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
• Charming Nearby Cities: Explore nearby regions with unique cultural experiences and welcoming locals.

Find great hotels in Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers a diverse selection of accommodations, ranging from cozy hotels to budget-friendly hostels, catering to every type of traveler. Whether you're seeking a beachfront retreat, a pet-friendly option, or an adventurous getaway, you'll find the perfect hotel to enhance your stay. Explore the best hotels in Santa Elena, where comfort and convenience meet stunning natural beauty.

• Hotel Kundalini: Embracing a beach and wellness theme, Hotel Kundalini is an ideal choice for families and relaxation seekers. This beachfront property offers direct access to the sandy shores, making it a perfect getaway for sun and surf enthusiasts. The hotel features a comprehensive spa, providing a range of services including massages, sauna sessions, and couples treatment rooms for a rejuvenating experience. Families will appreciate the dedicated amenities for children, such as a shared playground and arcade game room, ensuring that younger guests are entertained while adults unwind. The serene setting and luxurious amenities make Hotel Kundalini a standout option for a memorable vacation.
• Hotel Colón Salinas: A sophisticated 4-star hotel, Hotel Colón Salinas caters to business travelers and beach vacationers alike. Its prime location provides direct access to the vibrant beach, offering guests the perfect blend of work and leisure. The hotel is designed with modern amenities to support business needs while ensuring a comfortable stay. Guests will enjoy the warm hospitality and the inviting atmosphere that makes this property a great choice for those looking to combine productivity with relaxation by the sea.
• Blue Bay Hotel: Blue Bay Hotel offers a cozy 3-star experience for those seeking a beach-focused getaway. Situated near the coastline, this property allows guests to soak in the sun and enjoy the waves with ease. The hotel provides essential comforts and amenities to ensure a pleasant stay for visitors looking to unwind and explore the beautiful surroundings. With its friendly atmosphere and easy beach access, Blue Bay Hotel is a lovely option for travelers wanting a casual and enjoyable escape in Santa Elena.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Ecuador, is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its stunning coastal views and rustic elegance, you'll find yourself immersed in a relaxing atmosphere. Explore charming cities and regions nearby, where friendly locals welcome you to experience thrilling adventures and serene terraces. Whether you're seeking adventure or tranquility, Santa Elena offers the perfect blend of vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery for an unforgettable vacation.

• Salinas: Nestled along the coastline of the Santa Elena province, Salinas is a vibrant city known for its stunning beaches and lively atmosphere. Visitors flock here year-round, with peak seasons in January to February and July. Salinas offers a variety of outdoor adventures, from water sports to leisurely beach strolls. The city's shopping centers and malls provide ample opportunities for retail therapy, while the nearby national state park and dock port serve as attractions for nature lovers and boat enthusiasts alike. Expect a perfect blend of relaxation and excitement during your stay in Salinas.
• Manglaralto: Located just south of Salinas, Manglaralto is a charming city that captures the essence of coastal Ecuador. This area attracts a steady flow of travelers, peaking in January to February and August. Manglaralto is celebrated for its beautiful beaches and thrilling outdoor activities, including surfing and eco-education. The local beach and national state park offer breathtaking views and excellent spots for relaxation or adventure. The lookout points provide opportunities for stunning panoramic views of the coastline, making it an ideal getaway for those seeking both adventure and tranquility.
• Montanita: A lively village known for its bohemian vibe, Montanita is the perfect destination for beach lovers and adventurous spirits. With a peak in visitor numbers during January to February and July, this village offers a unique blend of surf culture, outdoor activities, and shopping. The beach is a hub for sunbathing and surfing, while the nearby national state park and places of worship add to the area's cultural richness. The vibrant atmosphere and community spirit make Montanita an unforgettable stop on your Ecuadorian adventure.

Things to do in Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers a fantastic vacation experience with its beautiful beaches and stunning outdoor scenery. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including excursions, sustainability tours, and thrilling Costa Rica sky adventures. The area also features shopping centers and outdoor seating options to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to explore the local nightlife, including exciting night wildlife encounters that make this destination truly special.

Shopping

In Santa Elena, visit El Paseo Shopping La Peninsula for a lively atmosphere with entertainment and family vibes. Alternatively, check out Locals Point, which offers a mix of city charm and family-friendly shopping. Both spots are perfect for finding unique gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

Experience tranquility at the Mandala Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and yoga sessions amidst serene surroundings. For outdoor fun, explore the beautiful beaches of Salinas, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, ensuring a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

Adventure

Explore the stunning beaches of Montañita, renowned for surfing and vibrant nightlife. Experience thrilling zip-lining at La Chocolatera, offering breathtaking views. For a unique adventure, visit the Los Olivos Ecological Park for hiking and birdwatching amidst diverse wildlife and lush vegetation.

Nightlife

Experience Santa Elena's vibrant nightlife at La Casa del Ceviche on the waterfront, where fresh seafood meets lively music. For dancing, visit El Bar de La Playa, offering a fun atmosphere with great cocktails and local DJs spinning the latest hits.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Elena

To save money during your visit to Santa Elena, plan your trip between May to June or September when prices are lower, avoiding the peak months of February, August, and December. Book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, as Saturdays tend to be the most expensive. Use Expedia to customize your hotel search by budget and location, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings. Look for special offers and great deals to maximize your budget while enjoying free local attractions and public transport options.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Elena are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February, August and December, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Elena is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Elena is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Santa Elena hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Santa Elena

Santa Elena is perfect for beach and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and cultural experiences. Popular attractions include beautiful beaches, parks, and local churches. For a memorable visit, be sure to explore the Santa Elena Reserve and the Santa Elena Cloud Forest Reserve, which provide unique opportunities for adventure and relaxation amid nature's beauty.

• Salinas Beach: Enjoy the sun and surf at Salinas Beach, where the vibrant beach vibes create the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and fun. With soft sands and clear waters, it's an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beach sports.
• Ballenita Park: This eco-friendly park is perfect for families looking to unwind amidst nature. With lush greenery, play areas, and picnic spots, Ballenita Park offers a serene environment for outdoor activities and family gatherings.
• Montanita Church: Experience the cultural richness at Montanita Church, where local traditions blend with stunning architecture. This charming church provides a glimpse into the spiritual life of the community and is a peaceful place for reflection.

Best time to go to Santa Elena

The best time to visit Santa Elena is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. March is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. August is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	76.3°F (24.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
February	77.7°F (25.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High
March	78.1°F (25.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	76.8°F (24.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
May	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
June	73.6°F (23.1°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
July	72.0°F (22.200000000000003°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
August	70.7°F (21.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	70.9°F (21.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
October	71.2°F (21.8°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	72.1°F (22.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
December	73.9°F (23.3°C)	No Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

When planning your visit to Santa Elena, Ecuador, you can fly into two major airports. Guayaquil's José Joaquin de Olmedo International Airport (GYE) is located 107.8km away, with luxury accommodations like the Sheraton Guayaquil Hotel, 1.1km from the airport, and the Radisson Hotel Guayaquil, 3.2km away, offering various transportation services. Another option is Manta's Eloy Alfaro International Airport (MEC), situated 143.2km from Santa Elena. Nearby hotels include the Wyndham Manta Sail Plaza Hotel & Convention Center, 8.0km away, and Oro Verde Manta, 4.8km away, both providing shuttle services to the airport for your convenience.