A riverside village with colorful houses, a large fort on a hill, and lush greenery.

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8 Aug - 9 Aug
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9 Aug - 10 Aug
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14 Aug - 16 Aug
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21 Aug - 23 Aug

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Our top choices for El Castillo hotels

Breakfast included
Hotel
Butterfly Conservatory
Reserve now, pay later
Air conditioned

1. Chateau Arenal

Chateau Arenal
Peñas Blancas
United States
Nallely
AED 386
AED 436 total
includes taxes & fees
15 Aug - 16 Aug
Chateau Arenal

2. Arenal cautiva

Arenal cautiva
El Millon
United States
Jocelyn
AED 251
AED 284 total
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Arenal cautiva

3. Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga
Peñas Blancas
United States
Yang
AED 218
AED 246 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga

4. La Tigra Rainforest Lodge

La Tigra Rainforest Lodge
San Lorenzo
United States
Shauna
AED 320
AED 362 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
La Tigra Rainforest Lodge

5. Bungalows Las Iguanas Arenal Volcano

Bungalows Las Iguanas Arenal Volcano
Peñas Blancas
United States
Brian
AED 437
AED 494 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sep - 9 Sep
Bungalows Las Iguanas Arenal Volcano

6. Hotel Heliconias Nature Inn & Hot Springs

Hotel Heliconias Nature Inn & Hot Springs
Peñas Blancas
United States
Anonymous traveler
AED 519
AED 793 total
includes taxes & fees
16 Aug - 17 Aug
Hotel Heliconias Nature Inn & Hot Springs

7. San Rafael Ecolodge

San Rafael Ecolodge
La Tigra
United States
Samuel
AED 466
AED 527 total
includes taxes & fees
10 Aug - 11 Aug
San Rafael Ecolodge

8. Serene Hills Arenal

Serene Hills Arenal
Monterrey
United States
Natallia
AED 1,494
AED 1,689 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Serene Hills Arenal

9. Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs

Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs
Peñas Blancas
United States
Kendra
AED 827
AED 935 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sep - 9 Sep
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs

10. Eco Arenal Hotel

Eco Arenal Hotel
La Fortuna
United States
Gisel
AED 424
AED 479 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sep - 2 Sep
Eco Arenal Hotel

11. Hotel Colores del Arenal

Hotel Colores del Arenal
La Fortuna
United Kingdom
Rupert
AED 412
AED 466 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sep - 9 Sep
Hotel Colores del Arenal

12. Noah's Forest by Tifakara

Noah's Forest by Tifakara
La Fortuna
United States
Hesham
AED 963
AED 1,088 total
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Noah's Forest by Tifakara

13. Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio

Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio
La Fortuna
United States
John W.
AED 744
AED 840 total
includes taxes & fees
5 Sep - 6 Sep
Hotel Boutique Casa Del Rio

14. Cabañas Caeli Rainforest Glass Cabin La Perezosa La Fortuna

Cabañas Caeli Rainforest Glass Cabin La Perezosa La Fortuna
Peñas Blancas
United States
Niyati
AED 500
AED 565 total
includes taxes & fees
2 Sep - 3 Sep
Cabañas Caeli Rainforest Glass Cabin La Perezosa La Fortuna

15. Arenal Country Inn

Arenal Country Inn
La Fortuna
United Kingdom
JULIE
AED 321
AED 363 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sep - 9 Sep
Arenal Country Inn

16. Hotel Monte Real

Hotel Monte Real
La Fortuna
United States
Family
AED 298
AED 337 total
includes taxes & fees
1 Sep - 2 Sep
Hotel Monte Real

17. Le Petit Hotel

Le Petit Hotel
La Fortuna
United States
Patrick
AED 151
AED 193 total
includes taxes & fees
9 Aug - 10 Aug
Le Petit Hotel

18. Hotel Las Orquideas

Hotel Las Orquideas
La Fortuna
United States
Alfonso Rios
AED 329
AED 372 total
includes taxes & fees
14 Aug - 15 Aug
Hotel Las Orquideas

19. Hotel Secreto La Fortuna

Hotel Secreto La Fortuna
La Fortuna
United States
Floribeth
AED 259
AED 293 total
includes taxes & fees
3 Sep - 4 Sep
Hotel Secreto La Fortuna

20. San Bosco Inn

San Bosco Inn
La Fortuna
United States
David
AED 326
AED 368 total
includes taxes & fees
8 Sep - 9 Sep
San Bosco Inn
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Stay near popular El Castillo attractions

Butterfly Conservatory

8.8/10 (98 reviews)
Meet the animals who live at Butterfly Conservatory during your travels in El Castillo. Wander the lush forest or discover the volcano viewpoints in this romantic area.
See properties

Learn more about El Castillo

Check out the local area in El Castillo—home to attractions like Lake Arenal and Butterfly Conservatory.

See all hotels in El Castillo
A riverside village with colorful houses, a large fort on a hill, and lush greenery.

Top El Castillo Hotel Reviews

Hotel Magic Mountain SPA & Conference center

Hotel Magic Mountain SPA & Conference center

10/10 Excellent
"The breakfast buffet is very nice"
Brandon 1-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Hotel Magic Mountain SPA & Conference center
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort

Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort

10/10 Excellent
"The breakfast was very good with lots of options and it’s a real time saver"
Brandon 2-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort
Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast

Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast

10/10 Excellent
"Nice Location, near shops and restaurants, clean, cozy and good staff and environment"
Antonio Aaron 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs

Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs

8/10 Good
"The hotel is so pretty with beautiful rainforest surrounding it. Even with rain all the time during our stay we found it quite comfortable. My kids loved the hot springs and cold plunge pool. It was quite inside the main road compared to other places but we found the drive quite interesting. We did chocolate tour, hikes and yoga at the hotel. Our only request is wish the hotel changed their breakfast menu everyday. With 5 days of stay we were tired of the same food even though they were very good."
Sandeep 4-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs
Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience

Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience

10/10 Excellent
"An excellent stay and highly recommended for those looking for place in the La Fortuna area"
Bryan 2-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails

10/10 Excellent
"Rooms were extremely nice and clean. Restaurant food and staff were awesome. Location and view were no douth the best in Costa Rica. 100% recommend this to my family and friends..."
Robin 2-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"Loved it all"
Lindsey 1-night trip
Posted 9 days ago
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

More cheap stays in El Castillo

Viajero La Fortuna Hostel

Viajero La Fortuna Hostel

Av. 325 La Fortuna Provincia de Alajuela
AED 127
AED 144 total
8 Sep - 9 Sep
includes taxes & fees
9/10 Wonderful! (24 reviews)
Viajero La Fortuna Hostel
Brisas Arenal Hotel

Brisas Arenal Hotel

1.6 kms southeast from Z13 La Fortuna Alajuela
AED 277
AED 313 total
8 Sep - 9 Sep
includes taxes & fees
Brisas Arenal Hotel
Hotel Villas Vilma

Hotel Villas Vilma

3 Km West From Fortuna Central Park La Fortuna Alajuela
AED 332
AED 375 total
7 Sep - 8 Sep
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Villas Vilma
Tityra Lodge

Tityra Lodge

Ruta Nacional Treciaria 606 Monteverde Puntarenas
AED 344
AED 389 total
8 Sep - 9 Sep
includes taxes & fees
Tityra Lodge
BAUMA

BAUMA

Zeta Trece La Fortuna Provincia de Alajuela
AED 558
AED 630 total
11 Aug - 12 Aug
includes taxes & fees
9.8/10 Exceptional! (309 reviews)
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 El Castillo

Top reasons to visit El Castillo

  • Stunning Natural Beauty: El Castillo is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, including hot springs, volcanoes, and waterfalls, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Outdoor Adventures: The area offers various outdoor activities, from hiking scenic trails to thrilling excursions for all ages.
  • Relaxing Wellness Options: Enjoy spa services and wellness amenities that allow for rejuvenation in a serene atmosphere.
  • Charming Village Atmosphere: Experience the friendly and inviting vibe of this quaint village, ideal for families.
  • Diverse Accommodation: Choose from luxurious hotels to cozy lodges, catering to every traveler's needs.

Find great hotels near El Castillo

Discover the charm of El Castillo, a delightful destination in Peñas Blancas, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica. Offering a range of lodging options from luxurious boutique hotels to cozy lodges, this area is perfect for adventure seekers and families alike. Enjoy hot spring-themed amenities and a variety of hotel services designed to enhance your vacation experience. With numerous positive reviews, El Castillo promises a memorable stay for every traveler.

  • Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort: Immerse yourself in a family-friendly oasis at Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort, a 3.5-star escape located 11.3km from El Castillo. This hotel is perfect for those seeking a spa and hot spring-themed vacation. Guests can indulge in the natural hot springs on-site, which feature soothing amenities like an indoor pool, hot tub, and a full-service spa offering massages. Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s amenities, including a children's pool and first aid kit, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
  • Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience: Discover adventure and relaxation at Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience, a 4-star lodge also located 11.3km from El Castillo. This property caters to business travelers and families, offering a range of exciting activities such as kayaking, mountain biking, and rafting. The lodge features a children's pool, free cribs, and a shared playground, making it an ideal choice for families. Guests can unwind in the thermal pools after a day of adventure, ensuring a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation.
  • The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only: Experience a luxurious escape at The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort, an exclusive adults-only retreat just 11.3km from El Castillo. This 4.5-star hotel combines nature with adventure and spa relaxation. Guests can engage in thrilling activities like zip-lining and horseback riding, and then rejuvenate at the on-site spa, which offers a variety of treatments including hot stone massages and facial treatments. The serene environment and upscale amenities make it an ideal sanctuary for couples or solo travelers seeking tranquility.

Where to stay in El Castillo

El Castillo is a charming village in Costa Rica that offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities while soaking in a friendly atmosphere. Nearby neighborhoods provide easy access to serene walking trails, casual dining, and family-friendly recreation. Whether you're seeking ultimate relaxation or exciting adventures, El Castillo is an ideal getaway for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Costa Rica's enchanting landscape.

  • La Fortuna: Located 12.9km from El Castillo, La Fortuna is a vibrant city renowned for its outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. This area experiences a steady flow of travelers year-round, with peaks in January and March to April. Visitors flock to La Fortuna for its numerous recreational activities, including luxurious resorts and soothing spas. The city is a gateway to remarkable attractions such as Arenal Volcano and Arenal National Park, which offer hiking trails and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
  • Peñas Blancas: El Castillo is situated within the charming city of Peñas Blancas. This destination attracts visitors year-round, particularly peaking in March and during the holiday season. Adventurers come to Peñas Blancas to explore the lush landscapes and partake in various outdoor activities. It's home to serene resorts and spas, perfect for relaxation. Nearby, you'll find stunning landmarks like the Arenal Volcano and national parks that are ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting, ensuring an exciting experience for all.
  • El Fosforo: Just 644m from El Castillo, El Fosforo is a quaint village that invites travelers seeking outdoor and scenic experiences. With a steady influx of visitors, especially in March and the holiday season, this area offers thrilling activities, including ziplining adventures. El Fosforo features cozy resorts and adventure parks, providing unique experiences in nature. Its proximity to the Arenal Volcano and national parks makes it an excellent base for exploring the stunning natural beauty of Costa Rica.

Things to do near El Castillo

El Castillo in Peñas Blancas, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, is perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy alfresco adventures, play a round of golf with stunning ocean views, and relax in beach chairs. The area also features a resort and spa, along with various recreational activities for all ages. Outdoor excursions allow you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of this beautiful destination.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, El Pilon Station, located 41.8km away, offers a charming shopping area with a mix of family and business vibes. Additionally, the San Ramon Municipal Market, 48.3km from El Castillo, provides a vibrant atmosphere perfect for picking up local gifts and souvenirs.

Recreation

At Termales Los Laureles, enjoy soothing thermal waters in a serene environment, perfect for relaxation. Wellness Park Costa Rica offers rejuvenating activities amidst lush landscapes, ideal for unwinding. For sports enthusiasts, Guillermo Vargas Roldan Stadium provides an energetic atmosphere, hosting various events and activities to stay active.

Adventure

At Costa Rica Sky Adventures, located 3.2km from El Castillo, experience thrilling ziplining and an exciting ropes course in a vibrant outdoor setting. Selvatura Adventure Park, 9.7km away, offers more ziplining excitement amidst beautiful nature. Sky Adventures Monteverde Park, 11.3km distant, promises an unforgettable aerial adventure.

Nightlife

El Castillo offers a charming nightlife, where you can enjoy local bars like La Fortuna Lounge for craft cocktails and live music. For a laid-back evening, visit the nearby Café de la Luna, perfect for relaxing with friends and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Costa Rica.

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

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for El Castillo

To save money during your visit to El Castillo, plan your trip for the low season in May or September to October, when prices drop. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best deals, and consider checking Expedia for last-minute discounts. Saturdays tend to be the least expensive days to stay, while Thursdays are pricier. Optimize your budget by using Expedia’s search tool to find affordable hotels, and look for eco-certified options. Additionally, consider booking a package deal that combines flights, accommodations, and activities for greater savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in El Castillo are May and September to October, 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in El Castillo is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in El Castillo is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in El Castillo is Thursday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can organize your search results by price, displaying the most affordable hotels at the top. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category—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 El Castillo hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near El Castillo

El Castillo, located in Peñas Blancas, Alajuela Province, offers an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and stunning scenery. Visitors can explore attractions such as hot springs, volcanoes, and beautiful waterfalls, making it a perfect destination for those looking to relax, rejuvenate, and experience nature. Whether you're in search of wellness or thrilling outdoor activities, El Castillo has something for everyone.

  • Arenal Volcano National Park: Experience the thrill of exploring one of Costa Rica's most active volcanoes. Set in a stunning landscape, the park offers hiking trails with breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for adventure, from zip-lining to canopy tours.
  • Tabacon Hot Springs: Immerse yourself in a serene oasis of natural hot springs surrounded by lush rainforest. Ideal for relaxation and wellness, this luxurious retreat features thermal pools and rejuvenating treatments, creating a perfect escape after a day of adventure.
  • La Fortuna Waterfall: Discover the beauty of La Fortuna Waterfall, where you can swim in its refreshing waters or hike through the surrounding trails. This romantic setting is perfect for capturing stunning photos and enjoying the natural splendor of Costa Rica.

Best time to go to El Castillo

The best time to visit El Castillo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in El Castillo falls in April, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in El Castillo falls in November, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February80.6°F (27.0°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
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 SunnyAverageAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to El Castillo

Traveling to El Castillo, Peñas Blancas, Alajuela Province, Costa Rica is convenient with access to several major airports. San José's Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is located 77.2km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, 8.0km from the airport, and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, 3.2km away, both offering airport shuttle services. Liberia's Daniel Oduber International Airport (LIR) is 86.9km from El Castillo, featuring hotels such as the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo and Secrets Papagayo, both offering transportation options. Cóbano Airport (ACO), 58.0km away, has upscale stays like Hotel Nantipa and LALOON Luxury Suites nearby.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place for a stay in El Castillo?
Based on our traveler data, Chateau Arenal is one of the top choices for your stay. This hotel is a short 12-minute walk from Lake Arenal, and it offers free breakfast and a restaurant. Other good choices for your stay in the area are Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort and The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in El Castillo.
What are some of the best vacation rentals in El Castillo?
Beautiful and Private home in the Heart of the Village with great Volcano views!: This El Castillo vacation home rental is located on a lake and offers a selection of books, air-conditioning, and cable TV to help you feel perfectly comfortable in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a fridge, a stovetop, and a microwave. Some other top choices in El Castillo are Wide Luxury Home with Pool & Jacuzzi access & Amazing Volcano and Lake views and Hummingbird Suite - Spectacular Views of Arenal Volcano and Lake. See all vacation rentals in El Castillo.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in El Castillo, will I receive a refund?
Yes! You'll find that most hotel reservations are fully refundable as long as you cancel before the accommodation's cancellation deadline, which often is within 24-48 hours of your arrival date. If your reservation is non-refundable, it might still be possible to cancel it and get a refund within a 24-hour period of booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in El Castillo.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to El Castillo?
To find more details about changing or cancelling your trip to El Castillo, click here.
What's the best budget-friendly hotel in El Castillo?
Based on our traveler reviews, Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga is a top choice for a less expensive stay. View all budget hotels in El Castillo.
What's the best pet-friendly accommodation in El Castillo?
Majestic Lodge 10-bedroom Resort in La Fortuna, Sleeps 33 AC, WiFi, fitness room is a top dog-friendly resort, and offers a fitness center and laundry facilities for its human guests. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in El Castillo.
What's the best high-end place to stay in El Castillo?
Arenal Vista Lodge is a luxury hotel with a deli and private patios, and it's a popular choice for Expedia travelers looking for an elegant place to stay. Find more luxury hotels in El Castillo.
What are some accommodations with pools in El Castillo?
Chateau Arenal: Hotel, 12-minute walk from Lake Arenal. Features a children's pool, an outdoor pool, and spa services. Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort and The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only are two additional hotels with an onsite pool. View all hotels with pools in El Castillo.
What is the best spa hotel in El Castillo?
Chateau Arenal is a top spa hotel featuring a bar, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant. Treat yourself to a facial, body scrub, or Swedish massage at the onsite spa. Another popular spa hotel in El Castillo is Essence Arenal Spa & Yoga. See all spa hotels in El Castillo.
How is it to stay in El Castillo?
Travelers to El Castillo will find plenty to explore and enjoy. Around the area, top sights include Arenal Volcano National Park, Arenal Volcano, and Tabacon Hot Springs. In El Castillo, there are 40 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about El Castillo.
What should I do while I'm visiting El Castillo?
A couple of favorite places to visit are Lake Arenal and Butterfly Conservatory. Additionally, you'll find Arenal Volcano National Park and Arenal Volcano in the area. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's El Castillo guide.
What's the weather like in El Castillo?
The hottest months are usually March and February with an average temp of 81°F, while the coldest months are January and December with an average of 79°F. The rainiest months in El Castillo are October, August, June, and September, with each month seeing an average of 19 inches of rainfall.