Hotels in San Juanillo

San Juanillo: Where Pristine Shores Meet Untamed Adventure

Nestled along Costa Rica's stunning Pacific coast, San Juanillo in Cuajiniquil, Guanacaste, is a hidden gem for beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. This tranquil village boasts pristine shores like Playa San Juanillo, where golden sands meet crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. The lush surrounding landscapes offer breathtaking views and opportunities for exploration, making it ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape. With its charming local culture and unspoiled beauty, San Juanillo invites travelers to unwind, connect with nature, and indulge in the pura vida lifestyle that defines Costa Rica. For great hotel rates in San Juanillo, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in San Juanillo

San Juanillo offers a charming selection of accommodations, from cozy beach hotels to inviting chalets. Enjoy stunning ocean views and easy access to pristine beaches. Whether you're seeking a laid-back vibe or a more upscale experience, the area's hotels cater to various tastes and budgets, making it a delightful vacation spot. Here are some of the best hotels in San Juanillo that our travelers love:

1. Azul Hotel & Retreat Opens in a new window: This luxurious 4.0-star hotel offers a blissful beach retreat, perfect for travelers seeking a relaxing getaway. With direct beach access, guests can indulge in the stunning coastal scenery while enjoying high-end amenities. The property features exceptional facilities, including a well-rated restaurant and a serene atmosphere ideal for unwinding. Review sentiments highlight the fantastic service and great amenities, making it a highly favored destination for those in search of a memorable vacation experience.
2. Hotel Boutique Lagarta LodgeOpens in a new window: A stunning 4.0-star boutique hotel, Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge is tailored for adventure seekers and leisure travelers. Nestled next to a wildlife preserve, this property boasts breathtaking ocean views and luxurious suites with expansive terraces. Guests can enjoy two beautiful infinity pools and a rooftop sunset bar, complemented by an open-air restaurant. The spa offers rejuvenating treatments, ensuring a high-quality journey filled with comfort and unique experiences. Positive reviews emphasize attentive service, exceptional facilities, and an overall sense of tranquility, making it a top choice for discerning travelers.
3. The Gilded Iguana Surf HotelOpens in a new window: This elegant 4.0-star hotel is an idyllic escape for leisure travelers looking for adventure. With direct beach access and a range of outdoor activities, it sits in a prime location for those wanting to explore the natural beauty of the area. The property features beautifully landscaped grounds, making it a picturesque setting for relaxation. Guests can enjoy luxurious accommodations and a variety of recreational opportunities, including onsite surfing and biking. Positive sentiments reflect the outstanding location and exceptional service, positioning this hotel as a must-visit for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top locations to stay in San Juanillo

Some of the best areas to stay in when visiting San Juanillo, Cuajiniquil, Guanacaste, Costa Rica, are Cuajiniquil, Nosara, and Playa Guiones. Cuajiniquil offers a tranquil atmosphere, while Nosara is vibrant with beaches and jungle adventures. Playa Guiones boasts stunning surf spots. For first-time visitors, Nosara is ideal, combining relaxation with plenty of activities and amenities.

1. NosaraOpens in a new window: Nosara is a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches and lush jungle surroundings. It’s a fantastic spot for those looking to unwind and connect with nature. With beautiful stretches like Guiones Beach and Playa Pelada, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for sunbathing and beachcombing. The area is also recognized for its vibrant wellness scene and yoga retreats, making it perfect for relaxation. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as surfing at Safari Surf School or exploring the scenic trails at Samara Trails. Plus, you'll find unique shops at Frog Pad, where you can pick up local crafts and souvenirs.
2. Playa GuionesOpens in a new window: Playa Guiones is a picturesque beach town that attracts those looking for a laid-back vibe and excellent surfing conditions. The wide sandy beach is great for sun-lovers, and the surrounding jungle offers a stunning backdrop. This area is particularly popular among surfers, with numerous surf schools available for all levels. Besides the beach, visitors can explore the nearby nature reserves and enjoy the local community's friendly atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for both relaxation and adventure, all while soaking up the sun and enjoying the laid-back lifestyle.
3. CuajiniquilOpens in a new window: Cuajiniquil is a quaint fishing village that offers a glimpse into authentic Costa Rican life. It’s less crowded than other tourist spots, making it a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking tranquility. The nearby beaches are less commercialized, providing a more natural experience. This area is perfect for those who want to explore the coastline without the hustle and bustle of more popular destinations. The charm of Cuajiniquil lies in its simplicity, with opportunities to engage with local culture and enjoy fresh seafood in a serene setting.

Things to do in San Juanillo

San Juanillo entices travelers with its stunning beaches flanked by lush foliage and rolling hills. Here, you can unwind on golden sands, explore hidden coves, or take a refreshing dip in the warm waters. The area’s natural beauty invites outdoor enthusiasts to hike, kayak, and enjoy the serene coastal vibes.

• San Juanillo BeachOpens in a new window – Spend your day at San Juanillo Beach, where soft sands meet vibrant blue waters. This picturesque spot is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply soaking up the serene vibe. The gentle waves make it a wonderful place for families to relax while the stunning coastal scenery provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos.
• Playa AzulOpens in a new window – Discover the beauty of Playa Azul, a beach that enchants visitors with its striking turquoise waters and lush surroundings. Whether you’re looking to catch some rays or explore the tide pools during low tide, this beach offers a peaceful escape. Grab a book and unwind, or stroll along the shore as you listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean.
• Playa OstionalOpens in a new window – Head over to Playa Ostional, known for its unique wildlife experiences. This beach is famous for turtle nesting, particularly the Olive Ridley turtles. Witness the incredible sight of these turtles coming ashore, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of hatchlings making their way to the sea!
• Playa CocalOpens in a new window – Venture to Playa Cocal for a more secluded beach experience. This hidden gem features beautiful scenery and is perfect for those seeking tranquility. The calm waters make it a great spot for swimming, while the natural beauty surrounding you invites long walks along the shoreline. It’s an ideal place to unwind and connect with nature.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in San Juanillo

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit San Juanillo is between September and November, when hotel prices may drop, offering great value for money. For those looking to explore the area’s key landmarks, cultural sites, and natural attractions, a stay of at least 3 to 4 days is recommended. During your visit, you can enjoy the beautiful beaches and discover the rich history and culture that San Juanillo has to offer.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals to San Juanillo, start by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to stay updated on flash sales and special last-minute promotions, which could help you save. Additionally, Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window is a useful comparison tool available in the app that allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities. This way, you'll be informed if rooms become available or prices drop, making it easier to book your spontaneous getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on your stay at a hotel in San Juanillo. If you're interested in unique accommodations, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and can sometimes offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could help you secure a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can be convenient, but it usually tends to come with a higher price tag. For more budget-friendly options, you might want to look at hotels in less central neighborhoods, striking a balance between cost and accessibility to the sites you plan to visit. Exploring independent hotels a bit farther out can often lead to a more authentic experience that is also likely to be more affordable.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in San Juanillo. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to San Juanillo

San Juanillo experiences its lowest average temperature in November, at 77.7°F (25.4°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 82.6°F (28.1°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit San Juanillo are January, March, and December, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny, accompanied by no rainfall. In contrast, May, August, and October are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by frequent rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.