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Costa Esmeralda Hotels, San Carlos

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Our top choices for Costa Esmeralda hotels

1. San Carlos Surf Resort & Eco Lodge

San Carlos Surf Resort & Eco Lodge
3.0 star property
Costa Esmeralda
7.8 out of 10, Good, (8 reviews)
"Just pending a TV, but all was OK"
United States
Roberto
The price is AU$138
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
San Carlos Surf Resort & Eco Lodge

2. San Carlos Beach Inn

San Carlos Beach Inn
3.0 star property
0.7 km from Costa Esmeralda
8.4 out of 10, Very good, (39 reviews)
"The hotel is well located and Edgar was friendly on our late check in."
United States
Jorge
The price is AU$49
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
San Carlos Beach Inn

3. Manglar Lodge

Manglar Lodge
3.0 star property
0.9 km from Costa Esmeralda
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (217 reviews)
"Staff was good no beach view"
United States
James
The price is AU$110
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
Manglar Lodge

4. Bay View Hotel

Bay View Hotel
3.0 star property
0.8 km from Costa Esmeralda
6.6 out of 10, (105 reviews)
"Nice and quiet place..!"
United States
Jorge
The price is AU$109
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
Bay View Hotel

5. Casa Blanca

Casa Blanca
4.0 star property
0.7 km from Costa Esmeralda
4.0 out of 10, (1 review)
"The entrance is directly to the street and no safe parking "
United States
Raymundo
The price is AU$139
includes taxes & fees
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Casa Blanca

6. Casa Caracol Boutique Hotel

Casa Caracol Boutique Hotel
2.0 star property
7.7 km from Costa Esmeralda
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (38 reviews)
"Amazing beachfront!"
Canada
Max
The price is AU$106
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Casa Caracol Boutique Hotel

7. Casa Swell Coronado

Casa Swell Coronado
2.5 star property
9.6 km from Costa Esmeralda
10.0 out of 10, Exceptional, (36 reviews)
"They charge 5% on your credit card when you pay. for the lodging. They prefer cash."
United States
Carrington
The price is AU$154
includes taxes & fees
13 Aug - 14 Aug
Casa Swell Coronado

8. Hotel Coronado Inn

Hotel Coronado Inn
3.0 star property
8.3 km from Costa Esmeralda
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (84 reviews)
"Staff were very welcoming and helpful! Room was basic, but adequate for a one night stay and A/C worked great. Many restaurants and shops in close proximity to the property. Was a nice touch to see towel swans on our bed upon arrival!"
United States
Angelique
The price is AU$129
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Hotel Coronado Inn

9. Hotel Eclipse

Hotel Eclipse
3.0 star property
12 km from Costa Esmeralda
8.6 out of 10, Excellent, (84 reviews)
"Phenomenal view!"
United States
Karla
The price is AU$106
includes taxes & fees
11 Sept - 12 Sept
Hotel Eclipse

10. Hotel Casa Mezcal

Hotel Casa Mezcal
2.0 star property
14.8 km from Costa Esmeralda
7.2 out of 10, Good, (5 reviews)
"The real Panamá experience "
United States
Albert
The price is AU$75
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Hotel Casa Mezcal

11. Gran Evenia Bijao - All Inclusive

Gran Evenia Bijao - All Inclusive
3.5 star property
15.8 km from Costa Esmeralda
8.2 out of 10, Very good, (1,010 reviews)
"Very nice place to go with family. Staff are very friendly and the food is varied , the rooms are very good and clean as well the rest of amenities. Gym very well equipped. I will come back for sure."
United States
Lissette
The price is AU$299
includes taxes & fees
28 Aug - 29 Aug
Gran Evenia Bijao - All Inclusive

12. Radisson Riviera Panama

Radisson Riviera Panama
4.5 star property
20.4 km from Costa Esmeralda
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, (180 reviews)
"Clean room, staff was helpful, breakfast buffet was great."
United States
Stephanie
The price is AU$196
includes taxes & fees
31 Aug - 1 Sept
Radisson Riviera Panama

13. Family room in Coronado Luxury Club & Suites

Family room in Coronado Luxury Club & Suites
3.0 star property
10 km from Costa Esmeralda
9.4 out of 10, Exceptional, (3 reviews)
"Excelente. Todo super bien. Recomendado. Comida instalaciones."
United States
raul
The price is AU$144
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Family room in Coronado Luxury Club & Suites

14. Gorgona Beach Hotel

Gorgona Beach Hotel
2.0 star property
11.9 km from Costa Esmeralda
5.6 out of 10, (9 reviews)
"Location is not OK on Waze, first write to then to give you exactly location, name is wrong, is not Hotel is Gorgona Beach House. Pool was dirty, not plenty parking lots, there is a stair very badly designed, do not hold the stairs sideways, there is no kitchenette as it says, there is no table, neither chairs, and you need to call or chat everytime to open the gate that is closed for safety resons."
United States
Berta
The price is AU$49
includes taxes & fees
9 Sept - 10 Sept
Gorgona Beach Hotel

15. las cabañas

las cabañas
3.0 star property
12.8 km from Costa Esmeralda
The price is AU$87
includes taxes & fees
15 Aug - 16 Aug
las cabañas

16. Villa Botero By Casa Mojito B&B

Villa Botero By Casa Mojito B&B
3.0 star property
20.6 km from Costa Esmeralda
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (69 reviews)
"Christophe and his family were amazing hosts. The breakfast was incredible and fit for a king. The grounds, room and pool were decorated beautifully and very well maintained. We would stay here again in a heartbeat. We highly recommend this place."
United States
Daniel
The price is AU$163
includes taxes & fees
17 Aug - 18 Aug
Villa Botero By Casa Mojito B&B

17. The Golden Frog Inn

The Golden Frog Inn
3.0 star property
23.2 km from Costa Esmeralda
9.6 out of 10, Exceptional, (290 reviews)
"This is a beautiful property with clean, comfortable rooms and a very well-maintained pool. The entire property is beautifully kept and has a lovely, relaxing atmosphere. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for a comfortable and pleasant getaway."
United States
Rashmi
The price is AU$149
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
The Golden Frog Inn

18. Casa Madre Tierra

Casa Madre Tierra
3.0 star property
21.2 km from Costa Esmeralda
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (50 reviews)
"Breakfast was AMAZING! Cesar, was amazing at checking us in, making sure we had everything we needed and was overall the best! 100% recommend staying here!"
United States
Michael
The price is AU$311
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Casa Madre Tierra

19. Hotel La Compania Del Valle

Hotel La Compania Del Valle
5.0 star property
23.7 km from Costa Esmeralda
9.8 out of 10, Exceptional, (142 reviews)
"Excellent relaxing time, amazing hotel, amazing spa/"
United States
Javier
The price is AU$325
includes taxes & fees
1 Sept - 2 Sept
Hotel La Compania Del Valle

20. Villas The Tides by Playa Caracol Resort

Villas The Tides by Playa Caracol Resort
3.5 star property
20.9 km from Costa Esmeralda
9.0 out of 10, Wonderful, (6 reviews)
"Loved it! Super comfortable, near the beach everything clean"
United States
Tayna
The price is AU$184
includes taxes & fees
12 Aug - 13 Aug
Villas The Tides by Playa Caracol Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Top Costa Esmeralda Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Costa Esmeralda

Find out more about Costa Esmeralda

Top reasons to visit Costa Esmeralda

  • Stunning Beaches: Costa Esmeralda boasts beautiful beaches like Maracaibo Beach, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
  • Water Sports: Ideal conditions for surfing and other water sports make this destination a haven for adventure lovers.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a range of activities, from shopping at local malls to catching shows at the theatre.
  • Scenic Outdoor Exploration: Discover breathtaking waterfalls and majestic mountains, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxury hotels to cosy bed and breakfasts, catering to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels near Costa Esmeralda

Experience the charm of Costa Esmeralda, where a variety of accommodations await to cater to every traveller's desires. From beachfront hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, you'll find the perfect spot for your family vacation or adventurous getaway. With a focus on comfort and amenities, Costa Esmeralda offers some of the best luxury hotels and unique lodgings, ensuring a memorable stay in this stunning Panamanian destination.

  • Bay View Hotel: Embrace the essence of a beach vacation at Bay View Hotel, a charming 3-star accommodation located a mere 805m from Costa Esmeralda. This hotel boasts direct access to pristine sandy shores, making it ideal for sun-seekers and water enthusiasts. Guests appreciate the warm, inviting atmosphere, combined with essential amenities that ensure a comfortable stay. Whether you want to relax by the beach or explore the vibrant local culture, Bay View Hotel serves as a perfect base for your coastal adventure.
  • Manglar Lodge: Nestled just 966m from Costa Esmeralda, Manglar Lodge is another delightful 3-star option for beach lovers. This property offers direct access to the beach, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the coastline. The lodge's relaxed vibe and natural surroundings create a peaceful retreat, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. With its friendly service and comfortable accommodations, Manglar Lodge is a fantastic choice for those seeking a tranquil beach getaway.
  • El Litoral: A unique blend of golf, spa, and beach experiences awaits at El Litoral, a 3-star Bed & Breakfast located 9.7km from Costa Esmeralda. This property features direct beach access and offers guests the opportunity to enjoy a round of golf on-site. After a day on the green, visitors can indulge in a full spa service, complete with body treatments and massages tailored for relaxation and rejuvenation. With its diverse amenities, El Litoral promises a well-rounded vacation experience, catering to both leisure and recreational pursuits.

Where to stay near Costa Esmeralda

Discover the charm of Costa Esmeralda, a delightful neighbourhood in San Carlos, where stunning scenery meets family-friendly vibes. Explore the beautiful shores, including Maracaibo Beach, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. With a mix of luxury and budget-friendly options, this destination offers a cultural experience that caters to everyone. Whether you're seeking romance or adventure, Costa Esmeralda is the ideal base for your Panamanian getaway.

  • San Carlos: Nestled in the heart of Panamá Oeste Province, San Carlos is a vibrant city that serves as the gateway to Costa Esmeralda. Known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities, it attracts families and adventure seekers year-round. With peak visitor numbers from January to March, it offers a bustling atmosphere during these months. San Carlos features a range of amenities, including resorts and shopping centres, ensuring that visitors have everything they need for a comfortable stay. Local landmarks like the beach, marina, and parks provide ample opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
  • Playa Coronado: This charming village, located 9.7km from Costa Esmeralda, is a favourite among beachgoers and families. With a warm climate year-round, Playa Coronado sees an influx of visitors, particularly from December to February. The village boasts beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding. Visitors can enjoy local resorts, shopping centres, and parks, making it an ideal spot for a family getaway or a romantic retreat. The proximity to the marina adds a touch of adventure for those keen on water sports.
  • Río Mar: Just 3.2km from Costa Esmeralda, Río Mar is a quaint village known for its stunning beaches and outdoor sports activities. With visitor numbers peaking from January to March, it offers an inviting vibe for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure. The village is particularly famous for its golf course, attracting enthusiasts from far and wide. Additionally, the nearby jetty pier and marina provide a scenic backdrop for leisurely strolls and water activities, making Río Mar an excellent choice for those looking to engage with nature.

Things to do near Costa Esmeralda

Costa Esmeralda in San Carlos, Panamá Oeste Province, offers a delightful blend of family-friendly activities and cultural experiences. Visitors can enjoy shopping at local malls and centres, catch a show at the theatre, or explore the vibrant local culture. Surfing enthusiasts will find favourable conditions, making it an ideal spot for water sports. Whether you're after relaxation or adventure, Costa Esmeralda has something for everyone.

Shopping

In Costa Esmeralda, enjoy shopping at Coronado Mall, just 8.0km away, featuring a vibrant mix of businesses and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, the Sunday Market, located 18.0km away, offers a local experience with unique gifts amidst a bustling atmosphere.

Recreation

La Casa de Lourdes Outdoor Spa offers a tranquil body treatment experience, perfect for relaxation, located 24.1km from Costa Esmeralda. Similarly, Pozos Termales provides a rejuvenating body treatment, also 24.1km away, surrounded by serene wellness vibes to help you unwind and recharge.

Adventure

Explore the Square Trees Nature Trail, located 24.1km from Costa Esmeralda, for a thrilling hike through unique landscapes. Enjoy the outdoor scenery and immerse yourself in the adventure vibes as you traverse this captivating trail surrounded by lush flora.

Nightlife

In Costa Esmeralda, the vibrant nightlife includes lively beach bars like La Playita, where you can enjoy cocktails and live music. Nearby, the trendy Club 507 offers an energetic atmosphere with dancing and DJs, perfect for a fun night out under the stars.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Costa Esmeralda

To save money on your trip to Costa Esmeralda, consider visiting during the off-peak months of May and September to October, when accommodation prices are lower. Booking about a month in advance or checking Expedia for last-minute deals can yield savings, particularly on Tuesdays, the cheapest day to stay. Use Expedia's search tool to sort by budget and eco-certified hotels for sustainable options. Additionally, bundling your hotel with flights and activities can further cut costs, making your holiday both enjoyable and wallet-friendly.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Costa Esmeralda are May and September to October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Costa Esmeralda about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Costa Esmeralda is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Costa Esmeralda is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation first. Furthermore, you can 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 some cash by combining your Costa Esmeralda hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions near Costa Esmeralda

Whether you're a family seeking fun, a culture enthusiast, or an adventurer, Costa Esmeralda in San Carlos offers a delightful mix of experiences. Enjoy stunning beaches, breathtaking waterfalls, and majestic mountains, perfect for outdoor exploration. Don’t miss out on the top attractions, and be sure to check out the best beaches and accommodation options for a memorable holiday in this beautiful Panamanian paradise.

  • Playa El Palmar: Located a mere 1.1km from Costa Esmeralda, Playa El Palmar offers a relaxed beach vibe perfect for soaking up the sun, swimming, and enjoying the local surf culture. It's an ideal spot for both families and solo travellers looking to unwind.
  • Los Cajones de Chame: A 19.3km journey takes you to Los Cajones de Chame, where stunning waterfalls await. This outdoor adventure spot is perfect for couples and thrill-seekers alike, offering opportunities for hiking, swimming, and romance amidst nature.
  • Cerro Picacho: Also 19.3km away, Cerro Picacho boasts breathtaking views and adventurous hiking trails. This mountain is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts eager to experience the scenic beauty of Panama’s landscape.

Best time to go to Costa Esmeralda

The best time to visit Costa Esmeralda is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. November is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January78.1°F (25.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February78.8°F (26.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
March79.5°F (26.4°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
April80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May79.9°F (26.6°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
June79.0°F (26.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
July78.6°F (25.9°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August78.6°F (25.9°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September78.4°F (25.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October77.5°F (25.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November77.2°F (25.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
December77.5°F (25.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

The nearest major airports for your trip to Costa Esmeralda

To visit Costa Esmeralda, you can fly into three major airports. Tocumen International Airport (PTY) is situated 90.1km away, with nearby hotels such as the JW Marriott Panama and The Santa Maria, both 10 and 8.0km away respectively. Marcos A. Gelabert International Airport (PAC) is 69.2km from Costa Esmeralda, offering hotel options like The Westin Playa Bonita Panama and Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, located 5 and 3.2km away. Lastly, Panama Pacifico International Airport (BLB) is 62.8km away, with Hilton Panama and Bristol Panama both 9.7km from the airport, providing convenient transportation services to each location.

Frequently asked questions

What are the best hotels in Costa Esmeralda that travellers recommend?
For a highly recommended hotel in Costa Esmeralda, consider the San Carlos Surf Resort & Eco Lodge.

The San Carlos Surf Resort & Eco Lodge is highly regarded by guests, who frequently praise the excellent staff. It offers complimentary breakfast, including a free cooked breakfast, and provides stunning ocean and beach views, great for a relaxing stay. The resort is also conveniently located just 0.5 km from Playa El Palmar.
What hotels in Costa Esmeralda offer free breakfast?
For hotels in Costa Esmeralda that offer complimentary breakfast, the San Carlos Surf Resort & Eco Lodge is a superb choice.

This welcoming eco-lodge ensures a great start to your day with both free breakfast and free cooked breakfast included. Guests frequently highlight the excellent staff. It also boasts ocean views and free WiFi, along with complimentary self-parking. The property is conveniently located just 0.5 km from Playa El Palmar.
What are the best budget hotels in Costa Esmeralda?
For a budget-friendly stay in Costa Esmeralda, the San Carlos Surf Resort & Eco Lodge is a highly recommended option.

This eco-lodge offers complimentary cooked breakfast and free WiFi, which are great perks for travellers on a budget. Guests consistently praise the excellent staff at the resort, and its location is particularly convenient as it is just 0.5 km from Playa El Palmar, making it easy to enjoy the beach. Additionally, the resort provides free self-parking and some rooms even feature an ocean view.
What are the best hotels in Costa Esmeralda near Playa El Palmar?
For a highly recommended hotel near Playa El Palmar in Costa Esmeralda, the San Carlos Surf Resort & Eco Lodge is an excellent option.

This resort is conveniently located just 0.5 km from Playa El Palmar, making it ideal for beach access. Guests frequently praise the excellent staff and appreciate the complimentary cooked breakfast. The resort also offers free WiFi, free self-parking, and rooms with ocean views, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay.
When is the best time to go to Costa Esmeralda?
The best time to go to Costa Esmeralda is during the dry season, which runs from mid-December to mid-April. This period offers consistently sunny weather, low humidity, and calm seas, making it ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.

During these months, you can expect warm temperatures, typically ranging from 28°C to 32°C. The ocean is usually tranquil and clear, great for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding. This is also the prime time for whale watching, as humpback whales migrate through the Pacific waters off Panama's coast, particularly from December to March.

For those planning a relaxing beach holiday, this dry season provides the most reliable conditions. You'll find it convenient for enjoying the resort amenities and exploring the natural beauty of the area without the interruption of daily rain showers. However, it's also the most popular time, so booking your accommodation and activities in advance is advisable.

The shoulder seasons, May and November, can also be a good option for travellers who prefer fewer crowds and potentially lower prices, while still enjoying decent weather.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
Many Expedia hotel reservations are refundable, provided that you cancel before the hotel's cancellation deadline − this is often within 24 to 48 hours of your scheduled arrival. If you have a non-refundable booking, it might still be possible to receive a refund if you cancel it within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. For maximum flexibility, use our 'Fully refundable property' filter during your search to find the right Costa Esmeralda hotel for you.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Costa Esmeralda with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Costa Esmeralda hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Costa Esmeralda?
Hotel prices in Costa Esmeralda often vary, but you can find a great deal on Expedia. Different factors affect nightly hotel rates, such as the time of year or the days of the week you want to book. To find the best deals for your stay, be flexible with your dates and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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