Default HTG hotel image

Search San Rafael hotels

  • Change your mind

    Book hotels with free cancellation
  • Treat yourself

    Sign in to save 10% or more on thousands of hotels
    Sign in
  • Be picky

    Search almost a million properties worldwide

Check prices for these dates

Tonight
2 Sept - 3 Sept
Tomorrow
3 Sept - 4 Sept
This weekend
4 Sept - 6 Sept
Next weekend
11 Sept - 13 Sept

Filter by

Property class

Guest rating

Our top choices for San Rafael hotels

1. Hotel Suerre

Hotel Suerre
Guapiles
Canada
Juan
AU$137
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Hotel Suerre

2. Hotel Los Ríos

Hotel Los Ríos
Guácimo
United States
ellen
AU$191
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
Hotel Los Ríos

3. Tapirus Lodge

Tapirus Lodge
Guapiles
Canada
Vince
AU$146
includes taxes & fees
5 Sept - 6 Sept
Tapirus Lodge

4. Ecolirios Boutique Hotel & Villas

Ecolirios Boutique Hotel & Villas
Guácimo
United States
Sergey
AU$288
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct
Ecolirios Boutique Hotel & Villas

5. Hacienda La Isla

Hacienda La Isla
Las Horquetas
United Kingdom
Tom
AU$213
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Hacienda La Isla

6. La Selva Biological Station

La Selva Biological Station
Barrio Flaminia
Canada
Chris
AU$158
includes taxes & fees
2 Oct - 3 Oct
La Selva Biological Station

7. Hotel Sun Sun Lodge

Hotel Sun Sun Lodge
Horquetas
United States
Thomas
AU$106
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Hotel Sun Sun Lodge

8. El Lugar Hotel & Nature Reserve Costa Rica

El Lugar Hotel & Nature Reserve Costa Rica
Las Horquetas
United States
Eric
AU$285
includes taxes & fees
22 Sept - 23 Sept
El Lugar Hotel & Nature Reserve Costa Rica

9. Yatama Ecolodge Sarapiqui

Yatama Ecolodge Sarapiqui
Las Horquetas
United States
David
AU$274
includes taxes & fees
4 Sept - 5 Sept
Yatama Ecolodge Sarapiqui

10. Heliconia Island

Heliconia Island
Las Horquetas
AU$116
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Heliconia Island

11. Riverside Lodge

Riverside Lodge
Las Horquetas
Canada
Ethan
AU$70
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Riverside Lodge

12. Mirador Prendas

Mirador Prendas
Las Horquetas
Germany
Anonymous traveller
AU$87
includes taxes & fees
15 Sept - 16 Sept
Mirador Prendas

13. Finca Guarumo - Hostel

Finca Guarumo - Hostel
Las Horquetas
AU$54
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Finca Guarumo - Hostel
View all properties
Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Top San Rafael Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in San Rafael

Hotel Suerre

Hotel Suerre

10/10 Excellent
"Good"
Jose 3-night trip
Posted 13 days ago
Hotel Suerre
El Lugar Hotel & Nature Reserve Costa Rica

El Lugar Hotel & Nature Reserve Costa Rica

10/10 Excellent
"beautiful place"
gilad 1-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
El Lugar Hotel & Nature Reserve Costa Rica
Hotel Sun Sun Lodge

Hotel Sun Sun Lodge

8/10 Good
"Muy bueno regresaria de nuevo"
Sandra 2-night trip
Posted 2 months ago
Hotel Sun Sun Lodge
La Selva Biological Station

La Selva Biological Station

10/10 Excellent
"great birding and excellent food"
gary 2-night trip
Posted 3 months ago
La Selva Biological Station
Tapirus Lodge

Tapirus Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"Very friendly and helpful staff. Very knowledgeable about Costa Rica culture."
Andreas 2-night trip
Posted 4 months ago
Tapirus Lodge
Rent 1 apt for up to 6 guests  both apt for up to 12 guests and a discount

Rent 1 apt for up to 6 guests both apt for up to 12 guests and a discount

10/10 Excellent
"Exceptional! Everything about this place was better than advertised. Extremely comfortable with a beautiful Bohemian vibe. The only issue we had was with the city’s road barrier that prevented us from direct access to the street. You will absolutely love this place!"
David R. 1-night trip
Posted 6 months ago
Rent 1 apt for up to 6 guests both apt for up to 12 guests and a discount
Linda cabaña rústica en Sarapiqui de Heredia con piscina y  wifi

Linda cabaña rústica en Sarapiqui de Heredia con piscina y wifi

8/10 Good
"Maison isolée dans un cadre calme, malgré le bruit des voitures sur la route plus bas. Il ne faut pas avoir peur de partager la maison avec les insectes - ça fait partie de l’expérience ! La propreté globale n’était pas optimale, mais en général le séjour était agréable. "
Meggie H. 2-night trip
Posted 6 months ago
Linda cabaña rústica en Sarapiqui de Heredia con piscina y wifi
Riverside Lodge

Riverside Lodge

10/10 Excellent
"Beautiful property right on the river. There are so many beautiful birds and gardens. A sloth hug out in the tree right outside the door. It was never more than 6 meters above the ground. Great closeup interaction. Just after midday a group of 30 plus monkeys slowly passed thru the trees on the riverbank. The host prepared dinner and breakfast and it was delicious. Rooms are very very clean with cold AC. Outdoor kitchen has ample space and a great place to converse with other guests. I took a refreshing swim in the river. Quiet and peaceful. The owners make you feel at home. "
Timothy 2-night trip
Posted 7 months ago
Riverside Lodge
Hacienda La Isla

Hacienda La Isla

8/10 Good
"Lovely relaxed vibe, nice pool area, staff were amazing and the evening meal was very good. Brilliant walks round the grounds and there were plenty of other things to do in the local area "
Tom 1-night trip
Posted 9 months ago
Hacienda La Isla

More cheap accommodation in San Rafael

Mirador Prendas

Mirador Prendas

Sarapiqui Las Horquetas Heredia
AU$87
15 Sept - 16 Sept
includes taxes & fees
7.2/10 Good! (5 reviews)
Mirador Prendas
Yatama Ecolodge Sarapiqui

Yatama Ecolodge Sarapiqui

8.5 Km From Horquetas Las Horquetas Heredia
AU$274
4 Sept - 5 Sept
includes taxes & fees
10/10 Exceptional! (12 reviews)
Yatama Ecolodge Sarapiqui
Hotel Vista al Tortuguero

Hotel Vista al Tortuguero

50 Norte de Puente de Río Tortuguero Cariari
Get ratesHotel Vista al Tortuguero
Hospedaje Rural Villa Santiago

Hospedaje Rural Villa Santiago

El Tajo Rio Jimenez Limon
Get ratesHospedaje Rural Villa Santiago
El Lugar Resort

El Lugar Resort

Avenida El Lugar Las Horquetas Heredia Province
Get ratesEl Lugar Resort
Room-habitación Y Baño Independientes

Room-habitación Y Baño Independientes

Jimenez Limón Province
Get ratesRoom-habitación Y Baño Independientes

Find out more about San Rafael

Top reasons to visit San Rafael

  • Thrilling Water Rafting: Experience exhilarating water rafting adventures on stunning rivers, suitable for all skill levels.
  • Delicious Local Cuisine: Enjoy mouth-watering Costa Rican dishes at local eateries that showcase the region's flavours.
  • Stunning Natural Scenery: Explore beautiful national parks and reserves that offer breathtaking views and outdoor activities.
  • Charming Neighbourhoods: Wander through picturesque areas like San Francisco and vibrant Antioquia, full of friendly locals.
  • Diverse Accommodation Options: Choose from budget-friendly hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels near San Rafael

Discover the charm of San Rafael, where a variety of accommodation options await to suit every traveller's taste. Whether you're seeking a budget-friendly hotel or a friendly lodge, you'll find the perfect spot to unwind after an adventurous day. With a range of facilities catering to both business and leisure guests, San Rafael offers the ideal setting for a memorable Costa Rican getaway.

  • Peace Lodge: Nestled 40.2km from San Rafael, Peace Lodge is a luxurious 4.5-star lodge perfect for adventure-seeking families. With a distinct emphasis on outdoor activities, guests can enjoy kayaking, hiking, and rafting in the surrounding beauty of Costa Rica. The lodge prioritises family-friendly amenities, featuring a dedicated children's pool, an arcade game room, and adventure sports options to keep the little ones engaged. The combination of luxury and adventure makes Peace Lodge a superb choice for a memorable vacation experience.
  • Hotel Monte Campana Heredia: Located 41.8km from San Rafael, Hotel Monte Campana Heredia is a charming 3-star hotel that caters to families and adventure enthusiasts alike. This hotel offers a variety of onsite activities such as archery, ziplining, and mountain biking, ensuring that there's never a dull moment. With amenities like a playground, shared water park, and arcade game room, children are well accommodated. The hotel strikes a perfect balance between family fun and thrilling outdoor escapades, making it an excellent option for your Costa Rican getaway.
  • Hotel Suerre: Situated a mere 3.2km from San Rafael, Hotel Suerre is a 3.5-star hotel ideal for business travellers and families. The hotel features essential business facilities, including a conference space and business centre, allowing for seamless work trips. Families will appreciate the amenities designed for children, such as a shared playground, arcade game room, and children's pool. The combination of functionality for business needs and family-friendly features makes Hotel Suerre an appealing choice for a versatile stay in the area.

Where to stay in San Rafael

San Rafael, nestled in Limón Province, offers a charming escape with its friendly atmosphere and stunning scenery. Nearby, you'll find the picturesque San Francisco and the vibrant neighbourhood of Antioquia. Explore family-friendly spots, delightful local restaurants, and beautiful properties around San Rafael. The western side of the village presents a tranquil setting, perfect for unwinding and soaking in the natural beauty. Experience the warmth of the locals and the enchanting allure of this Costa Rican gem.

  • La Colonia: Nestled in the heart of the Limón Province, La Colonia is a charming city where San Rafael is located. This vibrant area offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails that wind through lush rainforests and explore nearby national state parks and botanical gardens. With peak visitor numbers occurring from February to March and December, La Colonia is a fantastic choice for those seeking a thrilling adventure amidst breathtaking landscapes.
  • Guapiles: Just 3.2km from San Rafael, Guapiles is a lively city renowned for its outdoor experiences and scenic beauty. The area attracts travellers year-round, with peak seasons in January, July, and September. Here, you can immerse yourself in various adventure activities, from hiking trails to exploring national parks. Guapiles also boasts nearby beaches, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. The unique flora and fauna make it an ideal destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
  • Jimenez: Located 12.9km from San Rafael, Jimenez is a hidden gem that invites visitors to explore its natural wonders. With a focus on outdoor activities and scenic landscapes, Jimenez sees peak tourist arrivals from February to March and December. The city features a range of attractions, including resorts, hiking trails, and educational experiences. Nearby national parks and beautiful beaches provide ample opportunities for adventure and relaxation, ensuring that every traveller leaves with unforgettable memories of this stunning region.

Things to do near San Rafael

In San Rafael, La Colonia, you can enjoy thrilling water rafting adventures along the stunning rivers, perfect for both beginners and seasoned rafters. After an adrenaline-filled day, unwind at local eateries that showcase Costa Rican cuisine, or explore charming shops that offer unique souvenirs and crafts. This vibrant area promises a mix of excitement and relaxation for every traveller.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, Lincoln Plaza, located 41.8km away, offers a vibrant mix of business and entertainment. Terramall, also 43.5km away, is great for family outings. Closer to home, explore local shops in San Rafael for unique souvenirs and gifts.

Recreation

The National Stadium of Costa Rica, about 48.3km from San Rafael, offers a vibrant atmosphere for sports enthusiasts. For a more tranquil experience, visit Las Golondrinas Waterfall, located 17.7km away, where you can unwind amidst nature's beauty and enjoy its calming vibes.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Rainforest Adventures, located 14.5km from San Rafael, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant rainforest atmosphere. For a rush of excitement, zipline through the treetops at Colinas del Poas, 43.5km away. Alternatively, hike the scenic Tortuguero Hill Trail, 48.3km from San Rafael.

Nightlife

In San Rafael, the National Theater offers a cultural escape with its captivating performances, located 46.7km away. Similarly, the Melico Salazar Theatre, also 46.7km from San Rafael, provides a romantic atmosphere perfect for a night out, blending entertainment with family-friendly vibes.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for San Rafael

For a budget-friendly trip to San Rafael, consider visiting between September and November when accommodation rates are lower. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are typically pricier. Use Expedia to compare room rates and filter for eco-friendly hotels. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities to save even more. Additionally, explore free local attractions and utilise public transport for cost-effective travel around Limón Province.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in San Rafael are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to February to April, 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 San Rafael is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in San Rafael is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool lets you tailor your travel preferences by choosing your budget, desired location, and much more. You can easily arrange the results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you spot the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you’ll find a selection of sustainable, eco-friendly accommodations ready for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your San Rafael hotel booking with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions near San Rafael

San Rafael, located in La Colonia, Limón Province, offers a variety of attractions for adventurous travellers, including national parks, reserves, and archaeological sites. These points of interest provide stunning scenery and outdoor experiences. While exploring, visitors may also seek accommodation options like France hotels and discover local San Rafael attractions to enhance their stay.

  • Braulio Carrillo National Park: Located 27.4km from San Rafael, this park offers breathtaking scenery and exhilarating outdoor adventures. Explore its lush rainforests, diverse wildlife, and stunning waterfalls, making it a perfect escape for nature lovers.
  • Barva Volcano: Situated 35.4km away, Barva Volcano is a majestic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike along scenic trails that showcase stunning views of the surrounding landscape and discover unique flora and fauna along the way.
  • Parque Nacional Volcan Irazu: Just 30.6km from San Rafael, this national park features the impressive Irazu Volcano. Experience thrilling hikes and marvel at its dramatic craters, while enjoying panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Best time to go to San Rafael

The best time to visit San Rafael is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with frequent rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January75.7°F (24.3°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
February76.3°F (24.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
March77.2°F (25.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighSlightly High
April79.0°F (26.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
May79.7°F (26.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June79.3°F (26.3°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
July78.4°F (25.8°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
August78.8°F (26.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September79.5°F (26.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
October78.8°F (26.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
November77.2°F (25.1°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
December76.1°F (24.5°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to San Rafael

Accessing San Rafael, La Colonia in Limón Province, Costa Rica, is convenient via three major airports. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is situated 51.5km away, with excellent accommodations such as the InterContinental Costa Rica, 8.0km from the airport, and DoubleTree by Hilton Cariari, 6.4km away, both offering various transport services. San José (SYQ-Tobías Bolaños Intl.) is 48.3km from San Rafael, featuring nearby hotels like the Barceló San José, just 3.2km away, providing 24-hour shuttle services. Lastly, Limón Intl. Airport (LIO) is located 90.1km away, with options like Hotel Playa Westfalia, 3.2km from the airport, offering shuttle transfers.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in San Rafael?
The best area to stay in San Rafael is the central district around the main square and the surrounding area just off Route 10, offering convenience and access to local amenities.This central area is the heart of San Rafael and is very walkable. You'll find the main church, local shops, and eateries all within a short stroll of the central square. It's well-connected by local roads, making it easy to get around.For couples looking for a relaxed and local experience, staying near the central square is ideal. You'll be able to enjoy the local pace of life, visit the artisan shops, and dine at authentic Costa Rican restaurants. The evenings often feature local gatherings, providing a pleasant cultural experience.Travellers seeking a convenient base for exploring the region will find the area just off Route 10 particularly suitable. This location provides straightforward access to main roads for day trips to nearby natural attractions like the Turrialba Volcano or the Pacuare River.
When is the best time to go to San Rafael?
The best time to go to San Rafael, Limón Province, Costa Rica, is during the dry season, which typically runs from December to April.During these months, you'll experience less rain and more sunshine, making it ideal for exploring the natural beauty of the area. The drier weather is great for outdoor activities like hiking through the rainforests, visiting waterfalls, and enjoying the beaches without the interruption of heavy downpours. The roads are also generally in better condition during the dry season, which makes travel around the region more comfortable for those who appreciate convenience.For travellers interested in wildlife, particularly birdwatching, the dry season offers excellent viewing opportunities as many species are more active and visible. It's also a good time for those looking to relax by the coast, as the ocean conditions are generally calmer, making it pleasant for swimming and other water-based activities.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, though it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24-48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to "My Trips", and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by "Fully refundable property" for hotels in San Rafael.
How can I save on a hotel booking in San Rafael with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on San Rafael 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 San Rafael?
Prices for hotels in San Rafael often vary, but you can find a great deal from AU$54 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by "Price: low to high" for our cheapest rates.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia