Rolling hills, dense greenery, and a prominent red rock formation.

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Sep 25 - Sep 26
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Sep 26 - Sep 27
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Sep 25 - Sep 27
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Oct 2 - Oct 4

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Our top choices for Santa Elena hotels

1. Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast

Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast
Monteverde
United States
Caryssa
¥9,521
¥10,758 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast

2. OutBox Inn

OutBox Inn
Monteverde
Canada
Konrad
¥3,155
¥6,077 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 1 - Oct 2
OutBox Inn

3. Pensión Santa Elena

Pensión Santa Elena
Monteverde
Canada
Freya
¥2,481
¥2,803 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Pensión Santa Elena

4. Hotel Claro de Luna

Hotel Claro de Luna
Monteverde
United States
Jonna
¥13,565
¥15,329 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 3 - Oct 4
Hotel Claro de Luna

5. Cala Lodge

Cala Lodge
Monteverde
United States
David
¥13,573
¥15,337 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 3 - Oct 4
Cala Lodge

6. Hotel con Corazón Monteverde

Hotel con Corazón Monteverde
Monteverde
United Kingdom
Rick
¥9,601
¥10,850 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 30 - Oct 1
Hotel con Corazón Monteverde

7. Casa Jungle Monteverde Bed & Breakfast

Casa Jungle Monteverde Bed & Breakfast
Monteverde
United States
TABATHA
¥6,291
¥7,109 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 28 - Sep 29
Casa Jungle Monteverde Bed & Breakfast

8. VISTA AL GOLFO

VISTA AL GOLFO
Monteverde
United States
Andrea
¥6,731
¥7,606 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 29 - Sep 30
VISTA AL GOLFO

9. Monteverde Country Lodge

Monteverde Country Lodge
Monteverde
United States
Ganesh
¥16,986
¥19,194 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 10 - Oct 11
Monteverde Country Lodge

10. Cabinas Selva Verde

Cabinas Selva Verde
Monteverde
United States
Arvind
¥5,723
¥6,466 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Cabinas Selva Verde

11. Cabinas El Pueblo - Hostel

Cabinas El Pueblo - Hostel
Monteverde
United Kingdom
JULIE
¥6,909
¥7,807 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 26 - Oct 27
Cabinas El Pueblo - Hostel

12. Hotel El Rey Monteverde Downtown

Hotel El Rey Monteverde Downtown
Monteverde
¥4,858
¥5,489 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Hotel El Rey Monteverde Downtown

13. hotel rey

hotel rey
Santa Elena
¥5,662
¥6,398 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
hotel rey

14. Hotel El Atardecer

Hotel El Atardecer
Monteverde
United States
Sreenivasan
¥12,065
¥13,634 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 27 - Sep 28
Hotel El Atardecer

15. Hotel la Puesta del Sol

Hotel la Puesta del Sol
Monteverde
Denmark
Marianne
¥8,139
¥9,197 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Hotel la Puesta del Sol

16. Hostel Cattleya

Hostel Cattleya
Monteverde
United States
Divya
¥2,831
¥3,199 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 4 - Oct 5
Hostel Cattleya

17. Casa Madonna Hotel

Casa Madonna Hotel
Monteverde
United States
Daniel
¥7,253
¥8,195 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 8 - Oct 9
Casa Madonna Hotel

18. Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco

Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco
Monteverde
United States
Sarah J
¥37,354
¥42,210 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 27 - Oct 28
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco

19. Hotel El Amanecer

Hotel El Amanecer
Monteverde
Canada
Stephen
¥6,910
¥7,808 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 29 - Sep 30
Hotel El Amanecer

20. Monteverde Monkey Hostel

Monteverde Monkey Hostel
Monteverde
¥4,600
¥5,198 total
includes taxes & fees
Sep 29 - Sep 30
Monteverde Monkey Hostel
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Stay near popular Santa Elena attractions

Monteverde Orchid Garden

9.2/10 (91 reviews)
Home to over 460 orchid species, including the world's smallest, this garden showcases Costa Rica's cloud forest biodiversity. Take a guided tour to appreciate the intricate details of these delicate blooms.
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Jardín de Orquídeas

Home to over 425 native orchid species, this garden showcases Costa Rica's botanical treasures up close. Take a guided tour to see miniature blooms through magnifying glasses while learning from passionate experts.
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Mundo de los Insectos

Explore Costa Rica's diverse insect world through captivating guided exhibits at Mundo de los Insectos. Morning visits offer the best chance to observe butterflies, beetles, and arachnids at their most active.
See properties

Ficus La Raiz

9.6/10 (5 reviews)
This natural wonder showcases a ficus tree's massive roots forming a bridge over a flowing creek. Explore the serene cloud forest setting and capture unique photographs from viewing platforms above and below.
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Centro Comercial Monteverde

You can search for that perfect souvenir at Centro Comercial Monteverde during your stay in Santa Elena. You can seek out the local tours while in the area.
See properties

Learn more about Santa Elena

Cloud forests reveal their secrets on guided night walks where red-eyed tree frogs and sloths emerge. Zip through the forest canopy on thrilling lines, then visit the butterfly gardens in nearby Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve.

See all hotels in Santa Elena
Rolling hills, dense greenery, and a prominent red rock formation.

Top Santa Elena Hotel Reviews

Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort

Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Todo estuvo espectacular!"
Selene 2-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Hotel Los Lagos Spa & Resort
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs

Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs

10/10 Excellent
"Everything about this place was fantastic. The staff was especially nice and helpful. The grounds were lovely, the pools were wonderful. The room was beautiful and the bed was really comfortable."
ELIZABETH 4-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel & Hot Springs
Hotel Lomas del Volcán

Hotel Lomas del Volcán

10/10 Excellent
"Beautiful property, well maintained, staff were excellent! Great location, amenities were up to date, excellent food."
Rachel 4-night trip
Posted 2 hours ago
Hotel Lomas del Volcán
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only

The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only

8/10 Good
"I stayed with my partner for his birthday and we had a great time. The property was clean and the pools were refreshing/relaxing. All the staff was very nice. Only complaint was I wish they did more for birthdays. I booked a dinner months prior with a note for birthday and also called before my reservation to remind them, but still had to ask for a dessert in which they brought out as if any other plate. Didn’t really make my fiancé feel special. But other than that everything was awesome!"
Gianna 3-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
The Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort - Adults Only
Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience

Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience

10/10 Excellent
"Very nice place to stay, close to everything and amazing views"
Ernesto 3-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Volcano Lodge Hotel & Thermal Experience
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent
"We had a great stay at this hotel. Everything was clean, comfortable, and well maintained. The staff was friendly and helpful, and the overall experience was excellent. We really enjoyed our stay and would definitely come back!"
Mohsen 6-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Tabacón Thermal Resort & Spa
Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast

Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast

10/10 Excellent
"Very good breakfast"
Runyang 1-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast
The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal

The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal

10/10 Excellent
"It is a dream. Waking up to volcano views and spending days hot springs hopping is truly magical. All of the staff go above and beyond as well."
Cortney 6-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort

Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Breakfast was excellent"
Murali 3-night trip
Posted 5 days ago
Arenal Manoa & Hot Springs Resort

More cheap stays in Santa Elena

Viajero La Fortuna Hostel

Viajero La Fortuna Hostel

Av. 325 La Fortuna Provincia de Alajuela
¥5,302
¥5,991 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
includes taxes & fees
Viajero La Fortuna Hostel
Arenal Xilopalo

Arenal Xilopalo

Calle 478 La Fortuna Alajuela
¥8,918
¥10,077 total
Oct 26 - Oct 27
includes taxes & fees
Arenal Xilopalo
Hotel Villas Vilma

Hotel Villas Vilma

3 Km West From Fortuna Central Park La Fortuna Alajuela
¥14,217
¥16,065 total
Oct 27 - Oct 28
includes taxes & fees
9.2/10 Wonderful! (126 reviews)
Hotel Villas Vilma
Tityra Lodge

Tityra Lodge

Ruta Nacional Treciaria 606 Monteverde Puntarenas
¥15,847
¥17,907 total
Oct 27 - Oct 28
includes taxes & fees
Tityra Lodge
BAUMA

BAUMA

Zeta Trece La Fortuna Provincia de Alajuela
¥24,110
¥27,244 total
Sep 27 - Sep 28
includes taxes & fees
9.8/10 Exceptional! (321 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 Santa Elena

Top reasons to visit Santa Elena

  • Adventure Activities: Experience thrilling ziplining through treetops and explore scenic nature walks in lush landscapes.
  • Santa Elena Reserve: Discover the rich biodiversity and stunning views in this renowned cloud forest reserve.
  • Vibrant Downtown: Immerse yourself in the local culture with friendly locals and charming shops embodying the pura vida spirit.
  • Family-Friendly Fun: Enjoy a variety of activities suitable for all ages, ensuring memorable experiences for everyone.
  • Cozy Accommodations: Relax in unique lodgings like Hotel Claro and Casa Tranquilo Hostel, offering comfort and local flair.

Find great hotels near Santa Elena

Discover the charm of Santa Elena with its diverse lodging options, including cozy hotels and welcoming bed & breakfasts. Perfectly suited for adventure seekers, families, and nature enthusiasts, accommodations like Hotel Claro and Casa Tranquilo Hostel offer a unique blend of comfort and local flair. Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes or unwind after a day of exploration, you'll find the ideal base for your Costa Rican getaway here in Santa Elena.

  • Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails: Nestled 19km from Santa Elena, Arenal Observatory Lodge & Trails is a charming 3-star lodge that captivates visitors with its hot spring theme. With a stellar guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, this family-friendly accommodation offers a unique experience for those looking to unwind in natural hot springs. The property features amenities tailored for children, including a playground, ping pong table, and a children’s pool, making it an excellent choice for families. Guests can also explore nearby hot springs for leisurely relaxation.
  • El Establo Mountain Hotel: Located a mere 966m from Santa Elena, El Establo Mountain Hotel is a 3.5-star retreat that combines luxury with family-friendly amenities, earning a guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. The hotel provides a range of services for children, such as a shared playground and babysitting options, allowing parents to enjoy a bit of relaxation. With its stunning mountain views and upscale accommodations, this hotel is ideal for families seeking a luxurious vacation experience in a serene setting.
  • Hotel Linda Vista: Just 14km from Santa Elena, Hotel Linda Vista is a cozy 3-star hotel that boasts a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This charming property features a restaurant and a bar/lounge, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast and entertainment options, including satellite TV. The hotel is surrounded by beautiful rural landscapes and mountains, offering numerous outdoor activities for nature enthusiasts looking to explore the stunning surroundings.

Where to stay in Santa Elena

Santa Elena, Monteverde, is a captivating village perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Explore the vibrant downtown, where friendly locals embody the pura vida spirit. Discover stunning natural beauty through lush forests and scenic vistas, ideal for family-friendly activities and relaxation. Nearby attractions offer a mix of recreation and adventure, making Santa Elena a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in Costa Rica's tropical charm.

  • Monteverde: Nestled in the stunning cloud forests of Costa Rica, Monteverde is a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Known for its breathtaking scenery, this city offers a plethora of activities including hiking through national parks, zip-lining above the treetops, and visiting local resorts and spas. The peak travel seasons are from January to March, when visitors flock to experience the lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. Monteverde’s proximity to national parks, volcanoes, and beaches makes it an ideal base for exploration and adventure.
  • Valle Bonito: Located just 1km from Santa Elena, Valle Bonito is a charming neighborhood that attracts travelers year-round. This area is particularly popular in March and during the December to January holiday season. Known for its outdoor adventures and scenic vistas, visitors can enjoy activities such as zip-lining and spa treatments amidst the stunning backdrop of nature reserves and volcanoes. Valle Bonito offers a unique blend of thrill and tranquility, making it a great spot for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax.
  • San Luis: A quaint village situated 3km from Santa Elena, San Luis is a hidden gem in the Monteverde region. This village offers a serene atmosphere for travelers seeking outdoor experiences and stunning scenery. While it sees a consistent flow of visitors, peak times occur in March and the holiday months of December to January. Nearby attractions include volcanoes and national parks, providing ample opportunities for exploration and immersion in Costa Rica's natural beauty. San Luis is perfect for those who wish to escape the hustle and bustle while still enjoying the adventure Costa Rica has to offer.

Things to do near Santa Elena

Shopping

In the heart of Santa Elena, you can explore local shops offering unique artisanal crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out the Monteverde Shopping Center, about 16km away, where you'll find a variety of stores and dining options to enhance your shopping experience.

Recreation

In Santa Elena, indulge in serene yoga retreats surrounded by lush rainforests, promoting relaxation and mindfulness. Explore rejuvenating spa treatments that utilize local natural ingredients, and immerse yourself in guided nature walks to connect with the vibrant ecosystem of Monteverde, enhancing your overall wellness experience.

Adventure

At Selvatura Adventure Park, experience thrilling ziplines and a ropes course surrounded by lush nature, located 5km from Santa Elena. Costa Rica Sky Adventures, 16km away, offers another exhilarating zipline experience. Sky Adventures Monteverde Park, 3km from town, features breathtaking ziplines and stunning views.

Nightlife

Santa Elena offers a vibrant nightlife with venues like the Tree House Restaurant & Café, where you can enjoy live music and good food. For a laid-back evening, visit Bar Amigos for cocktails and friendly conversations. Don't miss the local vibe at the Monteverde Beer House, perfect for craft beer enthusiasts.

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

Find the best attractions near Santa Elena

Santa Elena offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and stunning scenery, making it an ideal vacation spot. Visitors can explore the Santa Elena Reserve, zipline through the treetops, and stroll through beautiful flower gardens. The area is designed for eco-friendly experiences, appealing to travelers seeking adventure amidst nature's beauty. Enjoy the excitement and tranquility that Santa Elena has to offer during your visit to Costa Rica.

  • Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve: Nestled 3km from Santa Elena, this reserve offers a breathtaking blend of lush vegetation, vibrant wildlife, and misty trails. Experience the unique biodiversity as you walk among towering trees and spot rare bird species, including the resplendent quetzal.
  • Wildlife Refuge Monteverde: Located just 2km away, this refuge is a haven for various animal species, including sloths and monkeys. Explore well-maintained trails that provide an up-close experience with the area's rich fauna in a serene setting.
  • Curi-Cancha Reserve: Only 2km from Santa Elena, Curi-Cancha is known for its rich birdwatching opportunities and diverse ecosystems. Wander through scenic trails that lead you past beautiful landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Best time to go to Santa Elena

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

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January79.2°F (26.2°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
February80.6°F (27.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
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 SunnySlightly HighAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Elena

Traveling to Santa Elena, Monteverde, is convenient with several major airports nearby. San José (SJO-Juan Santamaría Intl.) is approximately 77km away, with excellent hotel options like the 5-star InterContinental Costa Rica at Multiplaza Mall, 8km from the airport, and the 4.5-star Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belen, 3km away. Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.) is about 84km from Santa Elena, featuring luxury stays like the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 16km from the airport. For those considering Quepos (XQP), located 124km away, top choices include the 5-star Makanda by the Sea, just 5km from the airport.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best place for a stay in Santa Elena?
Based on our traveler data, Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast is one of the top choices for your stay. This B&B offers free breakfast and free parking. Other good options for your visit include Monteverde Lodge by Böëna and Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco. See all available top hotels, or vacation rentals in Santa Elena.
What's the top vacation rental that Santa Elena has to offer?
Green Forest Vacations Homes: This vacation home rental outside of Santa Elena offers an indoor pool, a balcony, and free WiFi to help you feel perfectly comfortable in your new surroundings. Kitchen amenities include a stovetop, a microwave, and a coffee maker. Make the most of the garden in this rental home to help you unwind. See all vacation rentals in Santa Elena.
If I need to cancel my hotel reservation in Santa Elena, will I receive a refund?
Yes, you'll find most room 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 you have a reservation that's non-refundable, you might still have the option to cancel and get a refund within a 24-hour period of your booking. Filter your search by fully refundable to find flexible hotel deals in Santa Elena.
Where can I learn more about changing or cancelling my trip to Santa Elena?
For more details about updating your trip to Santa Elena or cancelling it, head over to our customer service page.
What's the best budget-friendly hotel in Santa Elena?
Based on our traveler reviews, Pensión Santa Elena is a top choice for a less expensive stay. Other options to stay on the cheap include Hostel Cattleya and Cabinas El Pueblo - Hostel. View all budget hotels in Santa Elena.
What's the best accommodation when traveling with kids to Santa Elena?
Monteverde Lodge by Böëna is a hotel with an outdoor pool and a restaurant, and it's a top choice on Expedia for families. Other good options for your family trip include Cala Lodge and Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco. Attractions in the area like Kalambu Hot Springs and The Bat Jungle are also fun for kids of all ages. Find more child-friendly accommodations in Santa Elena.
What is the top LGBTQ-friendly hotel in Santa Elena?
Cala Lodge is a top LGBTQ-friendly hotel that features free WiFi and free parking. Cabinas El Pueblo - Hostel and Monteverde Eco Love are two other good options for your vacation. See all available hotels listed as LGBTQ-friendly in Santa Elena.
What's the best pet-friendly accommodation in Santa Elena?
Monteverde Eco Love is a top dog-friendly guesthouse, and offers a restaurant and laundry facilities for its human guests. Other good options for you and your pet include Pensión Santa Elena and Hostel Cattleya. See more pet-friendly hotel accommodations in Santa Elena.
What's the best place to stay with easy access to Monteverde Orchid Garden?
Adjacent to Monteverde Orchid Garden, Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco is one of the top choices for your stay based on our traveler data, and this 4-star hotel offers a full-service spa and free breakfast. Other good choices close by include El Establo Mountain Hotel and Camino Verde Bed & Breakfast.
What are some accommodations with pools in Santa Elena?
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco is a top hotel with a children's pool, an indoor pool, and 2 restaurants. View all hotels with pools in Santa Elena.
What is the best spa hotel in Santa Elena?
Hotel & Spa Poco a Poco is a top spa hotel featuring a health club and an indoor pool. Enjoy a facial, body scrub, or detox wrap at the onsite spa. See all spa hotels in Santa Elena.
What is the best accommodation for staying close to Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO)?
Courtyard by Marriott San Jose Airport Alajuela is a popular 3.5-star hotel featuring a restaurant and an outdoor pool. It's located a short 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from Juan Santamaria Intl. Airport. Other options close to the airport are Holiday Inn Express San Jose Costa Rica Airport and Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton San Jose-Airport.
What is staying in Santa Elena like?
Visitors give high marks for the local tours in Santa Elena, which is also known for its gardens and coffeehouses. This city also attracts tourists with its scenic landscape. A top sight in the area is Arenal Volcano National Park. In Santa Elena, there are 48 hotels and other accommodations to choose from. Find out more about Santa Elena.
What should I do while I'm visiting Santa Elena?
Landmarks like Mundo de los Insectos and Jardín de Orquídeas might be worth a visit. The gardens and forests provide a picturesque setting and places to visit include Monteverde Orchid Garden. Bird watching is a great activity, and Ficus La Raiz is one place to visit. Check out what more to see and do in Expedia's Santa Elena guide.
What's the weather like in Santa Elena?
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 Santa Elena are October, August, June, and September, with each month seeing an average of 19 inches of rainfall.

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