From the moment you step out of Santarena Hotel and into the car-free streets of Las Catalinas, everything you could want is within easy reach. With two stunning beaches, Playa Danta and Playa Dantita, tropical dry forest trails, restaurants, a wellness center, and more, all just steps from the hotel’s front door, you’re surrounded by coastal beauty, comfort, and convenience. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or a long stay, this is your guide to where everything is in one of the most unique hotels in Guanacaste.
A Walkable Town Designed with Purpose
Las Catalinas was built on the idea that life is better on foot, based on the new urbanist principles of design. Town’s cobblestone lanes and car-free plazas create a peaceful, easy rhythm where every path leads to something beautiful. From Santarena Hotel, you can walk anywhere: to yoga class at the Center of Joy, Playa Danta for an afternoon swim, Copper and Stone deli for snacks, or one of town’s many restaurants for dinner. There’s no need for a car, just comfortable shoes, a sun hat, and curiosity.
Center of Joy: The Heart of Wellness
A few steps from Santarena Hotel is Center of Joy, Las Catalinas’ world-class wellness center and gathering place. Here you can take yoga and meditation classes, book sound healing sessions, or enjoy a full day of spa treatments. It’s a peaceful retreat in the heart of town — open, airy, and deeply restorative.
The Center of Joy reflects the town’s soul: community, mindfulness, and balance. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or rejuvenation, it’s an essential stop during your stay at one of the finest hotels in Guanacaste.
Two Beaches Just Outside Your Door
Few hotels in Guanacaste can claim two beaches just steps away. Playa Danta, directly in front of Santarena Hotel, is ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and soaking up the sun. Its calm, swimmable waters make it perfect for families and beginners.
For a more secluded escape, take the short scenic trail north to Playa Dantita. Hidden behind a forested hill, this smaller beach is ideal for snorkeling, quiet picnics, and sunset views. The 15-minute walk feels like a mini adventure, rewarding you with one of Guanacaste’s most tranquil coastal spots.
Adventure Awaits: Trails, Biking & Water Sports
The hills surrounding Las Catalinas feature over 42 kilometers of multi-use trails that weave through forested slopes and along the coast. Whether you’re hiking, trail running, or mountain biking, the views are unforgettable. It’s a combination of tropical forest and shimmering Pacific Ocean.
Stop by Pura Vida Ride, located right on Playa Danta, for mountain bike rentals, paddle boards, and kayaks. Their friendly team will set you up for self-guided adventures or group tours. You can start a morning ride from town, glide across the water at midday, and be back at Santarena for lunch, all without ever needing a car.
You can also reserve a court for pickle ball, play soccer, head out surfing or book a tennis lesson with a seasoned pro. However you’d like to stay active, town was built with that in mind.
Dining in Las Catalinas: 15+ Restaurants to Explore
For food lovers, Las Catalinas is a culinary treasure. With over 15 restaurants and cafés within walking distance, you’ll find everything from beachside breakfasts to candlelit dinners. Enjoy Costa Rican specialties, fresh seafood, Mediterranean flavors, and international fusion dishes, all with a warm, local touch.
Enjoy fine dining al fresco and expertly crafted cocktails right in the hotel lobby at Ponciana, or grab baked goods, salads, and sandwiches to go at Cuatro Calle la Ronde.
For daily essentials, the onsite deli and supermarket provide everything from fresh produce to local wines and gourmet snacks. You’ll also find an on-site pharmacy for your wellness and travel needs, keeping life here simple and stress-free.
Family Life in Town
Traveling with kids? The Elif Center, Las Catalinas’ onsite daycare and kids’ learning center, makes it easy for families to balance fun and relaxation. It’s a bright, welcoming space where children can play, learn, and create, while parents enjoy some quiet time, whether it’s a spa visit, a beach walk, or a yoga class at the Center of Joy.
Finca La Estancia, town’s farm, is a favorite for families. Book a horseback riding experience, meet the farm animals, and learn more about how the farm’s compost system closes the loop on food waste in town.
For families staying at Santarena Hotel, these convenient option turns every day into a worry-free adventure.
Explore Beyond the Town
While Las Catalinas has everything you need right here, you’re perfectly positioned for day trips to nearby destinations. With onsite car rentals, you can easily explore the surrounding region, from exploring beachtowns Potrero and Brasilito to surfing in Playa Grande and Tamarindo. Spend a day surfing, shopping, or discovering Guanacaste’s vibrant nightlife before returning to the calm, walkable charm of Las Catalinas.
This balance of seclusion and accessibility is what makes Santarena Hotel one of the most thoughtfully located hotels in Guanacaste.
A Day in Las Catalinas
A perfect day in Las Catalinas begins with the soft glow of sunrise spilling through your window at Santarena Hotel. After a leisurely breakfast on the terrace, stroll down the cobblestone streets to the Center of Joy for a yoga class or sound healing session. From there, wander to Playa Danta for a refreshing swim or a paddleboard session over calm, turquoise waters. Lunch might be a seaside café or a picnic from the deli, followed by a scenic hike or bike ride through the town’s 42 kilometers of forest trails. As the afternoon breeze cools the air, take a sunset walk to Playa Dantita and watch the sky turn gold and rose over the ocean. Return to town for dinner under the stars, savoring the easy pace and coastal charm that make this community so special. In Las Catalinas, every day feels perfectly balanced between adventure and peace,and every destination is just a walk away.
Everything You Need, Just Steps Away
At Santarena Hotel, you are perfectly positioned with all the amenities of a hotel in a charming walkable town. From two beaches at your doorstep to 42 km of trails, wellness at the Center of Joy, outdoor adventures with Pura Vida Ride, family-friendly spaces like Elif Center, and dining for every taste, everything is just a short walk away. Few hotels in Guanacaste capture the essence of Costa Rican living quite like this. Here, the journey between places is part of the joy. So step out your front door, breathe in the ocean air, and start exploring, because in Las Catalinas, everything you need is already here.
