Alajuela’s claim to fame is Juan Santamaria International Airport (SJO) and the surrounding hotels. If you’re departing early – or arriving late – this is a very convenient place to spend the night. Alajuela is located 20 km (12.4 miles) northwest of downtown San José. But because rush hour traffic is often an issue between Alajuela and downtown San Jose, it often makes sense to book a hotel in Alajuela.
Unfortunately, downtown Alajuela offers little for tourists. But the outskirts of town are home to two of the Central Valley’s most popular attractions: Poás Volcano and the La Paz Waterfall Gardens. If you’re willing to stay on the outskirts of town, there are some terrific, peaceful ecolodges surrounded by nature — and just a 20 – 40 minute drive from the airport.
★ = Recommended
$ = Good Value
🐸 = Sustainable
Alajuela Hotels – Luxury
★ Peace Lodge
★ Xandari
★ Marriott Costa Rica
Alajuela Hotels – Moderately Priced
★ Poás Volcano Lodge
★ Pura Vida Hotel
★ Quinta Don Fernando
★ Tacacori Ecolodge
★ Courtyard by Marriot
Vista Linda Montaña
Hotel Robledal
Hotel La Rosa de America
Hotel Buena Vista
Hampton Inn
Villa San Ignacio
Holiday Inn Express
Hotel Villa Dolce
Alajuela Hotels – Budget
★ Casa Maria B&B
★ Hotel Your House
★ Alegria Bed and Breakfast
★ Vida Tropical B&B
La Villa Río Segundo B&B
Hotel Aeropuerto
Melrost Airport B&B
1915 Hotel
Hotel Mi Tierra
Discover the best of
Costa Rica
The #1 Costa Rica guidebook.