Guanacaste Airport (LIR), also known as Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport, serves as the entry point for travelers seeking to explore the stunning beaches and scenic landscapes of Guanacaste province.
While the airport may not be as large as San Jose International Airport (SJO), it still offers a range of convenient hotel options for those needing a comfortable stay. Here, we’ve compiled a list of our top recommendations for hotels near Guanacaste Airport.
Top Hotels Near Guanacaste Airport
Important to note: Guanacaste Airport is approximately a 15-minute drive from Liberia city, which is smaller and less developed than San Jose. The nearest beach town, Playas del Coco, is about 30 minutes away, resulting in a limited selection of hotels in the airport’s vicinity.
Unlike San Jose and the Central Valley, Uber services are scarce in Guanacaste province. If your hotel doesn’t offer complimentary airport shuttles, we suggest requesting a taxi arrangement in advance during check-in. Alternatively, consider pre-booking a private shuttle service to ensure a smooth airport transfer.
The cost of a taxi ride from Liberia downtown to the airport ranges from $20-30 USD, depending on the size of your group and luggage. Larger groups with more luggage may require a bigger vehicle, increasing the cost.
Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport
The Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport offers the ultimate in convenience and comfort, making it the top choice for travelers. Located just across from the airport highway, the hotel provides a complimentary shuttle service, ensuring a swift and hassle-free transfer.
The modern rooms boast sleek designs, impeccable cleanliness, and comprehensive bathroom amenities. Guests can indulge in a delectable breakfast buffet at the on-site restaurant, unwind by the expansive pool, and take advantage of the souvenir store, free Wi-Fi, business center, and gym.
As a 4-category rewards hotel, Honors members can earn valuable points by booking their stay. Room rates begin at approximately $120. The Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport also offers a convenient airport shuttle service, with agents holding signs bearing the hotel’s name waiting to transport guests every 15 minutes, from the first to the last flight of the day.
Hampton by Hilton Guanacaste Airport
The Hampton by Hilton is the latest addition to the airport hotel scene, this property opened its doors in late 2023, addressing the need for more chain hotels near Guanacaste Airport. With a competitive edge, it offers a complimentary breakfast, pool, and free parking, making it an attractive option for travelers.
Conveniently located just a 2-minute drive from the airport, this hotel boasts modern facilities, spacious rooms, and top-notch amenities, all at a rate comparable to the Hilton Garden Inn, starting at around $110.
One of the standout features is the free airport shuttle service, operating from 5 AM to 10 PM at 15-minute intervals. Upon arrival, guests can easily identify the hotel staff holding signs with the hotel’s name, ensuring a seamless transfer.
Hotel Santa Ana Liberia Airport
The Hotel Santa Ana Liberia Airport provides a no-frills, budget-friendly stay with essential amenities. Located just outside Liberia city, it’s a mere 7-minute drive from Guanacaste Airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.
The hotel’s straightforward rooms come equipped with hot water, air conditioning, cable TV, and Wi-Fi. Bathrooms are similarly basic, with standard amenities. On-site services include a restaurant, laundry facilities, and housekeeping. Single and double rooms are available, catering to different traveler needs.
For those seeking a simple, affordable place to rest before their flight, Hotel Santa Ana is a practical choice, with rates starting at $50. The hotel can arrange airport transportation, which costs around $10 USD, payable in cash to the driver. Guests must coordinate with the front desk to book this service.
Hotel Boyeros
Hotel Boyeros offers a affordable stay with a convenient location in downtown Liberia, just off the Interamericana highway 1. The hotel features a conference center, restaurant, inner courtyard, and pool, making it a practical choice for travelers.
With a 15-minute drive to LIR airport, Hotel Boyeros provides easy access to nearby restaurants and shops. The rooms, while somewhat dated, are clean and comfortable, making it a suitable option for a short stay in Liberia. Rates begin at $90.
Note that the hotel does not provide airport shuttle services. However, the front desk can assist in hailing a taxi upon request, with payment made directly to the driver in cash. Unfortunately, pre-booking rides is not an option.
Best Western El Sitio
The Best Western El Sitio stands out as a prime option for travelers seeking a convenient stay in Liberia, mere minutes from the airport and surrounded by local amenities like shops, restaurants, banks, and supermarkets.
The hotel’s crowning jewel is its expansive pool, featuring a designated children’s area, making it an excellent choice for families. With rates starting at $100, this Best Western property offers exceptional value.
A valuable tip: request a room at the rear of the hotel to minimize noise from the nearby night club and main highway. The hotel can assist in arranging airport transportation, which costs approximately $20, payable directly to the driver in cash. Be sure to coordinate with the front desk to secure your ride.
Hotel Javy
Hotel Javy, a family-run establishment, offers a humble yet comfortable stay in the heart of Liberia. The hotel’s unassuming rooms are clean and air-conditioned, with options ranging from singles to quadruples, catering to diverse traveler needs and budgets.
A complimentary hot local breakfast is included, although guests can opt out if preferred. The hotel’s proximity to shops, sights, and the main bus station makes it an ideal choice for those heading to Nicaragua. At a 25-minute drive from Guanacaste Airport, Hotel Javy provides a convenient stay at an affordable rate, starting from $40 USD.
The front desk can arrange airport transportation, which costs approximately $25, payable directly to the driver in cash.
Hotel El Cerro
Hotel El Cerro, a family-owned gem in Liberia, offers a cozy stay in the heart of the city. This charming hotel boasts clean and modest rooms, complete with air conditioning and a complimentary hot local breakfast.
Conveniently located near downtown shops and restaurants, Hotel El Cerro also features a secure gated parking lot, making it an excellent choice for travelers with rental cars. Additionally, its proximity to the main bus station ensures easy access to transportation.
Situated just 20 minutes from Guanacaste Airport, the hotel’s front desk can assist in arranging taxi transportation to the airport, with payment made directly to the driver. This service costs approximately $25. Room rates begin at $70, offering a comfortable and affordable stay.
Hotel Las Espuelas
Hotel Las Espuelas offers a convenient stay in Liberia, situated just off the Pan-American highway, providing easy access to popular attractions like Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
This comfortable hotel features a delicious breakfast buffet, showcasing both Western and Costa Rican cuisine, and a picturesque pool area. Rooms are cozy and strategically located to minimize highway noise.
While the hotel does not provide a complimentary airport shuttle, guests can request taxi arrangements. Hotel Las Espuelas is approximately 25 minutes from the airport, with room rates starting at $70.
Best Places to Stay Near Guanacaste Airport
For travelers with a flexible budget, the Hilton Garden Inn Guanacaste Airport and Hampton by Hilton Guanacaste Airport stand out as excellent choices. Both hotels offer a range of amenities, including a pool, restaurant, modern rooms, and a delicious breakfast. Additionally, they provide a complimentary airport shuttle service.
For those on a tighter budget, alternative options are available. However, airport transportation is not included, and guests must arrange and pay for a taxi through the hotel.
Alternative Accommodations Near Liberia International Airport (Guanacaste Airport)
Visions Art Center offers a unique blend of art and hospitality, featuring an gallery and a limited number of rooms.
For a more scenic stay, consider the Papagayo Peninsula resorts or beaches, merely a 30-minute drive from the airport. Playas del Coco presents a charming beach town experience, perfect for a relaxing last night in Costa Rica. Enjoy a picturesque sunset on the beach, a memorable way to conclude your trip.
Other top recommendations for a luxurious beach resort stay include El Mangroove Papagayo, a beachfront Autograph Collection resort, and the all-inclusive, adults-only Secrets Papagayo, both within a 25-30 minute drive from the airport. Treat yourself to a lavish getaway.
Arranging Private Airport Transfers in Guanacaste
In Guanacaste, where Uber services are limited and airport hotels are scarce, pre-booking a private shuttle ensures a secure and reliable ride to the airport. With private shuttle services, travelers can enjoy a direct pickup from their hotel and dropoff at the airport departures area, with the added flexibility of a stopover for snacks or a meal.
Private shuttles offer a cost-effective solution, particularly for groups of four or more, and guarantee a timely arrival at the airport.
Below are average private shuttle rates from Guanacaste Airport:
- Coco/Hermosa/Panama: $80 (1-5 people), $100 (6-8 people)
- Riu Guanacaste: $88-100 (1-5 people), $108 (6-8 people)
- Papagayo Peninsula (Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood, Andaz Papagayo, Secrets): $115 (1-5 people), $130 (6-8 people)
- Tamarindo: $125-160 (1-5 people), $142 (6-8 people)
