Budget Santa Ana Hotels
Villa Napoli Bed & Breakfast
Casa Frolaz
The only dorm in town and one of the best in the country, Casa Frolaz is an eat-off-the-floor-clean type of place. It's in the home of Javier Díaz, a descendant of one of the oldest families in the country, who also happens to be a great host.
Hotel Sahara
Although located in a sketchy neighborhood, Hotel Sahara is considered the best in town. It offers pleasant rooms, with niceties like in-room coffeemaker and complimentary bottled water.
Hotel El Faro
Located on a quiet street, El Faro has 11 clean rooms, most windowless but all with fantastic landscape murals inside and out. They open onto a colorful courtyard and even have music piped in (don't worry, each room also has an off switch).
Hotel Livingston
Dramatic headboards and spacious rooms are the signature of this renovated hotel. Rooms are spotless, with couch, dresser, small table, TV and bathroom; some have air-conditioning.
Hotel Libertad
The main draw is the location - just a block from the cathedral. Otherwise, rooms are worn and dark, and bathrooms have cold water only and no toilet seats. It's a manageable choice if you prefer easy access to the city's sights.