Santa Elena Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Santa Elena Province, Ecuador

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Santa Elena in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Santa Elena, Santa Elena Province, Ecuador to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Santa Elena, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 379 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Santa Elena, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Santa Elena Airbnb data is crucial. Leveraging the low regulation environment is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.

Key Santa Elena Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$147
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Santa Elena.
Occupancy Rate(?)
19.9%
Lower demand, potentially seasonal or market factors at play.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$8,020
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Santa Elena. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
9.9%
Positive growth (9.9%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
April
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Santa Elena.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
October
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Santa Elena.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
379
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Santa Elena (2025)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Santa Elena is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Santa Elena is typically April, while October often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Santa Elena across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $2,636+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $1,530 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $680 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $277, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Santa Elena

Santa Elena Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Santa Elena STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Marchsees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while October experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Santa Elena:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 47%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 30% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 16%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 8% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Santa Elena

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Santa Elena (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Santa Elena involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Santa Elena typically peaks in April and dips lowest during February. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $275+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $166 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $113 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $70 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Santa Elena

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Santa Elena (2025)

Peak Season (April, May, June)
  • Revenue averages $1,898 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 23.6%
  • Daily rates average $148
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $1,068 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 23.1%
  • Daily rates hold near $146
Low Season (September, October, November)
  • Revenue drops to average $657 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 16.7%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $147

Seasonality Insights for Santa Elena

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Santa Elena shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it's also insightful to look at the extremes:
  • During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Santa Elena's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,103, occupancy reaching a high of 29.0%, and ADRs peaking at $149.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month of the year, typically falling within the low season, marks the market's lowest point. In this month, revenue might dip to $630, occupancy could drop to 16.1%, and ADRs may adjust down to $143.
  • Understanding both the seasonal averages and these monthly peaks and troughs in revenue, occupancy, and ADR is crucial for maximizing your Airbnb profit potential in Santa Elena.

Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit

  • Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability.
  • Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, special promotions (e.g., extended stay discounts), and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers or budget-conscious guests.
  • Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that balances peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers or specific events. Offer slightly more flexible terms than peak season.
  • Regularly analyze your own performance against these Santa Elena seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Santa Elena (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Santa Elena? This section highlights key areas, outlining why they are attractive for hosts and guests, along with notable local attractions. Consider these locations based on your target guest profile and investment strategy.

Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
La Finca
A charming area surrounded by nature, offering peace and tranquility for tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Popular among eco-tourists and nature enthusiasts.
Cerro Blanco Wildlife Refuge, Gonzalo Pizarro Park, local artisan markets, hiking trails
Cerro Blanco
This natural reserve is perfect for adventure seekers who enjoy hiking and exploring diverse ecosystems. The unique wildlife and landscapes attract visitors interested in eco-tourism.
Cerro Blanco Eco-park, bird watching, hiking trails, nature photography spots
Sampuerna
A small town known for its friendly community and local culture. Ideal for tourists wanting an authentic Ecuadorian experience and access to local cuisine.
local markets, traditional Ecuadorian dining, cultural festivals, historic churches
Salinas
Famous for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, Salinas draws a variety of tourists looking for beach-related activities and entertainment.
Salinas Beach, Marina Salinas, beachfront bars and restaurants, water sports activities
Montanita
A renowned destination for surfers and beach lovers. Its laid-back vibe and numerous surf spots appeal to young travelers seeking adventure and festivities.
Montanita Beach, surfing schools, local nightlife, art and craft shops
Puerto Lopez
Historically known for whale watching and its marine biodiversity. Ideal for tourists interested in marine life and seaside relaxation.
Isla de la Plata, whale watching tours, traditional fishing village charm, beautiful sunsets
Jipijapa
Known for its rich history and coffee production, Jipijapa attracts visitors interested in cultural experiences and local agriculture.
coffee plantations, local history museums, artisan crafts, cultural tours
Ayampe
A serene beach destination perfect for relaxation, yoga retreats, and connecting with nature. Popular among tourists looking for peace and wellness.
Ayampe Beach, yoga retreats, nature walks, local hospitality

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Santa Elena (2025)

While Santa Elena, Santa Elena Province, Ecuador currently shows low STR regulations, specific Airbnb license requirements might still exist or change. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Santa Elena to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Santa Elena (2025)

Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Santa Elenabased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

Beachfront Luxury Vacation Home at Punta Barandua

Beachfront Luxury Vacation Home at Punta Barandua

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$86,582
Revenue
56.1%
Occupancy
$337.47
Daily Rate
Exclusive, Your Home by the Sea. Urb Marenostro.

Exclusive, Your Home by the Sea. Urb Marenostro.

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$69,476
Revenue
22.4%
Occupancy
$481.17
Daily Rate
Oceanic Sanctuary House

Oceanic Sanctuary House

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$58,368
Revenue
17.4%
Occupancy
$437.79
Daily Rate
Wonderful oceanfront house in Punta Blanca

Wonderful oceanfront house in Punta Blanca

Entire Place • 7 bedrooms

$54,542
Revenue
25.2%
Occupancy
$1398.88
Daily Rate
Beachfront Punta Blanca House

Beachfront Punta Blanca House

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$47,033
Revenue
33.0%
Occupancy
$526.23
Daily Rate
Ballenita House: Pool, Volley, BBQ & Near Beach

Ballenita House: Pool, Volley, BBQ & Near Beach

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$46,627
Revenue
38.3%
Occupancy
$323.32
Daily Rate

Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.

Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Santa Elena (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Santa Elena based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Donhost Propiedades5$109,9214214.95/5.0
Marina1$86,582224.95/5.0
Cuenca1$69,476125.00/5.0
Sofia1$58,368105.00/5.0
Ana Maria2$56,2401114.96/5.0
Elena1$54,54274.29/5.0
Gabriel1$47,033134.69/5.0
Gabriel1$46,627834.90/5.0
Host #2445383151$45,14620.00/5.0
Martha1$42,537774.87/5.0

Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Santa Elena.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Santa Elena STR Market Data (2025)

Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Santa Elena. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.

Explore Advanced Metrics

Santa Elena Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Santa Elena

  • The Santa Elena Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 88.1% of the 379 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Santa Elena, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (52.5%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 41.4% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others, outdoor/unique (combined 6.1%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Santa Elena Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Santa Elena

  • The dominant room capacity in Santa Elena is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 42% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 63.6% of the active Airbnb listings in Santa Elena, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 61.5% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Santa Elena.

Santa Elena Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Santa Elena

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Santa Elena vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (47%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Santa Elena STR market, accounting for 62.0% of listings.
  • 71.2% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Santa Elena.
  • On average, properties in Santa Elena are equipped to host 6.2 guests.

Santa Elena Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Santa Elena

  • The most common availability pattern in Santa Elena falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 76.8% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 96.6% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 1-30 days range is most frequent in Santa Elena (44.9%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 3.5% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Santa Elena Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (45.3%)

1 Night

163 listings

45.3% of total

2 Nights (31.9%)

2 Nights

115 listings

31.9% of total

3 Nights (6.7%)

3 Nights

24 listings

6.7% of total

4-6 Nights (1.7%)

4-6 Nights

6 listings

1.7% of total

30+ Nights (14.4%)

30+ Nights

52 listings

14.4% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Santa Elena is 1 Night, adopted by 45.3% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (77.2%) of the Santa Elena Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
  • A significant segment (14.4%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Santa Elena, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 45.3% of Santa Elena hosts use this setting.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 14.4% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Santa Elena.

Santa Elena Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (39%)

Flexible

120 listings

39% of total

Moderate (34.1%)

Moderate

105 listings

34.1% of total

Firm (11.4%)

Firm

35 listings

11.4% of total

Strict (15.6%)

Strict

48 listings

15.6% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Santa Elena

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Santa Elena is Flexible, used by 39% of listings.
  • The market strongly favors guest-friendly terms, with 73.1% of listings offering Flexible or Moderate policies. This suggests guests in Santa Elena may expect booking flexibility.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 39% market standard in Santa Elena.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Santa Elena.

Santa Elena STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Santa Elena

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Santa Elena is 27 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during December (average 40 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in June (average 18 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Winter (31 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Summer (21 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (27 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Santa Elena.
  • For December stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 40 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Winter season well in advance (at least 31 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Santa Elena averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Santa Elena (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Santa Elena

  • Essential amenities in Santa Elena that guests expect include: Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, Wifi, Kitchen. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like TV, Hot water, Essentials are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
  • A pool is a highly desired but not standard amenity, making it a key feature for attracting guests seeking leisure in Santa Elena.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Santa Elena: Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, Wifi, Kitchen.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, Wifi, Kitchen.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like TV or Hot water to increase appeal.
  • Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
  • Regularly check competitor amenities in Santa Elena to stay competitive.

Santa Elena Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)

Guest Origin: Domestic vs. International
Top 5 Cities of Origin
Top 5 Countries of Origin
Top 5 Languages Spoken
Guest Age Distribution (Birth Decade)

Guest Profile Summary for Santa Elena

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Santa Elena consists of primarily domestic travelers (89%), often arriving from nearby Guayaquil, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking Spanish or English.
  • Domestic travelers account for 89.3% of guests.
  • Key international markets include Ecuador (89.3%) and United States (4.9%).
  • Top languages spoken are Spanish (59.1%) followed by English (32.8%).
  • A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Target domestic marketing efforts towards travelers from Guayaquil and Cuenca.
  • Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
  • Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
  • Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.

Nearby Short-Term Rental Market Comparison

How does the Santa Elena Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.

MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Abdon Calderon (La Union)10$1,543$170.3624%
Curia26$1,392$226.1422%
Sayausi11$1,190$163.8021%
La Entrada38$1,184$180.3725%
Parroquia Manglaralto32$1,109$227.9121%
District of Canoas de Punta Sal195$1,101$182.8025%
Olón174$799$169.6324%
Baños20$788$94.0827%
District of Zorritos251$759$135.2923%
Santa Isabel20$751$186.4820%

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