Pura Vida Hostel - Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Location

The Nicoya Peninsula is one of the most attractive locations in Costa Rica, its lack of a very efficient transportation system just adds to the remoteness of it all and is a perfect spot to find secluded beached and great surfing spots.

Getting in and out

Although you can fly here from San Jose most travellers will be coming in to Tamarindo by bus from Liberia. The journey can be up to three hours so bring water and patience to enjoy the scenery.

Pura Vida Hostel

Tamarindo is a surfer town for sure but that shouldn't put off visitors not enamored by the surf as the natural beauty of the peninsula is fantastic draw. Turtles nest on protected beaches, and the shores around the town provide excellent beachcombing possibilities.

There are many hostels in the town however I chose Pura Vida for its position slightly away from the noise of the main drag and the relaxed atmosphere.

The rooms are arranged around a circular courtyard with rocking chairs and the usual hammocks. There are two kitchens and plenty of fridge and freezer space as well as a bbq pit. A very homely and friendly atmosphere is generated by the young Swiss owners and everyone, surfer or not, is made to feel welcome.

The regular dorms were adequate if slightly musty however the private rooms looked excellent, some with AC.

Free WiFi is available throughout and there is a computer for non laptop toters.

I really enjoyed my time at Pura Vida, I met some great people and loved the howler monkeys in the trees above!

You can book the backpackers through my website, which will cost you no more but will help pay for these reviews a little by clicking on the link below.

BOOK A HOSTEL ROOM
Click here to book a hostel bed

If you have enjoyed this article you can read more of my travel stories on either my website The World traveller.net or the excellent publication Travel Generation.

Enjoy your travels

Peter J Smith
theworldtraveller.net expert travel advice and tailor made itineraries