Once you’ve sampled Tamarindo’s laid-back vibe, dreamy beaches, and renowned surf spots, it’s easy to see why this backpacking destination is so popular. Add some of Costa Rica’s tastiest cuisine and lushest national parks to the mix, and you have all the ingredients of a dream destination.
But where to stay in an area that is littered with natural gems and unmissable parties?
That’s where we come in. We’ve scoured Tamarindo for the best hostels in a wide variety of categories. From the best hostel to get your party on to the most divine beach hostel, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to accommodation in Costa Rica’s premier beach town.
All you have to do is choose your poison and get yourself to one of the 10 best hostels in Tamarindo asap!
Quick Answers – The Coolest Hostels in Tamarindo
#1 Best Overall Hostel inTamarindo- Selina Hostel
#2 Best Party Hostel in Tamarindo – Tamarindo Backpackers
#3 Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Tamarindo – Pura Vida Hostel
#4 Best Hostel Near the Beach in Tamarindo – Blue Trailz Hostel
#5 Best Hostel Outside of Tamarindo City Center – Dreams Surf Camp Costa Rica
#6 Best Hostel in Tamarindo With a Pool – Botella de Leche
#7 Best Hostel Near Tamarindo Bus Station – La Oveja Negra
#8 Best High-End Hostel in Tamarindo – Casa Aura Beachfront Premium Hostel
#9 Best Budget Hostel in Tamarindo – Tamarindo Hostel Resort
#10 Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Tamarindo – Pipe House Playa Grande
#1 – Selina Hostel
Best overall hostel in Tamarindo
Selina Hostel is the best overall hostel in Tamarindo
Selina Hostel is the best overall hostel in Tamarindo
Selina Hostel is the best overall hostel in Tamarindo- Cost – $
- Location – Between Calle Cardinal and Calle Cruz, Tamarindo, Provincia de Guanacaste
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Selina Hostel…
With affordable dorm beds for social butterflies or private rooms for those who like a little alone time, Selina Hostel is in a central location and one of our favorite hostels in Tamarindo. Costa Rica is scattered with “Selina” hostels, and the chain is well-rated by travelers of all kinds.
Selina Hostel is perfect for…
If you’re after a lively environment and spotlessly clean rooms, you’re onto a winner here. For those on a tight budget, there’s a kitchen available. If you’d rather head out and treat your taste buds to some local dishes, there are loads of restaurants right on the doorstep.
If you’re at a loose end, Selina Hostel offers yoga, surfing, and even salsa classes. Let’s not forget the awesome swimming pool and live DJ on weekends to add a bit of extra fun to your stay. With friendly staff and a winning atmosphere, this hostel is a great pick.
#2 – Tamarindo Backpackers
Best party hostel in Tamarindo
Tamarindo Backpackers is the best party hostel in Tamarindo
Tamarindo Backpackers is the best party hostel in Tamarindo
Tamarindo Backpackers is the best party hostel in Tamarindo- Cost – $$
- Location – 50 metros sur de Villa Verd
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Tamarindo Backpackers…
Just a three-minute walk from the beach and surrounded by countless bars and restaurants, the Tamarindo Backpackers is the life of the party – and perhaps the coolest hostel in Tamarindo. Stay in the 8-bed or 10-bed dorm, or score some privacy in one of the private rooms with shared bathrooms. This is a super social hostel, where you’ll easily make friends with people from all over the globe. Gather together in the shared lounge before heading out for a night you will never forget… or remember!
Tamarindo Backpackers is perfect for…
For those who like to stay busy, Tamarindo Backpackers is perfect; there’s always something going on in or around the hostel. Because it’s right in the heart of the action, you have endless bars and restaurants to choose from. And when you need a bit of time out from all the excitement? Chill in a hammock by the pool – one of the best hangover remedies on the planet.
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#3 – Pura Vida Hostel
Best hostel for solo travelers in Tamarindo
Pura Vida Hostel is the best hostel for solo travelers in Tamarindo
Pura Vida Hostel is the best hostel for solo travelers in Tamarindo
Pura Vida Hostel is the best hostel for solo travelers in Tamarindo- Cost – $$
- Location – calle guanacaste, 100m oeste de banco national a
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Pura Vida Hostel…
There’s nothing quite as liberating as traveling the globe solo, but there are times when even the most dedicated introvert needs some company. Pura Vida Hostel in Tamarindo is a great home away from home. With a wide selection of private and dorm rooms, choose the amount of socializing that feels right for you.
The excellent staff will help you settle in and get acquainted with the city, and you’ll have some travel buddies to do some local exploring with in no time.
Pura Vida Hostel is perfect for…
This is an excellent hostel for those who like to hit the road alone but need a little company from time to time. Join an organized tour, cook a meal in the shared kitchen, or just chill in the gorgeous tropical garden. Solo travelers will love Pura Vida Hostel in Tamarindo.
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#4 – Blue Trailz Hostel
Best hostel near the beach in Tamarindo
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle Principal contiguo Alamo Rent a Car
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Blue Trailz Hostel…
The beach is never too far away in Tamarindo, but when you stay at Blue Trailz, you will have the ocean literally on your doorstep. Bunk in with other travelers in the shared dorms, or grab a private room. You’ll have a fully equipped kitchen at your disposal, along with hot and cold showers to wash off the salt and sand. Best of all, you are only footsteps away from the beautiful beach.
Blue Trailz Hostel is perfect for…
Blue Trailz is one of the top hostels in Tamarindo and perfect for a beach getaway. You’ll even score discounts from the Blue Trailz surf shop located right out front when you stay here. You can book a surf lesson or bike tour, or just spend countless hours soaking up the rays on the idyllic beach. What more could a beach-lover ask for!
Further reading – Check out the top hostels in San Jose, Costa Rica!
#5 – Dreamsea Surf Camp Costa Rica
Best hostel outside of Tamarindo City Center
- Cost – $
- Location – Finca Los Jobos
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Dreamsea Surf Camp Costa Rica…
This hostel is a nature lover’s dream. Set in the lush jungle just outside of Tamarindo, you’ll find nothing but peace and relaxation here. Obviously, since it’s a surfer’s hangout, the beach is only a short walk away. But even if you’re not keen to hit the waves, you’ll love staying away from the hustle and bustle of the city in this eco-friendly treasure.
Dreamsea Surf Camp Costa Rica is perfect for…
Dreamsea Surf Camp Costa Rica is the ideal choice for those who want to be surrounded by nature but not too far from the bright lights of town. Beach bums, hikers, surfers, and eco-conscious travelers will love sleeping in the tents listening to the sounds of the jungle.
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#6 – Botella de Leche
Best hostel in Tamarindo with a pool
- Cost – $$
- Location – 50mts east from Banco Nacional, Playa Tamarindo
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Botella de Leche…
Had enough of the salt and sand but still want to soak up some rays and have a refreshing dip now and then? Botella de Leche has the best pool in town. Get yourself a private room in this superb hostel; the friendly staff will help you organize tours, surf lessons, or anything else that takes your fancy.
Botella de Leche is perfect for…
If a pool is the number one thing on your list when looking for the perfect hostel, Botella de Leche should be your pick. Not a crazy party hostel, yet not too quiet either, it’s a great spot in the heart of Tamarindo.
Our Costa Rica packing list is a MUST READ
#7 – La Oveja Negra
Best hostel near Tamarindo Bus Station
- Cost – $$
- Location – Calle Guanacaste, frente al Hotel Portofino
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like La Oveja Negra…
This busy little hostel is super close to the central bus station in Tamarindo. This means you won’t have to lug your backpack or suitcase all across town. Instead, you can walk a few meters and settle in. La Oveja Negra is sure to show you a good time. Equipped with a kitchen, a ping pong table, and a swimming pool, you won’t be bored here.
La Oveja Negra is perfect for…
Close to the Tamarindo Bus Station, La Oveja Negra is a super convenient place to lay your head. They often host live music that you can enjoy after a long day of surfing the waves of the Pacific Ocean.
Further reading – These are the best hostels in Costa Rica
#8 – Casa Aura Beachfront Premium Hostel
Best high-end hostel in Tamarindo
- Cost – $$
- Location – Tamarindo, Right next to “Farmacia Tamarindo”
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Casa Aura Beachfront Premium Hostel…
This fancy hostel right in the center of Tamarindo is waiting for you! Casa Aura is stunning, with beautiful wooden rooms surrounded by palm trees. Best of all, this hostel is right on the beach, so you can relax in a hammock while you listen to the waves breaking on the sands. Surrounded by restaurants and bars, this hostel is a slice of luxury in Tamarindo.
Casa Aura Beachfront Premium Hostel is perfect for…
Staying in a hostel doesn’t have to mean roughing it. Casa Aura Beachfront Premium Hostel provides some pampering during your travels. With the beach just meters away, you can feel like a fancy-pants traveler with the amazing service and gorgeous rooms here.
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#9 – Tamarindo Hostel Resort
Best budget hostel in Tamarindo
- Cost – $$
- Location – Tamarindo down town, Next to the Bac San Jose, Pla, Tamarindo beach, Santa Cruz
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Tamarindo Hostel Resort…
Traveling on a budget? This is the cheapest hostel you can find in all of Tamarindo. Usually, this would mean you have to lower your standards, but not with the Tamarindo Hostel Resort. Lovely clean dorms await you here; there’s even a kitchen that you can use. For the cheapest option, get a bed in the dorms, or pay a little bit extra for a private room.
Tamarindo Hostel Resort is perfect for…
You can still stay in the center of the city in Tamarindo even on the tightest of budgets. Although Tamarindo Hostel Resort is a budget hostel, it’s definitely not sub-standard; you’ll still find everything you need, and have a comfy place to rest your head after a day of exploring.
Editor’s Note – HAVE you seen our guide to the most underrated and coolest neighborhoods in San Jose?
#10 – Pipe House Playa Grande
Best hostel with private rooms in Tamarindo
- Cost – $$
- Location – Playa Grande, Palm Beach Estates
- Reviews → Check on Hostel World
Why we like Pipe House Playa Grande…
Ever dreamed of sleeping inside a recycled concrete pipe? No? Well, dream again; the Pipe House Playa Grande in Tamarindo gives you the chance to do just that, and it’s actually super cool.
You get your own private space while staying only a short walk and ferry ride away from the action of Tamarindo. Spend your days surfing and sunbathing while you stay in one of the most unique hostels in all of Costa Rica.
Pipe House Playa Grande is perfect for…
This hostel is perfect for anyone looking for a truly unique getaway in Costa Rica. Exceptional facilities and restaurants are close by. Although you’re a bit outside of town, it’s easy and quick to get to the action. Trust us; you’ll be talking about your stay in this hostel for years!
FAQ’s
How Much are Hostels in Tamarindo?
Dorm rooms start around $20 and go up to $30 for a night. If you want a private room, you'll need to budget for a minimum of $60 and often $100 or more for a one night stay.
What are Hostels in Tamarindo Like?
Just like the town itself, most hostels have a cool, Pacific coast vibe and a laid back atmosphere. Some have beachfront properties or will organize surfing events to make the most of your trip! You can find both party hostels and places for a quieter stay.
How Safe are Hostels in Tamarindo?
Some crime and violence has been reported in Tamarindo, so it's a good idea to make sure your hostel has security features like CCTV cameras and lockers. Hostels are usually very safe, but depending on the neighborhood, it can be a good idea to be back by dark.
How to Find Hostels in Tamarindo?
Start your search using online platforms like HostelWorld; it's a great way to compare options and read reviews from past travelers to give you a better idea about where you want to stay.
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Best overall hostel in Tamarindo
Selina Hostel
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Check Best Price |
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Best party hostel in Tamarindo
Tamarindo Backpackers
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel for solo travelers in Tamarindo
Pura Vida Hostel
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel near the beach in Tamarindo
Blue Trailz Hostel
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel outside of Tamarindo City Center
Dreamsea Surf Camp Costa Rica
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel in Tamarindo with a pool
Botella de Leche
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel near Tamarindo Bus Station
La Oveja Negra
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Check Best Price |
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Best high-end hostel in Tamarindo
Casa Aura Beachfront Premium Hostel
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Check Best Price |
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Best budget hostel in Tamarindo
Tamarindo Hostel Resort
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Check Best Price |
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Best hostel with private rooms in Tamarindo
Pipe House Playa Grande
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Check Best Price |
Conclusion
So there you have it, 10 amazing hostels to meet the needs of any traveler. No matter where you choose to lay your head, we are sure you will have an incredible time in the unmissable seaside gem of Tamarindo.
Surf all day and party through the night without worrying about accommodation. All of these hostels are exceptional in their own way and will make your stay in Tamarindo unforgettable. Find the pura vida inside of you and enjoy your trip to one of the most beautiful towns in Costa Rica.
