What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?

For budget-conscious travellers, exploring national parks like Manuel Antonio National Park (known for its beaches and wildlife) or Corcovado National Park (renowned for biodiversity, though requiring more travel time) offers incredible value. Hiking is free once inside, although park entrance fees apply. Staying in hostels and eating at 'sodas' (local eateries) will keep costs down. Free activities include surfing at beaches like Tamarindo or visiting the colourful town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, known for its Caribbean vibe.

What are the best hostels in Costa Rica?

Among the hostels in Costa Rica, Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante , Eco Stay Hostel and Outbox Inn are the most popular ones.

Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from the country?

Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia handle the majority of international flights. SJO is the larger and busier of the two, serving most international airlines.

What are the best hostels with a pool in Costa Rica?

Villas Jacquelina , Casa Pura Vida Surf Hostel - Tamarindo Costa Rica and Luminosa Montezuma Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Costa Rica.

What currency is needed?

The Costa Rican colón (CRC) is the official currency. However, US dollars are widely accepted, particularly in tourist areas. It's advisable to have some colones on hand for smaller purchases and transactions where the exchange rate might be less favourable.

What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Costa Rica?

The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Costa Rica are Sleepers Sleep Cheaper Hostel , Victoria House and Cabinas Del Mar .

How easy is it to navigate the roads?

Driving in Costa Rica can be challenging. Many roads, especially outside of major cities, are poorly maintained and winding. Rental vehicles with four-wheel drive are recommended, especially for venturing outside the main tourist areas. Driving in the rain can be particularly hazardous, and road signs can be scarce.

What are the best hostels for families and kids in Costa Rica?

The best hostels for families and kids in Costa Rica are Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante , Eco Stay Hostel and Outbox Inn .

How can travellers best respect local customs?

Respectful behaviour includes learning a few basic Spanish phrases, being mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas, and dressing modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. It's also important to be aware of the 'pura vida' lifestyle – a relaxed and positive attitude that pervades Costa Rican culture. Try to adopt a similar attitude and be patient.

What are the best pet friendly hostels in Costa Rica?

The best pet friendly hostels in Costa Rica are Villas Jacquelina , Aracari Garden Hostel and Gardens House - Airport Juan Santamaría - Alajuela - San José .

Which traditional festivals define the spirit of the country?

The 'Dia de la Independencia' (Independence Day) celebrations on 15 September are significant nationwide. Many towns and cities also hold unique festivals throughout the year, often linked to religious events or harvests. For example, the 'Fiestas de Palmares' in Palmares is a large annual event.

What are the best hostels with parking in Costa Rica?

Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante , Eco Stay Hostel and Outbox Inn are the best hostels with parking in Costa Rica.

What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns?

For medical emergencies, dial 911. For police assistance, also dial 911. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as healthcare facilities may vary in quality and accessibility depending on location.

What are the best areas to spend a week?

A week allows for exploring diverse regions. Consider combining a stay in La Fortuna (near Arenal Volcano) with time on the Pacific coast in Manuel Antonio or Tamarindo, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation. Alternatively, explore the Caribbean coast around Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches.

What are the best areas to spend a weekend?

For a short trip, focus on a single area. The Pacuare River Lodge near Turrialba offers a luxurious rainforest experience, while a weekend in the capital, San José, allows exploration of its museums and cultural attractions. Alternatively, choose a relaxing weekend on a beach in Tamarindo or Monteverde, known for its cloud forests.

Are there specific regions known for great weather?

The weather varies significantly depending on altitude and location. The Guanacaste province on the northwest Pacific coast generally enjoys dry, sunny weather from November to April. The Caribbean coast tends to be warmer and rainier year-round, although even here there are drier periods.

Costa Rica Hostels at the Best Price

9.3 427 reviews

Flor De Katty Hostel Airport

hostel, Alajuela City

Flor De Katty Hostel Airport offers budget-friendly accommodation in Alajuela, Costa Rica, 3km from Juan Santamaría International Airport and 2.3km from the Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse provides shared kitchen facilities, free Wi-Fi, and a shared lounge; nearby attractions include Poás Volcano National Park (31km), Parque Viva (8.8km), and Parque Diversiones (16km).

9.3 1031 reviews

Villas Jacquelina

hostel, Quepos

Villas Jacquelina is a family-friendly hostel located in Quepos, just 1 kilometre from the town centre and 6 kilometres from the beaches of Manuel Antonio National Park. The hostel offers a range of amenities including a swimming pool, a shared kitchen, and a fitness centre, as well as a variety of adventure tours that can be arranged on site.

9.3 1640 reviews

Outbox Inn

hostel, Monteverde Costa Rica

OutBox Inn in Monteverde, Costa Rica, is situated steps from the Monteverde Orchid Garden and 1.9km from the Monteverde Ecological Sanctuary.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and rooms with private bathrooms, plus free Wi-Fi, parking, and a shared kitchen; airport shuttle services are available to and from Fortuna Airport (84km away).

9.2 205 reviews

La Posada Del Mar

hostel, Dominical

La Posada Del Mar in Dominical, Costa Rica is a short 1.4km walk from Dominical Beach and a short drive from Barú and Dominicalito beaches, also conveniently located 8.2km from Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary and 10.1km from Nauyaca Waterfalls.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, parking, and some rooms with kitchenettes; guests can also utilise the shared kitchen and benefit from a tour desk for booking local excursions.

8.6 1149 reviews

Casa Wolaba

hostel, Puerto Viejo

Casa Wolaba, a one-bedroom apartment in Puerto Limón, is conveniently located approximately 1.6km from Cocles Beach and 4km from the Jaguar Rescue Centre, offering easy access to Negra Beach (an 8-minute walk).
This self-catering flat features air conditioning, a microwave, Wi-Fi, a terrace, garden access and parking; it's suitable for couples or families and is near Puerto Limón's city centre for dining and shopping.

8.3 352 reviews

Hostel Tortuguero 7backpackers

hostel, Tortuguero

Hostel Tortuguero 7BackPackers is located in Tortuguero, just under 800 metres from the entrance of Tortuguero National Park, making it ideal for exploring the rainforest and its wildlife. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, as well as an excellent location rating.
The hostel features a shared kitchen with a fridge and microwave, a garden, and a fitness centre. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a coffee machine in each room, and shared bathrooms.

8.7 2527 reviews

Secret Garden

hostel, Cahuita

Secret Garden, in Cahuita, offers family-friendly lodging a one-minute walk from Blanca Beach and a 22-kilometre drive from the Jaguar Rescue Centre.
This guesthouse features family rooms, a shared kitchen, free Wi-Fi, free private parking, and luggage storage, all within easy reach of Negra Beach (a 14-minute walk away).

8.3 300 reviews

Greenpoint Drake Bay

hostel, Drake

GreenPoint Drake Bay hostel is located in Drake, 3.1km from Drake Bay Airport.
This Drake Bay lodging offers a range of amenities including free private parking, Wi-Fi, a shared kitchen, terrace, garden, and varied breakfast options; it features one bedroom and one bathroom.

8.5 55 reviews

Osa Surf House

hostel, Puerto Jiménez

OSA SURF HOSTAL, a family-friendly guesthouse in Puerto Jiménez, is situated a few steps from Puerto Jiménez Airport, offering unparalleled convenience for travellers.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit features a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge, air conditioning, a terrace, a garden, free parking, and free Wi-Fi; bed linen and towels are provided.

8.3 104 reviews

Sukia Hostel

hostel, Drake

Sukia Hostel in Drake is conveniently located a 9-minute walk from Colorada and 2.9 kilometres from Cocalito Beach, offering easy access to local attractions.
This guesthouse features a shared kitchen with microwave, a terrace, garden, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and parking; it also provides airport shuttle service and a concierge, plus one bedroom and bathroom.

9.0 21 reviews

Mango Coliving Rooms For Digital Nomads

hostel, Uvita

Mango Coliving Uvita is conveniently located in Uvita, Costa Rica, 12.2 kilometres from the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary and 27.4 kilometres from Nauyaca Waterfalls.
This 20-square-metre guesthouse offers one bedroom, one bathroom, and sleeps two guests, featuring a private kitchen with a fridge and microwave, air conditioning, a swimming pool, and free Wi-Fi.

9.4 497 reviews

Somos

hostel, Santa Teresa Beach

Somos hostel in Santa Teresa Beach is a two-minute walk from the beach, 2.4 kilometres from Carmen Beach, and 16 kilometres from Montezuma Waterfall.
This guesthouse boasts a swimming pool, spa, and fitness centre, alongside a shared kitchen with fridge, microwave, and dishwasher, all within a 1 square metre footprint and featuring one bedroom.

Best Costa Rica hostels with breakfast included

Among the 1212 accommodations in Costa Rica, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast included

8.4 26 reviews

Dream Surf House Santa Teresa (Playa Hermosa)

hostel, Playa hermosa

Dream Surf House Santa Teresa, a guesthouse in Playa Hermosa, offers direct beach access and is located 2.25 km from Santa Teresa Beach and Manzanillo Beach.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom property features a garden, restaurant, parking, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and includes a la carte breakfast; airport shuttle service is available at an extra cost.

9.0 2000 reviews

Argdivan Hostel

hostel, Fortuna

Argdivan Hostel is located in Fortuna, just a short distance from both La Fortuna Waterfall and Kalambu Hot Springs, making it a convenient base for exploring the area's natural wonders. The hostel has received very good ratings for cleanliness and overall experience, ensuring a comfortable stay.
The hostel offers a range of facilities, including a shared kitchen and lounge, a terrace, a garden, and a spa. Guests can enjoy activities such as darts, bike and car rentals, and an airport shuttle service.

8.4 1792 reviews

Hotel Columbus

hostel, San José

Hotel Columbus is located in San José, just a short walk from the National Stadium and La Sabana Metropolitan Park, making it a convenient base for exploring the city. The accommodation has received very good ratings for cleanliness and location, and is highly rated by previous guests.
The hostel offers a range of facilities, including a restaurant, bar, and free parking. Guests can also enjoy amenities such as air conditioning, a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property.

8.9 326 reviews

Hotel Casa Gitana Corcovado Tour Operador

hostel, Drake

Hotel Gitana Corcovado, in Drake, offers a stay 2.1km from Colorada and 5km from Drake Bay Airport.
This guest house, featuring a private beach area, restaurant with diverse cuisine, fitness centre, and free bikes, provides a range of amenities including free private parking, room service, and a paid airport shuttle.

Top cities

Best Costa Rica hostels with a locker

8.2 712 reviews

Monteverde Monkey Hostel

hostel, Monteverde Costa Rica

Monteverde Monkey Hostel is centrally located in Santa Elena, a short distance (less than 1km) from the town centre and bus station, offering easy access to the Monteverde Butterfly Gardens, Santuario de Animales Salvajes, and other attractions.
This hostel provides free breakfast, towels, and Wi-Fi, plus a communal kitchen, laundry service, and a range of rooms from dormitories to private rooms, alongside board games and a social area.

8.4 2416 reviews

Playa 506 Beachfront Hostel

hostel, Puerto Viejo

Playa 506 Beachfront Hostel is situated in Playa Cocles, 1.45 kilometres from the centre of Puerto Viejo, offering direct beachfront access.
This beachfront lodging boasts a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and shared kitchen facilities, plus bike and surfboard rentals, with snorkelling and fishing opportunities nearby.

8.8 2543 reviews

Room2board Hostel And Surf School

hostel, Jacó

Room2Board Hostel and Surf School in Jacó, Costa Rica is conveniently located a short distance from Jacó beach and other local attractions.
This hostel boasts an outdoor pool, rooftop terrace with hammocks, an on-site surf school, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and free parking, offering a range of amenities and activities.

9.1 48 reviews

Pachamama Bungalows & Surfcamp - Santa Teresa

apartment, Carmen

Pachamama Tropical Garden Lodge, a hostel in Carmen, is a 10-minute walk from Mar Azul and 12.5 kilometres from Montezuma Waterfall.
This lodge offers complimentary airport transfers, bicycle hire, on-site yoga classes, and barbecue facilities, with select units featuring fully equipped kitchens.

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Costa Rica

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?
For budget-conscious travellers, exploring national parks like Manuel Antonio National Park (known for its beaches and wildlife) or Corcovado National Park (renowned for biodiversity, though requiring more travel time) offers incredible value. Hiking is free once inside, although park entrance fees apply. Staying in hostels and eating at 'sodas' (local eateries) will keep costs down. Free activities include surfing at beaches like Tamarindo or visiting the colourful town of Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, known for its Caribbean vibe.
What are the best hostels in Costa Rica?
Among the hostels in Costa Rica, Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante, Eco Stay Hostel and Outbox Inn are the most popular ones.
Which airports handle most of the traffic to and from the country?
Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) near San José and Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia handle the majority of international flights. SJO is the larger and busier of the two, serving most international airlines.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Costa Rica?
Villas Jacquelina, Casa Pura Vida Surf Hostel - Tamarindo Costa Rica and Luminosa Montezuma Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Costa Rica.
What currency is needed?
The Costa Rican colón (CRC) is the official currency. However, US dollars are widely accepted, particularly in tourist areas. It's advisable to have some colones on hand for smaller purchases and transactions where the exchange rate might be less favourable.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Costa Rica?
The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Costa Rica are Sleepers Sleep Cheaper Hostel, Victoria House and Cabinas Del Mar.
How easy is it to navigate the roads?
Driving in Costa Rica can be challenging. Many roads, especially outside of major cities, are poorly maintained and winding. Rental vehicles with four-wheel drive are recommended, especially for venturing outside the main tourist areas. Driving in the rain can be particularly hazardous, and road signs can be scarce.
What are the best hostels for families and kids in Costa Rica?
The best hostels for families and kids in Costa Rica are Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante, Eco Stay Hostel and Outbox Inn.
How can travellers best respect local customs?
Respectful behaviour includes learning a few basic Spanish phrases, being mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas, and dressing modestly when visiting churches or religious sites. It's also important to be aware of the 'pura vida' lifestyle – a relaxed and positive attitude that pervades Costa Rican culture. Try to adopt a similar attitude and be patient.
What are the best pet friendly hostels in Costa Rica?
The best pet friendly hostels in Costa Rica are Villas Jacquelina, Aracari Garden Hostel and Gardens House - Airport Juan Santamaría - Alajuela - San José.
Which traditional festivals define the spirit of the country?
The 'Dia de la Independencia' (Independence Day) celebrations on 15 September are significant nationwide. Many towns and cities also hold unique festivals throughout the year, often linked to religious events or harvests. For example, the 'Fiestas de Palmares' in Palmares is a large annual event.
What are the best hostels with parking in Costa Rica?
Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante, Eco Stay Hostel and Outbox Inn are the best hostels with parking in Costa Rica.
What are the key emergency contacts for medical or safety concerns?
For medical emergencies, dial 911. For police assistance, also dial 911. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, as healthcare facilities may vary in quality and accessibility depending on location.
What are the best areas to spend a week?
A week allows for exploring diverse regions. Consider combining a stay in La Fortuna (near Arenal Volcano) with time on the Pacific coast in Manuel Antonio or Tamarindo, offering a mix of adventure and relaxation. Alternatively, explore the Caribbean coast around Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful beaches.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend?
For a short trip, focus on a single area. The Pacuare River Lodge near Turrialba offers a luxurious rainforest experience, while a weekend in the capital, San José, allows exploration of its museums and cultural attractions. Alternatively, choose a relaxing weekend on a beach in Tamarindo or Monteverde, known for its cloud forests.
Are there specific regions known for great weather?
The weather varies significantly depending on altitude and location. The Guanacaste province on the northwest Pacific coast generally enjoys dry, sunny weather from November to April. The Caribbean coast tends to be warmer and rainier year-round, although even here there are drier periods.

Best Costa Rica hostels with air conditioning

9.7 60 reviews

Bed In Shared Room In Argdivan Hostel!

hostel

Argdivan Hostel in La Fortuna offers a bed in a ten-person mixed-gender dorm, as detailed in the 'Bed In Shared Room In Argdivan Hostel!' offer; the hostel's precise location within La Fortuna is unfortunately unspecified.
This budget-friendly lodging features a shared kitchen, private bathroom with hot water, individual lockers, and ceiling fans, accommodating one guest in a shared room with board games available, plus optional breakfast.

9.2 1028 reviews

Casajungla Hostel

hostel, Jacó

Casajungla Hostel in Jacó, Costa Rica, is a 3-minute walk from Jaco Beach, 7.4km from Rainforest Adventures Jaco, and 27.4km from Catarata Manantial de Agua Viva.
This guesthouse offers an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, free private parking (subject to availability), a shared kitchen with fridge and freezer, air conditioning, and a vegetarian breakfast; it also provides easy access to Jaco Beach.

8.9 369 reviews

Chilamate Rainforest Eco Retreat

hostel, Puerto Viejo

Chilamate Rainforest Eco Retreat, near La Selva Biological Station (11km), offers a peaceful rainforest setting close to Catarata Tesoro Escondido (48km) and Laguna del Hule (35km).
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom house provides air conditioning, Wi-Fi, private parking, a terrace, and on-site restaurant serving breakfast (buffet, continental, or American options) plus darts, hiking and cycling opportunities nearby.

9.1 579 reviews

Ceiba Hostel

hostel, Fortuna

Ceiba Hostel in Fortuna, Costa Rica is conveniently located near Ecoglide Arenal Park, 4.6km from La Fortuna Waterfall and 5.5km from Kalambu Hot Springs.
This budget lodging offers a shared kitchen, lounge, terrace, garden, parking, and air conditioning, along with a business centre and currency exchange; airport shuttle services are available at an extra cost.

Best Costa Rica hostels with laundry available

9.1 1084 reviews

Cowboy Hostel - Habitaciones Con Baño Privado

hostel, Monteverde Costa Rica

Cowboy Hostel - Habitaciones con Baño Privado is situated in Monteverde, Costa Rica, approximately 3.9 kilometres from the Sky Adventures Monteverde and 6 kilometres from the Selvatura Adventure Park.
This hostel offers private bathrooms with showers and free toiletries, a garden, a terrace, and free Wi-Fi, with each room measuring 9 square metres and featuring one bedroom and one bathroom.

8.9 516 reviews

Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José

hostel, Alajuela City

Las Carmelas, near Juan Santamaría International Airport in Alajuela, is conveniently located 3km from both the airport and Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium, and 30km from Poás Volcano National Park.
This excellent-rated guesthouse offers a shared kitchen with fridge and microwave, a terrace, garden, parking, 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, and serves a vegetarian breakfast; on-site tour organisation is also available.

9.0 2 reviews

Escape Urbano

hostel, Colón

Escape Urbano, a hostel in Colón, is located approximately 14.96 kilometres from Juan Santamaría International Airport, 12.07 kilometres from Parque Viva, and 43.45 kilometres from Poas National Park.
This accommodation offers rooms with private bathrooms and garden views, featuring a wardrobe, kitchenware, and a dining area, alongside a shared kitchen, lounge, and outdoor seating, with bicycle parking and hire available for exploring the surroundings.

9.1 201 reviews

Casa Pandora Hostel Women Only

hostel, San José

Casa Pandora Hostel Women Only, a women-only guesthouse in San José, is conveniently located approximately 6 kilometres from La Sabana Metropolitan Park and 7.4 kilometres from the National Stadium.
This single-bedroom lodging offers guests a shared kitchen with a fridge and microwave, free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge, and a flat-screen TV, all within a safe and secure environment for female travellers.

Hostels in Costa Rica

1212 Hostels in Costa Rica

Flor De Katty Hostel Airport

Villas Jacquelina

Outbox Inn

La Posada Del Mar

Casa Wolaba

Hostel Tortuguero 7backpackers

Secret Garden

Greenpoint Drake Bay

Osa Surf House

Sukia Hostel

Mango Coliving Rooms For Digital Nomads

Somos

Best Costa Rica hostels with breakfast included

Dream Surf House Santa Teresa (Playa Hermosa)

Argdivan Hostel

Hotel Columbus

Hotel Casa Gitana Corcovado Tour Operador

Top cities

Best Costa Rica hostels with a locker

Monteverde Monkey Hostel

Playa 506 Beachfront Hostel

Room2board Hostel And Surf School

Pachamama Bungalows & Surfcamp - Santa Teresa

Frequently asked questions about hostels in Costa Rica

Best Costa Rica hostels with air conditioning

Bed In Shared Room In Argdivan Hostel!

Casajungla Hostel

Chilamate Rainforest Eco Retreat

Ceiba Hostel

Best Costa Rica hostels with laundry available

Cowboy Hostel - Habitaciones Con Baño Privado

Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José

Escape Urbano

Casa Pandora Hostel Women Only