Compare Top Hostels in Costa Rica

9.4 449 reviews

Costa Rica

26/07 – 31/07

$30/nighttotal: $150 (5 )

El Hostel Del Patio

1 1

hostel, Tortuguero

El Hostel del Patio in Tortuguero is situated a two-minute walk from Tortuguero Beach and 134km from Juan Santamaría International Airport.
This guesthouse offers a shared kitchen, restaurant, bar, terrace, garden, luggage storage, and a tour desk, accommodating guests in one bedroom and one bathroom.

10 2 reviews

Costa Rica

27/06 – 04/07

$90/nighttotal: $630 (7 )

Family Wolf - El Chorro

1 2

hostel, Paquera

Lodge El Chorro, a family-friendly hostel in Paquera, offers lake views and is located 7.56 kilometres from Tortuga Island and 32.19 kilometres from Montezuma Waterfall.
This 15-square-metre accommodation includes one bedroom and one bathroom, with free Wi-Fi, a garden, patio, and private parking available for guests.

9.0 1301 reviews

Costa Rica

27/12 – 02/01

$42/nighttotal: $252 (6 )

Luminosa Montezuma Hostel

1 2

hostel, Montezuma

Luminosa Montezuma Hostel is a beachfront property in Montezuma, Costa Rica, located 0.2km from the town centre and 0.1km from the Montezuma waterfall.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers air conditioning, a swimming pool, a restaurant, a fitness centre, and on-site surf and Spanish lessons, alongside direct beach access and a natural tidal pool.

9.4 1631 reviews

Costa Rica

01/07 – 31/07

$193/nighttotal: $5790 (30 )

Luz En El Cielo Eco-b&b/hostel

2 4

hostel, Montezuma

Luz En El Cielo Eco-B&B/Hostel is situated in Montezuma, just 13 kilometres from Santa Teresa and 48 kilometres from Jacó.
This family-friendly guest house offers a swimming pool, terrace, garden, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property, as well as a car rental service for exploring the surrounding area.

8.1 6325 reviews

Costa Rica

18/12 – 22/01

$128/nighttotal: $4480 (35 )

Stray Cat Hostel

2 4

hostel, San José

Stray Cat Hostel is located in San José, close to La Sabana Metropolitan Park and the National Stadium, making it easy to explore the city's attractions. It has received very good ratings for cleanliness and user experience, with a good location rating.
The hostel has a garden and a terrace, perfect for relaxing. Guests can enjoy a vegetarian breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and free parking. There is also a 24-hour front desk, room service, and an airport shuttle service available for a fee.

8.7 806 reviews

Costa Rica

12/07 – 15/07

$79/nighttotal: $237 (3 )

Alpha Arenal Hostel

1 4

hostel, Fortuna

Alpha Arenal is a hostel situated in Fortuna, just 3.5 miles from La Fortuna Waterfall and 2.9 miles from Kalambu Hot Springs, offering a convenient base to explore the area's natural wonders. It has received very good user ratings for its cleanliness and a fantastic location rating, making it a popular choice for travellers.
Alpha Arenal features a single bedroom and bathroom, perfect for solo travellers or couples. Guests can enjoy a garden, terrace, and shared lounge, along with amenities like free parking, a coffee machine in every room, and free Wi-Fi. There's also a kitchen equipped with a fridge, microwave, and dishwasher, along with a table tennis table for some entertainment.

8.0 1636 reviews

Costa Rica

27/12 – 09/01

$85/nighttotal: $1105 (13 )

El Gato Rojas Surf Hostel

1 4

hostel, Santa Teresa Beach

El Gato Rojas Surf Hostel enjoys a prime location in Santa Teresa Beach, a two-minute walk from Carmen Beach and six minutes from Santa Teresa Beach itself, offering easy access to these beautiful stretches of sand.
This family-friendly guesthouse features a shared kitchen, barbecue facilities, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, parking, and a garden, plus evening entertainment and a paid airport shuttle service to Cobano Airport (12km away).

8.4 739 reviews

Costa Rica

14/08 – 21/08

$34/nighttotal: $238 (7 )

Hostel Tortuguero 7backpackers

1 2

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.

9.0 1460 reviews

Costa Rica

12/09 – 26/09

$73/nighttotal: $1022 (14 )

Casajungla Hostel

1 2

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.

9.3 659 reviews

Costa Rica

30/06 – 06/07

$183/nighttotal: $1098 (6 )

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge Hotel & Restaurante

1 6

hostel, Hacienda Santa María

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge is situated in Hacienda Santa María, a 16-mile drive from Liberia and 12 miles from Pital, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by natural beauty. This lodging receives excellent ratings for its overall experience, with very good scores for location and cleanliness.
The lodge features a range of amenities, including a kitchen, swimming pool, terrace, garden, restaurant, bar, and fitness centre. Guests can enjoy on-site dining, relax by the pool, explore the surrounding area with activities like cycling and fishing, and benefit from private parking and room service.

9.3 432 reviews

Costa Rica

05/01 – 16/03

$63/nighttotal: $4410 (70 )

Flor De Katty Hostel Airport

1 2

hostel, Alajuela

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).

9.6 55 reviews

Costa Rica

19/12 – 30/01

$1028/nighttotal: $43176 (42 )

The Cafecito Surfhouse - Santa Teresa

3 4

hostel, Santa Teresa Beach

The Cafecito Surfhouse is located in Santa Teresa, a short walk from Santa Teresa Beach and under 1.6km from Carmen Beach.
This 10-square-metre Santa Teresa Beach guesthouse offers a single bedroom, one bathroom, air conditioning, a shared kitchen with a fridge, free Wi-Fi, and parking, plus a terrace.

Best Costa Rica hostels with breakfast

Among the 791 hostels in Costa Rica, here are the 4 best hostels with breakfast

8.9 1110 reviews

Costa Rica

10/08 – 15/08

$62/nighttotal: $310 (5 )

Nativus Art-hostel

1 2

hostel, San José

Nativus Art-hostel is located in San José, just a short walk from La Sabana Metropolitan Park and close to the National Stadium of Costa Rica, offering easy access to both green spaces and sporting events. The hostel has excellent user ratings, with guests praising its cleanliness, location and overall experience.
The hostel has one bedroom and one bathroom, with a floor area of 18 square metres. Guests can enjoy a shared kitchen, room service, a terrace, a garden and free Wi-Fi, as well as concierge services, currency exchange, and activities like darts.

9.4 1197 reviews

Costa Rica

27/06 – 04/07

$59/nighttotal: $413 (7 )

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José

1 2

hostel, Alajuela

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José, is located in Alajuela, Costa Rica, approximately 3 km from Juan Santamaría International Airport, 3 km from the Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium, and 7.6 km from Parque Viva.
This 15-square-metre guesthouse offers a single bedroom, one bathroom, a shared kitchen with fridge and microwave, air conditioning, a terrace, garden, and parking; plus, it provides room service, a paid airport shuttle, and organises tours.

9.1 826 reviews

Costa Rica

19/10 – 26/10

$91/nighttotal: $637 (7 )

Boutique Hotel Casa De Lis, Turrialba

1 1

hostel, Turrialba

Casa De Lis Hotel & Tourist Info Centre is located just outside the bustling town centre of Turrialba, a short distance from the CATIE research centre, offering a peaceful retreat while still being within easy reach of local attractions. The hostel has received excellent ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel is laid out with a shared lounge, a spacious garden, and a terrace, perfect for relaxing and socialising. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including bike rentals, a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, and a barbecue area for enjoying meals under the stars.

8.4 86 reviews

Costa Rica

05/07 – 09/07

$722/nighttotal: $2888 (4 )

Rancho Margot Sustainable & Self Sufficient Eco Lodge

1 7

hostel, El Castillo de La Fortuna

Rancho Margot is a 3km drive from Arenal Lake and 2km from the Caño Negro River, offering a tranquil retreat in the lush rainforest of El Castillo de La Fortuna. This property has received very good ratings for user experience, location, and cleanliness.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom house features an eco-friendly design and expansive garden terraces. The package includes a complimentary ranch tour, two daily yoga classes, cow-milking, organic meals, a buffet-style breakfast, and access to a swimming pool, spa, fitness centre, restaurant, bar, and concierge services.

Top cities

Best Costa Rica hostels with a locker

8.5 1915 reviews

Costa Rica

02/11 – 06/11

$59/nighttotal: $236 (4 )

In The Wind Hostel And Guesthouse

1 3

hostel, San José

In The Wind Hostel and Guesthouse is located in San Pedro, a safe and upscale district, just a short walk from the University of Costa Rica and a 10-minute bus ride from downtown San José. It has consistently received very good ratings for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers comfortable accommodation with a shared kitchen, a terrace, a garden, and a fitness centre. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast each morning, and benefit from a concierge, hot water showers, and parking on-site.

9.1 3168 reviews

Costa Rica

20/09 – 02/10

$37/nighttotal: $444 (12 )

Cascada Verde Eco Lodge & Hostel

1 2

hostel, Uvita

Cascada Verde Hostel in Uvita is located a 20-minute walk uphill from the town centre, a 0.8 km walk from the Cascada Verde waterfall, and a 1.6 km drive from Marino Ballena National Park and Whale Tail Beach.
This family-friendly guesthouse offers a private room with one bathroom, a communal kitchen with fridge and freezer, a terrace, garden, spa, restaurant, fitness centre, parking, and free Wi-Fi; guests can enjoy rainforest and ocean views from their treehouse-style accommodation.

8.6 1452 reviews

Costa Rica

10/08 – 15/08

$359/nighttotal: $1795 (5 )

Yuli Hotel

1 4

hostel, Uvita

Yuli Hotel in Uvita, Costa Rica is conveniently located a short 0.8km walk from Uvita Beach and approximately 1.8km from Hermosa Beach, offering easy access to these beautiful beaches and the Alturas Wildlife Sanctuary (9 miles/14.5km away).
This family-friendly guesthouse boasts a swimming pool, restaurant serving Argentinian and Italian cuisine, free Wi-Fi, private parking, and rooms with patios offering garden views, all within a 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom unit.

8.4 677 reviews

Costa Rica

29/12 – 05/01

$432/nighttotal: $3024 (7 )

Akih Pods Hostel

1 8

hostel, Santa Teresa Beach

Akih Pods Hostel in Santa Teresa Beach, Costa Rica is located just 0.4 kilometres from the beach.
This guesthouse offers a shared kitchen, bar, garden, terrace, fitness centre, and parking, plus organised tours and evening entertainment, accommodating guests in one bedroom with one bathroom.

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Costa Rica

What are the most affordable attractions for backpackers to visit?
For budget-conscious travelers, exploring national parks like Manuel Antonio National Park (entrance fee applies) offers incredible biodiversity at a relatively low cost. Hiking numerous trails, swimming in the ocean, and spotting wildlife are all part of the experience. Another great option is visiting the La Fortuna Waterfall near Arenal Volcano; the entrance fee is reasonable, and the refreshing swim in the pool at its base is a perfect way to cool off. Many smaller, less-visited beaches are free to access, offering a chance to relax and enjoy the stunning coastline. Remember, transportation costs can add up, so consider using public buses, which are affordable and a great way to experience local life.
What are the best hostels in Costa Rica?
Among the hostels in Costa Rica, Capital Hostel De Ciudad, Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante and Eco Stay Hostel 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 major airlines and destinations. LIR is a popular gateway for those heading to Guanacaste and the Pacific Northwest.
What are the best hostels with a pool in Costa Rica?
Villas Jacquelina, Cool Vibes Beach Hostel and Luminosa Montezuma Hostel are the best hostels with a pool in Costa Rica.
What currency is needed?
The official currency is the Costa Rican colón (CRC), but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas. It's a good idea to have some colones on hand for smaller purchases and in places that may not accept USD. Credit cards are also commonly used, though it's always wise to have some cash as a backup.
What are the best hostels with a jacuzzi in Costa Rica?
The best hostels with a jacuzzi in Costa Rica are Vistas Del Sol-casa Victoria, Cabinas Del Mar and Albergue De Montaña Talari.
How easy is it to navigate the roads?
Navigating the roads can be challenging. Many roads, particularly outside of major cities, are narrow, winding, and poorly maintained. Driving in the country requires caution and defensive driving skills. Renting a 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially if you plan to explore areas outside of the main tourist hubs. Using GPS navigation is also highly recommended. Public buses are a reliable and affordable alternative for those who prefer not to drive.
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 Villas Jacquelina.
How can travelers best respect local customs?
Respectful behavior includes learning a few basic Spanish phrases, which is always appreciated. Being mindful of personal space and avoiding loud or disruptive behavior in public is important. Dressing modestly when visiting churches or religious sites is also a sign of respect. Supporting local businesses and being conscious of environmental sustainability are also ways to show respect for the culture and environment.
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 country's vibrant culture is reflected in many festivals. Dia de la Independencia (Independence Day) on September 15th is a major national celebration with parades and festivities. Fiestas Patronales, religious festivals honoring patron saints, are held throughout the year in various towns and cities, each with its unique traditions. These local celebrations offer a fantastic opportunity to experience authentic Costa Rican culture. The Festival de la Luz (Festival of Lights) in San José is a spectacular annual event with vibrant floats and light shows.
What are the best hostels with parking in Costa Rica?
Capital Hostel De Ciudad, Chillout Hostel Barrio Escalante and Eco Stay Hostel 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. The number for police emergencies is also 911. It's recommended to have the number for your country's embassy or consulate readily available, as well as travel insurance information.
What are the best areas to spend a week?
A week allows for a more in-depth exploration. The Arenal Volcano area offers a combination of adventure activities (zip-lining, hiking), natural beauty (hot springs, waterfalls), and wildlife viewing opportunities. The area around La Fortuna is a great base for exploring this region. Another fantastic option is exploring the Guanacaste province, known for its beautiful beaches, surfing, and national parks like Rincon de la Vieja.
What are the best areas to spend a weekend?
For a shorter trip, consider visiting the Pacuare River for white-water rafting, or exploring the cloud forests of Monteverde. Manuel Antonio National Park offers a more relaxed experience, with beautiful beaches and abundant wildlife. These locations provide a taste of Costa Rica's diverse landscapes and activities within a manageable timeframe.

Best Costa Rica hostels with air conditioning

8.6 3376 reviews

Costa Rica

01/09 – 15/09

$35/nighttotal: $490 (14 )

Hostel Dodero

1 2

hostel, Liberia

Hostel Dodero in Liberia, Guanacaste, is conveniently located a 16-minute walk from Edgardo Baltodano Briceño Stadium and 11 kilometres from Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse offers guests free Wi-Fi, a garden, terrace, parking, airport transfers, and bicycle rental, along with on-site darts and proximity to cycling routes.

8.2 5253 reviews

Costa Rica

30/06 – 06/07

$194/nighttotal: $1164 (6 )

Poshtel Arenal

1 6

hostel, Fortuna

Poshtel Arenal is a 4-star hotel in Fortuna, just a short distance from popular attractions like La Fortuna Waterfall and Kalambu Hot Springs. It has received very good user ratings for cleanliness and overall experience.
The hotel offers a range of amenities for guests to enjoy, including a swimming pool, garden, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and spa. Guests can also take advantage of the free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle service, and room service.

9.1 211 reviews

Costa Rica

12/11 – 20/11

$180/nighttotal: $1440 (8 )

Casa Encantada Offers You Two-bedroom House, 1 Tiny Apartment & 3 Double Rooms

3 6

hostel, Manuel Antonio

Casa Encantada, in Manuel Antonio, offers the 'Casa Encantada Offers You Two-bedroom House, 1 Tiny Apartment & 3 Double Rooms' option, situated approximately 2.9km from Manuel Antonio National Park and 2.9km from La Macha Beach.
This guesthouse provides various room types, including a two-bedroom house, a small apartment, and three double rooms, accommodating different group sizes; features include free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a garden, parking, and some rooms offer kitchenettes with fridges and microwaves.

8.0 435 reviews

Costa Rica

27/06 – 04/07

$172/nighttotal: $1204 (7 )

Bioluminiscencia Hostel Tours - South

3 7

hostel, Paquera

Bioluminiscencia Hostel Tours - South is conveniently located in Paquera, 8.5km from Tortuga Island and 32km from Montezuma Waterfall, offering easy access to these popular destinations.
This one-bedroom, one-bathroom guesthouse provides guests with a shared kitchen, swimming pool, garden, free parking, and Wi-Fi, alongside 24-hour reception and shuttle services.

Best Costa Rica hostels with laundry available

9.3 3 reviews

Costa Rica

04/01 – 08/02

$61/nighttotal: $2135 (35 )

Aura Living

1 2

hostel, La Garita

Aura Living, a guest house in La Garita, is located 12.7 kilometres from Parque Viva and 15.1 kilometres from Alejandro Morera Soto Stadium, with Poas National Park 32.2 kilometres away.
This accommodation offers free Wi-Fi, private parking, a garden, and a shared kitchen, and is pet and family-friendly, with concierge services available.

8.1 114 reviews

Costa Rica

30/06 – 06/07

$190/nighttotal: $1140 (6 )

Aptos Casa Caribe, Habitaciones Privadas En Aptos Compartidos & Aptos Completos Con Auto Entrada

2 6

hostel, Puerto Limón

Aptos Casa Caribe apartments in Puerto Limón are situated 1.8km from Bonita Beach and 2.7km from Los Baños Beach, conveniently located 5km from Limón International Airport.
These self-catering apartments offer free parking, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and a balcony; some units include a kitchen with a fridge and microwave, and a washing machine, with daily breakfast options available.

8.8 1841 reviews

Costa Rica

01/10 – 15/10

$57/nighttotal: $798 (14 )

Capital Hostel De Ciudad

1 2

hostel, San José

Capital Hostel De Ciudad is located in the Mata Redonda district of San José, within walking distance of the National Stadium and the Museum of Costa Rican Art, and within a 5km radius of the National Theatre and the Jade Museum. The hostel is highly rated, receiving excellent reviews for its location, cleanliness, and overall experience.
The hostel offers a range of amenities including a restaurant, bar, fitness centre, and a terrace. Guests can enjoy a comfortable stay with free Wi-Fi, parking, and room service.

8.9 502 reviews

Costa Rica

01/07 – 07/07

$45/nighttotal: $270 (6 )

Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José

1 2

hostel, Alajuela

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.

Find hostels in Costa Rica at the best prices

791 Hostels in Costa Rica

El Hostel Del Patio

Family Wolf - El Chorro

Luminosa Montezuma Hostel

Luz En El Cielo Eco-b&b/hostel

Stray Cat Hostel

Alpha Arenal Hostel

El Gato Rojas Surf Hostel

Hostel Tortuguero 7backpackers

Casajungla Hostel

Santa Maria Volcano Lodge Hotel & Restaurante

Flor De Katty Hostel Airport

The Cafecito Surfhouse - Santa Teresa

Best Costa Rica hostels with breakfast

Nativus Art-hostel

Gardens House, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José

Boutique Hotel Casa De Lis, Turrialba

Rancho Margot Sustainable & Self Sufficient Eco Lodge

Top cities

Best Costa Rica hostels with a locker

In The Wind Hostel And Guesthouse

Cascada Verde Eco Lodge & Hostel

Yuli Hotel

Akih Pods Hostel

Frequently Asked Questions about hostels in Costa Rica

Best Costa Rica hostels with air conditioning

Hostel Dodero

Poshtel Arenal

Casa Encantada Offers You Two-bedroom House, 1 Tiny Apartment & 3 Double Rooms

Bioluminiscencia Hostel Tours - South

Best Costa Rica hostels with laundry available

Aura Living

Aptos Casa Caribe, Habitaciones Privadas En Aptos Compartidos & Aptos Completos Con Auto Entrada

Capital Hostel De Ciudad

Las Carmelas, Airport Juan Santamaría, Alajuela, San José