Pura Vida Hostel

The owner’s conduct left me feeling unsafe. After I briefly stopped on the public street in front of the property to let my children out of the car, he confronted me aggressively and intimidatingly, as if he had authority over a public space he does not own or control. His treatment of locals was especially disrespectful and unwelcoming. He also went to a neighboring business to ask the staff about me, which felt invasive and completely out of line. Visitors and locals alike should be able to feel safe and respected in public spaces. This behavior is unacceptable.

I’m Tico and was looking for a place to stay for one night while traveling in Costa Rica. I asked whether there was a private room, then later asked if a dorm bed was available. The American owner got frustrated, apparently thinking he’d already told me twice there was no space, and angrily asked, “didn’t I tell you already there isn’t any space?” He then spoke to me in a rude, provocative way, questioning why I was even in Tamarindo and implying I shouldn’t be there. I was simply looking for accommodation and hoping to explore somewhere new, like other travelers. It’s ironic that someone who moved here from the US to run a hostel would question me for traveling here. It was none of his business, and he should control his temper instead of treating a potential guest that way.

We emailed to say we’d be late for check-in, but when we arrived, no one answered the doorbell or the WhatsApp number despite us trying for over an hour. We had nowhere to sleep that night and were left stranded. The owner finally messaged at 12:30 the next afternoon, saying the email listed on the hostel’s website was wrong, but he accepted no responsibility.

The location is great, and Matts, the owner, was welcoming and funny. It’s a basic place, but I had a really good stay and would come back. The outside could use a little curb appeal.