The Grateful Hotel

The live music lineup from Wednesday through Sunday Funday is incredible, and when nobody’s playing, The Dead comes through the house speakers. The Grateful Dead themed rooms and murals make it feel like home for a Dead Head, with a short walk to a pristine beach. The food was fantastic, especially the Costa Rican cabbage salad and swordfish nuggets. The staff were friendly, bilingual and attentive, and the owners were around and helpful. From online booking to my last day, everything went smoothly. My driver from the airport was kind and knowledgeable, and at the hotel I was greeted by name and shown to my room so I could unwind after the flight. The whole place has a relaxed feel, and the pool temperature was just right. If you love the Grateful Dead, tropical surroundings, music, good people and tasty food, this is the spot.

It’s a comfortable, clean boutique hotel on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, with a fabulous pool and great music all day and night. There’s live music most nights, and the staff treat you like family. The food is incredible, and it’s very affordable for a consistently fun stay. It’s tucked into a remote corner of Playa Grande, less than a ten-minute walk from a beach that’s never crowded. I’ve visited three times as hired talent, and even knowing the cost, I’d gladly pay to stay every year. I’d give it ten stars if I could.

We stopped at Sugaree’s Bar and Grill on our first trip to Costa Rica. The food and drinks were delicious, and the server and staff were working incredibly hard. Come by to relax, catch some live music or NFL Football, and have a good time.

Ernesto was a great waiter, attentive throughout and always smiling. We came to Costa Rica after finding out the Grateful Hotel had a GD Tribute band for Sunday Funday, and they were awesome. The atmosphere felt very Costa Rican, and the food was great. The water taxi picks you up in Tamarindo, but when booking online, take the bus back!