Hostel Venao Cove

A big garden and nice views right beside the Beach. The kitchen was very clean, with a huge fridge and room for everyone’s food. The staff were super friendly. Food trucks stop by three times a week, and the hostel sells some groceries too. Great hostel!

A chilled-out spot hidden among the trees but right on the beach. The staff were helpful, fun, and really friendly. There’s a great kitchen and an amazing yoga and exercise area with a fantastic ocean view. Even the stove has one of those fancy electric buttons that lights the burners like magic. Maybe the best place I’ve stayed in Panama. Thanks, guys!

We meant to spend just a night or two at Hostel Venao Cove, but stayed four nights. Surfing and sightseeing were great, and we met all kinds of travelers and locals. The cookouts, late-night fires, and walks along the beach to other bars made it feel like we were with old friends. Of all the places we stayed on that trip, this was our best experience. I’ll be back to Panama, and I’ll come here again. Thank you, Leif and Irene! My friend and I were backpacking through Panama, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica in 2016, and booked most of our lodging through hostels after such a great experience at Hostel Venao Cove. We landed in Panama City around 3-4 a.m. on New Year’s, got borderline scammed on our rental car price, and then had to deal with intense city driving. We just wanted peace and quiet, so we drove out of the city for the night. By the time we reached Venao Cove, it sounded like every hotel and hostel was full. We kept asking around and heard “no vacancy” until we got to Hostel Venao Cove. They were booked too, but after we asked if we could park and sleep in their driveway, since we were exhausted, they offered us two deluxe sleeping hammocks and use of all their accommodations. The hospitality from owners leif and Irene was fantastic, and we had plenty of chances to get to know them and other travelers.

The place has a laid-back, chilled vibe and sits right on the beach, handy for exploring or surfing. The dorms are basic, so try a private room if you want more comforts. Bring some food with you!