The beautiful Guanacaste region of Costa Rica is a must-visit for travelers. Tamarindo is in the heart of this region, featuring some of the best beaches in Costa Rica, delicious food, and breathtaking views. There are plenty of things to do in Tamarindo to entice you to visit – whether it’s relaxing on the beach or going tubing down the Blue River! Accommodation is often the biggest item in a travel budget, so if you like to save money it’s important to find a budget-friendly hotel!
I’ve done the research for you to help make your trip planning a breeze! Here are my recommendations on budget hotels and hostels in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.
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Cheap Hotels in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Villas Macondo
Description:
Villas Macondo in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is a hidden gem nestled amidst the stunning natural beauty of the region. This enchanting retreat offers a tranquil escape for those seeking an authentic Costa Rican experience.
Surrounded by lush tropical gardens and just a short walk away from the pristine beaches of Tamarindo, Villas Macondo provides a serene and intimate setting. The property features a collection of charming villas and bungalows that blend seamlessly with the tropical landscape. Each accommodation is thoughtfully designed, offering a fusion of traditional Costa Rican aesthetics and modern comfort.
The villas at Macondo are characterized by their rustic elegance, with tastefully appointed interiors and private outdoor spaces that invite guests to relax and unwind. From spacious terraces to private plunge pools, the villas provide a sanctuary where guests can immerse themselves in the serenity of nature.
The attentive and friendly staff at Villas Macondo ensures that every guest’s needs are met, from arranging outdoor activities like surfing and snorkeling to organizing excursions to nearby national parks or the vibrant town of Tamarindo. Whether you choose to explore the pristine beaches, indulge in local cuisine, or simply lounge by the pool, Villas Macondo offers an unforgettable Costa Rican experience.
In addition to its idyllic setting, Villas Macondo is committed to sustainable and responsible tourism practices. The property strives to minimize its ecological footprint by implementing eco-friendly initiatives and supporting local communities.
Address: Villas Macondo, Calle del Parque, 50309 Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Review Rating: 4.6 stars
Promising Review:
Spacious room and bath, great air conditioning. The hammock on the porch is a nice touch. Helpful staff. Easy location to find near the beach and food, drinks. Be sure to leave curtains open if you want cleaning! Beautiful pool area lighted at night. There was a monkey right outside my room…we were talking/howling at each other!
Selina Tamarindo
Description:
Situated in the heart of Tamarindo, just a stone’s throw away from the picturesque beach, Selina Tamarindo embodies the spirit of adventure and community.
The hostel boasts a lively and social atmosphere, where guests from around the world can come together to share stories, make new friends, and create lasting memories. The accommodation options range from cozy dormitories to private rooms, all designed with a modern and artistic flair. Each room is equipped with comfortable amenities and stylish decor, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Selina Tamarindo goes beyond just providing accommodation; it offers a multitude of facilities and activities to enrich the travel experience. From yoga classes and surf lessons to live music performances and cultural workshops, there is always something exciting happening at Selina. The communal areas, such as the vibrant coworking space, cozy lounge, and outdoor pool, provide the perfect spaces to relax, work, and socialize.
The hostel also features a trendy bar and restaurant that serves a fusion of local and international cuisine, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Selina Tamarindo are always available to assist guests with recommendations for exploring the area, booking tours, or providing insider tips for the best local experiences.
Address: Between Calle Cardinal, and Calle Cruz, Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Review Rating: 3.9 stars
Promising Review: The location is perfect, there is supermarket right outside the hostel, 2 mins walk to the beach. The staff were very friendly and were always keen to help, especially Sofia the bartender, she was always smiling and did as much as she can in order to help. Highly recommended hostel!
Hotel Pasatiempo
Description:
Hotel Pasatiempo in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is a charming and laid-back boutique hotel that captures the essence of the local beach town. Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, this family-owned hotel offers a tranquil and welcoming retreat for travelers seeking a relaxed beach getaway.
The hotel’s accommodations feature a range of options, from cozy rooms to spacious suites, all designed with comfort and simplicity in mind. The rooms are tastefully decorated, reflecting the vibrant colors and natural elements of the surrounding environment. Each room is equipped with modern amenities and private balconies or terraces that provide a peaceful space to unwind and soak in the tropical ambiance.
Hotel Pasatiempo’s inviting swimming pool serves as a central gathering spot, where guests can cool off and lounge under the swaying palm trees. The hotel also offers a casual outdoor restaurant, serving delicious breakfast and lunch options that showcase fresh local ingredients. The friendly and attentive staff ensures that guests feel at home, providing personalized service and insider tips on the best local attractions and activities.
Conveniently located just a short walk from Tamarindo’s stunning beaches, Hotel Pasatiempo offers easy access to the surf and sun. The hotel also organizes various excursions and tours, allowing guests to explore the area’s natural wonders, including national parks, wildlife reserves, and volcanic landscapes.
Address: Guanacaste, Playa Tamarindo, 00011 Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Review Rating: 4.2 stars
Promising Review:
Everything that I personally want in lodging for my travels, was fulfilled in my 2 night stay. The staff was friendly, efficient, and helpful. My room was nice and cool, very clean and very comfortable. The grounds and pool area were beautiful and well kept. The bar / food service area was comfortable, with good service, and during breakfast I was entertained by a family of howler monkeys playing on the roof. The security guard, although limited in English, was super friendly and one night even pointed out two raccoons, with his flashlight, that were playing in the tree. Lastly, the location was great, a 5 minute walk with easy access to the beach, restaurants, and a convenient quick shop type store almost directly across the street.
Hotel La Palapa
Description:
Hotel La Palapa in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is a charming beachfront hotel that offers a serene and idyllic escape for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. With its prime location overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this boutique hotel provides a peaceful retreat while being within walking distance of Tamarindo’s vibrant town center.
The accommodations at Hotel La Palapa exude rustic elegance and are designed to blend harmoniously with the surrounding tropical environment. The rooms and suites feature authentic Costa Rican craftsmanship, with wooden furnishings and local artwork. Each accommodation is thoughtfully appointed with modern amenities and offers private balconies or terraces that showcase breathtaking ocean views.
Guests can relax by the hotel’s swimming pool, which is surrounded by lush gardens and swaying palm trees, creating a serene oasis. The hotel also has direct access to the beach, allowing guests to easily indulge in sunbathing, swimming, and surfing.
The on-site restaurant at Hotel La Palapa serves a delightful blend of international and local cuisine, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can savor their meals while enjoying panoramic views of the ocean, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience.
The attentive and friendly staff at Hotel La Palapa are dedicated to ensuring guests have a memorable stay. They are happy to assist with arranging activities and excursions, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or exploring nearby national parks.
Address: 25m norte de la rotonda, 50309 Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Review Rating: 4.5 stars
Promising Review: Amazing beachfront hotel with the most wonderful staff. We loved our stay here during the first part of our honeymoon. Everyone was incredibly nice and helpful. We enjoyed massages in the spa and loved spending our days enjoying the loungers and private beach space. Holbox Island is a beautiful place and La Palapa was a fabulous stay. 10/10 highly recommend.
Ten North Tamarindo Beach Hotel
Description:
Ten North Tamarindo Beach Hotel in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is a boutique hotel that combines modern luxury with the laid-back charm of the beach town. Located just steps away from the pristine shores of Tamarindo Beach, this hotel offers a stylish and intimate retreat for travelers seeking a sophisticated coastal experience.
The hotel’s accommodations are elegantly designed, with contemporary furnishings and thoughtful touches that create a welcoming and comfortable ambiance. Each room and suite is equipped with modern amenities, including plush bedding, private balconies or terraces, and luxurious en-suite bathrooms. Some rooms even offer stunning ocean views, allowing guests to wake up to the sight and sound of the waves.
Ten North Tamarindo Beach Hotel boasts a rooftop infinity pool, offering panoramic vistas of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. Guests can unwind in the poolside lounge chairs or enjoy a refreshing cocktail from the rooftop bar while taking in the breathtaking sunsets.
The hotel’s on-site restaurant serves a fusion of international and local flavors, with a focus on fresh seafood and organic ingredients. Guests can indulge in culinary delights while enjoying the warm Costa Rican breeze.
Address: Calle del Parque Frente Super Compro, 50309 Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Review Rating: 4.7 stars
Promising Review: Really recommend this place. Great location and clean and tidy rooms/apartments. The pool is lovely and the breakfasts Laura makes are delicious. The staff are incredibly friendly and Karla bonded so well with our 2 year old she even bought her a toy mermaid one day. Great for adult groups or families. Definitely would stay again!
Hotel Luna Llena
Description:
Hotel Luna Llena in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is a charming boutique hotel that captures the essence of the laid-back beach town. Nestled within a tropical garden setting, this family-owned hotel offers a peaceful and intimate retreat for travelers seeking a tranquil getaway.
The hotel features comfortable and tastefully decorated rooms, each with its own unique charm. The accommodations are designed with a blend of Costa Rican aesthetics and modern comforts, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Guests can choose from a range of room types, including spacious suites and bungalows, all equipped with the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.
Hotel Luna Llena boasts a refreshing outdoor pool surrounded by lush greenery, providing a serene spot for guests to relax and unwind. The hotel also offers a communal lounge area where guests can mingle and share stories, creating a sense of camaraderie among travelers.
Located just a short walk from the beautiful beaches of Tamarindo, Hotel Luna Llena provides easy access to sunbathing, swimming, and world-class surfing.
Address: Calle Real, 50309 Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Review Rating: 4.4 stars
Promising Review: I had a very unique experience at this boutique niche hotel! It was super convenient and a short walk to the beach. I was very much impressed by the location and set up, especially our round shaped 2 level bungalow. Breakfast was served outside in a straw-covered Gazebo with many options to choose from. My boyfriend ordered a stack of pancakes which he said was the best he ever had. I ordered and overstuffed omelet which was filled to the brim with toppings.
The staff was very helpful and kind.
Hostels in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Coral Reef Surf Hostel
Description:
Coral Reef Surf Hostel in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is a vibrant and surf-centric accommodation that caters to the adventurous and beach-loving travelers. Located just a short walk from Tamarindo Beach, this hostel offers a lively and social atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for surf enthusiasts and those looking to connect with fellow travelers.
The hostel features dormitory-style rooms that are comfortable and budget-friendly, providing a communal and friendly environment. The rooms are clean and well-maintained, with bunk beds and lockers for secure storage. The shared spaces, including a communal kitchen, lounge area, and outdoor terrace, create opportunities for guests to socialize and exchange stories with like-minded individuals from around the world.
Coral Reef Surf Hostel offers a range of surf-focused amenities and services. They provide surfboard rentals, lessons, and guided surf trips to some of the best local surf spots. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, the hostel’s knowledgeable staff can assist in arranging the perfect surf experience.
Address: Central Ave 119, Guanacaste Province, Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Review Rating: 4.3 stars
Promising Review:
This place was one of the friendliest and welcoming hostels I have ever stayed. The staff work hard to make sure you are safe and comfortable during your stay while also maintaining privacy. The air conditioning is also very nice.
Note: This hostel is very close to a club so you may hear loud music at night.
Pura Vida MINI Hostel
Description:
Pura Vida MINI Hostel in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is a cozy, colorful, quirky, and budget-friendly accommodation that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for travelers seeking a laid-back beach experience. Located in the heart of Tamarindo, this hostel provides convenient access to the town’s vibrant nightlife, shops, and stunning beaches.
The hostel features dormitory-style rooms with comfortable bunk beds and shared bathrooms. While the rooms are compact, they are clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable space for travelers to rest and recharge. The hostel also offers private rooms for those seeking more privacy.
Pura Vida MINI Hostel creates a social and friendly environment with its communal areas, including a shared kitchen, lounge, and outdoor patio. These spaces provide opportunities for guests to connect, share travel experiences, and make new friends from around the world.
Address: Calle Langosta, 200 Meters North from the beach, next to ZEN Cafe Restaurant 50309
Review Rating: 4.1 stars
Promising Review: It’s a relatively new hostel that is transforming into one of the best in the Tamarindo area. The location is good where it’s close enough to the main area of town/beach, but far enough away where you don’t hear bars late at night. There is a decent breakfast included as well!
Tamarindo Backpackers
Description:
Tamarindo Backpackers in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is a lively and vibrant hostel that caters to budget-conscious travelers seeking a fun and social experience. Located in the heart of Tamarindo, this hostel provides easy access to the town’s beautiful beaches, popular surf spots, and vibrant nightlife.
The hostel offers dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds, providing affordable accommodation options for backpackers. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and guests have access to shared bathrooms and communal areas. Tamarindo Backpackers also offers private rooms for those seeking more privacy.
What sets Tamarindo Backpackers apart is its lively and social atmosphere. The hostel features a communal kitchen where guests can prepare their meals, as well as a common area and outdoor patio where travelers can relax, mingle, and swap travel stories. The hostel often hosts social events and activities, including barbecues, movie nights, and group outings, creating opportunities for guests to connect and make friends from all over the world.
Address: 100 metros sur de Villa Verde 1, Provincia de Guanacaste, Tamarindo, 50309, Costa Rica
Review Rating: 4.4 stars
Promising Review: We had an absolutely great time staying at this hostel! We felt extremely welcome and the staff was incredibly nice and helped with all questions! The hostel is definitely a place where you can feel at home. We slept in a 8 people dorm, where we had enough space and great Airconditioning at night! The kitchen& rooms are very clean and they have a nice pool and free coffee in the morning
La Botella de Leche
Description: The first hostel in Tamarindo (over 15 years ago) knows what they’re doing when it comes to customer satisfaction. Centrally located near beaches and restaurants, you don’t need transportation when you stay here!
The hostel offers private rooms as well as dormitory-style rooms. All of the rooms are equipped with air conditioning. The rooms are comfortable and clean. The staff is known for being friendly and informative. If you’re looking for local recommendations for food, they’re happy to help!
Botella de Leche prides itself in creating a home environment for all travelers. They have packages available for “surf camp” that includes surf lessons, breakfast, yoga lessons, a crocodile tour, and more! The dive camp offers scuba divers incredible opportunities to get in the water and see the diverse wildlife that makes Tamarindo famous.
With unique experiences and a convenient location, Botella de Leche is one of the best cheap accommodation in Tamarindo!
Address: Central Ave 500, Guanacaste Province, Tamarindo, 50309, Costa Rica
Review Rating: 4.6 stars
Promising Review: What a great place to stay! The staff were super friendly and always had great suggestions for activities and places to eat in town. Don’t let the fact that it’s a Hostel turn you away. I stayed in the dorms and had a private room and both were clean and comfortable with great AC. There’s an onsite facilities crew that also comes in and cleans every day. Also, the guests were very friendly and respectful. Lights out at 11 pm so if you want to sleep you can and if you want to party there’s plenty to do a block away. There’s also an overnight security guard so I always felt safe.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, the ten best budget hotels and hostels in Tamarindo! If your favorite didn’t make the list, let me know in the comments and I’ll add it as a reader favorite. Be sure to check out my other guides to Costa Rica:
Best Things to do in Tamarindo
20+ Ideas for your Costa Rica Bucket List
10+ Best Things to do in San Jose, Costa Rica
Save “Best Cheap Hotels in Tamarindo” for Later
