We stopped in a private double room with bathroom. Good points: - Large clean room - Hot water shower with decent power - Relaxing communal area with hammocks and sofas - Drinking water bottle fill-ups available at a cost - Laundry service - Friendly staff helpful with tours and knowledge of local area - Snacks and drinks sold - Quiet,... more

We stayed in Hotel Pura Vida in March 2009 for 4 nights, we stayed in a room on the second floor with a shared bathroom for $30/night - the shared bathroom is a great deal because there are only 2 rooms on the second floor that share it. The room also has a sink which is very helpful. We arrived... more

I had chosen Hotel Pura Vida based on the pictures on its website and the reasonable price. Upon arrival, my partner and I were initially very impressed by the beautiful courtyard area and the peaceful ambience of the place. It has potential The room itself was ok but very basic. The mosquito nets had holes in them and the bed... more

My husband and I recently spent 5 days at Hotel Pura Vida in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica and we couldn't have been happier with our choice. Our room (on the first level near the large and welcoming patio) was clean, spacious and comfortable. We loved the breakfasts, which left us with lots of energy for swimming, biking and hiking each... more

We choose this hostel because I read that the owner was German, so it must be really clean. And it was! There was a relaxing garden with hammocks where you could lay down and read a book. The owners were really helpful, giving us tips where to go. Luis even gave us a free (nonsuccessful..) surfing lesson! Price/quality was good. more

Mind you we were exhausted when we arrived from a 10 hour drive, the last 2 in the dark so this may be tainted by such a frustrating experience trying to get to the Pura Vida but we arrived in the dark and the wall with barb wire on top was not the best impression. Once your let in the... more

The name was misleading for us, after 2 weeks Costa Rica from Pacific through Volcano area,s to the Caribian side, this hotel was not it. A owner with a bad temper as a German in uniform. Breakfast area to be cleaned under breakfast with the guests looking in the dusty air. Mosquito,s in the bedrooms, m-nets with holes, and looktrough... more

A friend and I stayed at Pura Vida for 4 nights in August 2007. We were really pleased with the hotel, the owners, and the experience there. The owners, Almut and Luis, were extremely helpful, answered all of our questions, and gave us good advice about the area. Pura Vida is a bargain and well worth the modest price. more

Habitaciones grandes y cómodas, ventilación y mosquetero. Exelente desayuno. Muy buen servicio, los dueños son gente educada y muy dispuesta.... more