When we visited Tamarindo a second time there was no question where we wanted to stay. Everything was too good the first time. The staff is cool and helpful, the rooms are clean with safes and reasonably comfortable beds, cable tv, hot water, a hammock for every room and a table outside for having breakfast, drinks or utilizing the wifi (which also works fine in the room).

The kitchen is clean, but the pool was a little too murky for my tastes both times we stayed, though there were those who didn't seem to mind. (The beach is less than 5 minutes away, so it doesn't seem to be that important, but if you're going to have a pool you might as well keep it clean.) Located about a block off the main area you can escape the noise but still only be a couple minutes from the restaurants, supermarket, shopping and whatever else. (Bring your money—Costa Rica isn't cheap, and Tamarindo is like being back in the states.)

Macondo has enclosed parking and an internet room for those not lugging around their laptops. Very laid back place and everyone staying there seems to be staying it easy, and the staff makes it easy for them.

We stayed here first for one week, checked out and visited some other areas, and then came back and stayed for another two weeks. It is a perfect low key place to hang out that actually feels authentic while staying in Tamarindo. The hammocks on the individual patios are amazing, and the computers, library, and communal kitchen were very nice. Close to the grocery store and a ten minute walk to the beach... Loved the pool and garden setting. Great all around!

My husband and I stayed in one of their apartments for 4 nights earlier this month. The apartment set-up was perfect - 2 floors, full kitchen and big fridge, futon for sitting downstairs, queen bed upstairs and good-sized bathroom with shower (albeit sans curtain which made a big mess). And in the center of the complex is a fantastic pool!

Now on to the cons - the ants and mosquitoes. The hotel is surrounded by lush landscape so that doesn't come without the price of having bugs. As mentioned in other reviews, this place is right down the street from Voodoo Lounge and depending on the night, the music goes well into morning hours. Also, this hotel is about a block from the beach and the walk is uphill on a dirt road - kinda annoying since pretty much every other street in the area is paved.

I think overall their regular room rate is well priced, however the apartment rate is a bit high. There aren't a ton of hotels in the area, so I definitely consider this one. It's certainly not the best out there, but if you're willing to overlook a few things it can work just for for you.

Pros: Has a community kitchen (OK minus the ants) with gas burners, fridge and charcoal bbq; Location is in the center of town, but a bit off the main street which is good; The employees are friendly and helpful; The super market is only a few doors down; Rooms have a small fridge and an Air Conditioning unit (a must have for the hot nights); free internet room and wifi; felt safe as a solo female.

Cons: A lot of Ants and spiders in the room (had the room sprayed); mosquitos kept me from enjoying the hammock at night; Tues night is Voodoo Lounge night (a few doors down) and it sounded like they were in my room - the party lasted from 9pm - 4am - not a night for sleep at all.