Puntarenas is expensive and generally uninteresting, but this hotel is reasonably priced, clean, right on the beach, close to the ferry and has a friendly and helpful host. Highly recommended.

Stayed here one night before waking up early to catch the ferry over to nicoya. The town of puntas arenas didn't have a lot to offer, kind of a quiet boring town from what we could tell. The hotel though was very nice, came hot water which isn't to common in costa rica, a kitchen and three beds. Michael was very helpful in telling us where we should go and where not to go, as well as giving us a little bit of insight.

You can't really do any better in town than at Michaels. The mile long beach in Punteranas is largely overlooked by most travelers. But the rooms facing the beach have an awesome waterfront view. The room was great. You could prepare food to save on resturants. The room was fine and clean. Even though most people just pass through town, this hotel and beach is great for an extended stay. And it is much cheaper than other beachfront locations in Costa Rica. I strongly recommend Michaels. And I have stayed all over the caribbean and central america. I would give the beach front rooms 4 stars. The rooms facing back would be slightly less desirable, unless it's just an overnite stay.

If you want a reasonably priced hotel with AC, a high powered fan, the ability to cook your own meals in their kitchenette, and a refrigerator to stash some leftovers or Pilsens/Imperials/Cuba Libres, Michael's is perfect. Literally right across from the beach, and just a short walk from the ferry and the point (to take in an amazing view of the sunset behind the Nicoya Peninsula). The staff were all very accommodating and helpful in not only providing us with a room, but in offering up maps, bus/ferry schedules, and travel advise. Next time and am lucky enough to be back in Puntarenas I will definitely be staying at Michael's Surfside Hotel again.