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12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

Are you planning a trip to Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, and looking for the best hotels to make your stay unforgettable?

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca is a vibrant town known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and rich Afro-Caribbean culture. It’s popular with surfers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a bit of tropical Caribbean bliss. Whether you want an affordable option, a luxurious retreat, or something in between, Puerto Viejo has a range of accommodations to suit your needs.

Throughout the several years we have lived in Costa Rica we’ve stayed in various hotels in downtown Puerto Viejo and the surrounding area. I feel confident in giving you the best advice on great hotels and places to avoid.

We made sure to include a range of places at all price points and for all interests in this list. So, whether youโ€™re traveling with family, friends, or solo, we’ve got an ideal spot for you!

Letโ€™s dive into the best hotels in Puerto Viejo and start planning your dream vacation!

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

My Top 3 Picks: Hotels in Puerto Viejo

#1 Pick
12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ 9.0 / 10 โญ๏ธ

  • Within walking distance of downtown
  • Beautiful property and rooms
  • Adults-only hotel
#2 Pick
12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ 9.9/ 10 Stars โญ๏ธ

  • Beautiful pool and gardens
  • Peaceful jungle setting
  • Helpful & friendly hosts
#3 Pick
12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ 9.3/ 10 Stars โญ๏ธ

  • Unique accommodation option
  • Relaxing pool & pool bar
  • Peaceful location

Map of Puerto Viejo Hotels

We included a mix of hotels directly in downtown Puerto Viejo as well as some places just south of town. We suggest staying in the downtown area if you will not have a rental car. This will make it easiest for you to access plenty of restaurants, bars, grocery stores, and more.

If you are looking for more peaceful vibes, a place south of town might be best for you.

Keep in mind that this area is technically called Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, but everyone shortens it to Puerto Viejo.

However, there is another location in Costa Rica also called “Puerto Viejo”. It is just very remote and not an area people often go.

In other words, if you see a hotel listing say “Puerto Viejo de Talamanca” this is the southern coastal Caribbean town that is popular to visit. If you see “Puerto Viejo” they are likely referring to the same town (as I am in this post) but it is always good to double check.

You can also open this on Google Maps here.

1. Umami Hotel – Adults Only

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.0/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Umami Hotel – Adults Only is an upscale oasis in Puerto Viejo. This hotel features modern and elegantly designed rooms with air conditioning, private terraces, minibars, and flat-screen TVs. The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, a tranquil spa, a lush garden, and a restaurant serving innovative international cuisine.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the hotelโ€™s contemporary design and tranquil setting are awesome. The location strikes a nice balance, offering both peace and proximity to the lively downtown area.

I also highly recommend the on-site restaurant called Mar y Sal.

Oh, and if you want to splurge with a spa treatment, their massages and body scrubs are great.

As a couple without kids, Thomas and I love that this is an adults-only place. I especially love this at the pool because it provides a more peaceful experience.

Check Availability and Book Umami Hotel

2. La Paz del Caribe

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.9/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

La Paz del Caribe is a bed and breakfast. This hotel is a jungle oasis with delightful hosts and unique breakfast offerings. Itโ€™s highly rated for its peaceful setting and exceptional service.

The property features comfortable bungalows designed for up to two guests and beautiful surroundings.

Keep in mind that the hotel is located south of Puerto Viejo in the jungle near Playa Cocles.

Why We Like It: The owners, Laurie and Wade, are the best! They really make this place into the gem it is. We think the setting is a bit remote, but personally, we like that.

I love how nicely the property is maintained, the modern rooms, the excellent breakfast, and the refreshing pool.

Check Availability and Book La Paz del Caribe

3. Saranda Boutique Hotel

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.3/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Saranda Boutique Hotel features 21 rooms surrounding a courtyard with an outdoor pool and a garden.

The thing that makes this place so special is the room design. All rooms have a spherical tube look to them. They are artfully decorated and unique. It feels a little like you are living out Hobbit life, but in a tropical atmosphere.

There is also a pool bar that serves up delicious cocktails and food.

Why We Like It: Saranda Boutique Hotel is definitely the most unique option on this list. I think it is my favorite place to stay if I am looking for something unique with a more social atmosphere.

Some rooms have private bathrooms and some have shared bathrooms, but the one thing that I don’t like is that all the bathrooms only have external access from the rooms.

One thing to keep in mind is that this hotel is just north of Puerto Viejo. It is best if you have a car. However, if you are looking for a peaceful retreat that isn’t right in the action, this is a great option.

Check Availability and Book Saranda Boutique Hotel

4. Hotel Aguas Claras

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.4/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Hotel Aguas Claras is part of the Cayuga Collection. It is one of the most high-end accommodation options in the area.

The hotel offers beautifully designed rooms, an outdoor pool, and complimentary bicycles for guests. Itโ€™s ideal for eco-conscious travelers who are looking for rustic luxury.

This hotel is located south of Puerto Viejo near Playa Chiquita.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the price per night is somewhat ridiculous for this area. However, this is one of the only high-end places to stay on the Caribbean Coast, so I don’t really have much it to compare it to.

I included it on this list because the hotel is beautiful and amazing. Everything you could want will be taken care of here.

Check Availability and Book Hotel Aguas Claras

5. Namu Garden Hotel & Spa

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธย RATING:ย 9.1/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ…ย Book it!

Namu Garden Hotel & Spa is a 5-star hotel that features beautifully designed air-conditioned rooms. Many rooms include a terrace or balcony with stunning garden views.

The hotel boasts an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and wellness center, a restaurant serving Caribbean and modern cuisine, and a bar.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, this hotel is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway or travelers seeking a high-end stay with excellent amenities. It is on the pricier side, but I think the value for money is reflected in the quality of the experience.

I think you can’t beat the location if you want easy access to the downtown area and beach, but with peaceful vibes. The restaurant and spa on the property both offer excellent service. I definitely suggest trying some fresh seafood or fish here.

I also love the design of the property and the rooms.

Check Availability and Book Namu Garden Hotel & Spa

6. Olinca Boutique Hotel

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธย RATING:ย 9.2/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ…ย Book it!

Olinca Boutique Hotel is a luxurious 4-star hotel located in the heart of Puerto Viejo. This hotel features elegantly decorated rooms, each with a unique modern minimalist style and modern amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, minibars, and private terraces with views of the garden and pool.

The property includes an outdoor swimming pool, a tranquil garden, a shared lounge, and an on-site restaurant. Restaurante Sage is known for its exceptional cuisine that combines fresh local ingredients with innovative culinary techniques.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the hotel’s design and attentive service make it an excellent choice for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. The team here always seems to go above and beyond to make sure that guests have a pleasant experience.

I also appreciate the peaceful environment despite being so close to the bustling town center.

Check Availability and Book Olinca Boutique Hotel

7. Sueรฑo Grande B&B

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.4/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Sueรฑo Grande B&B offers comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and an outdoor pool. It is known for its friendly hosts and great location near local attractions. The hotel typically lands at about the mid-range price level.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, this hotel is perfect if you want a place in the downtown area, would like to be very close to the beach, want a place with a pool, and don’t care as much about the overall design.

Most of the rooms and the property are very nice, but it does have a bit of a rustic charm.

However, the price point is great.

Check Availability and Book Sueรฑo Grande B&B

8. Finca Chica Lodge & Villas

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.4/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Finca Chica Lodge & Villas offers a tranquil jungle setting with private villas, perfect for nature lovers.

This hotel is located south of Puerto Viejo in the jungle.

The villas are designed with wooden interiors and exteriors in a unique Caribbean style.

There are five villas on the property. The smallest villas are designed for 1-2 people and the largest can sleep up to 6 guests. All of the villas are spaced out so guests can have privacy.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the serene setting and wildlife sightings make it a memorable stay. I love that this place gives you the option of traveling with a family and all sharing one villa. The biggest downside is that itโ€™s a bit away from the beach.

Check Availability and Book Finca Chica Lodge & Villas

9. Relax Natural Village Adults Only

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.8/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Relax Natural Village is an exceptional adults-only retreat with a sophisticated design and excellent service.

It’s perfect if you are seeking a quiet, upscale experience in nature.

The property features wooden bungalows with a modern design, beautiful grounds, and excellent breakfast.

Keep in mind that there is no pool here, but it is a short walk to the beach.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the luxurious amenities and attention to detail make it a top choice. I also enjoyed the fact that it is an adult-only hotel. The host Christian is also great and will help you with anything you need.

Check Availability and Book Relax Natural Village Adults Only

10. Pagalรน Hostel

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.0/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Pagalรน Hostel is a highly-rated hostel with clean, modern facilities and a friendly atmosphere. This place is perfect for budget travelers seeking a comfortable and social stay.

Pagalรน is centrally located and offers easy access to local attractions.

The hostel features 6-bed and 4-bed dorms as well as budget-friendly double rooms with a private bathroom.

Why We Like It: In my opinion, you really can’t beat the price point here.

Just keep in mind that Puerto Viejo can be a bit of a party destination. The atmosphere of the hostel, the location, and the typically younger demographic that stay here can make it a bit loud.

Check Availability and Book Pagalรน Hostel

11. Casitas Las Flores

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธ RATING: 9.0/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ… Book it!

Casitas Las Flores features private casitas in a tranquil garden setting. Itโ€™s a short walk from the beach and offers a peaceful atmosphere with nature all around.

All bungalows can sleep up to two guests and have a private porch. The superior bungalows also feature a private outdoor kitchen.

Why We Like It: I think this is a cool place to stay if you would like to really embrace the rustic charms of the Caribbean Coast.

However, keep in mind that these are somewhat open-air cabins. All rooms include mosquito netting around the beds, but you might find other critters in your room at times. So, if that freaks you out, I don’t recommend this place.

If you would like to be surrounded by nature, then I 100% recommend this place.

Also, because this place is somewhat remote I suggest booking the superior bungalow with a kitchen if possible. You can then buy groceries and make your own meals instead of having to go to restaurants all the time.

Just keep in mind that the kitchens are outdoors, so any food left outside will be covered in small ants in record time.

Check Availability and Book Casitas Las Flores

12. La Tica y La Gata

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets

โญ๏ธย RATING:ย 9.2/10 Stars on Booking.com | โœ…ย Book it!

La Tica y La Gata is a charming and tranquil hotel that features comfortable one and two-bedroom apartments.

Apartments are equipped with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private balconies with views of the garden and pool. All apartments also have private outdoor kitchens.

Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, a well-maintained garden, and a shared terrace.

Keep in mind that this hotel is near the downtown area of Puerto Viejo, but off on a side road. The road can be a bit of a challenge after a heavy rain

Why We Like It: In my opinion, the standout feature of this hotel is its exceptional staff who go out of their way to ensure guests have a pleasant stay.

I think the well-kept pool and the lush garden are great for providing a sense of seclusion and tranquility.

Overall, this is the perfect place for a couple or small family who wants the ability to also cook their own meals. Personally, we are always looking for a place to stay with a private kitchen so we don’t have to eat every meal at a restaurant.

Check Availability and Book La Tica y La Gata

Tips for Finding the Best Place to Stay in Puerto Viejo

  • Book Early: Puerto Viejo is a really popular place to visit in Costa Rica. It is still always a good idea to book early to secure the best places at great price points.
  • Check Booking.com: Booking.com is our go-to website for booking hotels. We typically always find great prices here. Plus, most hotels offer excellent cancellation policies.
    โคท Search Puerto Viejo hotels on Booking.com here
  • Check VRBO: VRBO is our favorite site for finding private vacation rentals throughout Costa Rica. In Puerto Viejo, you can find a lot of nice houses with private pools, cozy bungalows, etc.
    โคท Search Puerto Viejo vacation rentals on VRBO here
  • Pay Attention to Amenities: I think air conditioning is somewhat essential in the hot and humid climate of Puerto Viejo. Other amenities to consider include kitchen facilities, swimming pools, and proximity to restaurants and shops.
  • Consider Location: Think about what you want to be close to. If walking distance to restaurants and shops is a priority, look for places in downtown Puerto Viejo. If you want a more peaceful environment, look at places south or north of town or in the jungle.

Other Things to Know Before Visiting Puerto Viejo

12 Best Hotels in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica for All Budgets
  • Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is highly recommended when traveling to Costa Rica. It can cover unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage. We like HeyMondo for comprehensive coverage.
    โคท Get a travel insurance price quote
  • Getting There: Puerto Viejo is accessible by road from San Josรฉ, the capital of Costa Rica. You can take a public bus, which takes about 4-5 hours, a shared or private shuttle, or rent a car for a more flexible travel schedule.
    โคทRent Your Car and Get a 10% Discount
    โคทBook a Shared Shuttle from San Jose
  • Local Amenities: Puerto Viejo has all the essential amenities you might need. There are several restaurants, grocery stores, and a few shops selling souvenirs and essentials.
  • Border Crossing: Puerto Viejo is the last major town before getting to the Panama border. If you plan on traveling down to Panama after your visit to Puerto Viejo, check out our complete border crossing guide.
  • Safety and Health: Puerto Viejo is generally safe, but it’s always wise to take standard precautions. Keep your belongings secure, be mindful of your surroundings, and avoid isolated areas at night. In terms of health, make sure to stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and protect yourself from mosquitoes. Also, you can drink the water here, but it is best to buy bottled water just to be extra safe.
  • Weather and Climate: The Caribbean coast has a rainy season opposite to the Pacific side, with the wettest months being December and January, and a secondary peak in July. The best time to visit is usually August to October, when the weather is drier. Expect humid conditions year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 77ยฐF to 86ยฐF (25ยฐC to 30ยฐC).

For more info, check out our complete guide to Puerto Viejo

Conclusion: Puerto Viejo Hotels

In conclusion, Puerto Viejo offers a mix of accommodations, from charming boutique hotels to budget-friendly hostels. This popular Caribbean town has something for everyone.

If you have any questions about these hotels, feel free to ask in the comment section below. We’re always happy to help with your trip planning!

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๐Ÿš— Should I rent a car in Costa Rica?

Having a rental car will give you the most flexibility when traveling in Costa Rica. This will also allow you to take fun day trips on your own.

๐Ÿ„๐Ÿฝ How can I book things to do?

We find that Viator tends to have the most comprehensive selection of activities with secure booking and good cancellation policies.

๐Ÿ I’m overwhelmed with planning. Can you help?

Of course! I suggest joining our Facebook group for specific questions and head to our Start Here Page to get started planning.

โœˆ๏ธ What is the best way to book a flight?

Usually, we have the best luck finding great prices with Skyscanner. Check for flights to both San Jose Airport (SJO) and Liberia Airport (LIR).

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We highly suggest Booking.com for hotel bookings and typically use VRBO for Costa Rica vacation rentals.

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The main language in Costa Rica is Spanish. Most people working in tourism speak at least some English.

๐Ÿ’ฐ What is the currency in Costa Rica?

The currency used in Costa Rica is the Costa Rican colรณn (CRC). However, the US dollar is widely accepted in most tourist areas

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An eSIM from Airalo is the easiest way to get 4G data while traveling in Costa Rica.

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Generally, Costa Rica is considered safe for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it’s best to use caution and be aware of your surroundings.

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