Our Costa Rica trip took us to several locations around the country, and we basically used this hotel as a stopover during our travels between our main destinations. However, it occurred to us while we were there that Pura Vida would be a great destination in its own right, and be a perfect launching pad for day trips in the... more

Pura Vida Hotel is overpriced, many other hotels in the area are better value, half price and includes a free shuttle to the airport. Hotel has a dog smell due to three large dogs on property. The owner has an attitude and does not represent the Pura Vida energy! more

Pura Vida Hotel was our destination prior to leaving Costa Rica. It's only 20 minutes from the airport. The hotel grounds are like a botanical garden. The rooms are beautifully decorated, the dinner cooked by Nhi was delicious, and it was a great way to end our weeklong vacation. While planning our trip Berni was extremely helpful in making suggestions... more

We grabbed a taxi from the airport and were dropped at the hotel in short order. There was no waiting for a hotel van and Pura Vida even picked up the taxi fare. Berni (owner) showed us the gardens, walking paths, wifi, restaurant and had great answers to our many questions. I was fortunate that it was Friday when Berni... more

Overall, our one night stay at Pura Vida was a very pleasant way to begin my first trip to Costa Rica. The website has a wealth of information about Costa Rica and you get a feel for Berni’s sense of humor throughout. Prior to arrival, Berni was very helpful and informative via several emails back and forth. I am a... more

After the loooong plane ride, crazy lines at airport,Busy car traffic-- what a delight to ring their bell, be escorted into a safe private parking area and then the lovely grounds which we were shown. Our cottage was lovely, clean, tastefully furnished and had a coffee pot and coffee which we enjoyed sitting out in the heavenly yard. Everything before... more

This place was so nice that it prompted me to give my first review. My mother and I arrived into San Jose airport, which isn't in San Jose, but in Alajuela. Pura Vida Hotel was only 4km away, so we were there in about 10 minutes, which is a big plus for coming in at night. Berni paid for our... more

this hotel is the perfect place when beginning your vacation or spending your last night incosta rica. the volcano room is new and beautiful. we had a fabulous dinner and they sent us packing for our early morning flight with a great to go breakfast. we would not stay anywhereelse. their gardens are so pretty and the orchids, too many... more

We spent our final night in Costa Rica the Pura Vida hotel in the Katydid Suite. The grounds were beautiful, the room was clean and spacious and the staff was extremely friendly. A breakfast to go was arranged for us and transportation to the airport at 4:30 am as well. I would highly recommend this hotel as a wonderful place... more