We visited Pura Vida in June 2011 and loved our stay there. The casitas are charming and tastefully appointed. We loved the patio, complete with fridge and coffee machine. The breakfasts were amazing. We took an early tour one day and loved having the "to go" breakfast. The location is perfect for day trips in the area. We had our... More

Our room was very spacious with a big bathroom. We had a view of the Poas volcano. The grounds were lush and beautiful with flowers and trees. The owner (Berni) was very helpful with advice on restaurants and finding us a guide to tour for a day. We did not have a car so the only disadvantage was that we... More

Pura Vida is the perfect place to begin and end your travels in Costa Rica. It would also be the perfect home base as you travel around. Berni is a wealth of information and always available to answer questions. We rented our car through Berni which turned out to be not only easy but stress free. Toyota brought the car... More

The hotel lived up to its billing on previous Trip Advisor reviews. Accommodation was modern and clean. Breakfasts were excellent. Berni and staff were very helpful in connecting us with taxis, guides and tour operators. More

The Pura Vida Hotel is a quiet little place just 10 minutes from San Jose International in Costa Rica (SJO). From the moment we arrived, the owner made us comfortable in this beautiful little place. Orchids abound and there are over 8 different varieties of banana and plantain plants around (amongst other plants). Each casita is nicely done and very... More

We stayed here for 2 nights to spend some time in Alajuela and close proximity to hotel. Staff is friendly and helpful. The locked compound makes me feel safe and somebody was always there to let us in or out. Best beds & pillows in CR! Slept great! A little loud from traffic - but the ear plugs work wonders... More

Everything about Pura Vida was excellent. We stayed one night at the beginning of the trip and one at the end and enjoyed both. The grounds are beautiful, the food was delicious, Bernie had recommendations for dining out and other places to visit that turned out to be fantastic as well. I would recommend Pura Vida to anyone traveling to... More

What a wonderful spot to begin and end trip to Costa Rica. Close to the airport and the cab is paid for you meaning there is no wait. The staff is always right there to attend to your needs and all so friendly. At the last minute we included our 17 year old grandson and Bernie graciously made accommodations. We... More

This place inspired me to leave my first TripAdvisor review. My wife and I stayed here the day before our flight out of Costa Rica. From the minute we got there, everyone was so accommodating, from the very early arrival, to providing some tea and honey when my wife started getting sick (from earlier in our vacation; nothing to do... More