Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel, Tamarindo

Pros

• Though not exactly on the beach, you'll be just down the street from the shore.
• The hotel is also a surf school, and its location is near where the river taxi leaves and takes you to another beach with larger waves.
• You'll also be within walking distance to restaurants and downtown Tamarindo, or you can use the hotel's complimentary bikes to get around.
• There's an outdoor pool, a common shared kitchen, and small amenities like pool towels and laundry services (for a fee). 

Cons

• The property isn't beachfront, and you'll only find the basic amenities on site. 
• Though the room rate includes breakfast, it's at the hotel's sister property, Witch's Rock, about a 5-minute walk. 

Authenticity

You'll find the hotel set back off the main street, not far from the beach. And to get the authentic Costa Rican surfing experience, you can book a surf package for beginner, intermediate, or advanced surfers at the hotel.

Location

Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel is just north of downtown Tamarindo, and a quick 5-minute walk along the main road will take you there. You'll also be in a prime location if you plan to use the river taxi to take you to other surfing beaches. As for exploring the area on your own beyond the main stretch of Tamarindo, you may want to hire a transfer or rent a car, as popular places like Playa Grande are about 40 minutes away.

Rooms & Bathrooms

As a simple, motel-style accommodation, you'll find just 28 rooms at Pueblo Dorado with four sets of connecting rooms (suitable for small groups). All units are fairly basic, with white walls, tile flooring, air conditioning, and simple, no-frills furnishings. If you're traveling with family or looking for more space, you might like the apartments with small kitchenettes. 

Other Highlights

Since this is a surf hotel, it's an excellent option if you want to try this popular sport. You can opt for surf packages ranging from beginner to advance that include transportation from the airport, accommodation, lessons, surfboard rentals, breakfast, etc., at one price. When not exploring the area or surfing, you can relax at the hotel's outdoor pool or grab one of the complimentary bikes to head into town.