Sorry to have to be the one to let you in on this but there aren't really that many "hostels" in costa rica. I spent 6 weeks down there and I went to about 6 different places and only found two places worthy of the hostel label. One was in San Jose and it's something really simple like the backpackers hostel, any way it's the only one in the city wiht a pool. It's a really good hostel and if you start your trip there don't expect to find accomidation that nice for that price the rest of you trip, although it could happen. If you go to the east coast and go to Puerto Viejo then stay at Rockin Jays Hammock Hostel, it's right on the beach, it's got a kitchen and that's were you'll meet lots of other travelers. That's the problem with backpackin in CR and even CA for that matter, the lack of hostels makes meeting other travelers a much less common expereince than in other countries were hostels are well established. Most of you budget accomidation will be in Cabinas, cheap motels, rarely any kitchen available and just not nice places. I spent at least half of my trip in a tent, I was paying $2-3 per night and could see the ocean when I opened my eyes, whereas cabinas were anywhere from $6-$15 for the cheaper ones and were rarely on the water, cabinas aren't really that bad if your in a small group 2-5 people and don't always opt for the cheapest one bacause sometimes just a few more bucks or maybe just some more time spent looking around can get you much nicer accomidation. Altough camping may be considered a bit more risky I always left my bag in my tent, money passport and ticket never left my person!, but none of my stuff ever got stolen and I had some nice gear. I was prepared for it to be taken and was surprised often that it wasn't, but there were plenty of other people doing the same thing. Well I hope this helps and good luck on you travels.
