Pirate Backpackers

Great host and atmosphere, great recommendations from Coco about things to do and places to go

A little walk from main beach but that was ok

I can't recommend this place enough. The check-in/out processes were smooth and Koko provided some great recommendations of things to do around. The other guests and staff were all so friendly. I found this place to be a sociable hostel where there was always something to do with groups of others (e.g., boat tour, sunset tour, beer pong). But it wasn't a party hostel where you can't sleep until 4am. When the time reached 11pm the staff would take everyone to a bar down the street which meant the hostel became quiet for those who wanted a chill night. There was bedding and towels provided, along with a locker to store your stuff. The place was cleaned morning and night, and there were no broken furniture or appliances like you get in some hostels. When I checked out in the morning, I was able to leave my bag with the hostel free of charge. Koko also still allowed me to hire a bicycle with some others to go see the flamingos. If you read the other reviews you will see a lot of mentions about the owner Koko. He is a fabulous and kind person who you can tell really cares about the place and the guest's experiences.

My experience was perfect, there was nothing I didn't like.

Coco is an amazing host, place is within walking distance to the city center and small beaches, host and his staff create an amazing atmosphere, place is very well suited for backpacker lifestyle, free drinkable spring water is available right at the entrance, there is washing machine available for very affordable prices, hammocks in the garden for relaxing the hot summer days, common room with numerous card and board games, big outside dining tables create a comfortable way to socialise with other guests and volunteers in a natural way, tons of activities like sunset trips, group dinners and evening beach bars and city bars make the socialising and fun even easier, there is a grill available for any BBQ enthusiasts, lockers are very big and there is a camera surveiled luggage area which makes it a safe place to store any luggage worry free. Parking is available too either in limited quantities on the property or very close to the hostel near fire station. Place is cheap, and unlike many cheap hostels, is very well organised, clean and comfortable for longer stays.

The only thing i was missing, and is more a suggestion than a complaint is ping pong table and billiard, it would improve the fun factor of the place by quite alot in my opinion.

Hosts were extremely friendly and helpful with things to do. The property had an adorable dog, a cat and three turtles in the garden. There was also free storage for your luggage and they even provided complimentary towel for a shower after the checkout time. The location was about 20 minutes by feet to Old Town, and taxis were available for the nicer beaches. There were a lot of places to eat nearby.

Although there were a few stalls for shower, there was not much water pressure in the shower, also additional hooks could be helpful inside the stall. The hostel is located a bit uphill.