Our Story
Where a backpacker's dream became Costa Rica's legendary community hub
Born from a backpacker's dream in 2019, Blackout Hostel started as a simple idea: create a space where travelers don't just sleep, they experience Costa Rica together. After a decade of backpacking across Central America, our founder Marco realized that most hostels were just rooms with random people. He wanted something different—a place with soul, energy, and authentic community.
What started as a converted beach house with a handful of beds and one kickass idea has evolved into the region's most sought-after destination for travelers, adventurers, and party animals. We've hosted thousands of guests, created countless friendships that last long after checkout, and built a reputation for throwing the kind of events that become legends in hostel lore.
Every day, we double down on what we do best: creating unforgettable experiences, building genuine community, and proving that the best travel isn't just about where you go—it's about who you meet and what you do together.
Our Mission
"Create the most unforgettable hostel experience in Central America by building genuine community, orchestrating epic moments, and empowering travelers to discover themselves and their world."
Meet the Crew
The humans who make Blackout legendary. Each one brings their unique energy to create something special.
Diego "Surf Sensei" Morales
Surf Instructor & Activities Coordinator
Diego grew up surfing the Costa Rican Pacific and turned his passion into a profession. He's taught hundreds of beginners to catch their first wave and somehow makes the learning process fun instead of humbling.
"Can hold his breath for 3+ minutes and once found a lost wedding ring on the ocean floor (he returned it)."
Sofia "Party Commander" Delgado
Events Coordinator & Social Director
Sofia is the architect of Blackout's legendary event calendar. She handles logistics for Salsa Nights, Beer Pong tournaments, pub crawls, and everything in between. She's the glue that transforms a hostel into a community.
"Has never missed hosting a scheduled event, even once with a 103-degree fever (we told her to stay home, she didn't listen)."
Carlos "Jungle Guide" Vázquez
Jungle Trek & Tour Guide
Carlos is a naturalist with encyclopedic knowledge of Costa Rican wildlife and ecosystems. He leads jungle treks with the infectious enthusiasm of someone who never gets tired of showing people the magic of nature.
"Once identified a bird species by its call alone that he'd never actually seen in person before."
Juan "Vibe Curator" Santamaría
Bar Manager & DJ
Juan runs the bar with meticulous care and incredible taste. He crafts signature cocktails, knows exactly what song will peak the party at the right moment, and remembers everyone's drink order by night two.
"Has a vinyl collection of 2,000+ records and owns the original pressing of every classic Latin album from the 70s-90s."
Marco "The Chief" Rodríguez
Chief Blackout Officer & Founder
Updated bio for testing
"Once surfed 12 waves in a single day and immediately declared himself a professional surfer (he's not)."
What We've Got
Everything you need to party, relax, adventure, and connect.
Essentials
Social & Community
Comfort
Services
House Rules
Keep it real. Keep it respectful. Keep the vibe alive.
Check-in: 2PM / Check-out: 11AM
Quiet hours: 12AM-8AM in dorm areas
No outside guests after 10PM
Respect the vibe — no drama
Clean up after yourself
No glass at the pool