CocoRico Hostel

The town's social engine: a buzzing party hostel whose bar and restaurant draw even non-guests every night. Happy hour 4-7pm rolls into a free-drinks window, and the kitchen turns out crowd-pleasing pad thai, red and green Thai curries and burgers travelers rave about. Pod-style dorm beds with privacy curtains, a pool and nightly events sit 50m from the beach; staff like Roger and Janyl get repeat shout-outs. Note it's lively, not quiet. Best for solo travelers and backpackers who want to meet people and stay where the night happens.