Tamarindo is a town in the Guanacaste Province, on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast. It’s known for beaches with strong surf, like Playa Tamarindo and Playa Langosta. To the north, Playa Grande beach is a major nesting site for huge leatherback turtles, and forms part of Las Baulas National Marine Park. The mangrove-lined estuary of Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge protects animals such as howler monkeys and crocodiles. ― Google
Dry Season (December–April) – Sunny skies, perfect beach days, best surfing.
Green Season (May–November) – Fewer crowds, lower prices, greener landscapes. Rain typically falls in the late afternoon.
High season: December, January, and Easter — book accommodations early.
From Liberia Airport (LIR) – ~1–1.5 hours by car or shuttle. Closest airport and most convenient.
From San José – ~4–6 hours by car or bus. Domestic flights also available to Tamarindo’s small airport (TNO).
By bus – Direct public buses from San José (Alfaro line) take 6+ hours.
Shuttles – Shared or private vans available from major cities and airports.
Playa Tamarindo – Long sandy beach ideal for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing.
Playa Langosta – Quieter and more secluded, with tide pools and beautiful scenery.
Playa Grande – Just across the estuary; a nesting site for leatherback turtles and a great surf break.
Las Baulas National Marine Park – Important turtle conservation area with mangrove boat tours and night turtle watching.
Estuary Wildlife Tours – Kayak or boat through mangroves to see crocodiles, monkeys, and exotic birds.
Surfing – Tamarindo is a top surf spot with waves for all levels. Many surf schools and board rentals available.
Snorkeling & scuba diving – Nearby Catalina Islands offer excellent marine life.
Sport fishing – Tamarindo is a hub for deep-sea fishing tours.
Sailing & sunset cruises – Catamarans offer snorkeling stops, food, drinks, and dolphin spotting.
Ziplining, horseback riding & ATV tours – Explore beaches, forests, and local hills.
Yoga & wellness – Many studios offer daily classes and retreats.
Turtle tours (Oct–March) – Guided night tours at Playa Grande to witness turtle nesting.
Luxury:
Jardin del Eden, Cala Luna Boutique Hotel, Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel
Mid-range:
Hotel Arco Iris, The Coast Beachfront Hotel, Tamarindo Diria
Budget:
Selina Tamarindo, Blue Trailz Hostel, Coral Reef Surf Hostel
Villas & Airbnbs – Plentiful for families and longer stays.
Costa Rican food:
Try casados, ceviche, fried plantains, and fresh seafood.
Popular restaurants:
Green Papaya Taco Bar, Dragonfly Bar & Grill, Pangas Beach Club, Shrimp Hole
Vegetarian & vegan:
Nordico Coffee House, Pura Vegan, La Bodega Organic Market
Beach bars & nightlife:
Crazy Monkey Bar, Pacifico Bar, El Garito – Live DJs, Latin dancing, and cocktails
Cafés & breakfast spots:
Café Tico, Breaking Bread, Nordico Coffee
Tamarindo has a laid-back, international surfer vibe, with locals (Ticos) and expats mingling.
English is widely spoken.
Eco-tourism and surf culture are core to the community.
The town is bustling and fun but still close to nature, with wildlife often visible near town (howler monkeys, iguanas, tropical birds).
Great for first-time visitors – easy to navigate and well-developed for tourism.
Surf lessons and rentals are everywhere — ideal for beginners.
Don’t leave valuables on the beach – petty theft is common.
Use bug spray – especially during green season.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems.
Sunsets are spectacular – grab a drink and enjoy the nightly show.
Day trips available – to Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, Nosara, Playa Avellanas, or nearby waterfalls.