Traveling to Tamarindo, Costa Rica: a Complete Guide

Tamarindo is a charming coastal town on the Pacific Ocean in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, and it’s one of the country’s most sought-after destinations. Known for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Tamarindo attracts surfers and tourists looking for a relaxing and vibrant experience. We decided traveling to Tamarindo for four days in August 2024 during our second round-the-world trip, and we had the opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty and enjoy everything this town has to offer.

In addition to excellent surfing conditions, Tamarindo offers a lively nightlife with a variety of restaurants and local shops. We took the opportunity to explore the stunning beaches in the area to complement those we had already visited in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca at the beginning of our trip in Costa Rica. Visiting Tamarindo was a memorable experience, and the combination of incredible landscapes and a laid-back atmosphere makes this destination a must-visit in Costa Rica.

Best Time to Visit Tamarindo

If you’re planning a trip to Tamarindo, one of the first things you should consider is the time of year. For us, the best time to visit this charming town in Costa Rica is during the dry season, from December to May. During this period, the days are sunny, perfect for exploring the beaches and discovering the natural wonders of the region without worrying about rain.

On the other hand, if you prefer to avoid crowds and take advantage of lower prices, the rainy season, from May to November, could also be a good choice. While there’s a higher chance of rain, especially in the afternoons or evenings, the atmosphere is more peaceful, allowing you to enjoy Tamarindo with more calm and authenticity.

We visited Tamarindo in August, during a time known as “Veranillo.” This is a short period during the rainy season when the weather tends to improve, offering a welcome break from the rain. As in other parts of Costa Rica, the showers we experienced were brief and sporadic, which didn’t hinder our experience. If you choose to visit in August, we advise you to prepare for occasional downpours, but also to find a more serene and less touristy Tamarindo.

How to Get to Tamarindo

Our Costa Rica itinerary took us to explore several incredible places, and before arriving in Tamarindo, we passed through Monteverde. Since we rented a car, it was simple and quick to reach Tamarindo. However, the roads in Monteverde are quite challenging, with many potholes and a lack of pavement. But after getting through that area, the rest of the drive to Tamarindo was smooth and pleasant. It took us about 3 hours in total.

If you prefer not to drive, a practical alternative is to use a shuttle van, a popular option among travelers in Costa Rica. Several companies offer this service, and it’s a great way to travel to Tamarindo without worries. You can check transportation options here.

Another possibility is to fly in through the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia, which is about 60 km from Tamarindo. After landing, you’ll need to find transportation to cover that distance, which can be done by taxi, shuttle, or even by renting a car at the airport.

How Long to Stay in Tamarindo

The time you decide to spend in Tamarindo will depend on the activities you plan to do and the beaches you want to visit. We chose to stay 3 nights and found that it was the ideal time to explore the beaches we had in mind and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town. If you want to make the most of surfing, relax on different beaches, and explore the nightlife, 3 to 4 days may be enough. However, if you plan to do additional activities or simply relax without rushing, you might want to consider staying a bit longer.

Where to Stay in Tamarindo

While traveling in Tamarindo, we stayed at the Hotel Gardénia Tamarindo, a cozy place offering small apartments with kitchens, perfect for those who want to prepare some meals at home. The location is excellent, just a 10-minute walk from the beach, which makes everything very convenient.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, we recommend the Cala Luna Boutique Hotel & Villas. This luxury hotel offers an exclusive environment with private villas surrounded by tropical gardens and just a few steps from the beach. It’s ideal for those who want to relax in comfort and style.

For a mid-range option, the Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort is an excellent choice. Located right on the beach, this resort offers good value for money, with several pools, restaurants, and easy access to the heart of the town.

If you’re traveling to Tamarindo on a tighter budget, the Casa Pura Vida Surf Hostel is a great low-budget option. It offers a laid-back atmosphere with shared and private rooms, and it’s very close to the beach and various dining and nightlife options.

The Best Beaches in Tamarindo

Playa Tamarindo

Playa Tamarindo is the most famous beach in the area, and it’s easy to see why. With its vast sandy shore, this beach is surrounded by a multitude of restaurants, bars, beach clubs, and surf schools. It’s the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the spirit of Tamarindo, especially if you love surfing or simply soaking in the vibrant energy around you. And don’t miss the sunset – it’s absolutely breathtaking and not to be missed.

Playa Langosta

Playa Langosta, on the other hand, offers a more serene and untouched experience. With a few rocks dotting the landscape, it’s a great option for those who prefer something more secluded. We loved walking from Playa Tamarindo to Playa Langosta, always along the shoreline. However, it’s essential that the tide is low to pass the rocks that separate the two beaches. For the return, you can choose to walk back along the beach or take the road, depending on your mood.

Playa Conchal

Playa Conchal is a true piece of paradise, even though it’s a bit harder to reach. While it’s relatively close to Tamarindo, the journey takes some time due to the poor road conditions. However, this difficulty is precisely what keeps this beach so well-preserved. The sand here is made of shells that have eroded over time, creating a unique texture. When we parked the car, someone approached us offering security in exchange for a small fee – we paid 2000 colones. Considering the paradisiacal setting and the peace of mind knowing the car was safe, we didn’t hesitate to pay.

Outdoor Activities in Tamarindo

• Surfing and Surf Lessons: Tamarindo is one of the most sought-after surfing destinations in Costa Rica, with ideal waves for all levels, from beginners to experienced surfers. You can find several surf schools that offer lessons for all tastes, and the beach atmosphere is perfect for letting yourself be carried away by the adrenaline of the waves.
• Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding: If you prefer a more relaxed activity, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are excellent choices. They offer a peaceful way to explore the coast and surrounding mangroves, allowing you to appreciate the scenery and marine life from a different perspective.
• Exploring Marine Life with Snorkeling and Diving: For ocean lovers, snorkeling and diving in Tamarindo offer an incredible opportunity to explore the reefs and marine life. The region boasts spots rich in marine biodiversity, with a variety of colorful fish and corals.

Nature Adventures in Tamarindo

• Exploring Las Baulas National Marine Park: This park is known for its natural beauty and the protection of marine turtles. It’s an excellent spot for hiking and observing local flora and fauna. Visiting the park offers a complete immersion in Costa Rican nature.

• Marine Turtle Watching: If you visit at the right time (from October to March), turtle watching at Las Baulas is an unmissable experience. Seeing turtles nesting or hatching is an exciting and educational spectacle.
• Hiking in the Rainforests: The rainforests around Tamarindo offer fantastic hiking trails. You can explore the lush vegetation and might even encounter some bird species and wildlife along the way.

Check here for all the activities you can do when traveling to Tamarindo.

Cultural Experiences and Nightlife in Tamarindo

• Explore the Local Culture: Tamarindo offers a fascinating blend of local culture and international influences. Stroll through the streets to appreciate local art, architecture, and the relaxed atmosphere that defines the town.
• Visit the Artisan Market: The artisan market is the perfect spot to find unique souvenirs, local crafts, and typical Costa Rican products. It’s also a great opportunity to interact with the artisans and learn more about the local culture.
• Bars and Nightlife in Tamarindo: Tamarindo’s nightlife is vibrant, with many bars and clubs offering live music, parties, and a lively atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the night and socialize with other travelers and locals.

Gastronomy in Tamarindo

During our four days in Tamarindo, we ended up cooking some meals in the apartment and taking snacks to the beach to maximize our time by the sea. There are supermarkets with a wide range of options.

• El Mercadillo de Tamarindo: This food market is great for a casual meal. With a variety of options ranging from poke to steaks and burgers, it’s a pleasant place for an afternoon smoothie or a relaxed dinner.
• Sol Bakery: Known for its bakery and good coffee, Sol Bakery is the perfect spot for breakfast or a light lunch. The terrace is very pleasant, ideal for relaxing while enjoying a meal.
• Pizza Amore: If you’re looking for an affordable and quick option during the day, Pizza Amore is an excellent choice. Ideal for lunch while spending the day at the beach, it offers delicious pizzas at reasonable prices.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Tamarindo

• Travel Insurance: To ensure a smooth trip, we recommend Heymondo travel insurance, which offers a 5% discount. Being prepared for any unexpected situation is always the best option.
• Beach Safety: On the beaches, it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings. Even in busy areas, take care of your personal items and avoid leaving them unattended.
• Taking Care of Belongings in Public Areas: Never leave valuables in plain sight inside your car. As soon as we arrived in a new city, the first thing we did was head to our accommodation and secure our luggage. This habit helps avoid problems and keeps the trip hassle-free.
• Health and Weather Precautions: The weather in Tamarindo can be quite hot and humid, so it’s essential to stay hydrated and use sunscreen. It’s also advisable to use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Practical Tips for Exploring Tamarindo

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• Best Ways to Get Around Tamarindo: Tamarindo is quite walkable, but if you want to explore surrounding areas, renting a car can be a good option. Scooters or motorcycles are alternatives, but be aware that the roads can be rough, and the weather can change quickly, so being prepared for some rain is a good idea.
• Recommended Apps and Useful Services: Waze is the best option for navigation in Costa Rica.
• Tips for Saving Money During Your Trip: To save money, look for local restaurants and avoid more expensive tourist areas. Also, opt for local markets for quick and affordable meals.

4-Day Itinerary in Tamarindo