Tamarindo Beach

Costa Rica, Central America

Tamarindo Beach is a vibrant coastal town in Costa Rica, known for its stunning sunsets, golden sandy shores, and world-class surf breaks. Visitors can enjoy a plethora of water sports, indulge in exquisite local cuisine, or explore nearby national parks teeming with diverse wildlife. The lively atmosphere, packed with beach bars and shops, makes it an irresistible destination for both adventure seekers and those seeking relaxation.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

Coastal Area

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Nosara

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Tamarindo Beach

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Surfing lessons

Catch waves with local instructors in stunning Tamarindo.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Sunset Catamaran Cruise

Sail into the sunset while enjoying refreshments.

Booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge

Explore diverse ecosystems with guided nature tours.

No booking required
4

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Snorkeling at Catalinas Islands

Discover vibrant marine life just offshore.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Try local cuisine at a sodas

Taste authentic Costa Rican dishes at local eateries.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stand-up paddleboarding

Enjoy tranquil waters while paddling along the coast.

No booking required
7

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Yoga on the beach

Relax and rejuvenate with ocean views.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Explore Playa Grande

Visit this stunning beach known for sea turtles.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

ATV Tours

Thrilling rides through trails and beaches await you.

Booking required
10

Est. 5 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Fishing trips

Experience deep-sea fishing with local guides.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

7 (#29 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Costa Rican Colon

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Gallo Pinto

VE

Rice and beans breakfast staple. (National dish)

Casado

Rice, beans, meat, and salad plate.

Chifrijo

Rice, beans, pork, and avocado bowl.

Arroz con Pollo

Rice with chicken and vegetables.

Olla de Carne

Beef stew with vegetables and potatoes.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)