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Surfer walking along the beach at sunset in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, reflecting the vibrant colors of the sky and highlighting the town's surf culture and scenic beauty.

Tamarindo, Costa Rica Travel Guide: Surf, Sunsets & More

Explore Tamarindo, CR

Explore Tamarindo, Costa Rica: Surf, Sunsets & Nightlife

Tamarindo: Costa Rica’s Surf & Sunset Paradise

Tamarindo is a lively beach town on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, known for its golden sands, world-class surf, and stunning sunsets. Located in the Guanacaste province, Tamarindo offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you're learning to surf, spotting wildlife in a mangrove forest, or enjoying fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant, Tamarindo is a must-visit destination for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and digital nomads alike.

Learn MoreSurfer walking along the beach at sunset in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, reflecting the vibrant colors of the sky and highlighting the town's surf culture and scenic beauty.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Tamarindo

    Tamarindo enjoys warm, tropical weather year-round, but each season offers different experiences:

    • December–April (Dry Season):Best for sunny days, clear beaches, and ideal surf conditions.
    • May–August (Green Season):Ideal for lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and great wildlife sightings.
    • September–November (Low Season):Great for budget travelers, but expect some rain and smaller waves.

    • Tamarindo Beach:A stunning beach known for its surf-friendly waves and breathtaking sunsets.
    • Playa Langosta:A quieter, more secluded beach just south of Tamarindo.
    • Las Baulas National Marine Park:A protected area where leatherback sea turtles nest.
    • Playa Grande:A famous surf beach with fewer crowds and incredible waves.
    • Hacienda Pinilla:A luxury beach resort with golf courses, horseback riding, and private beaches.
    • Tamarindo Estuary & Mangrove Tour:A guided boat or kayak tour through the mangroves to spot crocodiles, monkeys, and exotic birds.
    • Catalina Islands:A world-class diving and snorkeling site known for manta rays and sharks.
    • Sunset Catamaran Cruise:A must-do experience with snorkeling, open bar, and a stunning sunset view.
    • Playa Avellanas:A picturesque beach with crystal-clear waters and great surf.
    • Rincón de la Vieja National Park (Day Trip):A volcanic park with hot springs, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

    • Casado:A traditional meal with rice, beans, plantains, salad, and protein (chicken, fish, or beef).
    • Gallo Pinto:A Costa Rican staple of rice and beans, often served for breakfast.
    • Ceviche:Fresh seafood marinated in lime juice with onions and cilantro.
    • Chifrijo:A tasty mix of beans, rice, crispy pork, and pico de gallo.
    • Patacones:Twice-fried plantains served with salsa or guacamole.
    • Arroz con Mariscos:A flavorful seafood rice dish.
    • Tres Leches Cake:A delicious sponge cake soaked in three types of milk.
    • Guaro Sour:A refreshing cocktail made with Costa Rica’s national liquor, Cacique Guaro.

    • Flights:Arrive at Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) in Liberia, about an hour away.
    • Car Rentals:The best way to explore nearby beaches and national parks.
    • Shuttle Services:Shared or private transfers available from Liberia and San José.
    • Taxis & Uber:Uber is limited, but taxis are available around town.
    • Bicycles & Scooters:A great way to get around town and the beach areas.
    • Boats & Water Taxis:Used for fishing trips, diving excursions, and transport to nearby beaches.

    • For U.S. travelers:No visa required for stays up to 90 days, but a valid passport is necessary.
    • For international travelers:Check Costa Rica’s visa requirements based on your nationality.
    • Departure Tax:Some airlines include this in the ticket price, but if not, expect a small exit fee at the airport.

    • Currency:Costa Rican Colón (CRC), but U.S. dollars (USD) are widely accepted in tourist areas.
    • Credit cards:Accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops.
    • ATMs:Available in town, dispensing both colones and U.S. dollars.
    • Cash:Recommended for small businesses, taxis, and tips.

    • Spanishis the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
    • Most signs, menus, and information are available in English.

    • Costa Ricans (Ticos) are friendly and welcoming—greet people with “Pura Vida!” (Pure Life).
    • Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory—most restaurants include a 10% service charge.
    • Beachwear is fine on the beach but not in restaurants or shops.
    • Respect the environment—Costa Rica is big on conservation and sustainability.
    • Do not disturb wildlife—avoid feeding animals or getting too close.

    • Restaurants:A 10% service charge is usually included; additional tipping is optional but appreciated.
    • Bars:$1–2 per drink or 10–15% of the total bill.
    • Hotels:$2–5 per bag for bellhops, $2–5 per night for housekeeping.
    • Taxis:Tipping is not expected, but rounding up the fare is common.
    • Tour Guides & Excursions:$10–20 per person for great service.

    • For peak travel season (December–April):Book 6–12 months in advance for hotels and flights.
    • For off-season travel (May–November):Booking a few weeks ahead is usually fine.
    • For surf lessons and catamaran tours:Book at least a few days ahead.

    • No COVID-19 test is required for entry,but check for updates before traveling.
    • Reef-safe sunscreen is highly recommendedto protect Costa Rica’s marine life.
    • Some national parks and tours require advance reservations—plan accordingly.