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Tamarindo, CR

Tamarindo, CR

Explore Tamarindo, CR

Tamarindo, CR

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.

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    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.

    • Spanish is 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 recommended to protect Costa Rica’s marine life.
    • Some national parks and tours require advance reservations—plan accordingly.