Introduction
What to do
Where to eat
When to visit
How to get there
Where to stay
Renting a car
Local costs

Tamarindo travel guide

Tamarindo Tourism | Tamarindo Guide

You're Going to Love Tamarindo

Known for its beautiful beaches and peaceful atmosphere, Tamarindo is a tropical idyll on Costa Rica's Pacific coast.

Stunning surf spots, unbeatable fishing, and plenty of infrastructure for luxury travelers make Tamarindo a popular spot with visitors young and old from around the world.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Tamarindo

1. Spectacular Beaches

Costa Rica is epitomized in Tamarindo, which boasts stunning tropical beaches like Playa Conchal and Playa Flamingo that unfurl up and down the coast.

2. Blue Water Fishing

Fishermen and women from around the world come to Tamarindo for its stunning fishing grounds and its fleet of ships captained by locals.

3. Surf's Up

Surfers have seen Tamarindo in their dreams. With perfect breaks dotting the region, there's no better place to catch a wave.

4. Small-Town Atmosphere

Tamarindo is entirely walkable and offers a welcome respite from crowded city life.

5. Great Restaurants

While visitors can expect plenty of great Costa Rican specialties, the town also has a French bakery, La Panaderia de Paris.

1. Spectacular Beaches

Costa Rica is epitomized in Tamarindo, which boasts stunning tropical beaches like Playa Conchal and Playa Flamingo that unfurl up and down the coast.

2. Blue Water Fishing

Fishermen and women from around the world come to Tamarindo for its stunning fishing grounds and its fleet of ships captained by locals.

3. Surf's Up

Surfers have seen Tamarindo in their dreams. With perfect breaks dotting the region, there's no better place to catch a wave.

4. Small-Town Atmosphere

Tamarindo is entirely walkable and offers a welcome respite from crowded city life.

5. Great Restaurants

While visitors can expect plenty of great Costa Rican specialties, the town also has a French bakery, La Panaderia de Paris.

What to do in Tamarindo

1. Avellana Beach: Befitting Beach Experience

Only 25 minutes away from Playa Tamarindo, Avellana Beach is a small and tranquil paradise. Enjoy some pleasant, secluded time in the refreshing shade under the lovely palm trees as you relax. Watch mischievous howler monkeys on the trees monkeying around as they loudly call. Sample the best cuisines and drinks from top restaurants such as Lola's.

2. Playa Grande: Surf the Great Unrivalled Waves

Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Grande is a surfing hub that is known for its untamed waves. Located 22 kilometers from Tamarindo on road, it's a quiet town with a relaxing atmosphere. Set yourself of and immerse in the sweet serenity that this gorgeous beach offers. Compete with the aggressive waves during the day and enjoy the best local and international cuisines.

3. Playa Tamarindo: What Fun and Enjoyment Is All About

Playa Tamarindo holds an undisputed record for being home to countless tourists, and it's easy to see why. Indulge in the best cuisines that abound in the trail of eateries, treat yourself to some fun kayaking or sportfishing and sample the best drinks in the bars that are open late into the night. Clear your mind and meditate in peace as you walk along the pristine shores, get down on the dance floor or go sailing in the clear, still waters.

4. Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas: Make Memories with Sea Turtles

This delightful turtle park gets its name from the baula, or leatherback turtle, that is predominant here. It's a sanctuary for these turtles, whose species is endangered. Get educated on these great turtles at the park entrance. Spend a pleasant sunny afternoon on the majestic mangrove swamp in a kayak, exploring the vast attractive area. See the dedicated leatherback nesting and get a chance to visit the mysterious mangroves that are home to crocodiles and caimans.

5. Barra Honda National Park: Adventure in the Mystique Caves

Barra Honda National Park is a combination of caves and a park. Entrance fee is $12 per person. Feel the darkness engulf you as you go into the bountiful caves through a tall, sturdy ladder. Get an unlimited display of beauty as you view the capricious and amazing figures in the caves. Mingle with bats and other cave dwelling creatures as you take in the awesome scenery, and extend the fun by climbing a trail that gives a breathtaking view over the Gulf of Nicoya.

Playa TamarindoPlaya Tamarindo

1. Avellana Beach: Befitting Beach Experience

Only 25 minutes away from Playa Tamarindo, Avellana Beach is a small and tranquil paradise. Enjoy some pleasant, secluded time in the refreshing shade under the lovely palm trees as you relax. Watch mischievous howler monkeys on the trees monkeying around as they loudly call. Sample the best cuisines and drinks from top restaurants such as Lola's.

2. Playa Grande: Surf the Great Unrivalled Waves

Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Grande is a surfing hub that is known for its untamed waves. Located 22 kilometers from Tamarindo on road, it's a quiet town with a relaxing atmosphere. Set yourself of and immerse in the sweet serenity that this gorgeous beach offers. Compete with the aggressive waves during the day and enjoy the best local and international cuisines.

3. Playa Tamarindo: What Fun and Enjoyment Is All About

Playa Tamarindo holds an undisputed record for being home to countless tourists, and it's easy to see why. Indulge in the best cuisines that abound in the trail of eateries, treat yourself to some fun kayaking or sportfishing and sample the best drinks in the bars that are open late into the night. Clear your mind and meditate in peace as you walk along the pristine shores, get down on the dance floor or go sailing in the clear, still waters.

4. Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas: Make Memories with Sea Turtles

This delightful turtle park gets its name from the baula, or leatherback turtle, that is predominant here. It's a sanctuary for these turtles, whose species is endangered. Get educated on these great turtles at the park entrance. Spend a pleasant sunny afternoon on the majestic mangrove swamp in a kayak, exploring the vast attractive area. See the dedicated leatherback nesting and get a chance to visit the mysterious mangroves that are home to crocodiles and caimans.

5. Barra Honda National Park: Adventure in the Mystique Caves

Barra Honda National Park is a combination of caves and a park. Entrance fee is $12 per person. Feel the darkness engulf you as you go into the bountiful caves through a tall, sturdy ladder. Get an unlimited display of beauty as you view the capricious and amazing figures in the caves. Mingle with bats and other cave dwelling creatures as you take in the awesome scenery, and extend the fun by climbing a trail that gives a breathtaking view over the Gulf of Nicoya.

Playa TamarindoPlaya Tamarindo

1. Avellana Beach: Befitting Beach Experience

Only 25 minutes away from Playa Tamarindo, Avellana Beach is a small and tranquil paradise. Enjoy some pleasant, secluded time in the refreshing shade under the lovely palm trees as you relax. Watch mischievous howler monkeys on the trees monkeying around as they loudly call. Sample the best cuisines and drinks from top restaurants such as Lola's.

Playa Tamarindo

2. Playa Grande: Surf the Great Unrivalled Waves

Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Grande is a surfing hub that is known for its untamed waves. Located 22 kilometers from Tamarindo on road, it's a quiet town with a relaxing atmosphere. Set yourself of and immerse in the sweet serenity that this gorgeous beach offers. Compete with the aggressive waves during the day and enjoy the best local and international cuisines.

3. Playa Tamarindo: What Fun and Enjoyment Is All About

Playa Tamarindo holds an undisputed record for being home to countless tourists, and it's easy to see why. Indulge in the best cuisines that abound in the trail of eateries, treat yourself to some fun kayaking or sportfishing and sample the best drinks in the bars that are open late into the night. Clear your mind and meditate in peace as you walk along the pristine shores, get down on the dance floor or go sailing in the clear, still waters.

4. Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas: Make Memories with Sea Turtles

This delightful turtle park gets its name from the baula, or leatherback turtle, that is predominant here. It's a sanctuary for these turtles, whose species is endangered. Get educated on these great turtles at the park entrance. Spend a pleasant sunny afternoon on the majestic mangrove swamp in a kayak, exploring the vast attractive area. See the dedicated leatherback nesting and get a chance to visit the mysterious mangroves that are home to crocodiles and caimans.

5. Barra Honda National Park: Adventure in the Mystique Caves

Barra Honda National Park is a combination of caves and a park. Entrance fee is $12 per person. Feel the darkness engulf you as you go into the bountiful caves through a tall, sturdy ladder. Get an unlimited display of beauty as you view the capricious and amazing figures in the caves. Mingle with bats and other cave dwelling creatures as you take in the awesome scenery, and extend the fun by climbing a trail that gives a breathtaking view over the Gulf of Nicoya.

Where to Eat in Tamarindo

Top-rated restaurants in Tamarindo include Longboards BBQ and Pangas Beach Club. The average cost of dinner for two in the city is about ₡50,000 at a low-key restaurant.

When to visit Tamarindo

Tamarindo in May
Estimated package price
$491
2 travelers
Flight to Tamarindo
3 nights at hotel
Tamarindo in May
Estimated package price
$491
2 travelers
Flight to Tamarindo
3 nights at hotel

Tamarindo is tropical, so the weather is pleasant all year long. Mid-November through August will provide the best weather, while September through March is leatherback turtle season.

Data provided by weatherbase
Temperatures
Temperatures
Data provided by weatherbase

How to Get to Tamarindo

Plane

The Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR), located in Liberia, is about 45 minutes from town. Taxis and shuttles abound, but a local bus from Liberia is the best way to see the countryside and costs about ‎₡2,000.

Car

The city is connected to the rest of the country by the 155. Although hilly, the route is fine for driving and reaches San Jose in about four hours.

Bus

Buses operate throughout the country. A 6-7 hour ride from San Jose with Alfaro bus company costs approximately ‎₡5,700. Do note that tickets can sell out two months in advance.

Plane

The Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (LIR), located in Liberia, is about 45 minutes from town. Taxis and shuttles abound, but a local bus from Liberia is the best way to see the countryside and costs about ‎₡2,000.

Car

The city is connected to the rest of the country by the 155. Although hilly, the route is fine for driving and reaches San Jose in about four hours.

Bus

Buses operate throughout the country. A 6-7 hour ride from San Jose with Alfaro bus company costs approximately ‎₡5,700. Do note that tickets can sell out two months in advance.

Airports near Tamarindo

LIRLiberia
FONLa Fortuna
TNOTamarindo

Airlines serving Tamarindo

Lufthansa
Good (7,158 reviews)
KLM
Good (1,364 reviews)
Delta
Excellent (7,963 reviews)
SWISS
Good (1,632 reviews)
Air France
Good (1,467 reviews)
United Airlines
Good (8,810 reviews)
Qatar Airways
Good (3,591 reviews)
Air Canada
Good (9,572 reviews)
Alaska Airlines
Excellent (10,246 reviews)
JetBlue
Good (2,923 reviews)
Avianca
Good (2,350 reviews)
Sun Country Air
Good (345 reviews)
Air Transat
Good (398 reviews)
American Airlines
Good (11,173 reviews)
WestJet
Good (2,876 reviews)
Southwest
Excellent (4,280 reviews)
Edelweiss Air
Good (34 reviews)
SANSA
Excellent (1 reviews)
Show more

Where to stay in Tamarindo

Both budget and luxury hotels can be found in Tamarindo. Budget-friendly options include Blue Trailz, which also has a surf camp. More upmarket options such as Hotel Jardin del Eden are popular among luxury travelers.

Popular Neighborhoods in Tamarindo

Calle Central - the main beachfront avenue is filled with shops and restaurants and plays host to a farmers market on the weekends.

Playa Langosta - this area, a bit off the main drag, borders the Las Baulas National Park and contains numerous resorts.

Playa Grande - just north of town, this area is home to a wonderful beach and some more laid-back hotels and restaurants.

Calle Central - the main beachfront avenue is filled with shops and restaurants and plays host to a farmers market on the weekends.
Playa Langosta - this area, a bit off the main drag, borders the Las Baulas National Park and contains numerous resorts.
Playa Grande - just north of town, this area is home to a wonderful beach and some more laid-back hotels and restaurants.

Where to stay in popular areas of Tamarindo

Most booked hotels in Tamarindo

See all
Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel – Adults Only
4 stars
Excellent (9.1, 757 reviews)
$215+
View
The Coast Beachfront Hotel
4 stars
Excellent (9, 561 reviews)
$182+
View
Cabinas Las Olas
3 stars
Excellent (8.7, 401 reviews)
$117+
View
Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort
4 stars
Excellent (8.5, 1465 reviews)
$156+
View
Hotel Rip Jack Inn
3 stars
Excellent (8.5, 434 reviews)
$114+
View
Wyndham Tamarindo
3 stars
Excellent (8.4, 2442 reviews)
$129+
View

How to Get Around Tamarindo

Public Transportation

There is no public transport in town, and everything can be reached on foot.

Taxi

Taxis start at about ₡640 and go up by ₡1,200 for each mile.

Car

There are Alamo, Budget, and Hertz outlets in town. Prices come to about ₡1,500 per day for a small SUV.

Public Transportation

There is no public transport in town, and everything can be reached on foot.

Taxi

Taxis start at about ₡640 and go up by ₡1,200 for each mile.

Car

There are Alamo, Budget, and Hertz outlets in town. Prices come to about ₡1,500 per day for a small SUV.

Find car rentals in Tamarindo

The Cost of Living in Tamarindo

Shopping Streets

While Tamarindo does not have any malls, there are many shops and local vendors in town, especially along the waterfront in the town center. Costa Rican crafts are a popular purchase. Those looking for a summer dress can expect to pay about ₡25,000.

Groceries and Other

Tamarindo's grocers are plentiful and well stocked. The cost of a dozen eggs in town is about ₡1,500, while a loaf of bread will run about ₡1,000.

Cheap meal
$7.89
A pair of jeans
$43.91
Single public transport ticket
$0.88
Cappuccino
$2.14

Everything you need to know for your stay in Tamarindo

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Dominical
San José
Nosara
Santa Teresa
Uvita

Tamarindo Travel Guide - View the KAYAK Tamarindo city guide for the best Tamarindo travel tips. To help you organize your Tamarindo trip ideas, this Tamarindo visitors guide provides travel information and trip tips about how to get there, where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more.