Tamarindo, Costa Rica is a stunning beach town on the Pacific Coast, in the Guanacaste Province’s north-western area. Those seeking adventure and relaxation love Tamarindo because of its stunning beaches, parks, and outdoor fun.
Is it easy to get to Tamarindo?
The town is near Liberia Airport and has lovely beaches such as Playa Tamarindo, Playa Langosta, and Playa Grande. These beaches cater to experienced and beginner surfers alike. The waters are ideal with great waves.
For those looking to explore beyond the beach, you can make the most of the variety of day trips and tours. From horseback riding tours through the lush rainforest to boat tours along the coastline and water sports, there is no shortage of adventures.
There are many animals to see at Monkey Park. You can also watch Manta Rays at Witch’s Rock. Another option is to go snorkelling to see reef sharks.
After exploring for a day,you will still be left with a long list of things to do. The town has a vibrant night life with its bustling night market and various dining options. Enjoy tasty Costa Rican cuisine at local restaurants like Antichi Sapori or go sport fishing in the Tamarindo Bay.
This is the perfect place for travellers who want a memorable beach town experience. It has amazing sunsets, lovely beaches, and lots of outdoor activities. There are plenty of natural sights and outdoor attractions for tourists beyond surfing. Add Tamarindo’s proximity to Liberia International Airport and you can see why the town is the local hot spot.
What is Tamarindo Known For?
This beach town in Guanacaste offers many activities for all travellers. These activities include exploring the town, hiking in parks, swimming in waterfalls, and snorkelling in the ocean. Here are 10 things to do in Tamarindo:
- Surf or relax at a beaches in and around the town
- Shop at the small boutiques in the area.
- Enjoy delicious local cuisine at the many restaurants.
- Get a taste of Tamarindo’s vibrant nightlife.
- Witness the natural beauty by visiting the various National Parks here.
- Go sea turtle watching.
- Hike to the Llanos de Cortez waterfalls.
- Have fun with outdoor water activities.
- Experience horse-back riding.
- Hike up a volcano to the Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
1. Surf or relax at beach
The beaches in Costa Rica especially the one in Tamarindo is itself of course the main attraction here. With its long golden arc stretching between the Pacific Ocean and the lush green mountains in the background, there are plenty of opportunities to engage in water sports. Within walking distance are: Playa Langosta (awesome surf spot with reef and beach breaks), Playa Grande (endless beach with pristine nature), and Playa Ventana. If you are not a surfer yet, this can be the place where you can learn to surf as there are many surf camps in Tamarindo for beginner surfers.
Other than surfing there are other water sports one can indulge in including kayaking, snorkelling, scuba diving and sailing. You can participate in these activities if you are not yet ready to learn to surf.
2. Go for a shopping tour through the small local boutiques
Tamarindo has plenty of street art as well as a weekly outdoor art exhibit at the famous market on Thursday nights where street food, live music, and vendors selling handmade goods, jewellery, and souvenirs are abundant.
3. Enjoy local produce and cuisine
Restaurants in this beach town offer local and international cuisine for every budget. Enjoy locally roasted coffee beans from “Tamarindo Coffee Roasters”. Get some tropical fruits and veggies from the Farmers’ Market, or choose a catch to throw on the grill from the fish markets.
4. Sample the vibrant nightlife
In Tamarindo, there is always something going on after the sunset. Clubs here host live music events almost every night of the week, and also, as far as nightlife goes, the vibes are relaxed and the drinks affordable. You’ll hardly find a place that makes living for the sunset with cocktails in hand and salsa music so easy. Pura Vida! For late-night entertainment, the salsa clubs, Latin bars, and cocktail lounges will be expecting you! Just don’t forget you go surfing in the morning.
5. Visit one of the many national parks in the country
There many other national parks in this gorgeous beach town. There are 3 easily accessible National Parks for hiking in the area – Diria, Barra Honda, and Palo Verde – where you can explore the jungle at your leisure. Other popular Costa Rican national parks include Rincon de la Vieja National Park and the Las Baulas National Park, both of which are located in the Guanacaste province. The Marino las Baulas National Park is also a great option
6. Go sea turtle watching!
For even more wildlife viewing, go sea turtle watching at Marino las Baulas National Marine Park. Located in Playa Grande, you can see the endangered leatherback sea turtles. You can rent a car to get to Marino las Baulas National Park
7. Swim at the Llanos de Cortez waterfalls
Llanos de Cortez waterfall is also close to town, a place you must go to when visiting Tamarindo. Many surf camps organize a small trip to these waterfalls as a part of their package. Explore the jungle, swim under waterfalls, jump off cliffs, show us how much energy you have left.
8. Have fun with water sports and other activities
For water enthusiasts, there is a wide array of water sports like scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing, and activities like fishing trips. Also, on the outskirts there are various outdoor adventures – be it zip lining, aerial parks, off-roading, or jungle tours. You’ll be plenty tired by dinner time.
9. Go horseback riding
Enjoy the beauty of Tamarindo through a horseback riding tour. There are several tours available which takes guests horseback riding through the jungle and one one of the Tamarindo beaches.
10. Hike a volcano
Lastly, Rincon de la Vieja National Park is a two-hour drive from Tamarindo. It’s where you can hike a volcano followed by a dip in natural hot springs amidst the lush jungle. We will be more than happy to organize the trip for you from camp. In this case, you don’t have to do the drive on your own.
Some other popular spots in and around Tamarindo, Costa Rico include Catalina Islands, Playa Langosta, and Playa Avellanas among the others.
Ready to Catch the Waves in Tamarindo?
Experience the thrill of surfing in Costa Rica with Rapture Surfcamps! Our expert instructors, top-notch equipment, and stunning beachfront location make us the ultimate choice for surf enthusiasts. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ve got the perfect surf adventure waiting for you. There are several tourist attractions in this Costa Rican town which are at most an hour’s drive from our surf camp.
Book Your Surf Experience Today!
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to ride the waves in one of the world’s most beautiful surf destinations. Join us at Rapture Surfcamps and make unforgettable memories in Costa Rica.
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Tired yet? No? COSTA RICA
Then come spend a week with us, enjoy Pura Vida and outdoor adventures at its best!
Don’t hesitate to ask us questions or have us book a local trip for you while at camp. We love sharing our appreciation for this piece of paradise with our guests!
VISIT OUR SURFCAMPFAQs About Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Tamarindo is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich biodiversity. It offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and a laid-back atmosphere that attracts visitors from around the world.
Tamarindo Beach itself is a popular spot for surfing and sunbathing. Playa Langosta, Playa Grande, and Playa Avellanas are nearby beaches known for their beauty and diverse surf conditions.
Yes, Tamarindo is an excellent destination for beginners. Surf schools provide lessons, and the waves at Tamarindo Beach are often ideal for those learning to surf.
Absolutely. Tamarindo is close to several national parks, including Las Baulas National Marine Park, where visitors can witness the nesting of leatherback turtles. There are also opportunities for bird watching and exploring the local flora and fauna.
