Costa Rica

Tamarindo

Located on Guanacaste's Gold Coast, Tamarindo is a popular north Pacific beach town. Great surf, beautiful beaches and a vibrant nightlife are some of the attractions of this growing resort town. With international flights now available into the nearby Liberia airport, increased tourism and development are apparent as are the myriad of activities now available to Tamarindo visitors.

Local tour companies offer sailing trips, ATV tours, sport fishing and horseback riding for those seeking adventure. Surf academies are abundant, and warm water surfing is enjoyed year-round. Boat excursions to nearby islands are easily arranged for snorkeling and dive trips as well. For land-lovers, world-class golfing is available at the nearby Hacienda Pinilla, and a multitude of shops exist in Tamarindo for browsing and souvenir shopping.

Tamarindo beach is part of a bay and is flanked by Playas Grande and Langosta, both protected nesting sites for the giant leatherback turtle. From October through March, official turtle tours are available to observe the sea turtles nesting. A salt water estuary, locally known as Estero Tamarindo, flows between the two beaches and is a terrific spot for bird and wildlife viewing. A wide range of hotels and restaurants are on offer for all budgets and tastes.

Tamarindo Snapshot

Summary: Very developed but proximate to quieter beaches of Grande and Langosta; nice selection of upscale restaurants; attracts travelers of all ages.
Landscape: Beaches, Tropical Dry Forest
Attractions: Nightlife, Surf
Activities: Adventure Tours, Golfing, Sport Fishing, Surfing
Caters to: Couples/Honeymooners, Families, Independent Travelers, Surfers

Tamarindo Travel Guide