Tamarindo

Air:

Local carriers Nature Air and Sansa operate daily flights to and from Tamarindo. Flights from San Jose to Tamarindo depart from Nature Air's terminal at Tobias Bolanos International Airport in Pavas (between San Jose and Alajuela) and from Sansa's terminal in Alajuela, part of the larger Juan Santamaria International Airport. Another option for visitors is to fly straight into the Daniel Oduber International Airport in Liberia, less than a one-hour drive from Tamarindo.

Bus:

From San Jose: The Alfaro bus line offers daily public transportation from San Jose to Tamarindo. Buses depart at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. from the Alfaro Terminal in San Jose located at the intersection of Avenida 3 and Calles 14/16. The trip takes between six and seven hours and costs US$10 (5,000 CRC). Alfaro Company (2222-2666, 2255-0775.)

From Liberia: Travelers can take the La Pampa bus company from the Liberia bus terminal to Tamarindo. Buses depart at 3:55 a.m.; 5:15 a.m.; 8:10 a.m.; 10 a.m.; 10:10 a.m.*; 11:10 a.m.*; 1:10 p.m.; 2:10 p.m.; 4:10 p.m. and 6:10 p.m. This trip takes about 2.5 hours and costs US$2.5 (1,275 CRC).

*Note: The 11:10 bus takes a different route and goes through Flamingo, Brasilito, Matapalo and then Tamarindo (this trip takes 3 hours). La Pampa (2665-7520.)

From Santa Cruz: Jump on the Traslapa bus line that runs between Tamarindo and Santa Cruz. Buses depart from Santa Cruz at 12:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. The trip takes around one-hour and costs US$1.3 (650 CRC) for a one-way ticket. Traslapa (2680-0515.)

Car:

Depending on road conditions and traffic, travel time between San Jose and Tamarindo is roughly four to five hours. Take the Interamerican Highway (Route 1) following signs to San Ramon and Liberia. Pass the Shell gas station in Limonal and follow signs to the Tempsique River Bridge (Puente La Amistad) and Nicoya; turn left here onto Route 18. Continue driving until you reach the T-intersection south of Nicoya, then turn right and follow signs to Nicoya and Santa Cruz. Drive through both towns and continue on the Belen, where you will see signs to Tamarindo. Follow signs through the town of Santa Ana and pass the Oasis gas station. The next town is Huacas, followed by Tamarindo.

Tamarindo has many amenities you would find in a larger city including supermarkets, pharmacies, clothing boutiques and hardware stores, but there is one exception - no gas stations. One is slated to open a few miles away in the near future. Currently, the closest gas station is 15-minutes away in the town El Llano. You can access all of the following services and facilities within walking distance or with a short cab ride to the nearby town of Villareal. ($4 each way). 

Phones

Several pay phones are scattered throughout Tamarindo.  International/Prepaid calling cards and local SIM cards used in unblocked U.S. or local cell phones can be purchased at local pharmacies or supermarkets. Local cell phones can be rented for about $10 a day or purchased ($40 and up).

Internet

There are two Internet cafes equipped with public computers in Tamarindo. Each charges around $1 per hour and offers high-speed connectivity. Many hotels and hostels offer Internet access in their lobbies and some include free in-room WiFi. Visitors can also bring a laptop to a cafe or restaurant as nearly all offer password-protected WiFi to customers.

Post Office

The closest post office to Tamarindo is just under three miles from the center of town in Villareal. A taxi costs around $4. If you’re looking to ship something, there is also a Mailboxes Etc., on the way to Villareal, but higher prices make the extra distance worth a trip to the post office. Villareal Post Office, road to Tamarindo, Villareal. Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (2653-0676).

Public Safety

The Tamarindo Police Station is located on the main road to Tamarindo about 400 yds. (365 m.) before the Best Western Hotel. Police primarily patrol the beach and can be helpful in case of emergency. Fuerza Publica, Tamarindo Police Station, Tamarindo. Open Mon.-Sun., 24 hours. (2653-0283 or 911 for emergencies).

Airports

Domestic

Tamarindo has a small airport located near the Diria Golf Course. Sansa Airines and Nature Air offer regular domestic flights to San Jose and other destinations. The trip to San Jose takes about 50 minutes and one-way tickets range between $60-$120. Tamarindo Airport, road to Tamarindo. (8840-1803).

International

Travelers flying in from outside the country arrive at the Liberia International Airport, where they can take a shuttle to Tamarindo for about $20 to $40. It’s best to call ahead and reserve a shuttle to avoid any hassle at the airport. (Airport: 2668-1178; Shuttle: 2653-1326).

Banks & Financial Services

Banks

There are approximately four banks in Tamarindo: BAC San Jose, Banco de Costa Rica, Banco Nacional and Scotia Bank. Each offers exchange services and 24-hour ATM machines. Most ATMs dispense both dollars and Costa Rican colones and many bars and restaurants have machines on-site. BAC San Jose, Plaza Conchal (2653-2133); Banco de Costa Rica (2653-1852); Banco Nacional, across from the Diria Hotel (2653-0366) and Scotia Bank in the Tamarindo Heights Shopping Complex next to the Automercado on the road to Tamarindo (2653-3802).

Financial Services

Western Union’s person-to-person money transfer services are also available at the local Western Union office in Plaza Conchal. Note: This is a good option if your wallet is lost or stolen. 

Supermarkets

Tamarindo has three main supermarkets: Super 2001, Super Compro and Automercado. There are also several smaller grocery stores are also sprinkled throughout town. Farmers usually sell fresh fruits and produce on the side of the main road. A taxi to Automercado, which offers the biggest selection and overall best quality, costs around $2. Super 2001, across from Pacific Park Condominiums (2653-0935); Super Compro on the side street next to Plaza Conchal (2653-1410) and Automercado in the Tamarindo Heights Shopping Complex (2653-2414). Note: Supermarkets close early on Sundays.

Medical Services

The nearest public health clinic is a 4-minute drive from Tamarindo in Villareal. In an emergency, the closest hospital is located in Liberia - an hour away by car or ambulance.

Tamarindo

The Pacific Emergencies private clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Doctors usually charge $60 per walk-in visit, but bilingual emergency medical technicians are on call 24-hours a day. (2653-2001, Emergencies 8378-8265).

Villareal

The closest public health clinic to Tamarindo is the EBAIS, a 15-minute drive from town. The clinic offers free or low-cost walk-in visits (check with your insurance company) and 24-hour ambulance and emergency services (2653-0736).

Liberia

There are two private hospitals in Liberia: Clinica Biblica and the San Rafael Arcangel Medical Center. There is also a public hospital in the city. Clinica Biblica (2667-0892); San Rafael Arcangel Medical Center (2666-1717); Liberia Public Hospital (2666-0011).

Veterinarians

If traveling with your pet, there are several vets near the Villareal intersection - a ten minute drive. Tuanis Vet (2653-4119); Cavallini Veterinary Hospital (2652-9009, 2653-0180) and Veterinaria Carvajal (2653-0796). All located in Villareal.

Travelers can access many exciting, one-of-a-kind Guanacaste attractions within one-hour of Tamarindo. Try to hang ten with the locals at Langosta Beach or take a day trip to the indigenous community of Guaitil - however you want to spend your day.

Dining in Tamarindo is an international experience with restaurants featuring everything from traditional Costa Rican to Japanese fusion. Travelers can easily find cheap eats or fine dining as there is something to meet every taste and budget.

Eat @ Joe's

Witch's Rock Surf Camp's in-house restaurant, Eat @ Joe's is an affordable option on the beach. The menu offers a great selection of fresh sushi, cheap beer, burgers, chicken fingers and more. Order their massive nacho plate and you won’t eat for a week. Half price happy hour drinks start at 5 p.m. Eat @ Joe’s, Witch’s Rock Surf Camp, Tamarindo. (2653-2586). Type: Casual, Comfort Food, Sushi, Beachside, Family-friendly. Price Range: $10 - $25.

Gil's Place

This popular Mexican restaurant offers affordable dishes such as piping hot tortilla chips, breakfast burritos, and spicy nachos. Gil’s offers generous portions and the freshest ingredients. Gil’s Place, near the Tamarindo Fitness Center, road to Pasatiempo Hotel. Mon.-Sun. 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. (8857-1152). Type: Cheap Eats, Mexican, Family-friendly, Delivery. Price Range: $5 - $15. *Delivery available.

Kahiki

Kahiki attracts locals and travelers with its budget friendly breakfast and lunch menu - known for the best value brunch in town. At night, Kahiki serves Mexican food and the menu varies depending on what’s fresh. Try their freshly baked tortilla chips, guacamole and snappy salsa fresca. Kahiki Restaurant & Bar, on the road to Langosta after Super 2001, Tamarindo. Mon.-Sun. Breakfast & lunch 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Dinner 3:30 p.m. until close. Bar open all day; 2x1 happy hour from 3 to 6:30 p.m. (2653-4263). Type: Family-friendly, Costa Rican/American, Mexican, Value, Sports Bar. Price Range: $5 - $15.

Koi Restaurant & Sushi Lounge

This chic sushi lounge features one of the country’s only all-you-can-eat sushi buffets for just $20. Young couples and travelers from all walks of life come here for drinks and Japanese classics like steaming miso soup, freshly caught sashimi and a variety of sushi rolls. Try the inventive Pura Vida Roll for a unique Costa Rican twist. Koi Restaurant & Sushi Lounge, 250 ft. (75 m.) north of the Diria Hotel, road to Tamarindo. (8705-7638). Type: Sushi, Bar & Lounge, Young Crowds, Upscale. Price Range: $10 - $25.

Laguna del Cocodrilo Bistro

This elegant bistro combines international and fusion-style dining. Main courses like beef tenderloin and duck breast accompany an impressive selection of fine wines. Open for dinner only. Laguna del Cocodrilo Bistro, main road toward the north end of Tamarindo. Mon.-Sat. Call for hours. (2653-3897). Type: Upscale, International Fusion. Price Range: $15 - $27.

Nogui’s

Proud holder of the title 'oldest restaurant in town,' Nogui's is a beloved local staple. Offers– freshly-caught seafood, mouthwatering meats and some of the town’s finest desserts (make sure to try their legendary coconut cream pie). Nogui’s Restaurant, on the beach at the cul de sac, Playa Tamarindo. Mon.-Tue. 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thu.-Sun. 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Closed Wednesdays. (2653-0029). Type: Beachside, Costa Rican, Desserts. Price Range: $10 - $30.

Seasons by Shlomy

Offering a Mediterranean fusion menu, Seasons strikes a balance between surf and turf. The restaurant's specialty is seafood, and the menu features savory dishes like red snapper pan seared with Portobello mushrooms, caramelized onions, and balsamic vinegar. Seasons by Shlomy, at the Arco Iris Hotel on the road to Pasatiempo, Tamarindo. Mon.-Sat. 6 to 10 p.m. (8368-6983). Type: Upscale, Fine Dining, Fusion. Price Range: $10 - $30.

Nightlife

Nightlife Tamarindo wakes up when the sun goes down. Try your luck at the casino, dance the night away at a disco or chill out at a live concert. Locals informally designate one hotspot for each night of the week so there is always something happening. From karaoke to clubbing, there is never a shortage of late-night entertainment in this town. (Cocktail pricing is rated: $ = cheap, $$ - average and $$$ - upscale.)

Aqua

A hotspot to dance the night away, this disco club lights up the streets nightly with its windows flashing neon lights and its speakers blaring beats that can be heard from the beach. Aqua, a multi-level dance club, is known for daily drink deals and special events. Packed on the weekends. Aqua Tamarindo, 300 ft. north of the Diria Hotel, road to Tamarindo. (8705-7638). Type: Disco, Nightclub, Chic. Price Range: $$.

Diria Casino

Diria Casino Formerly known as the Jazz Casino, the town’s main gambling hotspot is now operated by the Tamarindo Diria Beach & Golf Resort across the street. Texas Hold'em is the Diria Casino's main draw – poker tournaments are frequently held here. Poker players can also step out for a drink at the sexy, all-white Diria Bar at the casino entrance. Diria Casino, across from the Diria Hotel, road to Tamarindo. (2653-0031). Type: Casino Price Range: $$-$$$.

Le Beach Club

This beachside restaurant and nightclub has taken over Saturday nights in Tamarindo. After 10 p.m. the club draws huge crowds with several dance floors that spill out onto the beach. Le Beach Club features three bars – one out on the beach – where visitors can take a break from dancing on the waterfront lounge chairs. Le Beach Club, road to Tamarindo at the intersection before traffic circle. (2653-0178). Type: Nightclub, Disco, Beach Bar. Price Range: $$.

Monkey Bar

Located at the Best Western, Monkey Bar is the busiest place in town on Friday nights. Check out two dance floors: one featuring live salsa music and the other rocking out to DJ-driven dance beats. Just be ready to fork out Friday’s cover charge (around $2). Monkey Bar, Best Western Hotel on the road to Tamarindo. (2653-0114). Type: Ocean Views, Bar, Nightclub, Lunch & Dinner Menu. Price Range: $$.

Pacifico Bar

Pacifico Bar The place to be on Thursday evening, Pacifico draws crowds at its signature reggae night. This island-themed bar and dance club has a Rasta vibe and is a favorite among Costa Rican locals. Busy Wednesday (ladies night) through Sunday with frequent live reggae music. Pacifico Bar, far end of the cul de sac, Tamarindo. Mon.-Sat. 8:30 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. or later. (2653-4406). Type: Reggae, Nightclub, Bar. Price Range: $$.

Pasatiempo

Local musicians play on Wednesday nights at Hotel Pasatiempo’s bar, a longtime favorite with Tamarindo residents. Local rock groups draw a faithful following and open-mic nights provide entertainment that caters to a more family-friendly crowd enjoyed by guests of all ages. Pasatiempo Hotel & Bar, 220 yds. (200 m.) southeast of the intersection at the Pacific Park Condos. (2653-0096, 2653-4701). Type: Family-friendly, Live Music, Bar, Restaurant. Price Range: $$-$$$.

Sharky's

One of the best sports bars in town – come to Sharky's to cheer on your favorite team and enjoy a cold beer. Features an American bar menu of chicken wings, burgers and fries – greasy goodness. Sharky's Sports Bar, Pacific Park Building, Tamarindo. Mon.-Sun. 5 p.m. until close. Closed Wednesdays until high season. (Sports/General Info: 8729-8274 or 8729-8279. Type: Sports Bar, Cheap Eats, Special Events (Karaoke, Ladies Night, etc.). Price Range: $.

Tamarindo is renowned as a top tourism hub in the Guanacaste area for a reason. The list  of activities is seemingly endless with thrilling adventures such as waterfall rappelling and canopy zip-lining within a 30-minute drive of town. This Pacific town is the ideal place to check off all Costa Rica travel must-do's - from spotting a crocodile on a wildlife tour to sunset horseback riding on the beach, it's tough to be bored in Tamarindo. All the following activities can be booked at a local tour company.

ATV Tours

Step on the gas with one of the town's ATV tours - splash through streams and speed around the jungle as you check out Costa Rica's stunning wildlife. A morning tour is the best choice to spot howler monkeys and other critters as you zoom down Tamarindo's wooded back roads. Another surprisingly romantic option is a sunset tour (plan on leaving around 4 p.m.) where you and a guide will cruise the beach taking in the breathtaking red and pink hues of the sun sinking into the Pacific. Tours can be anywhere from a few hours to a full-day and include safety equipment and driving instructions to help guests fully maximize their ATV experience. Recommended for ages twelve and up.

Boating, Hiking & Wildlife Watching

Rich in biodiversity, the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge is an exotic escape for visitors to witness a wide variety of animal and plant species on several types of tours. By boat or by foot, travelers will likely come face-to-face with crocodiles, coatimundis, howler monkeys and an array of waterfowl.

Kayaking

Paddle through the mysterious mangrove forests of the Tamarindo Estuary in the morning before the sun reaches its highest point. Plan on paddling at least 2 hours - the trip is challenging, but rewarding as it offers an up close and personal way experience with wildlife.

Motor Boat

Glide through the estuary depths on a smooth motorboat ride with an expert guide from Las Baulas National Marine Park. Good for all ages. Tours depart from Las Baulas National Marine Park Ranger Station, located on the road to Tamarindo, 437 yds. (400 m.) north of the Best Western. The trip takes 3-hours - good anytime before 4 p.m. - and costs US$20 (10,000 CRC).

Hiking

Hiking trails span the 1,200 acre (485 hec.) wildlife refuge with paths that range from easy to challenging. From leisurely stroll to sweaty climb - however you do it, traversing this rich batch of biodiversity is an excellent wildlife watching activity. If you plan on hiking solo, speak to a tour guide and learn the trail maps before heading out. Group hikes are also available.

Canopy Tours

Visitors can fly high above the trees on any one of the many zip-line canopy tours offered in the area. Tamarindo tour companies organize trips to several nearby canopy forests. Some courses offer more than 10 cables totaling almost a full mile in length. That's one mile of adrenaline as you soar across the treetops and take in the lush greenery and the canopy wildlife. Tours usually take 2-hours not including transportation time. For the best canopy experience, a morning tour is the best choice for spotting wildlife. Zip-lining is very safe, but can be challenging and slightly intimidating - recommended for physically-fit and active travelers. 

Caving

Go spelunking in the Barra Honda National Park, the only park in Costa Rica with cavernous underground trails. Barra Honda is just over 1-hour by car or shuttle from Tamarindo. Plan on devoting a full day for this tour that departs daily from Tamarindo. Visitors will immerse themselves in the 70-million-year-old caverns, home to staggering stalactite and stalagmite formations. Cave-dwelling wildlife and fossilized relics also inhabit these underground passageways. Tours include a bilingual guide, transportation, park entrance fee, and lunch. Note that the hour-long hike to the caves is challenging and hiking shoes are required. 

Day Spas

A true Costa Rica vacation requires both adventure and rejuvenation and Tamarindo is the perfect destination for both. After a morning ATV excursion, spend the afternoon unwinding at one of the town's day spas. There are several spas located in the center of town and others can be found in many boutique hotels. Indulge in popular treatments such as a Costa Rican mud wrap or a papaya-sugar exfoliating body scrub. Other options include a variety of independent masseurs who set up daily on the beach and offer well priced ($40 per hour) massages set to the soothing sounds of the ocean breeze and waves crashing in the distance.  

Golfing

For all the men out there who aren't sure what to do while the women soak the sun at a spa day, never fear - there are two world class golf courses within 30-minutes of Tamarindo. The scenic 18-hole course at Hacienda Pinilla, a luxurious estate 15-minutes away from Tamarindo. Die-hard golfers can also show off their game at the impressive Garra de Leon Golf Course - a luscious 18-hole, par 72 course - a 30-minute drive from Tamarindo in Playa Conchal.

Horseback Riding

Saddle up with a horseback riding excursion. Trot up backcountry mountains or gallop down the beach - no matter your equestrian experience, there are riding options for every skill level. Tours depart from the center of town and vary in length depending on the activity - devote a half-day to exploring the forests or just two hours to a sunset tour.

Mountain Biking

Lightweight mountain bikes are available for rent in downtown Tamarindo starting at US$15 a day. Local cycling shops specialize in guided mountain bike tours ranging from half-day to multi-day trips that include round-trip transportation to nearby trails, drinks, a guide and technical support. For those who prefer to rent a bike and go it alone, there are spectacular mountain trails right outside the center of town, which cater to more experienced riders as the terrain can be rocky and steep. Another option is to rent Tamarindo's signature beach cruisers (US$10 a day) - perfect for pedaling down the beach at sunset or exploring the luxurious real estate of Langosta - just over one mile (2 km.) south of Tamarindo.

Safari Float

For a laidback river adventure, explore the Corobici River on a safari float - a tamer version of a river raft. Float down gentle rapids with the help of a guide and enjoy a leisurely cruise as you take in the scenery. The Corobici runs through a tropical dry forest, allowing travelers the opportunity to spot species that could be from the pages of a National Geographic magazine such as basilisk lizards, white-faced monkeys, iguanas, and river turtles. Plan to devote a full day for this tour - vans depart from Tamarindo and must first make the one-hour trek toward Liberia to get to the river. Tours include transportation, bilingual guides, safety equipment and lunch. Suitable for all ages.

Sailing

Beautiful catamarans and yachts set sail on a daily basis from Tamarindo Bay. Sunset tours feature appetizers and a champagne toast. Many half-day cruises include snorkeling, kayaking, dolphin watching and a fresh seafood lunch (and yes – most boats include a fully stocked bar for those looking to add a little booze to their cruise). Good for all ages - Prices start at US$80.

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Scuba diving and snorkeling tours are popular in Tamarindo – especially during the rainy months between May and October, when visibility is at its best (between 30 and 80 feet or 9 and 24 m.). Local dive shops offer affordable day trips and standard PADI certification courses for more adventurous visitors. Morning or afternoon excursions aboard catamarans may also include dolphin watching and snorkeling options.

Boats depart twice per day for the Catalina Islands, an archipelago located 20 minutes offshore. Here, divers can observe a myriad of aquatic life – spotted eagle rays, white tip reef sharks and colorful schools of tropical fish. Whales frequent the area from September to March, and large schools of cow-nosed and devil rays can be spotted between January and March. Orcas, whale sharks and nurse sharks are also known to visit these waters on occasion.

Sport Fishing

Sport fishing is world-class in Tamarindo, with common catches including blue, black and striped marlin, wahoo, sailfish, yellow-fin tuna and mahi mahi. Marlin can be caught year-round, but December through February are said to be the best months for your catch. Depending on what you want out of your sport fishing experience, luxurious boat charters and multi-day packages are also available. Some outfits offer catch-and-release trophies that are handmade according to the weight and dimensions of each catch and can be shipped to nearly any country in the world.

Study Spanish

Several Spanish immersion programs are available in Tamarindo for those looking to pick up the local language. Students can study the language while living with a local family, and learn about typical traditions and culture. Programs generally run from one week to two months.

Surfing

Surfing is an integral part of Tamarindo culture. Warm waters and year-round breaks make this beautiful beach ideal for both beginners and pros. The town is chock full of surf shops that offer board rentals, lessons and ding repairs. Amateurs prefer Tamarindo's somewhat smaller breaks, while more experienced locals surf the larger, often desolate waves of neighboring Langosta or Playa Grande. Several surf camps feature multi-level programs that include surf tours to all of the best local hot spots. Multi-day trips to nearby Witch's Rock and Ollie's Point are also available.

Turtle Tours

Nearby Playa Grande is known as one of the largest leatherback sea turtle nesting sites in the world. Every year between October and March, hundreds of leatherbacks come ashore to lay their eggs. Guided evening turtle tours can be arranged in Playa Grande at the Las Baulas ranger station or with the Local Guide Association at Tamarindo's satellite station (2653-1687).

Ultralight Flights

Take a scenic flight on a two-person ultralight plane to experience Tamarindo from a bird's-eye-view. Daily tours depart from town and soar along the coastline, introducing passengers to the Pacific Coast's blue-water beaches, rocky points and luscious green mountains and tropical dry forests. On a clear day, visitors may even spot humpback whales, dolphins, and marine turtles in the ocean.

Whitewater Rafting

Brave Tamarindo's cool mountain rivers, where gorgeous scenery blends with twisting, turning waters that race over rocks and around bends. During a lull in the action, rafters often spot howler monkeys, iguanas, white-faced monkeys and other native wildlife. Beginners can book a full-day tour on the Colorado River (Class II-III), while experienced rafters will love spending an entire day on the Tenorio River (Class III-IV).

Yoga

Stretch those sore muscles and inhale the revitalizing sea breeze after a day's adventure with an hour of beachfront yoga. Yogis can customize their own namaste experience and choose from over five studios in Tamarindo that offer various styles of yoga including Vinyasa, Hatha Flow and Yin Yoga. Classes range from beginner to advanced and cost between $5 and $15 per class (between one and two hours).

Tamarindo has a wealth of accommodation options. Budget travelers favor the area's hostels and surf camps, which are located a few blocks from the beach and offer fans, hot water, and shared or private bathrooms. Most upscale hotels and resorts are located beachfront, or in nearby Langosta. The town also boasts a nice selection of boutique hotels and mid-range B&B's.

Driving into Tamarindo, the scenery changes quickly from rural farmlands to busy streets jammed full of bronzed surfers heading to the beach and curious travelers checking out the many souvenir shops. After you pass Las Baulas National Marine Park and the landmark Best Western Hotel, the main road runs parallel to the beach for 1.5 miles (2.5 km.) until it ends in a small cul de sac. The sidewalks are lined with pharmacies, boutiques, restaurants and hotels to accommodate visitors.

At the town's first intersection, (before the cul-de-sac) there is an eastbound road that forks to the left leading to more shops and accommodations - all within a mile of the center of town. Continue two miles further south and you will end up in Playa Langosta, home to many luxury condos and upscale hotels on the beach. 

Travelers staying in Tamarindo can easily access all the town's amenities on foot although several hotels are located on back roads, which can be dark and dented with pot holes. A taxi ride home at night is recommended (average price $2-$4). The roads in Tamarindo are mostly unpaved and during the dry season - from December to May - the dust can be overwhelming. The dust can change to mud during the green season (from June to November) so make sure to pack your rain boots! 

Large families or travelers looking to explore the surrounding beaches such as Playa Avellanas or Playa Negra can rent a car at the airport or at multiple locations in Tamarindo. Bike rentals are also a great way to explore the town's back roads and the village of Langosta.

Taxi

There is an easily visible fleet of yellow cabs parked at the main taxi stand in front of Plaza Conchal (take a left at the town's main intersection near Hotel Zullymar). Some taxis charge you based on a meter, others - especially those independently owned - prefer negotiated flat rates (see below). Three options include: CGT Taxi (2254-6667); TG344 Taxi (8918-3710, 8879-3171) and Rafael Taxi (8835-3714).

Sample one-way taxi fares (2012):

• Tamarindo to Langosta: $2-$6

• Tamarindo to Huacas: $15-$20

• Tamarindo to Flamingo: $25-$30

• Tamarindo to Brasilito/Conchal: $25

• Tamarindo to Playa Grande: $25

Bus & Shuttle

There are several options for public bus and private shuttle transport from Tamarindo to nearby destinations. Public Buses: The 3 public bus lines accessible in Tamarindo are a great and inexpensive way to tour Guanacaste's best beaches, tiny towns and crowded cities. Each bus has a different route and makes frequent stops along the way.

 La Pampa: Tamarindo - Liberia (2665-7520) Trip Duration: 2.5 hours Cost: US$2.5 (1,275 CRC).

From Tamarindo:  Buses depart at 3:30 a.m.; 4:30 a.m.; 5:45 a.m.; 7:30 a.m.; 9 a.m.; 10:00 a.m.; 11:30 a.m.; 1 p.m.; 2:15 p.m.; 3 p.m.; 4:15 p.m.; 5 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. 

From Liberia:  Buses depart at 3:55 a.m.; 5:15 a.m.; 8:10 a.m.; 10 a.m.; 10:10 a.m.*; 11:10 a.m.*; 1:10 p.m.; 2:10 p.m.; 4:10 p.m. and 6:10 p.m.

*Note: The 10:10 bus takes a different route and goes through Flamingo and then Tamarindo. The 11:10 bus takes a different route and goes through Flamingo, Brasilito, Matapalo and then Tamarindo (this trip takes 3 hours).

Traslapa: Tamarindo - Santa Cruz (2680-0515) Trip Duration: Around 1 hour Cost: US$1.3 (650 CRC).

From Tamarindo: Buses depart at 7 a.m. and 2 p.m.

From Santa Cruz: Buses depart at 12:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. Trip Duration: Around 1 hour Cost: US$1.3 (650 CRC).

Alfaro: Tamarindo - San Jose (2222-2666, 2255-0775) Trip Duration: Between 6 and 7 hours Cost: US$10 (5,000 CRC).

From Tamarindo: Buses depart at 3:30 a.m.; 5:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

From San Jose: Buses depart at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Private Shuttles

Two popular companies shuttle travelers to destinations like San Jose, Nosara, Samara, Mal Pais, Quepos, Monteverde, Arenal and more in a comfortable air-conditioned van.

Gray Line: (2220-2126)

Interbus: ( 2653-4376)

Car Rental

Tamarindo has 7 different rental companies where visitors can rent both standard and manual transmission cars for around $50 a day. It's recommended to choose a vehicle with 4-wheel-drive as roads are unpaved and can be harsh on cars. If you don't plan on staying in Tamarindo, this is definitely the most convenient way to explore the area. Travelers must have a valid driver's license from their home country to rent a car – an international driver's license is not necessary. Some companies include: Alamo (2653-0727); Budget (2436-2000); Economy (2653-0752); Eurocar (2653-1809); Hertz (2653-1358); Mapache (2653-1717) and Thrifty (2653-0829).

Bicycle Rental

For those looking for some scenic exercise, several bike and adventure shops offer daily rentals. Mountain bikes generally rent for $20 a day and beach cruisers - $10 a day. Tamarindo Bike Shop, across from Witch's Rock Surf Camp, road to Tamarindo (2653-2136); Blue Trailz Hostel & Bike/Surf Shop, road to Tamarindo next to Alamo Rental Car (2653-1706) and Iguana Surf, road to Tamarindo next to Koi Sushi Lounge (2653-0148). Note: The main road to Tamarindo can be crowded with lots of traffic - cyclists should use caution.