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Tamarindo

Tamarindo

    Tamarindo Snapshot

  • Summary: Developed, but neighboring the quieter beaches of Grande and Langosta; broad 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
  • Quick Facts: 43 miles southwest of Liberia ; Sea level ; Hot and dry during the day, cooler in the evenings ; 75-92 F

Tamarindo lives by the motto, "Surf, eat & party." This beach town lies at the heart of the region’s Gold Coast Beaches. Brimming with modern technology and contemporary amenities, Tamarindo is a unique combination of city meets nature. This miniature metropolis attracts global travelers looking to enjoy and explore Costa Rica’s dazzling wildlife with the comfort of knowing conveniences like grocery stores and pharmacies are just around the corner.

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The developed downtown area is surrounded by the pristine nature that drew travelers to Tamarindo in the first place. One of the region's most popular and vibrant beach towns, Tamarindo is surrounded by leafy forests and cerulean waters that offer travelers a unique mix of nature and nightlife. 

Pumping surf, a myriad adventure tours and lively nightlife lure thousands of tourists to Tamarindo, as well as a slew of expats who now call it home. Just under an hour’s drive from the newly expanded Liberia International Airport, Tamarindo’s prime location and top-notch beaches are more accessible than ever.

Adrenaline junkies flock to Tamarindo for its seemingly endless list of outdoor activities. Travelers can splash through rivers on a heart-pumping ATV tour or enjoy a game of world-class golf nearby at Hacienda Pinilla's scenic 18-hole course. Sunset catamaran excursions, canopy tours and scuba trips also make up some other viable options. With warm waters and steady sets complementing Tamarindo's golden beaches, the town has attracted die-hard surfers for years and surf camps are as ubiquitous as the tanned and toned surfers catching waves off shore.

Part of a bay, Tamarindo Beach sits between Playa Grande and Langosta Beach. These more popular surf spots are easily accessible with a walk down the beach and offer travelers a more secluded and less-crowded option for a day at the beach.

The neighboring Playa Grande is also renowned for hosting protected nesting sites for the endangered leatherback sea turtle. From October through March, you can catch an evening tour to observe the rare sight of female leatherbacks nesting on the beach - a one-of-a-kind activity just a few miles from Tamarindo. Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge, offers yet another top wildlife watching opportunity. Paddle through the mangrove jungles on a tranquil kayak tour or hire one of the park’s local guides to get up close and personal with a crocodile.

With no shortage of amenities or accommodations, Tamarindo caters to travelers from all walks of life. No matter your budget or taste, there are options for all - including everything from posh resorts to inexpensive hostels - condos and beach houses are also available to rent by the week or by the month.

Tamarindo in Pictures

Tamarindo Travel Guide

Tamarindo Weather

Current Conditions

81°F (27°C) Intermittent clouds

Humidity: 66%

Wind: 4.35 miles per hour, ESE

15 day weather forecast >

Tamarindo Tides

Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Low 4:09 a.m. 1.61 ft. (0.49 m.)
High 10:37 a.m. 6.5 ft. (1.98 m.)
Low 4:39 p.m. 2.23 ft. (0.68 m.)
High 11:01 p.m. 6.76 ft. (2.06 m.)

Two-week Tide Forecast >

Experiences in Tamarindo