Tamarindo

A lively beach town that is Guanacaste's most popular surf and party hub with a long golden bay. It offers excellent surf schools, sunset views, restaurants and easy access to nearby beaches and estuaries.

Things to do

• Learn to surf at Tamarindo Beach — The gentle, sandy-bottomed break in front of town is ideal for beginners with dozens of surf schools offering lessons.
• Sunset drinks on the beach — Grab a spot at a beachfront bar or the sand itself to watch Tamarindo's famous golden Pacific sunsets.
• Estuary boat tour at Las Baulas National Park — Kayak or take a boat through the mangrove estuary to spot crocodiles, howler monkeys and abundant birdlife.
• Surf the point at Playa Grande — Just across the estuary, this less-crowded beach offers stronger waves and is a protected leatherback turtle nesting site.
• Day trip to Playa Langosta — A quieter beach a short walk south with tide pools, better swimming spots and a mellow atmosphere.
• Snorkeling and catamaran tour — Book a sailing trip along the coast to snorkel reefs, spot dolphins and enjoy an onboard sunset.
• Nightlife on the main strip — Tamarindo's bars and clubs along the central road come alive after dark, especially on weekends.

Food to try

• Casado — The classic Costa Rican plate of rice, black beans, plantains, salad and your choice of fish, chicken or beef.
• Fresh ceviche — Locally caught fish or shrimp cured in lime with cilantro and onion, a beachside staple in Tamarindo.
• Gallo pinto — The national breakfast of stir-fried rice and beans served with eggs, tortillas and Salsa Lizano.
• Grilled catch of the day — Mahi-mahi, tuna or snapper caught locally and served at beachfront restaurants at sunset.
• Fresh fruit smoothies (batidos) — Blended tropical fruits like mango, pineapple and papaya made with water or milk from local sodas.
• Chifrijo — A popular bar snack layering rice, beans, fried pork (chicharrón) and pico de gallo, great with a cold Imperial beer.

Local customs & good to know

• Carry cash but dollars work — Many places accept US dollars, though you'll often get change and better prices in Costa Rican colones.
• Embrace pura vida — This national phrase means 'pure life' and reflects the laid-back, unhurried attitude locals value, so don't rush.
• Respect turtle nesting rules — Nearby Playa Grande is a protected leatherback nesting site, so avoid lights on the beach at night and join guided tours only.
• Watch for riptides and theft — Swim near lifeguarded areas and never leave belongings unattended on the busy town beach.

Nearby

• Las Baulas National Marine Park — 4 km
• Playa Conchal — 10 km
• Playa Flamingo — 16 km
• Playas del Coco — 32 km