Tamarindo

Tamarindo is the lively hub of the Guanacaste coast: surf schools, restaurants, sunsets and easy access to a string of quieter beaches north and south. The drive from Liberia airport is short and paved.

Driving around

The main strip is paved but congested with golf carts, ATVs and pedestrians. Nearby beaches like Playa Grande, Avellanas and Playa Negra are reached on paved or good gravel roads; in the rainy season some back roads south toward Junquillal get muddy.

Where to stay

The center of town is walkable, with restaurants, surf shops and nightlife along the main road and the beach. Playa Langosta, just south, is quieter and more upscale. Playa Grande, across the estuary, is a protected turtle beach with lodges and much less development (it’s a 20-minute drive around by road). Rooms range from about US$60 in town to US$250+ for beachfront resorts in high season.

What things cost

• Surf lessons: roughly US$50–70 for a group lesson with board.
• Catamaran sunset tours: about US$80–120.
• Las Baulas National Park turtle tours (leatherbacks, nesting season roughly October–March): guided only, book ahead.

Practical tips

• Tamarindo’s main road gets congested, and parking near the beach is scarce. Use paid lots and don’t leave bags in the car.
• There are supermarkets, ATMs and pharmacies in town, so it’s a good base to stock up before the Nicoya Peninsula.
• Crocodiles live in the estuary at the north end of the beach, so don’t swim near the river mouth.

Top things to do in Tamarindo

• Surf lessonsTamarindo's beach break is ideal for beginners.
• Playa GrandeAcross the estuary — leatherback turtle nesting beach and national park.
• Avellanas & Playa NegraQuieter surf beaches 30 minutes south.
• Sunset sailingCatamaran trips leave from the beach.

Driving, parking & safety notes

• Beach parking lots are hotspots for break-ins.
• Watch for ATVs and pedestrians at night.