Guanacaste · Costa Rica
Tamarindo
Surf, sun, and Pacific sunsets
About Tamarindo
Tamarindo is Guanacaste's most visited beach town — a lively, international destination built around a long stretch of golden sand and consistent Pacific surf. The town has grown significantly over the past two decades but retains a beach-town energy, with surf schools, seafood restaurants, and sunset sailing tours lining the main strip.
Beyond the beach, Tamarindo is a base for exploring the surrounding area: Las Baulas Marine National Park protects one of the world's most important leatherback turtle nesting beaches just north of town, and the Catalina Islands offer excellent diving and snorkeling a short boat ride away.
Highlights
- Tamarindo Beach (surfing & swimming)
- Playa Langosta (quieter, upscale)
- Las Baulas Marine National Park (leatherback turtles)
- Sunset sailing tours
- Diving & snorkeling at Catalina Islands
- Estuary kayaking
Experiences in Tamarindo
Tamarindo Catamaran | Sunset Tour
Sail along the Guanacaste coast at sunset, snorkel at Catalina Islands, and watch for dolphins and sea turtles.
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Guanacaste Turtle Watching Experience
Night tour to Las Baulas Marine National Park to observe leatherback turtles nesting (October-March). Certified guide required.
View experience →Getting there & around
Tamarindo is about 1.5 hours from Liberia Airport by private transfer or shared shuttle. From San Jose, the drive takes approximately 5 hours. Shared shuttles connect Tamarindo to the main tourist hubs across Costa Rica.
View transport optionsHow long to stay
3–5 nights is ideal for Tamarindo. That gives you time for surf lessons, a day trip to Las Baulas or the Catalina Islands, and a sunset sailing tour without feeling rushed.
Best season
The dry season (December–April) brings the best surf conditions and guaranteed sunshine. The green season (May–November) is quieter, cheaper, and still enjoyable — waves are often better for experienced surfers.
Combine with
Tamarindo combines well with Nosara (2 hrs south) for a Nicoya Peninsula loop, or with Papagayo (1 hr north) for a luxury upgrade. La Fortuna is about 5 hours away — doable as a multi-day extension.
Travel tips
- Book surf lessons in advance during peak season (December–April).
- Playa Langosta, just south of Tamarindo, is quieter and better for swimming.
- Leatherback turtle tours at Las Baulas run October–March — book with a certified guide.
- The estuary at the south end of the beach is a good spot for birdwatching.
- Tamarindo can be crowded in high season — consider staying in Playa Langosta or Playa Avellanas for a quieter experience.
Tips by traveler type
Surfers
Beginners: stick to the main beach or take lessons at one of the many surf schools. Intermediate/advanced: head to Playa Avellanas or Playa Negra (30–45 min south).
Couples
Sunset sailing tours are a highlight — book the catamaran tour with snorkeling for a full afternoon. Playa Langosta is quieter and more romantic than the main beach.
Families
The leatherback turtle tour at Las Baulas (Oct–Mar) is unforgettable for children. Book with a certified guide — the park limits visitor numbers.
Frequently asked questions
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