Tamarindo
travel guide
Where to stay in Tamarindo
Hotels
Tamarindo and its neighbor Playa Langosta are wonderfully walkable, meaning most hotels and resorts are just steps from the beach. You can stay right on the sand in Tamarindo at the iconic Witch’s Rock Surf Camp, where great waves, tasty eats, and a local brewery await. For a peaceful retreat, check out the cozy Luna Llena boutique hotel tucked just beyond the downtown buzz. When booking, be aware that dry season (December to April) is busy and you will need to book your hotel far in advance.
Bed & Breakfasts
Staying at a bed and breakfast is a wonderful way to connect with locals and soak up the pura vida vibe. Many B&Bs are right on the beach, serving up fresh tropical fruits, gallo pinto, and Costa Rica’s famous coffee each morning. For a beachfront escape in upscale Playa Langosta, check out the charming boutique hotel Sueño del Mar. Or, for something a bit different, 15 Love offers a unique B&B experience just a short stroll from Tamarindo’s restaurants, shops, and the beach.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals are a fantastic choice offering space, privacy, and plenty of homey comforts. Many come with added perks like private chefs, nannies, and concierge services. Prefer to cook your own meals? Tamarindo has several grocery stores and even a convenient grocery delivery service. For sweeping views of Tamarindo, the luxurious Casa Bali nestled in the hills is hard to beat. And no matter your budget, property managers Horizon Pacific offers a wide range of vacation rentals.
Sure, there’s nothing wrong with spending a lazy day on the beach, but Tamarindo is bursting with adventure for those ready to explore! From thrilling water sports to unforgettable land excursions, there’s no shortage of ways to dive into the pura vida lifestyle.
Feel the adrenaline rush of zip-lining through the treetops, ride horseback to hidden beaches, or cruise the jungle trails on an ATV. Dive into crystal-clear waters to snorkel among vibrant schools of fish. Tamarindo is world-famous for surfing, offering waves for everyone—from total beginners to seasoned pros. It’s also a top destination for sportfishing, with inshore catches like Snapper, Roosterfish, and Tuna, and offshore giants like Sailfish and Marlin.
From October to February, you might witness something truly magical: endangered Leatherback turtles nesting on Playa Grande under the moonlight. And just a short trip inland will take you to volcanoes, waterfalls, and even ancient caverns waiting to be explored.
As the sun begins to set, hop aboard a catamaran with a cocktail in hand and feel the ocean breeze as the sky turns to gold. After dark, Tamarindo comes alive with live music, a buzzing nightlife scene, and amazing food from around the world—thanks to its warm, multicultural community. And don’t forget to kick off each day with a plate of gallo pinto and a steaming cup of rich Costa Rican coffee.
VERY VERY Important Vacation Words
Don’t speak Spanish but would like to communicate? There are many words that will help such as Si for Yes, Hola for Hello and Adios for Goodbye. But we have rounded up some more important words for you. Make sure to practice them before your Tamarindo vacation and put them to good use while you are here.
“Gallo pinto”
A delicious Costa Rica breakfast made with eggs, plantains, rice and beans.
“Cerveza fria”
Cold Costa Rica beer, preferably a frosty bottle of Imperial.
“Donde esta mi hamaca”
“Where is my hammock.” To be used at any time of the day or night.
“No quiero salir”
“I don’t want to leave.” To be used before heading back home.
“Mas por favor”
“More please.” Can refer to anything, from food, to drinks, to fun.
“Pura Vida”
If spoken at the appropriate time then you’ve successfully mastered your holiday.
Travel tips
Costa Rica passport requirements
To enter Costa Rica, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. And nope, a birth certificate won’t cut it! You may also be asked to show proof of departure, such as a return flight ticket or onward travel.
Vaccinations
No special vaccinations are required to visit Costa Rica. That said, make sure you’re up to date on routine shots, no one wants a hospital visit for something preventable like measles. Also, pack some good bug spray and use it regularly, mosquito-borne illnesses like Dengue and Chikungunya are present.
Money tips
Costa Rica’s official currency is the Colón, but the U.S. dollar is widely accepted, so much so, it might as well be the second national currency. You’ll be fine paying with dollars in most places, though you may not always get the best exchange rate. Bring smaller bills, $20s are handy, while $100s can be tough to use.
Credit cards, especially Visa, are widely accepted, and ATMs are easy to find. Local banks also exchange dollars, usually at a fair rate (just be ready for a bit of a wait).
Renting a car in Costa Rica
Major international rental companies like Avis, Economy, and Budget all have offices in Costa Rica. For the smoothest experience, it’s best to book directly with the rental agency rather than through third-party sites like Expedia, which may not always reflect local policies. You’ll find trusted options listed in our Tamarindo Transportation Directory.
Heads up—car rentals in Costa Rica aren’t exactly budget-friendly, and insurance is a must.
Liability Insurance is legally required and must be purchased from the rental agency. This type of coverage is tied to the car—not the driver—so any policy from your home country won’t apply.
Collision Insurance isn’t required by law, but rental agencies will place a sizable deposit hold on your credit card if you don’t purchase it. This insurance doesn’t cover glass or tires, but if you opt in, your deposit will be lower. Just know that large holds can tie up your card’s available credit, and refunds can take time to process—so plan your finances accordingly.
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