Tamarindo Beach
Tamarindo Beach: A vibrant Costa Rican surf town famous for its stunning sunsets, beginner-friendly waves, and lively atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Tamarindo Beach
Best Time
Golden hour for stunning sunsets
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Tamarindo Beach: A vibrant Costa Rican surf town famous for its stunning sunsets, beginner-friendly waves, and lively atmosphere.
"A welcoming and charming beach town with breathtaking sunsets and a chill, laid-back vibe."
🌅 Sunset Spectacles
Don't miss the daily sunset show; it's a must-see!
🏄♀️ Surf's Up for Beginners
Tamarindo is perfect for learning to surf. Many friendly instructors available.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Tamarindo Beach Sunsets
Tamarindo Beach
Witness breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant hues. A truly magical end to any day in this coastal paradise.
Beginner Surf Lessons
Tamarindo Beach
Catch your first waves! Tamarindo is renowned for its gentle breaks, making it ideal for novice surfers.
Local Cuisine & Piña Coladas
Various restaurants and beach bars
Savor delicious local flavors and refreshing piña coladas. A taste of Pura Vida you won't want to miss.
Wildlife Encounters
Surrounding areas
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, from playful monkeys to majestic crocodiles in nearby estuaries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sun and Surf
Navigating Tamarindo's Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Spectacles
Don't miss the daily sunset show; it's a must-see! +2
🏄♀️ Surf's Up for Beginners
Tamarindo is perfect for learning to surf. Many friendly instructors available. +1
🍹 Sip on Piña Coladas
Enjoy the famous piña coladas at beachside spots. +1
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Beaches
For a quieter vibe, check out Playa Langosta or Playa Avellanas. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Spectacles
Don't miss the daily sunset show; it's a must-see! +2
🏄♀️ Surf's Up for Beginners
Tamarindo is perfect for learning to surf. Many friendly instructors available. +1
🍹 Sip on Piña Coladas
Enjoy the famous piña coladas at beachside spots. +1
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby Beaches
For a quieter vibe, check out Playa Langosta or Playa Avellanas. +1
💰 Be Wary of Vendors
Vendors are present but generally not pushy. A polite 'no' usually suffices.
🐴 Watch for Horse Poop
Be mindful of horse droppings on the sand; some visitors found it unpleasant.
💧 Check Water Depth
Water can be shallow, especially during certain times of day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tamarindo is a vibrant beach town praised for its breathtaking sunsets and beginner-friendly surf. Visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere, delicious food, and refreshing drinks. However, some reviews mention concerns about beach cleanliness and persistent vendors, with occasional issues like horse droppings impacting the experience.
"Such a welcoming and charming beach town with shops, restaurants and activities to do. The sunsets are breathtaking and the moonlit art and food fest was magical. Loved it!"
Maria GedrocMalo
"Beautiful Long Beach with beautiful shells to find when it’s low tide. The beach is very packed with lots of surfers and beach chairs. During high tide the beach gets very crowded there’s not much room to sit. Many people offering massages, fresh fruit, horse rides along the beach."
Grace de Graaf
"The worst beach I’ve ever been to. It looks nice and picturesque but it’s very dirty and dangerous. Our baby got exposed to Shigella and we had to rush her to a Liberia hospital to start antibiotics.
There are a lot of horses walking back and forth the whole day, and although they have poop bags, some shit occasionally falls down to the beach. Nobody picks it up obviously (same applies to the dog owners). We witnessed multiple times that dog and horse owners would dig the poop into the sand and continue walking. This poop gets washed into the sea and the rest is left for kids to put their hands in there to build sand castles.
It stinks here and there too. There are many flies. Sellers come to you every other minute. Maybe it’s seasonal but the water was very shallow. Water was gone in the first and second half of the day. Black sand made the water look muddy. But all this is nothing compared to the horse shit. It’s a safety hazard - horses shouldn’t be allowed on the beach!"
Anastasiia
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Tamarindo from San Jose by shuttle, bus, or rental car. Shuttles are a popular and convenient option, often taking around 4-5 hours. Some private shuttles can cost around $250. Buses are more budget-friendly but take longer. Driving yourself offers flexibility but be prepared for Costa Rican roads.
Yes, Tamarindo Beach is easily accessible. It's a well-known destination with good road access. Many accommodations are within walking distance or a short taxi ride from the beach.
Tamarindo is a walkable town, especially the main beach area. For longer distances or exploring nearby beaches, taxis and rental ATVs are readily available.
Yes, airport transfers are available from Liberia International Airport (LIR), which is closer to Tamarindo than San Jose. Many companies offer private shuttles and shared options.
There is no direct airport in Tamarindo. The closest major international airport is Liberia (LIR), and San Jose (SJO) is another option, though further away.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Tamarindo Beach itself is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and surf for free.
Beach chair rentals can be around $30-$40 USD per day for a set, often for 4 people. Bringing your own chairs is a more budget-friendly option.
No specific booking requirements are needed to visit Tamarindo Beach. It's an open public space. However, if you plan to stay at hotels or book tours, advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
Tamarindo Beach is accessible 24/7 as it's a public beach. However, activities like surfing lessons and vendor services typically operate during daylight hours.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks to Tamarindo Beach. There are also numerous restaurants and bars nearby if you prefer to purchase refreshments. +1
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tamarindo Beach is famous for surfing lessons, especially for beginners. You can also enjoy swimming, sunbathing, beachcombing for shells at low tide, and watching the spectacular sunsets. Boat parties and catamaran tours are also popular options. +2
Tamarindo Beach is generally good for swimming, but conditions can vary. The water can be shallow, and currents can be present, so always exercise caution.
While there are often people on the beach, official lifeguard presence can be inconsistent. It's always best to swim in areas where others are present and be aware of your surroundings.
You might spot crocodiles in nearby estuaries, monkeys in the surrounding trees, and various bird species. Some visitors have also seen horses on the beach.
Tamarindo Beach can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours and high tide. For a less crowded experience, consider visiting early in the morning or exploring nearby beaches.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Don't miss out on fresh seafood, local Costa Rican dishes like Casado, and of course, the famous piña coladas. +2 Tandoor offers excellent Indian cuisine nearby.
Tamarindo has a wide range of dining options, from casual beachside eateries and food trucks to more upscale restaurants. Pangas Beach Club is a popular spot for events. +1
Yes, food trucks and local sodas (small, casual restaurants) offer more affordable meals. Exploring the town away from the immediate beachfront can also yield better prices.
Many restaurants in Tamarindo are accommodating and offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to ask your server about ingredients and preparation methods.
The Chiliguaro is a popular Costa Rican shot made with aguardiente (a local spirit), lime juice, and hot sauce. It's often enjoyed as a refreshing and zesty drink.
📸 📸 Photography
The beach itself, especially during sunset, offers incredible photo opportunities. Look for scenic viewpoints from hotels like Wyndham Tamarindo for panoramic shots. 
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most beautiful, soft light for photography. Sunsets are particularly dramatic. +1
Capture the vibrant surf culture, the colorful local markets, and the unique architecture. Wildlife sightings can also make for memorable photos.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is ideal for capturing landscapes, wildlife, and action shots. A wide-angle lens is great for beach scenes. Don't forget waterproof protection for your gear near the ocean.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in Tamarindo to ensure compliance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🏄♀️ Surfers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing in Tamarindo: A Beginner's Paradise
Beyond the main beach, nearby spots like Playa Avellanas also offer great surf conditions for beginners and intermediates. The consistent swells and warm waters make it possible to surf year-round. Many visitors find the surf community welcoming, contributing to the overall enjoyable atmosphere for aspiring surfers.
When choosing a surf school, look for those with good reviews and certified instructors. It's also worth noting that while Tamarindo is great for learning, more experienced surfers might find the waves a bit too small and may want to explore other breaks in the region.
The Tamarindo Sunset Experience
+2Many visitors find a prime spot on the beach, perhaps with a refreshing drink in hand, to soak in the view. Beachfront bars and restaurants offer excellent vantage points, often accompanied by music and a lively atmosphere. Some photographers specifically travel to Tamarindo to capture these breathtaking moments, utilizing the golden hour light for stunning shots.
While the main beach offers a fantastic view, consider exploring slightly different angles from nearby areas or even from a boat tour for a unique perspective on the sunset. The consistent beauty of these sunsets is a major draw for tourists and a highlight of any trip to Tamarindo.
Navigating Tamarindo's Vibe: From Lively to Less Than Ideal
The town buzzes with energy, especially around sunset, and offers a wide array of culinary delights, from local sodas to international cuisine. However, some traveler experiences highlight potential downsides. A few reviews mention concerns about cleanliness, with instances of horse and dog waste on the beach, which can detract from the picturesque setting.
Despite these criticisms, many still find Tamarindo to be a welcoming and magical place, particularly for its surf opportunities and stunning sunsets. Balancing expectations with the reality of a popular tourist destination is key to enjoying the unique charm of Tamarindo.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit