Playa Tamarindo - Discovering Costa Rica

Travelling to Playa Tamarindo

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Playa Tamarindo, a pretty good destination in Costa Rica (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Playa Tamarindo and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Playa Tamarindo, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Costa Rica, here's everything to know about Playa Tamarindo for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Playa Tamarindo

Playa Tamarindo is a beautiful seaside town located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It features stunning beaches with sparkling turquoise waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The town offers a laid-back, relaxed vibe with plenty of restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops to explore. The nightlife in Playa Tamarindo is also quite lively, with a range of clubs and discos to enjoy. The town is known for its excellent surfing opportunities, as well as its proximity to several national parks and wildlife reserves where visitors can see a variety of exotic flora and fauna.

What to visit in Playa Tamarindo

Here are some of the most popular tourist attractions in Playa Tamarindo (Costa Rica): 1. Tamarindo Beach - This stunning beach is the main attraction of the area, offering pristine waters, white sand, and palm trees. It's known for being a great spot for surfing and sunbathing. Visitors can also take a stroll along the beach promenade where there are several shops, bars, and restaurants.
2. Marino Las Baulas National Park - This protected area is located just north of Playa Tamarindo and is one of the most important nesting sites in the world for the leatherback turtle. Visitors can take guided tours to watch the turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, from November to April.
3. Las Baulas Estuary - This is a tranquil estuary where visitors can take boat tours to explore the mangroves and spot an abundance of wildlife, such as crocodiles, monkeys, and birds.
4. Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge - This is a small reserve located on the beach, home to several species of birds, crabs, and iguanas. A great spot for birdwatching and having a picnic.
5. Playa Conchal - Located just 15 minutes south of Tamarindo, this beach is known for its unique sand made of tiny crushed seashells. Visitors can snorkel in the clear waters, rent kayaks or paddleboards, and enjoy a seafood lunch at one of the restaurants along the beach.
6. Rincon de la Vieja National Park - A day trip to this park is a must-do when visiting Tamarindo. It's located about 2.5 hours away, but it offers magnificent views of rivers, waterfalls, and active volcanoes. There are several hiking trails, hot springs, and zip line tours available here.
7. Guanacaste Conservation Area - This biological reserve is located around an hour's drive from Playa Tamarindo and is home to various species of animals and plants. Visitors can take guided tours to appreciate its natural beauty, wildlife, and conservation projects.
All these attractions make Playa Tamarindo a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure-seekers.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Costa Rica, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Playa Tamarindo.

When to go on holiday to Playa Tamarindo

The best time to visit Playa Tamarindo in Costa Rica is generally from December to April when the weather is typically dry and sunny. During this time, you can expect hot temperatures, low humidity, and cool ocean breezes, which make it perfect for beach activities and water sports. However, this is also the peak season, so you can expect higher prices and more crowds. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly and less crowded time to visit, the rainy season from May to November may be a good option. While you can expect occasional afternoon showers, this is also the time when landscapes are lush and prices are lower. It's also a great time for surfing, as the waves are usually bigger during this season. Overall, the best time to go to Playa Tamarindo depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Playa Tamarindo

There are several ways to get to Playa Tamarindo in Costa Rica, depending on your starting point. Here are some options: 1. Flying: The closest airport to Playa Tamarindo is the Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR) located in Liberia, about an hour's drive away. You can book a flight to LIR from major cities such as Miami or Houston.
2. Driving: You can rent a car and drive from Liberia to Playa Tamarindo. Take Route 21 west from Liberia and then turn right on Route 155. Follow the signs to Tamarindo.
3. Public transportation: You can take a bus from San Jose or Liberia to Tamarindo. From San Jose, the journey takes around 5 hours, and from Liberia, it's about an hour and a half. The bus terminal in Tamarindo is located about 1.5 kilometers from the beach.
Once you reach Tamarindo, you can take a taxi or walk to your accommodation.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Playa Tamarindo, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Playa Tamarindo

Sure, here are some typical foods of Playa Tamarindo in Costa Rica: 1. Gallo Pinto - a popular breakfast dish made of rice, beans, peppers, onions, and seasoning, served with eggs, plantains, or sour cream.
2. Casado - a traditional lunch dish consisting of rice and beans, accompanied by salad, meat (usually chicken, beef, or fish), plantains, and sometimes a fried egg.
3. Ceviche - a seafood dish made with fresh raw fish or shellfish marinated in lime juice, onions, peppers, and cilantro. It's typically served with tortilla chips or crackers.
4. Tamales - a staple of Costa Rican cuisine, tamales are made of corn dough stuffed with meat or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves, and steamed until cooked through.
5. Arroz con Pollo - another popular Costa Rican dish, this is a chicken and rice dish that's cooked with vegetables, tomato sauce, and spices.
6. Chifrijo - a snack or small appetizer made of fried pork pieces, served on top of a bed of rice and beans, and topped with pico de gallo and avocado.
7. Sopa Negra - a hearty soup made with black beans, vegetables, and sometimes meat, served with corn tortillas on the side.
8. Patacones - a side dish made of fried plantains that are mashed and formed into small rounds, often served as a side dish or appetizer.
Hope that helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Costa Rica here.

Is Playa Tamarindo an expensive destination for tourists?

Playa Tamarindo in Costa Rica is generally considered a mid-range to high-end destination for tourists. Prices for accommodation, dining, and activities can be higher than other destinations in Costa Rica. However, there are still budget-friendly options available such as hostels and local eateries. It's recommended to research and compare prices before booking to find the best deals.

Where to find accomodation in Playa Tamarindo

There are several areas to consider when looking for accommodation to visit Playa Tamarindo in Costa Rica. Some popular options include: 1. Tamarindo Beach: This is the heart of the town and the most convenient place to stay if you want easy access to the beach, restaurants, shops, and nightlife.
2. Langosta Beach: This is a quieter and more upscale area located just south of Tamarindo Beach. It is a good option if you want to be close to the action but also have some peace and quiet.
3. Playa Grande: This is a beautiful beach located just north of Tamarindo. It is less developed than Tamarindo Beach but still has a few hotels and restaurants. Playa Grande is a good option if you want a more secluded beach experience.
4. Hacienda Pinilla: This is a large gated community located just south of Tamarindo. It has several hotels and vacation rentals, as well as a golf course and other amenities. Hacienda Pinilla is a good option if you want a more resort-style experience.
You can check hotel prices at Playa Tamarindo here:
Booking.com

Is Playa Tamarindo a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Playa Tamarindo is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, it's always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, as you would in any unfamiliar destination. It's also a good idea to travel with a companion or group and avoid walking alone at night. In addition, be sure to store your valuables in a secure location and follow the advice of local authorities and service providers.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Costa Rica here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Playa Tamarindo.

What type of travelers will enjoy Playa Tamarindo the most?

Playa Tamarindo in Costa Rica can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers as it caters to different interests. Couples will enjoy the peaceful and romantic atmosphere, as well as the beautiful sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. Young people looking for fun will enjoy the nightlife, surfing, and outdoor adventures such as zip-lining and ATV tours. Families will enjoy the safe and kid-friendly beaches, snorkeling, and turtle watching. Therefore, Playa Tamarindo is a good choice for different types of travelers.

How to get around Playa Tamarindo

In Playa Tamarindo (Costa Rica), you can use several transportation options to move around, including: 1. Walking - Playa Tamarindo is a small town that can easily be explored on foot.
2. Bike - Renting a bike is a popular option for visitors in Tamarindo to explore the area and nearby beaches.
3. Taxi - Taxis are readily available in Tamarindo, and it's a convenient and affordable way to get around.
4. Shuttle Service - Shuttle services are popular with tourists, especially to/from the airport or to other destinations.
5. Car rental - Renting a car is a great option if you want to explore other areas of Costa Rica beyond Tamarindo. However, be aware that driving can be challenging due to the rugged terrain and confusing road signs.

What to see around Playa Tamarindo

Here are some suggestions for day trips from Playa Tamarindo in Costa Rica: 1. Arenal Volcano National Park: This stunning national park offers a chance to see the famous Arenal Volcano up close, as well as plenty of hiking trails and hot springs.
2. Rincón de la Vieja National Park: Another beautiful national park, Rincón de la Vieja offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and hot springs.
3. Palo Verde National Park: This park is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 300 bird species to observe along with crocodiles and monkeys.
4. Rio Celeste: Known for its bright blue waters, this river also offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and natural hot springs.
5. Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge: For those who want to stay close to Tamarindo, this wildlife refuge offers a chance to see monkeys, tropical birds, and crocodiles without leaving town.
6. Guanacaste National Park: This beautiful park offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the Guanacaste region.
7. Playa Conchal: A gorgeous beach with crystal-clear waters and white sand, just a short drive from Tamarindo.
8. Ostional Wildlife Refuge: This protected area is home to nesting sea turtles, and offers guided tours to see the turtles laying their eggs on the beach.
I hope these suggestions help! Let me know if you need any more information.
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