Sports & nature
In addition to other popular activities in the surf and on the shore like sunbathing, sailing, kayaking, and sport fishing, there’s plenty to do further inland as well. You can dine at a local restaurant for a taste of authentic Costa Rica food culture, hike or bicycle down a forest trail, try your hand at horseback riding, or even go golfing
Whether you’re a beachgoer intent on enjoying the sun and surf, or you’re more interested in taking a canopy tour and exploring a nearby Marino Las Baulas National Park, your trip is sure to be filled to the brim with amazing sights and fun activities.
Surfing is especially popular in Tamarindo, even for those without much experience. The waves are fairly consistent and gentle, so everyone from beginners to experts can enjoy some laid-back surfing. Many vacationers also take surfing lessons offered in Tamarindo, while more experienced surfers can try out a surf trip or take a local surfing tour
Guanacaste sportfishing is another of the town’s big draws. If you’re lucky, you might reel in a marlin or sailfish, which are known to live just off the coast. Rent a boat yourself, or consider taking Pininos adventures Sportfishing tour.
National parks and wildlife refuges are another big draw of the Guanacaste area.
Nature-lovers are sure to want to explore Marino Las Baulas National Park at Playa Grande, which consists of mangrove swamps and coastline and is perfect for kayaking & hiking. Rare species of plants and animals abound in this national park, from over 150 species of birds to a population of leatherback sea turtles, which use the beaches of this park as a nesting site for their eggs.
Some visitors prefer to traverse the area on horseback. You can take horseback riding lessons in Tamarindo, which feature the added benefit of the beautiful natural scenery.
Another popular activity is golf, which feels like a whole different game when you’re playing it surrounded by incredible coastlines and lush forests!
If you’re looking for a good way to experience everything Tamarindo has to offer in one package, you may enjoy Rincon de la vieja combo tour, which bundles together ziplining, horseback riding, and river tubing activities. This tour picks up and drops off in Tamarindo and it is about an hour away near Rincon de la Vieja Volcano.
Nightlife info
Guanacaste is teeming with restaurants serving up regional favorites, and Tamarindo is no different. Consider visiting during a festival, such as the annual BPM Festival, when the streets are filled with dancing, laughter, and great food.
After sunset, get a taste of Costa Rica nightlife as you check out local bars full of drinking and dancing. Many venues offer live music from local performers, so be sure to explore downtown Tamarindo.
From dancing the night away at Crazy Monkey Bar or Pacifico to listening to live music on the beach, there is a fun party scene in Tamarindo. On Sundays, you can also join the Beach & Pool crawl for more beach, drinks and pool parties.
Culture and history info
The culture of the people can be described as friendly and generous. Costa Ricans receiving guests in their home will overwhelm with their desire to please and offer small gifts. Hospitality is truly important and gratitude is appreciated.
While Tamarindo is a fairly small beach town, its culture more than makes up for its size. With lots to do and see, it’s one of the most popular spots for those seeking to visit or live in Costa Rica, and with good reason!
On Thursday nights, there is a night market in Plaza Palmas from 6-10 PM. On Saturdays, there is a local farmer’s market from 7 AM to 1 PM next to the Green Papaya restaurant. We recommend getting a VIDA bowl (acai and fruit smoothies).
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