Tamarindo Map

Guanacaste's liveliest beach town: beginner-friendly surf, sunset catamarans, restaurants and nightlife, with quieter beaches a short drive away.

Surf lessons, catamaran sunset sails, estuary boat tours and day trips to Rincón de la Vieja all leave from Tamarindo.

Tamarindo tours ↗
  • Surf spots
  • Towns
  • Wildlife
  • Beaches
  • Airports & ferries

Tap a marker for details, tours and places to stay.

From Liberia airport
70 km
From San José
~5 h
Surf
Year-round
Leatherback season
Oct–Mar

Things to do in Tamarindo

  • Learn to surf: Tamarindo's main beach has soft, slow waves ideal for beginners, and dozens of surf schools rent boards and give lessons.
  • Sunset catamaran: half-day sails with snorkelling and an open bar, often with dolphins and, in season, whales.
  • Estuary tour: boats and kayaks through the mangroves of the Tamarindo estuary.
  • Day trips: Rincón de la Vieja, Palo Verde and Río Celeste are all within 2 hours.

Group and private surf lessons on Playa Tamarindo usually last two hours and include the board.

Book a surf lesson ↗

Sunset catamaran sails are the most popular activity in Tamarindo. Book ahead in the dry season.

Book a catamaran sail ↗

Beaches near Tamarindo

Across the estuary, Playa Grande is part of Las Baulas National Park, protecting one of the last Pacific nesting beaches of the endangered leatherback turtle (night visits only with a park guide, roughly October to March). South of town, Langosta, Avellanas and Playa Negra are quieter and better for intermediate surfers.

Rip currents and crocodiles: swim between flags where lifeguards are present, and avoid swimming near the estuary mouth at the north end of the beach, where crocodiles are sometimes seen.

Where to stay

Stay in town to walk to restaurants and the beach, Langosta for quieter boutique hotels, or Playa Grande and Avellanas for a laid-back surf vibe.

Beachfront hotels, surf hostels and condos with pools.

Hotels in Tamarindo ↗

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Where to stay

Compare hotels, guesthouses and cabins in Tamarindo.

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Tours & tickets

Guided tours, day trips and activities with free cancellation on most bookings.

See tours ↗

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Frequently asked questions

Is Tamarindo good for beginner surfers?

Yes. The main beach has gentle, consistent waves and many surf schools. More advanced surfers head to Playa Grande, Avellanas and Playa Negra.

How do I get from Liberia airport to Tamarindo?

Drive or take a shuttle: it is about 70 km and 1 hour 15 minutes. Taxis wait outside the terminal, and shared shuttles can be booked in advance.

Can you see turtles in Tamarindo?

Leatherback turtles nest at Playa Grande in Las Baulas National Park, mainly from October to March, though numbers are now very low. Night visits are only possible with official park guides.

Last reviewed October 2026. Opening hours, prices and road conditions change: check official sources before you travel.