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Once a delightful little 'surf' town, Tamarindo's popularity has created a demand for development and as such is nowadays somewhat of a sprawling mass of hotels, restaurants and shopping centers.
It is still growing and as such construction is prevalent throughout the town. However, location-wise it is the most easily accessible place to visit on the Nicoya Peninsula and the beach is superb — a three and a half kilometer stretch of fine sand and warm blue water.
Nature is abundant — howler monkeys can often be seen and heard swinging on branches throughout the area. It's ideal if you are looking to be based in an upbeat, busy area and there are some fine hotel options.
Tamarindo Beach is part of a bay formed by a cape, Cabo Velas (velas is Spanish for sails, or sailfish). Playa Grande lies to the north of Tamarindo Beach inside the bay. South of Tamarindo Bay there is another beautiful estuary and beach, Playa Langosta. Both Playa Grande and Playa Langosta are protected nesting areas for the giant leatherback turtle, and are part of the Costa Rican national park system. These beaches are the major nesting areas worldwide for the turtles, which arrive from October to March to lay their eggs. Local tours led by official guides are available to take visitors to see this incredible spectacle.
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Suggested itinerary featuring Tamarindo
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Tamarindo, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near Tamarindo
- Playa Potrero 11 miles away
- Golfo de Papagayo 30 miles away
- Tenorio Volcano 62 miles away
- Northern Pacific Coast 68 miles away
- Monteverde Cloud Forest 74 miles away
- Arenal Volcano 78 miles away
- Caño Negro 82 miles away
- San Ramón 95 miles away
- El Silencio Lodge 105 miles away
- Esterillos 106 miles away
- Central Pacific Coast 117 miles away
- San José & Central Valley 122 miles away
- Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui 125 miles away
- Manuel Antonio 132 miles away
- San Gerardo de Dota 148 miles away
- Turrialba 149 miles away
- Dominical 153 miles away
- Tortuguero & the Caribbean Coast 160 miles away
- Corcovado & Osa Peninsula 183 miles away
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca 215 miles away
- Manzanillo 221 miles away
Photos of Tamarindo
Our expert guides to exploring Tamarindo
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Tamarindo, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Tamarindo at its best.
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Best family vacations in Costa Rica Best family vacations in Costa Rica
Best family vacations in Costa Rica
From the rainforests of Arenal Volcano to wildlife experiences in Tortuguero National Park and the surf breaks of Tamarindo, Costa Rica is ideal for families. Specialist Nik gives his advice on activities, hotels, and travel logistics for a family trip to Costa Rica.
Read this guide
Accommodation choices for Tamarindo
We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Tamarindo. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Cala Luna
Tamarindo -
Capitán Suizo
Tamarindo