Costa Rica’s premier surf spot, Tamarindo epitomizes the national “pura vida” lifestyle and is home to seemingly endless, forest-fringed beaches ideal for a day in the sun and sand. Mellow waves make it a perfect place to learn to surf, while beach-hopping in an ATV or a sunset catamaran cruise also top the list of things to do in Tamarindo, a Pacific Coast paradise. The fun continues after dark, too, with plenty of nightlight options from tropical bars and breweries to the lively Tamarindo Night Market.
High season throughout Costa Rica runs from December through April or May, with the biggest crowds around Christmas, New Year’s, and the week leading up to Easter (Holy Week). April and May are the best time to see leatherback turtles nesting (and most turtle tours only run from late March until the end of April). The surfing conditions are at their finest from March through September, though you’ll want to be prepared for some rain.
Tamarindo is easy to get around on foot, but if you’re staying in a hotel outside of the main town center, you may need to take local taxis to get to and from restaurants. And if you want to spend a lot of time beach hopping, it’s best to rent a car (though due to the often rugged roads, make sure to get one with 4-wheel drive). Public buses also connect the town to many of the area’s beaches.
If you’re in the mood for a healthy meal—or just want to try some fantastic coffee—head over to Norico, a hybrid coffee roaster and health food restaurant that serves up everything from sandwiches to tapioca-based bowls. Its coffee drinks are made with single-origin Costa Rican beans roasted on-site, and even if you don’t have time to grab a meal, it’s worth stopping by to pick up a bag of coffee to take home.
