Tamarindo Beach – Travel Guide
Tamarindo Beach, on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, is a lively surf town offering a perfect mix of sun, sand, and adventure. Known for its consistent waves, it’s a top destination for surfers of all levels. Beyond the surf, explore the vibrant town with its many shops, restaurants, and a bustling nightlife. The area is a gateway to diverse wildlife, from howler monkeys in the trees to sea turtles on nearby shores. Tamarindo is the ideal spot to embrace the “Pura Vida” lifestyle, blending relaxation with thrilling outdoor activities.
All about Tamarindo Beach
Getting around Tamarindo Beach
By Rental Car
Getting around by rental car is the best option. If you decide to rent, be sure to rent a 4×4. The main highway to Guanacaste is paved, but most are dirt roads and may not be well maintained. During the rainy season, May through November, the drive can be especially difficult. Renting a car in Costa Rica gives you a chance to enjoy all the sights of the Guanacaste. Some of the advantages are obvious – go where you want, when you want. Make your own agenda and have more freedom.
By Taxi
Officially licensed taxis are colored red or orange; if a taxi is any other color or lacks the inverted yellow triangle on the doors, it’s a `pirate taxi` operating illegally. When boarding the taxi ask the taxi driver `Puede poner la maria, por favor?` (Could you please turn the meter on?), otherwise, you will pay a higher price. For a taxi, call Penas Blancas Shuttle Service (tel. 506-8313-1419), Costa Rica Airport Shuttle (tel. 506- 8313-1419), or Riu Palace Guanacaste Shuttle (506- 8313-1419).
By Walking
Tamarindo Beach is a great place to get around by foot. The town of Tamarindo is approximately 48 square miles. Restaurants, hotels, surf shops, internet cafes and strip malls line the main road (Calle Central). Keep in mind to reach Tamarindo Beach you will need a rental car, taxi or shuttle.
By Bicycle
For those looking for some scenic exercise, several bike and adventure shops offer daily rentals. Mountain bikes generally rent for about $20 a day and beach cruisers – about $10 a day. There are several bike shops to choose from: Pura Vida Ride (tele 506-2654-6137), Tamarindo Bike Shop, (tele 506-2653-2136), and Guanabikers (506-8817-2971). Note: The main roads of Guanacaste can be crowded with lots of traffic – cyclists should use caution.
By Bus
A well-established company to travel around Guanacaste is Transportes La Pampa. They go from Liberia to Tamarindo and also go as far as Playa Flamingo and Brasilito, and they charge approximately $9.25 per person depending on where you go. Another reputable option is Transportes Alfaro. They depart from Tamarindo at 11:30 am (check the schedule for any changes). Buses may be crowded and make frequent stops. A trip from Liberia to the southernmost part of Guanacaste takes approximately 14 hours.
Tamarindo Beach FAQ
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
Tamarindo Beach is served by Daniel Oduber Quiros International Airport (IATA code LIR), which is located 11.5 kilometers (approximately 7.1 miles) west of downtown Liberia.
If you are continuing on to Tamarindo Beach there are several options. You can rent a car on your arrival and drive to Tamarindo Beach, this will also give you the freedom to explore the area and various attractions, beaches, national parks, etc. Another option is to use a shared shuttle like EasyRide Costa Rica, Interbus, or Gray Line. Look at the schedules and see which one works best for you.
How do I call/hail a taxi?
Officially licensed taxis are colored red or orange; if a taxi is any other color or lacks the inverted yellow triangle on the doors, it’s a `pirate taxi` operating illegally. When boarding the taxi ask the taxi driver `Puede poner la maria, por favor?` (Could you please turn the meter on?), otherwise, you will pay a higher price. For a taxi, call Penas Blancas Shuttle Service (tel. 506-8313-1419), Costa Rica Airport Shuttle (tel. 506- 8313-1419), or Riu Palace Guanacaste Shuttle (506- 8313-1419).
Should I rent a car in Tamarindo?
Yes, renting a car is an excellent way to explore Liberia and see the beaches, national parks, and countryside of Costa Rica. Some of the advantages are obvious – go where you want, when you want. Make your own agenda and have more freedom.
Is Liberia a walking city?
Liberia is a great place to get around by foot. The town of Liberia is approximately 14 blocks long and 6 blocks wide. Restaurants, shops and internet cafes line the Central Avenue. There is a catholic church and a park (Parque Mario Canas Ruiz)in the center of town with shaded benches and is bustling with activity. To reach the Guanacaste you will need a rental car, taxi or shuttle.
Is it safe to walk in Tamarindo Beach?
Tamarindo Beach is a great place to get around by foot. The town of Tamarindo is approximately 48 square mile. Restaurants, hotels, surf shops, internet cafes and strip malls line the main road (Calle Central). To reach the Tamarindo Beach you will need a rental car, taxi or shuttle.
Read More
Discover further essential tips for navigating the vibrant city. Learn about must-see attractions, dining hotspots, transportation options, and cultural insights.
Is the Tamarindo Beach dangerous? Are there any areas I should avoid?
No, Tamarindo Beach is a very safe area to visit. Most of the crimes committed are petty and rarely violent. When walking around the city, keep your passport safely locked away in your hotel room. Pickpockets have been known to target tourists, so make sure your purses, bags, and wallets are close to your body at all times. Stay alert and contact the police immediately if you are the victim of a crime.
What are the customs for tipping in Costa Rica? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The currency of Costa Rica is the Colon. US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for colones upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the city.
I do not speak Spanish. Will many people speak English in Costa Rica?
No, about 90 percent of Costa Ricans speak Spanish as their first language. English may be spoken at your hotel and in the tourist areas, but not everywhere. We suggest that you purchase a good English-Spanish dictionary and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.
Do I need a visa to visit Costa Rica?
No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica for stays of less than 90 days. However, they must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica (either to return to the U.S. or to go to another country).
Are Vaccinations required to visit Costa Rica? Are there any other precautions I should take?
No, there are currently no vaccination requirements to visit Costa Rica. There is no risk of yellow fever in Costa Rica. The government of Costa Rica requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US.
Zika is a risk in Costa Rica. Because Zika infection in a pregnant woman can cause serious birth defects, women who are pregnant should not travel to Costa Rica. All travelers should strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites and sexual exposure to Zika virus during and after the trip. For the latest updates visit the CDC page https://www.cdc.gov/ on the internet.
What kind of food is available in Costa Rica?
A typical breakfast is hearty and consists of Gallo Pinto (rice and beans – sometimes served with scrambled eggs). Lunch is solid too, the typical dishes are Casado (rice and beans, served with meat or fish, fried plantains, cheese and corn tortilla), Ceviche (fish marinated and cooked in lime juice, coriander, and pepper). There is not a dinner culture in Costa Rica. An afternoon snack consists of bread and coffee.
Can I drink the water in Costa Rica?
No, the water is not drinkable in Costa Rica. We suggest that you carry bottled water with you. Most tourist areas will have bottled water available for purchase.
Top Attractions
Tamarindo Estuary
Take a boat through this mangrove forest to spot diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, monkeys, and exotic birds.
Las Baulas National Marine Park
A critical nesting site for endangered leatherback turtles, offering a unique opportunity to witness this incredible natural event.
Playa Grande
Just across the estuary, this quieter beach is a famous nesting ground for sea turtles and a great spot for more advanced surfers.
Unique Experiences
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Take a surf lesson with a local expert on Tamarindo’s famous waves. Learn the basics of paddling, standing up, and riding a wave in a fun and safe environment, perfect for beginners.
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Embark on a sailing excursion to Playas del Coco or Playa Flamingo, where you can snorkel in secluded spots, swim with marine life, and enjoy scenic coastal views.
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Embark on a thrilling ziplining adventure through the tropical dry forest canopy. Soar through the air on a series of cables with stunning views, an adrenaline-pumping experience perfect for all ages.
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Discover the region’s rich cultural heritage with visits to traditional villages like Santa Cruz, where you can explore local markets, sample Costa Rican cuisine, and learn about folklore and traditions.
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Experience the beauty of Guanacaste’s landscapes on horseback, riding through forests and pastures to reach hidden waterfalls, where you can swim and relax in natural pools.
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What to expect while traveling
