Tamarindo in Costa Rica is so orderly, cheerful, and "beach-centric," in many ways it's reminiscent of San Diego--if San Diego's waters were bathtub warm year-round, and if its beaches were backed by a deep green jungle! Playa Tamarindo, located on the Pacific Coast in the Guanacaste province, is one of Costa Rica's most-visited beach towns for countless reasons. Sandy beaches, fully guided adventure tourism, busy nightlife, and world-class restaurants and accommodations ensure even the most tentative travelers will feel right at home. However, backpackers and more low-key travelers might be turned off by Tamarindo's touristy elements. Here are some solutions to make every member of your group happy:
The waters off Playa Tamarindo offer surfing opportunities adventurers of every level. Sport fishing is a way of life in Tamarindo, and record-breaking catches of marlin, tuna, and snapper are the norm. Scuba divers and snorkelers will enjoy an profusion of marine life right offshore, or in deeper waters. Tamarindo is a great place to sample a new water sport, like ocean kayaking, wind surfing, or jet skiing--just visit one of the multiple specialty shops in town.
Some of the best activities in the Playa Tamarindo area are free. The thousand-acre Tamarindo National Wildlife Refuge boasts numerous hiking trails through forest and mangroves, but be sure to keep your eyes out for crocodiles, monkeys, ocelots, and other wildlife. Or just string up a hammock between two beachfront palms, and enjoy Costa Rica's most luxurious treat of all: the warm tropical sun.
Playa Tamarindo is sandwiched by two protected beaches, Playa Grande and Playa Langosta, that serve as nesting areas for the giant leatherback turtle. The turtles clamber ashore to lay their eggs between October and March travel guides will take you to their nesting sites, and you will experience one of the most exclusive wonders of nature.
No matter who you travel with, you are sure to find something amazing in Tamarindo. Take your trip and prepare to discover paradise!
This tidbit of Tamarindo travel advice was brought to you by Joshua Whitaker.
Even the crunchiest of granola travelers need a place with running water every now and again. Rent a Tamarindo vacation condo and lure them over to the dark side of luxury travel with a jetted tub, full kitchen, and ocean views. (Tell them that the comfortable beds are made from recycled bamboo/hemp/dolphins and they will be putty in your hands!)