3-Day Hidden Gems: Relaxation & Sightseeing in Tamarindo for Couples

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

3 days

Relaxation

Sightseeing

Couples

Off the beaten path

American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge

About Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Experience the tropical paradise of Tamarindo, Costa Rica, a vibrant beach town known for its stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and abundant wildlife. This eco-tourism hotspot offers a myriad of activities, from zip-lining through lush rainforests to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Explore the vibrant local culture, savor delicious Costa Rican cuisine, or simply relax on the pristine sandy beaches. Tamarindo also serves as a gateway to the nearby Marino Las Baulas National Park, home to the endangered leatherback turtles. With its perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation, Tamarindo promises an unforgettable travel experience.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the Beaches and Wildlife of Tamarindo

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely walk on the pristine beaches of Tamarindo. Enjoy the serene atmosphere and the beautiful sunrise.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local eatery. Try the 'Casado', a typical dish that includes rice, beans, salad, and a choice of meat or fish.

Afternoon

Visit the Marino Las Baulas National Park. Here, you can witness the nesting of the giant leatherback turtles, a truly unique experience.

Dinner

Have a romantic dinner at a beachfront restaurant. Enjoy the fresh seafood and the beautiful sunset.

Evening

Relax at your hotel or take a stroll around the town. The nightlife in Tamarindo is vibrant and full of local culture.

Day 2

Surfing and Nightlife in Tamarindo

Morning

Start your day with a guided tour of the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge. This is a great opportunity to see Costa Rica's diverse wildlife up close.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local café. Try the 'Gallo Pinto', a traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish that is also popular for lunch.

Afternoon

Take a surfing lesson at one of Tamarindo's famous surf schools. The waves here are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers.

Dinner

Enjoy a romantic dinner at a restaurant with a view. The cuisine in Tamarindo is diverse, with options ranging from local to international.

Evening

Relax at your hotel or explore the local nightlife. Tamarindo has a variety of bars and clubs where you can enjoy live music and dance.

Day 3

Horseback Riding and Pottery in Tamarindo

Morning

Start your day with a horseback riding tour. This is a great way to explore the beautiful landscapes of Tamarindo.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local restaurant. Try the 'Ceviche', a popular seafood dish in Costa Rica.

Afternoon

Visit the Guaitil Pottery Studio. Here, you can learn about the traditional pottery-making process and even try your hand at it.

Dinner

Enjoy your last dinner in Tamarindo at a beachfront restaurant. The fresh seafood and the beautiful sunset will make this a memorable meal.

Evening

Relax at your hotel or take a last stroll around the town. Tamarindo is a beautiful place to unwind and enjoy the Costa Rican culture.

Attractions in Itinerary (5)

1
Marino Las Baulas National Park

A national park known for its nesting leatherback sea turtles.

Parks

Attractions

2
Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge

A wildlife refuge home to many species of birds and other animals.

Attractions

Parks

3
Guaitil Pottery Studio

A place where you can learn about the ancient techniques of Chorotega pottery and buy unique handmade pieces.

Cultural Experiences

Shopping

4
Tamarindo Beach

Tamarindo Beach is a beautiful sandy beach perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning Costa Rican sunset.

Beaches

5
Tamarindo Surf School

A surf school offering lessons for all ages and skill levels.

Sports

Cultural Experiences

Local Food and Drinks (11)

Casado

A traditional Costa Rican meal that typically includes rice, beans, salad, a tortilla, and a choice of meat such as chicken, beef, pork or fish. It's a staple dish in Tamarindo and reflects the local culture.

Gallo Pinto

A traditional breakfast dish in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. It's a flavorful mix of rice and beans, often served with eggs, cheese, and a tortilla.

Ceviche Tico

A popular appetizer in Tamarindo, made from fresh raw fish cured in citrus juices, and spiced with chili peppers, onions, and cilantro.

Chifrijo

A popular snack or light meal in Tamarindo, consisting of rice, beans, pork, and pico de gallo, served in a bowl with tortilla chips.

Arroz con Pollo

A popular dish in Tamarindo, consisting of rice and chicken mixed with vegetables. It's a hearty and flavorful meal that reflects the local cuisine.

Empanadas

A popular snack in Tamarindo, made from pastry filled with meat, cheese, or fruit. They are a delicious and quick snack to enjoy while exploring the town.

Tres Leches Cake

A popular dessert in Tamarindo, made from a sponge cake soaked in three kinds of milk: evaporated milk, condensed milk, and heavy cream.

Sopa Negra

A traditional black bean soup from Tamarindo, often served with a hard-boiled egg. It's a hearty and nutritious dish that reflects the local cuisine.

Refrescos Naturales

A popular beverage in Tamarindo, made from fresh fruit blended with water or milk and sugar. It's a refreshing drink to enjoy in the tropical climate.

Café Chorreado

A traditional Costa Rican drip coffee, often served with breakfast. It's a popular way to start the day in Tamarindo.

Guaro Sour

A popular cocktail in Tamarindo, made from Guaro liquor, lime juice, and sugar. It's a refreshing and tangy drink to enjoy in the evening.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Tamarindo, Costa Rica as a tourist is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During these months, you can expect plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for beach activities and exploring the outdoors. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices, the shoulder months of November and May are also good options. The weather is still relatively dry, and the tourist rush is less.

How to get around

Rental Car

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Tamarindo. It provides flexibility and convenience, especially if you plan on exploring the surrounding areas. Most major rental companies have offices in Tamarindo or nearby Liberia Airport.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available in Tamarindo. They are a convenient way to get around, especially for short distances within the town. Taxis are usually metered, but it's always a good idea to confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Public Bus

Public buses are an economical way to travel around Tamarindo and to nearby towns. They run on a regular schedule and are used by both locals and tourists.

Shuttle Services

Several companies offer shuttle services in Tamarindo. These are often used for airport transfers or trips to nearby tourist attractions. Shuttles need to be booked in advance and usually offer door-to-door service.

Bicycle Rental

Tamarindo is a small town and quite flat, making it ideal for getting around by bicycle. There are several places in town where you can rent a bike for the day or for your entire stay.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing services like Uber are not officially available in Tamarindo, but there are local drivers who offer similar services. You can find them by asking around or looking for advertisements in town.

Walk

Tamarindo is a small town, so it's quite possible to get around on foot. Most hotels, restaurants, shops, and beaches are within walking distance of each other.

Boat

For certain destinations, like some of the nearby beaches or the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge, a boat can be a fun and convenient way to get there. Boat tours and rentals are available from several companies in town.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency₡ CRC

Time zoneUTC-6

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterOpt for bottled water

Power sockets

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Tamarindo, Costa Rica as a first time visitor

1

Tamarindo is located on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica in the province of Guanacaste.

2

The official language is Spanish, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

3

The local currency is the Costa Rican colón, but US dollars are widely accepted.

4

Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases or in case of emergencies.

5

The climate is tropical with a dry season from December to April and a rainy season from May to November.

6

Average temperatures range from 75-96 degrees Fahrenheit (24-36 degrees Celsius).

7

It's recommended to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen.

8

Tamarindo is known for its beautiful beaches, so don't forget your swimsuit and beach towel.

9

The town is small and walkable, but taxis and rental cars are available for longer distances.

10

Costa Rica operates on Central Standard Time and does not observe daylight saving time.

11

The tap water is generally safe to drink in Tamarindo, but bottled water is readily available.

12

Costa Rica has a universal healthcare system, but travel insurance is recommended for emergencies.

13

Tamarindo has a vibrant nightlife with many bars and restaurants open late.

14

The local cuisine is a mix of Spanish, Indigenous, and African influences with a focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood.

15

Tamarindo is a popular destination for surfing, with several surf schools and rental shops in town.

16

Public Wi-Fi is available in many places, but the connection may not be as reliable as back home.

17

Tamarindo is generally safe, but like any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.

18

The sun is very strong in Costa Rica, so it's important to protect your skin and stay hydrated.

19

Costa Rica is eco-conscious and many places in Tamarindo promote sustainability, so be mindful of your environmental impact.

20

Remember to respect local customs and traditions to ensure a positive experience for both you and the local community.

Basic Spanish to know as a first time visitor

English phrase	Native phrase	Pronunciation	When to use it
Hello	Hola	oh-la	Greeting someone
Goodbye	Adiós	ah-dee-ohs	Leaving or saying goodbye to someone
Please	Por favor	por fa-vor	When asking for something
Thank you	Gracias	gra-see-as	After receiving something or someone's help
Yes	Sí	see	Agreeing with someone or something
No	No	no	Disagreeing with someone or something
Excuse me	Perdón	per-don	Getting someone's attention or apologizing
I'm sorry	Lo siento	lo see-en-to	Apologizing
Do you speak English?	¿Hablas inglés?	ab-las in-gles	When you need to speak in English
I don't understand	No entiendo	no en-tee-en-do	When you don't understand what is being said
Where is the bathroom?	¿Dónde está el baño?	don-de es-ta el ban-yo	When you need to use the bathroom
How much does it cost?	¿Cuánto cuesta?	quan-to cues-ta	When you want to know the price of something
I would like...	Me gustaría...	me gus-ta-ria	When ordering food or asking for something
Help!	¡Ayuda!	a-yu-da	In case of emergency
Call the police	Llame a la policía	ya-me a la po-lee-see-a	In case of emergency
I'm lost	Estoy perdido	es-toy per-di-do	When you can't find your way
Can I use my credit card?	¿Puedo usar mi tarjeta de crédito?	pwe-do u-sar mi tar-he-ta de cre-di-to	When you want to pay with credit card
Open	Abierto	a-bi-er-to	To know if a place is open
Closed	Cerrado	ce-rra-do	To know if a place is closed
Cheers!	¡Salud!	sa-lud	When toasting

Packing List

Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Underwear
Socks
Comfortable walking shoes
Flip flops
Hat
Sunglasses
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

Toiletries
Travel-size shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Sunscreen
Insect repellent
After-sun lotion or aloe vera
Lip balm with SPF
Travel-size first aid kit

Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Credit and debit cards
Cash (in local currency)
Travel insurance documents
Hotel and transportation reservation confirmations
Emergency contact information

Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Power adapter (if needed)
Portable power bank

Miscellaneous items
Beach bag
Beach towel
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Books or e-books for leisure reading
Travel pillow and blanket for the flight
Earplugs and eye mask
Ziplock bags for keeping items dry at the beach
Travel-size laundry detergent packets

Weather Conditions

Tamarindo, Costa Rica is a tropical paradise with a warm climate year-round. The average temperature typically ranges from 80°F to 90°F (27°C to 32°C) throughout the year. However, it's important to note that Tamarindo has two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, from December to April, is the most popular time to visit. During this period, you can expect plenty of sunshine and little to no rain. It's the perfect time for outdoor activities like surfing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. However, it's also the busiest time of the year, so be prepared for crowds and book your accommodations in advance. The rainy season, from May to November, is less crowded. You'll still have plenty of warm, sunny mornings, but afternoon showers are common. The rain typically comes in short, heavy bursts, so it's easy to plan your activities around them. This season is also known as the "green season" because the rain brings lush, vibrant vegetation. If you're a nature lover, this might be the best time for you to visit. Regardless of when you visit, it's a good idea to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a hat, and plenty of sunscreen. Even during the rainy season, the sun can be intense. Also, remember to stay hydrated, especially if you're engaging in physical activities. Lastly, keep an eye on the weather forecast. While Tamarindo is generally safe, it's always a good idea to be aware of any potential tropical storms or hurricanes, especially during the rainy season.

Month	Hi / Lo (°C)	Weather Overview
January	33° / 23°	January is the driest month in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, with clear skies and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time for outdoor activities and beach visits.
February	34° / 23°	February continues the dry season with slightly warmer temperatures. It's an excellent month for surfing and exploring the local wildlife.
March	35° / 24°	March is the hottest month in Tamarindo, with high temperatures and low rainfall. It's a perfect time for sunbathing and water sports.
April	34° / 24°	April marks the end of the dry season, with temperatures slightly dropping. It's still a great time for outdoor activities, but expect occasional showers.
May	33° / 23°	May begins the rainy season, with afternoon showers becoming more frequent. However, mornings are usually sunny, making it a good time for early beach visits.
June	32° / 23°	June is in the middle of the rainy season, with regular showers and lush green landscapes. It's a great time for nature lovers and those who enjoy less crowded tourist spots.
July	32° / 23°	July is a bit drier than June, with a mini-dry season known as 'veranillo'. It's a good time to enjoy the outdoors, with less rainfall in the afternoons.
August	32° / 23°	August experiences more rainfall, but mornings are often clear and sunny. It's a good time for indoor activities and exploring the local culture.
September	31° / 22°	September is the wettest month in Tamarindo, with heavy rains and fewer tourists. It's a great time for indoor activities and enjoying the local cuisine.
October	31° / 22°	October continues the rainy season, with lush landscapes and fewer crowds. It's a good time for relaxing indoor activities and spa treatments.
November	32° / 22°	November marks the end of the rainy season, with less rainfall and more sunshine. It's a great time for outdoor activities and exploring the local wildlife.
December	33° / 22°	December is a popular month for tourists, with warm temperatures and clear skies. It's a perfect time for beach visits and end-of-year celebrations.