3-Day Adventure Itinerary for Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

3 days

Langosta beach and Playa Grande
The road up to Phu Tub Berk mountain, with a winding path, in Phetchabun province
Toucan
American crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge
Tamarindo beach

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

Surfing and Exploring Tamarindo

Morning

Start your day with a refreshing Surf lesson at the famous Tamarindo Beach. The beach is known for its excellent waves, making it a perfect spot for beginners and experienced surfers alike.

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant. Try the 'casado', a typical dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, and a choice of meat or fish.

Afternoon

Take a leisurely stroll through the town, exploring the Local shops and boutiques. Don't forget to pick up some handmade souvenirs!

Dinner

Dine at a beachfront restaurant, enjoying the fresh seafood while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

Evening

End your day with a relaxing Beach Bonfire, a popular local activity. Listen to the waves crash as you roast marshmallows under the stars.

Morning

Embark on a guided tour of the nearby Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Explore the park's active volcano, hot springs, and diverse wildlife.

Lunch

Have lunch at a local eatery in the park, sampling more Costa Rican cuisine.

Afternoon

Continue your exploration of the park, taking in the stunning Waterfalls and lush rainforest.

Dinner

Return to Tamarindo for a dinner at a restaurant offering international cuisine. Try a fusion dish combining local ingredients with global flavors.

Evening

Enjoy a Live Music Performance at a local venue. Tamarindo is known for its vibrant nightlife and music scene.

Morning

Start your final day with a Yoga Session at one of the many studios in town. Tamarindo is a hub for wellness and yoga retreats.

Lunch

Have a light lunch at a café, trying the local coffee which Costa Rica is famous for.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon on a Catamaran Tour, exploring the coastline and enjoying some snorkeling.

Dinner

For your final dinner, choose a restaurant offering a panoramic view of Tamarindo. Enjoy the local cuisine one last time.

Evening

End your trip with a walk along the beach, reflecting on your Costa Rican adventure.

Attractions in Itinerary (9)

Surf lesson

1
Surf lesson

Experience the thrill of surfing in the beautiful waters of Tamarindo. Suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers.

Sports
Tours
Tamarindo Beach

2
Tamarindo Beach

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

Beaches
Local shops and boutiques

3
Local shops and boutiques

Tamarindo is known for its unique local shops and boutiques offering a variety of items from handmade jewelry to surf gear.

Shopping
Beach Bonfire

4
Beach Bonfire

A popular activity for tourists and locals alike, beach bonfires are a great way to enjoy Tamarindo's beautiful beaches at night.

Entertainment
Beaches
Rincon de la Vieja National Park

5
Rincon de la Vieja National Park

A national park known for its unique wildlife, hot springs, and the active Rincon de la Vieja volcano.

Parks
Attractions
Waterfalls

6
Waterfalls

While there are no waterfalls in Tamarindo itself, there are several beautiful ones in the surrounding areas that can be visited on a day trip.

Attractions
Landmarks
Live Music Performance

7
Live Music Performance

Tamarindo is known for its vibrant nightlife, including live music performances at various venues throughout the town.

Entertainment
Cultural Experiences
Yoga Session

8
Yoga Session

Tamarindo is a popular destination for yoga enthusiasts, with many studios offering classes for all levels.

Sports
Entertainment
Catamaran Tour

9
Catamaran Tour

One of the most popular activities in Tamarindo is a catamaran tour, which typically includes snorkeling, a meal, and stunning views of the coastline.

Tours
Attractions

Local Food and Drinks (11)

Casado

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

March 28

Thu

Maundy Thursday

March 29

Fri

Good Friday

April 15

Mon

Battle of Rivas

May 1

Wed

Labor Day / May Day

July 29

Mon

Annexation of Guanacaste

August 2

Fri

Our Lady of Los Ángeles

August 19

Mon

Mother's Day

September 15

Sun

Independence Day

December 1

Sun

Day of Abolition of the Army

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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

Power socket type APower socket type B

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

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.

MonthHi / 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.

Did you know?

Did you know that Tamarindo is known for its stunning sunsets, which can be enjoyed from the beach, a boat, or a hilltop restaurant?

1 of 10

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