5-Day Solo Explorer's Guide: Relaxing & Sightseeing in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
5 days
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.
5-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Wildlife Adventure and Surfing at Tamarindo Beach
Morning
Visit the Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge and take a guided kayak tour through the estuary. Look out for wildlife such as howler monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local café and try the 'gallo pinto', a traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish that's also popular for lunch.
Afternoon
Take a surfing lesson at Tamarindo Beach. The beach is known for its excellent surfing conditions, making it a great place for beginners to learn.
Dinner
Enjoy a Costa Rican BBQ dinner at a local restaurant. Try the 'chifrijo', a popular dish made with rice, beans, pork, and pico de gallo.
Evening
Take a leisurely evening walk along the beach and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Day 3
Cultural Experience at Guaitil Pottery Studio and Hiking at Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Morning
Visit the Guaitil Pottery Studio and learn about the traditional Chorotega pottery-making techniques. You'll also have the opportunity to make your own pottery.
Lunch
Enjoy a light lunch at a local bakery. Try the 'empanadas', a popular Costa Rican pastry filled with meat or cheese.
Afternoon
Explore the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and take a hike to the active Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. Enjoy the stunning views from the top.
Dinner
Dine at a local restaurant and try the 'ceviche', a popular seafood dish in Costa Rica.
Evening
Relax and unwind with a spa treatment at a local wellness center. Try the 'volcanic mud bath', a popular treatment in Costa Rica.
Day 4
Leatherback Turtle Spotting and Horseback Riding in Guanacaste
Morning
Visit the Las Baulas National Marine Park and take a guided tour to see the nesting sites of the endangered leatherback turtles.
Lunch
Have lunch at a local café and try the 'tamales', a traditional Costa Rican dish made with corn dough and filled with meat, cheese, or fruits.
Afternoon
Take a horseback riding tour through the Guanacaste countryside. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and look out for wildlife.
Dinner
Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican dinner at a local restaurant. Try the 'olla de carne', a hearty beef stew with vegetables.
Evening
Take a night tour of the Tamarindo Estuary and look out for nocturnal wildlife such as crocodiles, raccoons, and night birds.
Day 5
Art Appreciation and Sailing in Tamarindo Bay
Morning
Visit the Tamarindo Art Gallery and explore the local art scene. The gallery features works by local and international artists.
Lunch
Enjoy a beach picnic with food from a local deli. Try the 'chorreadas', sweet corn pancakes that are a popular snack in Costa Rica.
Afternoon
Take a sailing tour around Tamarindo Bay. Enjoy the beautiful views of the coastline and look out for dolphins and sea turtles.
Dinner
Dine at a local restaurant and try the 'arroz con pollo', a popular Costa Rican dish made with rice and chicken.
Evening
End your trip with a relaxing evening at a local beach bar. Enjoy a cocktail while watching the sunset over the ocean.
Attractions in Itinerary (7)
1Tamarindo Beach
Tamarindo Beach is a beautiful sandy beach perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning Costa Rican sunset.
2Marino Las Baulas National Park
A national park known for its nesting leatherback sea turtles.
3Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge
A wildlife refuge home to many species of birds and other animals.
4Guaitil Pottery Studio
A place where you can learn about the ancient techniques of Chorotega pottery and buy unique handmade pieces.
5Rincon de la Vieja National Park
A national park known for its unique wildlife, hot springs, and the active Rincon de la Vieja volcano.
6Las Baulas National Marine Park
A national park known for its nesting site of the endangered Leatherback Turtle.
7Tamarindo Bay
A popular beach destination known for its clear waters, beautiful sunsets, and water sports activities.
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.
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.
| Date | Day | Holiday 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 |
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.
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 for sun protection
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
After-sun lotion or aloe vera
Insect repellent
Prescription medications
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 contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger for smartphone
Headphones
Camera
Charger for camera
Universal travel adapter
Portable power bank
Miscellaneous items
Travel pillow
Earplugs and eye mask
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-reader for the beach
Beach bag
Beach towel
Travel-size laundry detergent
Plastic bags for wet clothes
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. |
Did you know?
Places near by Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Rincon de la Vieja National Park
A national park known for its unique wildlife and stunning volcano views.
Santa Rosa National Park
One of the oldest and largest national parks in Costa Rica, known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful beaches.
Nicoya
A charming colonial town with a rich history and culture.
Las Baulas National Marine Park
A marine park known for its leatherback turtle nesting sites.
Nosara
A popular destination for yoga and surfing enthusiasts.
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
A unique cloud forest reserve with diverse wildlife and stunning views.
Samara
A beautiful beach town known for its laid-back vibe and stunning sunsets.
Playa Flamingo
A stunning white sand beach known for its crystal-clear waters.
Playa Conchal
A beautiful beach known for its unique shell-covered shoreline.
Playa Hermosa
A popular beach destination known for its calm waters and beautiful sunsets.
