Indulge in your own tropical paradise
When you imagine the perfect beach getaway, you're probably picturing your next Tamarindo vacation rental. Tucked into the southern end of the Pacific Ocean's Tamarindo Bay on the west coast of Costa Rica, Tamarindo is a year round mecca for beach bunnies and surfers looking to catch the perfect wave. From sunrise to sunset, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the amazing weather, whether you're racing down a zipline, hunting down turtles in the dark, or just kicking back and sipping a cocktail on a relaxing ocean cruise.
Of mangroves, mud, and marine life
Aside from the beach itself, the town's main draw is Calle Central, a quaint strip of surf shops, boutiques, and laid-back restaurants and bars. Las Baulas National Marine Park is known for its nesting leatherback turtle population. Rangers will take you on nighttime hunts to try to catch them in action. Boat tours of the mangroves in Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge take you past howler monkeys and crocodiles. Further afield is the volcanic Rincon de la Vieja National Park, whose abundant wildlife is as fascinating as its bubbling pools of mud. Be sure to stop at Oropendola Waterfall as you're leaving the park.
Taste the pure life in Tamarindo
You'll see the term Pura Vida (the pure life) everywhere you turn in Costa Rica, and it's easy to see why. There's no shortage of fun to be had at your Tamarindo vacation rental. The beach is a huge draw for surfers, as well as swimmers and sunbathers looking to catch some killer sunsets. Estuary boat tours get you up close and personal with tropical wildlife in the local mangroves. Popular nighttime ecotours try to track down nesting turtles, while ziplining and canopy walks will get your adrenaline pumping. Snorkeling tours and cruises are a great way to take to the water.
Seasonal weather averages in Tamarindo
Travelers speak highly of Tamarindo for its surfing. If warm-weather activities are high on your list, April, May, March and June are the hottest months to visit, when temperatures average 73°F.
Our name is mud (in a good way)
The west side of Costa Rica is a natural wonderland of staggeringly varied landscapes. Tamarindo is known for its long stretches of alternatingly sandy and rocky beaches, complete with surf-worthy waves and some jaw-dropping sunsets. Migrating leatherback turtles call the beaches home, while the nearby mangrove-lined estuaries are a habitat for exotic birds, monkeys, and crocodiles. Drive further out and you'll encounter jungles, waterfalls, and even a volcano full of piping-hot mud. Of course, you won't want to miss the rainbow of tropical fish that lives just off the shore.
Transportation options to and around Tamarindo
Fly into Daniel Oduber Intl. Airport (LIR), the closest airport, located 29 mi (46.7 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you could book a flight to Tamarindo (TNO), which is 1.8 mi (2.9 km) away.