Top 10 Things to Do in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Introduction
Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica's most popular beach towns, known for its golden sunsets, surf culture, and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you're looking for adventure, nightlife, or simply a place to relax by the Pacific Ocean, it's easy to see why so many travellers make it a stop on their itinerary.
I spent three days in Tamarindo exploring the town, relaxing on the beach, and heading out on an unforgettable ATV adventure through the surrounding countryside. While I didn't get to experience everything the town has to offer, these are the attractions that stood out the most—both from my own trip and from the places I'd happily return to explore next time.
1. Tamarindo Beach ⭐ Did This
Tamarindo Beach is the heart of the town and the reason many travellers first visit this part of Costa Rica. Its long stretch of golden sand is perfect for swimming, learning to surf, or simply relaxing with a drink while watching the waves roll in. The atmosphere is lively without feeling overwhelming, with restaurants, beach bars, and surf shops lining the waterfront. As the day winds down, the beach transforms into one of the best sunset spots in Guanacaste.
💡 JD's Tip: Walk toward the southern end of the beach for fewer people and an incredible sunset.
Relaxing on Tamarindo Beach during another beautiful Costa Rican sunset.
2. Take an ATV Tour ⭐ Did This
If you're looking for a little adventure beyond the beach, an ATV tour is one of the most exciting ways to explore the area around Tamarindo. You'll ride along dusty backroads, through forests, across rivers, and to viewpoints that most visitors never see. Many tours also stop at quieter beaches that are difficult to reach by car. It was one of my favourite experiences during my stay because it let me see a completely different side of Costa Rica.
💡 JD's Tip: Wear clothes you don't mind getting dusty—the dry season lives up to its reputation!
Getting ready to hit the trails on my ATV adventure near Tamarindo, Costa Rica.
3. Learn to Surf ❌ Missed This
Tamarindo has earned a reputation as one of the best places in Costa Rica for beginner surfers. Gentle waves, sandy bottoms, and countless surf schools make it easy for first-timers to get out on the water. Even if you've never touched a surfboard before, instructors can usually have you standing before the lesson is over. It's one of the town's signature experiences and a big reason travellers keep coming back.
💡 JD's Tip: Morning lessons usually have calmer conditions and smaller crowds.
Surfboards lined up on Tamarindo Beach, one of Costa Rica's best destinations for beginner surfers.
4. Visit Playa Langosta ❌ Missed This
Just a short walk south of Tamarindo, Playa Langosta feels like a completely different world. The crowds disappear, the beach becomes quieter, and you'll often have long stretches of sand almost to yourself. Stronger waves make it popular with experienced surfers, while everyone else comes to enjoy the peaceful scenery and spectacular sunsets. It's an easy escape if Tamarindo starts feeling a little busy.
💡 JD's Tip: Bring water and snacks since there are fewer restaurants nearby.
5. Go Horseback Riding on the Beach ❌ Missed This
Horseback riding along Tamarindo's coastline is one of those classic Costa Rica experiences that many visitors rave about. Tours usually follow the beach before heading onto jungle trails, offering a mix of ocean views and tropical scenery. Sunset rides are especially popular, creating some incredible photo opportunities as the sky changes colour over the Pacific. Although I skipped it, it's easy to see why it's one of the area's most recommended activities.
💡 JD's Tip: Book ahead if you're hoping for a sunset ride—they're among the first tours to sell out.
6. Take a Catamaran Sunset Cruise ❌Missed This
One of Tamarindo's most popular excursions is a sunset catamaran cruise along the Pacific coast. Most tours include snorkeling, snacks, drinks, and the chance to spot dolphins, sea turtles, or even whales during migration season. After a relaxing afternoon on the water, everyone gathers on deck to watch the sun disappear into the Pacific Ocean. It's easy to understand why this experience consistently ranks among visitors' favourites.
💡 JD's Tip: Bring a waterproof phone pouch if you plan on snorkeling.
Catamarans anchored off Tamarindo Beach as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean.
7. Visit Las Baulas National Marine Park ❌ Missed This
Just outside Tamarindo lies one of the world's most important nesting sites for endangered leatherback sea turtles. During nesting season, guided night tours allow visitors to witness these incredible animals laying their eggs on the beach. Outside turtle season, the park is also great for kayaking through mangroves, birdwatching, and enjoying a quieter side of Costa Rica's coastline.
💡 JD's Tip: Visit between October and February for the best chance of seeing nesting turtles.
8. Experience Tamarindo's Nightlife ⭐ Did This
When the sun goes down, Tamarindo takes on a completely different personality. Beach bars fill with travellers, live music spills into the streets, and restaurants stay busy well into the evening. Whether you're looking for a casual drink by the ocean or a lively night out, there's no shortage of places to choose from. It has one of the most energetic nightlife scenes on Costa Rica's Pacific coast.
💡 JD's Tip: Happy hour usually starts before sunset, making it the perfect excuse to grab a drink before watching the sky light up with colour.
Sampling a local craft beer flight after a day of exploring Tamarindo. 🍻
9. Go Ziplining❌ Missed This
The forests surrounding Tamarindo are home to several adventure parks where you can soar through the treetops on a series of ziplines. Many tours combine suspension bridges, scenic platforms, and incredible views over the jungle canopy. It's an exciting way to experience Costa Rica's wildlife and landscapes from a completely different perspective. Some companies even offer combination tours with ATVs or horseback riding.
💡 JD's Tip: Book an early morning tour for cooler temperatures and better chances of spotting wildlife.
10. Take a Day Trip to Rincón de la Vieja National Park ⭐ Did This
Although Tamarindo is famous for its beaches, one of the best day trips in the region is Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Home to volcanic landscapes, bubbling mud pots, waterfalls, hot springs, and scenic hiking trails, it showcases a completely different side of Costa Rica. I visited the park while staying in Liberia, but it's also a popular excursion from Tamarindo if you don't mind an early start. It's the perfect way to combine relaxing beach days with a little adventure inland.
💡 JD's Tip: Don't skip the waterfalls! They ended up being one of my favourite parts of the park, and they were just as memorable as the volcanic scenery.
Cooling off beneath one of Rincón de la Vieja National Park's beautiful waterfalls after a morning of hiking.
Final Thoughts
Tamarindo may not have been my favourite destination in Costa Rica, but I completely understand why it's one of the country's most visited beach towns. It's easy to reach, packed with restaurants and activities, and offers something for almost every type of traveller—from surfers and backpackers to families and couples.
If you're looking for beautiful sunsets, a lively atmosphere, and a convenient base for exploring Guanacaste, Tamarindo is well worth adding to your itinerary. And if you have a little extra time, don't be afraid to venture beyond the beach—you might discover that some of Costa Rica's best adventures are waiting just inland.
Tamarindo Beach comes alive each evening as locals and travellers gather to watch another unforgettable Costa Rican sunset.
