This stunning beach resort is set in an idyllic bay on the Pacific coast, not far from Las Baulas National Park. The seaside town attracts a lively mix of beach fans, surfers, eco-tourists and honeymooners. Tamarindo Beach is part of a bay formed by the Cabo Velas cape and offers beaches to rival all other local sunning spots.
The white sand beach stretches for over two miles and offers warm blue waters bordered by national parks to the north and south and mountains with magnificent views to the east. Plentiful natural attractions include leatherback turtles that lay their eggs in the bay’s northern part.
This multi-cultural community offers cafés, an outdoor vegetable market and a wide selection of restaurants. There is an excellent variety of hotels, from economy to luxury. Water sports are prolific, with surfing, diving and sailing schools lining the beach alongside lodgings and restaurants. Bicycles, beach gear, surf and boogie boards and other equipment can be rented from specialty stores.
Highlights
Playa Grande and Playa Langosta: are part of the Costa Rican national park system and home to the giant leatherback turtle, which lays its eggs here from October to March.
Las Baulas National Park: is another perfect spot to admire the giant leatherback turtles laying their eggs among the black mangrove swamps.
Matapalo and Herta Aguacate: archeological sites have yielded pottery decorated with coffee-colored, intricate geometrical designs.
Blue Lake Waterfall: is 90 feet high and completely blue because of the copper in the water.
Las Pailas hot springs: are of volcanic origin and feature mud pots and facials, caves and geysers, a natural sauna steam bath and warm sulphur-rich water springs.