Tamarindo stretches along Guanacaste’s northern Pacific coast, where surfable waves meet walkable beach town life. The curved bay extends 3.5 kilometers, with surf breaks suiting every skill level and quiet swimming spots marking the spaces between waves.

The main street parallels the beach, lined with surf shops, local restaurants, and modern services. This mix of international influence and Costa Rican culture creates a unique coastal atmosphere where different languages blend at sunset gatherings. The Tamarindo Diria hotel marks the town center, with most amenities within walking distance along the beach road.

Morning surf sessions start each day as offshore winds groom the waves. By afternoon, the beach fills with a mix of surfers, swimmers, and people walking toward Playa Langosta. Las Baulas National Park borders the northern end of town, where the estuary provides home to wildlife and marks the natural boundary of the beach zone.

Check Out The Beach

Tamarindo is well known for its amazing beach. Although it fully faces the Pacific, it has easy breaking waves and depth which is great for novice surfers. There’s ample surfing instructors on the beach, and on the main drag, who can take you out for some lessons. If you’re comfortable you can also rent a surf board.

Most of the beach is also great for swimming and relaxing. Kids really enjoy searching for seashells in the tide pools that form during lower tides.

If you’re a most advanced surfer, beaches to the north like Playa Grande will likely be more challenging.

Walk Around In Town

Tamarindo can be fairly congested when driving in. Once you find parking it’s best to leave the car for the day and check out the town by walking.

On the main drag, you’ll find lots of restaurants that have an ocean view. There’s many unique shops that offer clothing, souvenirs, excursions. 

Stuff can be more expensive on the drag, so remember to bring your own sunscreen and similar items. Otherwise you’ll pay top dollar for it in the shops.

There is a Super Compro which is close enough to the beach, where you’ll find big water bottles and other goods for much cheaper than shops directly on the beach.

Finish The Day With Great Food

If you head towards the Super Compro, you’ll actually stumble upon a really great kids park. The park has a skate park, jungle gym and basketball court. 

Directly across from this park we ate at a restaurant called “The Roof”. They offered delicious pizza and an amazing view to enjoy. 

Check Google Maps Here for directions to The Roof and reviews

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Tamarindo FAQ: Beach Town & Surf Guide

Q: Where is Tamarindo located?
A: Northern Pacific coast in Guanacaste. One hour from Liberia Airport. Main beach road spans 2 km through town. Tamarindo Diria hotel marks center.

Q: What’s the beach like?
A: 3.5 km curved beach. Multiple surf breaks for all levels. Swimming areas marked. Watch afternoon currents. Beach width varies with tide. Natural shade limited.

Q: What facilities exist?
A: Full services: Large supermarkets, Medical clinics, Banks with ATMs, Surf shops, International restaurants. Regular airport shuttles. Modern infrastructure.

Q: What surf spots exist?
A: Rivermouth break advanced. Main beach break good for learning. Multiple peaks along beach. Morning offshore winds common. Best surf November-April.

Q: What’s nearby?
A: Playa Langosta walking distance south. Estuary and Las Baulas Park north. Boat trips to hidden beaches. Day trips to national parks possible.

Q: How’s getting around?
A: Walking covers most needs. Local taxis available. Public buses connect towns. Boat taxis to nearby beaches. Car rentals in town.

Q: When to visit?
A: Dry season (December-April) busiest. Green season has morning sun. Good surf year-round. Less crowded September-November.