Surf In Tamarindo: Waves For Everybody

Visit Tamarindo Beach in Costa Rica. This tourism hot spot has great surfing, restaurants and shopping. Tamarindo is about a one hour drive from the Liberia International Airport.

Tamarindo has great ocean front accommodations like Tamarindo Daria. There’s also many short term rentals available on Airbnb as well. You can expect to pay more for ocean front accommodations, but the walk into town isn’t that far.

Known For Surfing!

The west coast of Costa Rica is spotted with many beaches which are great for surfing. Tamarindo not only has big waves for the advanced, but also small waves for kids or beginners. 

If you’re a beginner and want to get some lessons, there’s lots of options available. On our visit, we spoke with some of the lifeguards who pointed us in the right direction. The beach has lots of surf instructors who generally have the same offerings.

For each kid that took the class, we paid $40 USD. This included a surf board suitable for the size of the child. The lesson begins on the sand with how to stand on the board properly. Then the remainder of the time is spent in the water with an instructor.

Kids Will Love it

The kids loved the surfing lessons. Having an instructor hold the board while the waves rolls in helps the students learn the basics of how to stand up properly. 

We found the value of the lesson to be very good. If you want to practice surfing for the first time be sure to check out the awesome instructors on the beach in Tamarindo. If you’re going to catch some great videos pick up the latest GoPro for up close shots.

Try surfing or body boarding in Tamarindo

If you're heading out for an adventure, you're going to need some cold watch and snacks. Pick up a backpack cooler, which has ample room for what you'll need while you enjoy the beach. There is an added benefit of freeing up your hands to carry the fun stuff!

Stay Safe In Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a very busy town, with lots of opportunity to explore and have fun. If you’re heading to the beach, be sure to leave your valuables in your hotel. Petty thefts do occur. Unless you’re sitting with your stuff, it’ll wander off. I’ve even had my cheap flip flops stolen while I was in the ocean in Costa Rica. If you’re travelling solo, grab a Waterproof Fanny-pack to store your hotel key and some spending money.

The night scene in Tamarindo is very fun and exciting as well. As the sun goes down, it seems as though everyone from town heads to the beach. The sunset is always amazing in Tamarindo. There’ll be fires lit up and the partying begins. If this is your scene, be sure to be safe. Stay with known friends and always know your way back to your accommodations. 

Lots of Beach With Lots of Fun

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FAQ: Surfing in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

  • Is Tamarindo good for beginner surfers?
    Yes, Tamarindo is known for its consistent waves and sandy bottom, making it a great spot for beginners. There are plenty of surf schools and instructors available to help you get started.

  • What’s the best time of year to surf in Tamarindo?
    The best surfing conditions in Tamarindo are typically from December to April, during the dry season. However, the wet season (May to November) also offers good swells, especially for more experienced surfers.

  • Are there surfboard rentals available in Tamarindo?
    Yes, there are numerous shops and surf schools along the beach that offer surfboard rentals. Prices usually range from $10 to $20 per day, depending on the type of board.

  • Can I take surf lessons in Tamarindo?
    Absolutely! Tamarindo is one of the most popular places in Costa Rica for surf lessons. There are many surf schools that offer lessons for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.

  • What other activities can I do in Tamarindo besides surfing?
    Aside from surfing, Tamarindo offers activities like snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, and sunset cruises. The town also has a vibrant nightlife and plenty of restaurants to enjoy after a day on the waves.

  • Are there advanced surfing spots near Tamarindo?
    Yes, more experienced surfers can find challenging waves at nearby spots like Playa Grande and Langosta Beach. These areas tend to have stronger currents and larger waves.

  • Is Tamarindo crowded for surfing?
    Tamarindo can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season and on weekends. However, the beach is long, so you can usually find a less crowded spot if you’re willing to walk a bit.

  • How is the water temperature in Tamarindo for surfing?
    The water temperature in Tamarindo is warm year-round, typically ranging from 80°F to 85°F (27°C to 29°C). Wetsuits are generally not needed, even during the cooler months.

  • Is Tamarindo safe for surfing?
    Tamarindo is generally safe for surfing, but it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. There can be strong currents and rip tides, so it’s advisable to surf within designated areas and follow local guidelines.

  • Are there accommodations near the surf spots in Tamarindo?
    Yes, Tamarindo has a wide range of accommodations close to the beach, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Many places cater specifically to surfers, offering surf packages and storage for boards.