Visiting Tamarindo, Costa Rica, soon? Use this guide to find activities that are actually worth it. This list of things to do in Tamarindo is based on my own travel to the popular Costa Rican beach town during peak tourist season, so I've included tips to help you have great experiences even when things are packed and busy!
And if you enjoy this post, you'll love my Tamarindo long-weekend itinerary, too!
Things to do in and Around Tamarindo, Costa Rica
1. Zipline
Because did you even go to Costa Rica if you didn't soar through the canopy of a forest?! I went ziplining for the first time in Tamarindo, and it didn't disappoint.
The best ziplining is generally believed to be in Monteverde's Cloud Forest and around the La Fortuna/Arenal area, but Black Stallion Eco Ranch will give you a thrilling experience near Tamarindo, so it's definitely worthy of your time.
They offer activities like horseback riding and ATV tours, as well as vacation packages that include on-site accommodations and BBQ ranch-style meals.
Have you considered visiting multiple cities during your trip? Check out my Monteverde, Costa Rica travel guide next!
2. Practice Yoga or Pilates
The wellness culture in Tamarindo is serious business, and as a traveler, you can drop into most of the top-rated yoga studios like SER Om Shanti, Spa Maya, or Soul Space.
Or take a beach yoga class on Tamarindo Beach.
As a Pilates princess, I really wish I'd had time to get on the mat or reformer at one of the local Pilates studios, too, and have bookmarked a couple of spots for my next trip to Tamarindo: O Pilates Studio and Pura Vida Pilates. Both have rare 5-star ratings on Google Maps!
3. Relax at Tamarindo Beach
While I do recommend posting up at a restaurant or beach club (we liked Ocho Beach Club), it's not necessary to enjoy the sand and sea. You can lay out on a beach towel or foldable chair for free!
There are also plenty of things to do in Tamarindo Beach, including watersports and patronizing local vendors. I highly recommend getting a beach massage. The quality was great, and the price was quite cheap compared to what I'm used to back home.
4. Learn to Surf
Speaking of things to do in Playa Tamarindo, Costa Rica, this town is most well known for surfing! People flock here for the Pacific coast waves, so we saw surf shops and schools almost everywhere along the main road.
If you're a beginner, take a surfing class. You can try a one-day workshop or commit to a series of lessons to get a really good start on your journey!
5. Tour Las Baulas National Marine Park
Just a few minutes from Tamarindo Beach is Marino Las Baulas Parque Nacional, where you can see different species of birds, turtles, crocodiles, monkeys, and more.
Book an estuary tour or boat safari to safely explore the mangroves with kids and adults alike.
Other activities like kayaking and birdwatching are fair game here, too!
6. Partake in Nightlife
Tamarindo has a robust nightlife scene with heavy influence from the USA and Europe (hello, expat communities!), so you'll hear American pop music and EDM mixed in with more local artists and global Spanish-speaking genres like Reggaeton.
If you want to sample different places, like I did, book the Tasty bar crawl. We hit up Rumor's, Chiquita's, and Crazy Monkey, to name a few. Make sure to grab hot pinchos for your post-party snack!
7. Shop at Tamarindo Moonlight Market
Another bustling activity at night: Each Thursday evening, Plaza Palmas transforms into a night market, Tamarindo Moonlight Market, with wares from local makers for sale, food, music, and more.
Compared to the club scene, it's a quiet change of pace and considered a bucket list experience for shopping in Tamarindo. I purchased unique art, jewelry, and snacks to take home as gifts.
Here's what to pack for your trip, including outfit ideas to wear in Tamarindo!
8. Eat Local & Fusion Cuisine
We found all kinds of cool restaurants in Tamarindo, from sushi to fried chicken, and fusion combinations alongside more traditional Costa Rican cuisine.
I recommend Pico Bistro for a classic Costa Rican breakfast by the beach, and Little Lucha Taqueria for live music and authentic Mexican food!
There's truly something for everybody--including picky eaters, so whether you're traveling with toddlers or on a romantic trip with your favorite foodie, you'll have plenty of options.
9. Take a Day Trip
If you have a free day or even a half-day on your itinerary, and haven't experienced other parts of the Guanacaste region, I highly recommend adding a day trip to your plans.
Several stunning things to do and see, like La Leona Waterfalls and Rio Celeste, are within driving distance. So if you're only stopping in Tamarindo, think of it as a launchpad for fun guided excursions.
All of these bookings provide local pickup and drop-off!
10. Book a Boat Tour
Last but not least, experience the water from a different point of view on a catamaran or sailboat. This Tamarindo sunset cruise includes an open bar and stops for snorkeling.
Or do this morning cruise with a tropical breakfast, paddleboarding, and whale watching. Both are highly rated by my fellow travelers!
Looking for a more outdoorsy destination with hiking trails, hot springs, and volcano views? La Fortuna should be part of your Costa Rica vacation! Read my La Fortuna travel guide next!
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Now that you know all the must-do things in Tamarindo, I hope you'll have a safe and satisfying time. And sharing is caring, so be sure to pin this post for later and follow me over on Pinterest. Thanks for reading!
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