"Pura Vida" is the mantra in Tamarindo, reminding visitors to enjoy the pure, good life of this multi-cultural community. You'll meet locals from Europe and the United States now living and operating businesses here, many of which are focused on sports and adventure. Tamarindo's white beach is bordered by national parks and jungles, making the place ideal for jungle and ATV tours, horseback riding and turtle watching. The focus is still on fun in the sun, with several surf schools, sports fishing charters and golf courses.
Located in the province of Guanacaste, Tamarindo is sunny and warm year-round, with temperatures ranging from 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Rain showers usually occur in the afternoons through the months of May and October. The easiest way to arrive here is through the international airport in Liberia, just a 45 minute drive to Tamarindo. The town itself is an array of smaller hotels and a few larger resorts, so there's something for every budget. To prove you're truly in the tropics, keep your eyes peeled for Howler monkeys, iguanas and parakeets that make their home here.
Rhino Charger Sport fishing Wahoo, marlin, sailfish and tuna await in the rich fishing waters off the coast of Tamarindo. The Rhino Charger is one of the larger boats in the area, seating up to six people on a 30-foot Island Hopper. Fishing trips are nine or five hour days, with lunch and beverages at no additional charge. Fly fishers should bring their own tackle.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
506-310-3279
www.rhinocharger.com
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park At more than 6,000 feet above sea level, Rincon de la Vieja has nine vents located within a nine mile caldera. Hike around the lower slopes where you'll see waterfalls, hot sulfur springs, orchids and, if quiet, tapirs, sloths and quetzals. Or, trek to the summit and back in a day. Don't worry, the last serious eruption was in 1983.
www.costarica-nationalparks.com
Villas Langosta Escape the crowded resorts and motels by renting one of 11 luxury villas just south of the Playa Tamarindo. Each villa comes with a full-equipped kitchen, ocean view balcony and tropical decor. Become friendly with your neighbors: The villas share a pool and barbecue area.
300m south of Villa Allegre, Tamarindo, Costa Rica
877-772-7422
www.villaslangosta.com
Villas Macondo One of the most inexpensive options in Tamarindo, Villas Macondo book a minimum of 3 nights at less than $100 a night — even during peak season. The villas and apartments are by no means cheap, however, and you'll find all the usual amenities here along with a common kitchen. The villas are located two minutes away from the beach.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
506-653-0812
www.villasmacondo.com
Dragonfly Bar & Grill Located behind Hotel Pasatiempo, this pricy restaurant serves eclectic food like chili rubbed pork chops and pistachio crusted mahi-mahi. Cap off your night with a mojito or margarita.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
www.dragonflybarandgrill.com
Pedro's For under $10 a person, bring your own beer and enjoy huge portions of seafood at Pedro's. Meals are served on picnic tables near the small restaurant in town.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica
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