Tamarindo: Costa Rica’s Surf-Meets-Sunset Playground
By Chase the Horizon
Surf Addict | Mezcal Lover | Always Barefoot
If Santa Teresa is the barefoot boho yogi, Tamarindo is her sun-kissed, party-loving cousin with a surfboard under one arm and a cold Imperial in the other.
Set along the golden coast of Costa Rica’s Guanacaste province, Tamarindo has long shed its sleepy fishing village roots in exchange for something a little more vibrant, a little more electric, and a whole lot of fun. It’s where salty days slide into spicy nights, and flip-flops are just formal enough for dinner.
Surf First, Ask Questions Later
You’ll know you’ve arrived when you hear the waves before you see them. Tamarindo’s main beach is a haven for beginners and longboarders, with soft, rolling breaks that welcome everyone from first-timers to locals who’ve been shredding since birth. Rent a board, book a lesson, or just paddle out and feel it for yourself—surfing here is like therapy, minus the couch.
Playa Grande, just across the estuary, brings more punch for the advanced crowd. And if you’re lucky, you’ll spot leatherback turtles nesting at night—because yes, Tamarindo isn’t just about fun; it’s also part of Las Baulas National Marine Park, a protected stretch of coastline with serious eco cred.
Vibes: High
What really sets Tamarindo apart? The vibe. This town doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s chill with a pulse. You’ll see sun-bleached backpackers sharing tacos with expats, digital nomads checking their crypto before heading out for a sunset surf, and locals who’ve perfected the art of slow living—until it’s time to party.
During the day, it’s all beach lounging, smoothie sipping, and surf breaks. By late afternoon, the beach fills with fire dancers, volleyball games, and people clinking cocktails under sherbet skies. Sunset is an event here. Everyone shows up for it, camera or not. And every time, it’s a showstopper.
Eat, Drink, Repeat
Tamarindo might be small, but its food game is fierce. Craving fresh ceviche and ice-cold coconut water straight from the shell? You’ll find it on the beach. Want sushi that would make Tokyo jealous? Dragonfly and Bamboo Sushi Club got you. Late-night taco truck? You bet. Plant-based brunch with ocean views? Head to Nogui’s or La Bodega.
And for drinks, you’re spoiled. Craft beer at Volcano Brewing Co.. Mezcal mules at El Be. Jungle cocktails at Pangas Beach Club, toes in the sand, candles flickering. You don’t have to party, but if you do—Tamarindo will show you a good time without making you regret it the next day (unless you go full karaoke at Sharky’s… then no promises).
The People Make the Place
You meet everyone in Tamarindo. Surfers from Australia. Musicians from Argentina. Artists from Brooklyn. Ticos who grew up nearby and now teach yoga or run eco-tours. There’s a friendliness here that feels real. Conversations spark up at smoothie stands. Friendships form over shared rides to Playa Avellanas. It’s the kind of town where you come alone and leave with five new WhatsApp groups.
Just Enough Wild
What’s wild is how Tamarindo balances it all. It’s touristy, sure—but not tacky. It’s got creature comforts—think AC, Wi-Fi, and decent coffee—but still feels like you’re in the jungle. Monkeys swing overhead. Iguanas sunbathe in the plaza. And at night, the sounds of the waves mix with reggaeton and laughter and the occasional call of a howler monkey who clearly wasn’t invited to the party.
Final Word?
Tamarindo is the gateway drug to Costa Rica. It pulls you in with perfect waves, fiery sunsets, and that sweet spot between chill and thrill. You can surf all day, dance all night, detox with a green juice, and retox with rum—no judgment.
It’s not trying to be perfect. That’s why it is.
Tamarindo is messy, magical, magnetic—and you just might fall a little in love.