costa rica excursions tamarindo

THE 10 BEST Tamarindo Tours & Excursions

Tamarindo tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Private Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Night Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Photography Tours
• Literary, Art & Music Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour

2. Guachipelin Adventure Volcano Zipline Horseback River Tubing Combo

3. Tamarindo Snorkel and Sunset Cruise with Lunch

4. Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja

5. Sunset Sailing Catamaran Tour from Tamarindo

6. Hiking Tour of La Leona Waterfall with Lunch

7. ATV or Buggy Private Tour from Tamarindo or Conchal

8. Costa Rica Monkey Jungle Zipline from Tamarindo

9. Private Zipline, Horseback Riding, Hot Springs And Mud Baths Tour

10. Tamarindo Estuary Boat Safari

11. Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica

12. Marlin del Rey Catamaran Snorkel Sunset Cruise from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco

13. ATV and UTV Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal Beach

14. Zipline and Hanging Bridges Combo Tour in Monteverde Cloud Forest

15. Half-Day Snorkeling Experience in Tamarindo

16. 5-Hour Guided Sunset Boat Tour in Tamarindo Costa Rica

17. Surf Lesson in Tamarindo - If you don’t stand up you get your money back!

18. Whitewater Rafting Class III and IV

19. Public Blue Dolphin Sailing Adventure

20. Zip Line and ATV Adventure

21. Turtle watching night tours with Expert Naturalist

22. Palo Verde Boat Safari

23. Private Transfer-Liberia airport

24. Tamarindo Beach Surf Lessons and Smoothie

25. Blue Dolphin Catamaran Snorkeling Sunset Cruise from Tamarindo

26. ATV Beach and Mountain Tour

27. Tamarindo Birdwatching Crocodiles and Monkey Tour

28. Rain Forest Hike: Rio Celeste Waterfall, Sloth & Butterfly Farm

29. Traditional Cooking Class In Tamarindo

30. La Leona Waterfall Tour with Lunch From Tamarindo

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Home » Destinations » Nicoya Peninsula » Tamarindo » 10 Best Tamarindo Tours and Excursions You NEED to Check Out!

10 Best Tamarindo Tours and Excursions You NEED to Check Out!

By Author Costa Rica Travel Life

Posted on Last updated: March 17, 2024

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One of Costa Rica’s top destinations , Tamarindo chalks up major points for its great beaches, cool surf scene , fun nightlife, and never-ending list of fun activities. Riding ATVs, white water rafting, waterfall chasing, or ziplining tours – you name it, they’ve got it. 

We traveled all over Costa Rica, but Tamarindo has some of the most diverse travel crowds – from the all-inclusive hotel stayers and backpackers to seasoned solo travelers and first-timers. This Pacific Coast town has so many tours and activities that you’re bound to find something awesome – no matter what kind of traveler you are. 

Sure, we’ll admit that good old “Tamagringo” has earned its nickname, but don’t strike it off the list just yet! We’ve rounded up all the details on Tamarindo’s top tours to give you an idea of just how adventurous, awesome, and diverse even Costa Rica’s busiest spots can be! 

What is the best time of year to do tours in Tamarindo?

If you’ve never traveled to the tropics, here’s a quick crash course on the seasons. Unlike their neighbors further north and south, tropical countries only have dry and wet seasons. The dry season runs from December to April, then the rainy season kicks it into gear from May to November. 

No surprise here – the dry season is Tamarindo’s busiest. Sunny days and stable weather make it one of the best times to visit Costa Rica . It’s ideal for sunset cruises and pretty much all beach activities. This region gets pretty dusty during this time, though, even within the rainforests!  

Now, you might hear “wet season” and think gloom and doom, but it doesn’t mean it’s going to rain all day, every day. Visiting Tamarindo in the wet season has lots of advantages, including lower off-season prices and fewer crowds. It’s also the lushest, greenest time of year, making rainforest walks, ziplining, and ATV rides even more awesome! 

How many days do you need in Tamarindo?

Trust us, we’ve done the whole “cram every activity into two days” travel bit, but it’s way better to slow down and enjoy! To get a good feel for Tamarindo, it’s worth allocating at least four days to scope everything out. 

We like to arrive at a new place, have a day to find our bearings and explore at a chill pace. This is especially true here, as Tamarindo is a popular stop for those arriving from nearby Guanacaste Airport or traveling south from the Peñas Blancas border. So, give yourself a day to arrive and relax – it makes all the difference! 

For the other days, you’ll be spoiled for choice – we were surprised to find so many diverse activities! Even if you’re hesitant to visit” we urge you to give it a few days, check out some awesome tours, and get a taste of coastal life in Costa Rica. 

Our Top 3 Tours in Tamarindo

Picking activities to do or sights to see when you’re traveling can be tough work and a whole lotta research! Sometimes we just want to join in on all the tours, but realistically, everyone has budgets and timelines to stick to. It’s hard to decide on just three top tours in Tamarindo, but we narrowed it down to awesome picks that fit lots of different travel styles and priorities.  

Each of these tours showcases some of the best things to do in Tamarindo , and everyone should experience at least one when they visit. If you have limited travel time or space in your budget for tours, picking one of these will ensure that you still have a quintessential Tamarindo experience! 

Sunset sail

Tamarindo’s top draw is its beautiful Pacific Coast, so it’s no surprise that a  Sunset Sail  would be top of the list! It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon sailing up the coast to a secluded cove on a catamaran with drinks, music, and food! Ending with golden sunset views as you sail back to shore will give you a new appreciation for Tamarindo. 

The Famous Guachipelin Adventure 

The Famous Guachipelin Adventure  has a reputation for a reason, and you’ll more than likely hear people talking about it! It’s one of the best adventure tours we’ve encountered, jampacked with activities like ziplining, tubing, and horseback riding. You’ll get to have tons of fun while also experiencing one of Costa Rica’s stunning national parks – Rincon de la Vieja National Park. It’s also pretty great value, and is easily accessible from Tamarindo!  

Beginner Surf Lesson

We can’t round up the top 3 Tamarindo tours without giving this beginner surf lesson  a much-deserved spot! Surfing in Costa Rica is one of those can’t-miss experiences and it’s an essential part of Tamarindo life. You’ll also be able to learn more quickly in the beginner-friendly waters around here. It’s also budget-friendly and doesn’t involve traveling far, which are pretty solid reasons all on their own! 

10 Best Tamarindo Tours  

1. rio celeste, sloth sanctuary, and llanos de cortes waterfall.

After hearing stories from other backpackers, there was no way we would pass up visiting Rio Celeste ! We hopped on this full-day tour  to make the most of it, and even though it was a long (~12 hour!) day, seeing this stunning part of Costa Rica was so worth it. 

Pick-ups in Tamarindo (and from other areas around Guanacaste) start bright and early, around 6:30 am, for a 3-hour drive to Tenorio Volcano National Park with a few stops to break up the journey. We got to grab breakfast (and coffee!), and take a cool dip at Llanos de Cortes waterfall. It was a great appetizer before the main event – Rio Celeste!

You’ll hike for around 2 hours through the emerald green rainforest along the beautiful Rio Celeste as you follow the river to its powdery-blue waterfall. This waterfall is famous for its bright blue water that reminded me of blue Gatorade!

I took so many photos – this place was pretty unbelievable! The hike isn’t too strenuous, although it can be slippery in some sections and involves a lot of stairs, but our group found it manageable. Good shoes are a must!

After all that hiking, we had worked up an appetite, so the lunch at a local organic farm really hit the spot. We also got to explore the sloth and frog sanctuary, which we found to be one of the best spots to see sloths in Costa Rica ! There was also plenty of other wildlife including flowers, birds , cute frogs, and tropical plants galore.

This is a popular tour, so booking ahead online here is wise. It costs $135 USD per person for either a pick-up or self-drive option if you’re renting a car in Costa Rica and want to meet at Llanos Del Cortes or at Tenorio Volcano Park. The fee includes park admission, a guide, and lunch. Bring some extra cash – if only for that morning coffee! If you want to upgrade and turn this into a fully private tour, you also have that option for $250 USD per person.

Related Read: If seeing sloths is high on your bucket list, make sure to check out the best sloth-watching tours in La Fortuna ! We even saw baby sloths!

2. ATV or Buggy Tour in Tamarindo

You don’t have to go too deep into our blog to discover we love ATVs! These tours are a fantastic way to get off the beaten path while exploring Tamarindo. Most of our previous ATV tours were in groups, but this private tour  was only $90 USD each for two of us, so we opted for that instead! 

After pickup, your guide will take you to the ATVs (or a buggy for $10 USD cheaper, if you prefer), give you a safety demo, test ride, and fit you with helmets and goggles. We loved that this tour took us through many different spots, from the forest to some fantastic lookout points to having fun on the beach. If you go during the wet season, you can expect to have extra fun driving through the mud! 

We ended up at 3 beaches and had them pretty much to ourselves, which was awesome. You can also swim, but we were having a blast and opted to spend more time riding instead.

Tours run for about 2 hours and start every hour from 8 am to 3 pm, and your guide will also provide you with water and fresh fruit. Remember your swimsuit, and wear clothes you don’t mind getting dusty! 

If this sounds like the tour for you, you can book online here ! If you’re traveling with kids or want to ride with someone, we suggest opting for a buggy or a two-seater ATV. Make sure you also have cash for tips and $5 USD to buy a bandana at the office before you leave – it can get dusty and muddy, so we really liked having ours!

3. Sunset sail 

Tamarindo is the perfect spot to explore Costa Rica’s stunning Pacific coast. Some of the best beaches in Costa Rica are around Tamarindo, which means they can get busy! Hopping on this sunset sail  is a super scenic way to escape the crowds.

This tour lasts about 5 hours and includes an amazing sunset on the water. You’ll also return to shore just in time for a late supper at one of the great restaurants in Tamarindo . If you’re not an early bird, this 1 pm start is perfect for you!  

We love a sunset cruise in Tamarindo that’s fun, has a little bit of partying, and lots of adventure, and this one easily ticked all the boxes. They include alcohol and light food such as fajitas, fruit platters, and yummy banana bread to fuel your sail north of Tamarindo to beautiful Playa Huevos.  

At Playa Huevos, you can kayak , paddleboard, snorkel, or just use a noodle and float around in the clear waters. We did some snorkeling along the rocky section of the beach, which had tons of coral, fish, and some rays. It’s common to catch sightings of whales , dolphins, and turtles along the way, although we didn’t luck out!  

Tours cost $90 USD per person, including food, drinks, equipment, and a sweet ride on a 40-foot/12-meter catamaran. Make sure you don’t miss out on this one and book a spot on the sunset cruise online with Viator !

4. The Famous Guachipelin Adventure

Some travel days are for chill sunset sails and wildlife sanctuaries , and others are for amped-up travel experiences. That’s where the  Guachipelin Adventure tour comes in! Easily some of the most fun we’ve packed into 10 hours, this is an awesome way to get your adrenaline pumping while enjoying the natural surroundings Costa Rica is most known for .   

Pick-up starts around 6 am for the drive to Parque Nacional Rincon de la Vieja, about 93 km (58 miles) northeast of Tamarindo. Named after one of Costa Rica’s famous volcanoes , the park is home to relaxing hot springs, rivers, waterfalls, and tons of Costa Rican wildlife. Our guide helped us navigate the park as we took on multiple ziplines, hanging bridges, Tarzan swings, rappelling, and rock climbing! We slowed things down a bit with a 45-minute horseback ride before jumping in the river to go river tubing over the (gentle!) rapids for about 5 km/3 miles.

All those activities are balanced out with a much-appreciated buffet lunch, the chance to slather healing volcanic mud on yourself and soak in the hot springs that are heated by the volcano before heading home. I slept like a baby after this one!  

There’s a max of 20 people per tour, and prices start at $135 USD per person if you do the self-drive option, or $149 USD each for a group of 2 with shared transport. For both, all entry tickets, guide, and lunch spread are included. It’s a pretty active day, so we recommend guests be moderately fit, wear sneakers and comfy clothes, and be ready for adventure! 

You can easily book your slot on this fun-filled day near Tamarindo with Viator . You can even use the reserve now, pay later option to guarantee your spot.

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

• Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
• Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
• Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
• Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
• Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here ! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here .

5. La Leona Waterfall

If there’s a waterfall around, count me in! Yup, I’m guilty of chasing waterfalls, and if you’re only going to see one around Tamarindo, this La Leona Waterfall tour delivers. Plus you can ONLY visit this waterfall on a tour.

Costa Rica has tons of waterfalls , but what makes La Leona Waterfall so special is that it’s in a canyon! For about 3 hours, you’ll weave through caves, cross rivers, swim, and climb canyons until you finally spy La Leona slicing her way through the rock.

There’s a beautiful powder-blue pool to float around so you can cool off and relax before heading back. You’ll also get to see smaller falls along the way, and the guides always have tons of tidbits about flora and fauna along the way! 

This tour starts around 7 am and lasts for about 6 hours, so eating a hearty breakfast and bringing snack money is your best move. Transport, guide, and water are included, and if you have a dry bag and water shoes, this is definitely a good time to whip those out! 

The tour is reasonable – especially if you’re traveling as a group as the price goes from $155 USD per person for a group of 2 or drops to $115 USD each for a group of 6.

Get a front-row seat to one of the most beautiful waterfalls around by booking a tour to La Leona Waterfall here !

Related Read: If you need a place to stay so you can take in some of these tours, some of the best all-inclusive resorts in Costa Rica are around Tamarindo!

6. ATV Zipline Tour

A few tours on our list include longer drives, but if you’re looking for fun closer to Tamarindo, this ATV and zipline combo tour  is a great option. The starting point isn’t far from downtown, and the whole tour runs for about 3.5 hours, so you’ll have an adventure with time to spare! 

After safety demos, you’ll drive through forests, mountains, and even some small towns, with lots of opportunities to spot animals like howler monkeys, iguanas, and even a coati. When you arrive at the park, you’ll switch gears and get harnessed for a zipline course with 7 cables that weave you through the treetops with epic views of mountains in the distance! It’s definitely one of the best ziplining tours in Tamarindo for adventure seekers!

Afterward, you’ll get one more spin on the ATV as you return to the starting point.  

Departures are at 8:30 am and 12:30 pm, costing $145 USD per person for a single-driver ATV or $190 USD for a two-seater. The cost also includes safety gear, a guide, and transportation. There’s a max of 15 people per group, and kids as young as 5 can join in (but you must be 16 to drive!).

You can book this tour online here and make sure to bring along a bandana or mask for the ATV ride – remember how dusty we said it could get here! 

7. Tenorio River White Water Rafting

We’ve had a blast whitewater rafting around Costa Rica on other trips, and this was no exception! It’s a great way to get into nature, have adrenaline-filled fun, and meet new people. You don’t need prior experience to join this whitewater rafting tour  either – everyone is welcome! 

Starting in Tamarindo with a 7 am pickup, our trusty guide took us about a 2-hour drive east to Canas, where the company base is. After safety briefings and grabbing gear, we jumped in a 4X4 for another half-hour ride to the Tenorio River’s launch point. And from there, it just got more epic!

Over 2 hours, we rafted down 12 km/7.4 miles of the river through more than 20 Class III and IV rapids, plus calmer sections where we could appreciate the surrounding forest and see waterfalls. What really got my heart racing though was the 12-foot/3.6-meter waterfall drop over Cascabel Falls! What a rush!

After reaching the endpoint, we returned to base for a delicious typical Costa Rican lunch before heading back, arriving in Tamarindo just in time for sunset.

There’s a self-drive option for $103 USD where you meet the group in Canas, but we chose the return-transport option from Tamarindo for $136 USD per person. Both options include lunch, a guide, and gear, but judging by the naps we had on the way back, we made the best choice for us!  For an epic day on the water, book your spot on this whitewater rafting tour online here !

8. Beginner Surf Lesson

No matter what season you arrive in Tamarindo, one thing you’re gonna find is surfers! We’ve tried surfing all over Costa Rica and since we’re no pros, beginner-friendly Tamarindo was an excellent place to improve our skills with this surfing lesson .

Instructors will grab you a suitable board and teach you the basic movements on land first, like how to pop up on the board. After you’ve mastered that, you get to practice paddling out in the water, understanding the waves, and learning general surf etiquette. And yes, you can absolutely stand up and ride a wave on your first lesson!  

Surfing in Tamarindo has a few perks, starting with the fact that you don’t have to travel very far! It’s also pretty pocket-friendly at $50 USD a person for a shared 2-hour lesson, with time slots daily at 8 am, 11 am, and 3 pm. Shared lessons have a max of 15 people, but you’re guaranteed an instructor per 6 people. Or you can opt for a private surf lesson for only $75 USD which is worth it if it’s your first time on a board!

Instructors, surfboards, and even rashguards are included, but you can bring extra cash if you feel like tipping!  Check out all the options for surf lessons in Tamarindo online to book your spot .

Related Read: For even more affordable vacation plans, check out the best cheap and free things to do in Tamarindo !

9. Sloth Sanctuary Wildlife Hike

A wildlife hike is one of the best things to do in Costa Rica , and one of our favs is this sloth and waterfall hike  in near Spring Paradise Bijagua. You’ll see their most famous critters just hangin’ out – literally!

Sloths are pretty iconic in Costa Rica, and they’re one of my favorite animals to spot in the wild. The area covered in this tour is home to the sloths, who roam freely, albeit at a pretty chill, slow pace! We also spotted toucans and heard howler monkeys in the distance (but didn’t see them up close!). Our guide was super passionate about his job, and he gave us so many facts about the animals and Costa Rican nature in general. 

Plus after you’ll get to spend some time hiking through the forest to reach the Blue River Waterfall where you can cool off by cliff jumping.

At $185 USD per person for a 10-hour tour, it’s also a pretty reasonably-priced way to get immersed in nature and switch up the scenery for a day. Pick-up, transportation, and admission are included, but bringing snacks and water is a good call!

You can book this tour online and there’s a maximum of 20 people on the tour, so it’s still a relatively small crowd to enjoy the day with. 

10. Discover Scuba Diving

Scuba diving in Costa Rica is one of our favorite activities, and the country is known for being a top dive destination. Tamarindo is a great place to scuba dive for beginners to kick off a new adventure with a  Discover Scuba Diving course , and maybe even get inspired to do a full certification!  

There isn’t any fancy prerequisite here, you just gotta be willing to give it a go! After the paperwork, you’ll learn the basics from a qualified (and bilingual) instructor, and then the real fun starts. The dive boat takes you out for two dives, where you can see beautiful multi-colored coral reefs teeming with marine life and maybe even rays, turtles, or larger fish hanging out. No two dives are ever the same; that’s why we love it so much! 

Pick-up is bright and early at 6:15 am, or you can also meet at the shop. Snacks, water, transport, and equipment are all included, but bring a hat and sunscreen! It costs $195 USD per person with a max of 8 people, but even if you’re solo, you’re bound to meet some cool, like-minded people.

Added bonus: if you end up loving it, you may be able to use your Discover Scuba dives toward your certification. Win-win! 

Book your scuba diving adventure near Tamarindo online here and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance if your plans change.

Related Read: If these tours aren’t quite long enough or you’re looking to see more of the country, there are plenty of multi-day guided tours of Costa Rica to choose from!

Where to Stay in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

You have so many choices when it comes to  places to stay in Tamarindo . There are over 100 hotels and hostels in the downtown area catering to all needs and wants. To help you narrow it down, these are our favorites:

Selina Tamarindo – $

The Selina  is a good option for budget travelers, and I have personally stayed here. It’s an upper-market hostel with a great atmosphere and pool. The location is also right near the beach, and the dorm rooms and privates all have AC.

Rates for a private room start at $139 USD per night, and a bed in the dorm rooms starts at $71 USD per night. You can book Selina Tamarindo on  HostelWorld or Booking.com .

Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel – $$

If you’d prefer a little more luxury, the  Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel  comes with gorgeous rooms, a large pool, and a very modern and sleek design. However, the location is slightly back from the beach, and it’s not for families. 

The hotel’s terrace overlooks the property’s tropical gardens, and breakfast is served outside here from November 1 to April 30. Rates for a one-night stay begin at $160 USD. Reserve a room at Tamarindo Bay Boutique Hotel on Booking.com .

Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort – $$$

Those with a luxury budget should check out  Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort . This is one of the most beautiful hotels in Tamarindo, and it’s not only located on the beach, but they also have a pool with ocean views. 

All of the rooms have a seating area and a mini-bar. Prices for a room start at $224 USD per night. You can book Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort  here on Booking.com .

Getting Around Costa Rica

How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level. 

Renting a Car

Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.

One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.

Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.

Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.

You can  browse cars on Discover Cars here .

Book Shuttles

If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica , or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.

Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)

To get the best price, use the website  Bookaway . They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway! 

You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.

Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!  

The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!

It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.

I hope you found this list of the best tours in Tamarindo helpful as you plan your trip! There’s definitely a great variety of Tamarindo tours to take in whether you’re looking to chill on a sunset sail or amp up the adventure with ziplines, ATVs, or rafting!

You could honestly spend your whole vacation in Tamarindo, but if you’re looking to travel around the country, we’ve got you covered! Make sure to have a look at our other blogs including some popular ones below or drop us a line if you need personalized recommendations!

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Top Tours in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Tamarindo tours.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Private Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Night Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Archaeology Tours
• Photography Tours
• Literary, Art & Music Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour

2. Guachipelin Adventure Volcano Zipline Horseback River Tubing Combo

3. Tamarindo Snorkel and Sunset Cruise with Lunch

4. Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja

5. Sunset Sailing Catamaran Tour from Tamarindo

6. Hiking Tour of La Leona Waterfall with Lunch

7. ATV or Buggy Private Tour from Tamarindo or Conchal

8. Costa Rica Monkey Jungle Zipline from Tamarindo

9. Private 1-Day Tour to Nicaragua from Tamarindo Costa Rica

10. Tamarindo Estuary Boat Safari

11. Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica

12. Marlin del Rey Catamaran Snorkel Sunset Cruise from Tamarindo or Playas del Coco

13. ATV and UTV Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal Beach

14. Zipline and Hanging Bridges Combo Tour in Monteverde Cloud Forest

15. Half-Day Snorkeling Experience in Tamarindo

16. 5-Hour Guided Sunset Boat Tour in Tamarindo Costa Rica

17. Surf Lesson in Tamarindo - If you don’t stand up you get your money back!

18. Whitewater Rafting Class III and IV

19. Public Blue Dolphin Sailing Adventure

20. Zip Line and ATV Adventure

21. Private Zipline, Horseback Riding, Hot Springs And Mud Baths Tour

22. Turtle watching night tours with Expert Naturalist

23. Palo Verde Boat Safari

24. Private Transfer-Liberia airport

25. Blue Dolphin Catamaran Snorkeling Sunset Cruise from Tamarindo

26. ATV Beach and Mountain Tour

27. Tamarindo Birdwatching Crocodiles and Monkey Tour

28. Rain Forest Hike: Rio Celeste Waterfall, Sloth & Butterfly Farm

29. Traditional Cooking Class In Tamarindo

30. La Leona Waterfall Tour with Lunch From Tamarindo

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Tamarindo Tours

One of the most popular beach towns in Costa Rica, Playa Tamarindo’s downtown streets are dotted with boutiques, souvenir shops, restaurants and bars that run right along the beachfront. With a world-renowned surf break, surfers from around the world seek out the waves found here on the central Pacific Coast. There are plenty of options for surf lessons too, from beginners to experienced, with expert championship instructors. This bustling beach town offers an array of outdoor activities like ATV and horseback riding along the beach, snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, plus offshore sport fishing. Fun-filled day trips to the interior will take you to visit natural caves, geothermic hot springs, white water river rafting or rainforest ziplining above the forest canopy. Many guided nature hikes including excellent birdwatching opportunities abound, as well as combination tours giving you the ultimate action-packed experience all in one day!

ATV Adventure - Single

Adventure, Extreme, Beach, Atv, Snorkeling

Embark on a thrilling Tamarindo ATV Adventure - Whether you're a novice or an experienced rider, our Tamarindo ATV tour promises an unforgettable off-road journey through the enchanting landscapes that surround Tamarindo. Costa Rica's natural beauty comes to life as you rev your ATV engine, offering a chance to witness the region's diverse and vibrant wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for playful ...

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Suggested age range: 16+

Barra Honda Cave Spelunking

Adventure, Hiking

If you want to do something truly different, you’ll want to check out the caves in Barra Honda National Park. You’ll hike through a rare protected dry forest before reaching the entrance to the cave system. Secured by a harness, you’ll make several vertical descents into various chambers using a series of fixed ladders attached to the cavern wall. Your guide will point out many types of r ...

Suggested age range: 7+

Borinquen Adventure Day

Adventure, Nature, Culture

This full day awesome adventure allows you to experience the remote “real” Costa Rica via horseback and zip lines over and through jungle, waterfalls, mountains, plains, canyons and ranches before relaxing in natural hot spring pools and mud baths. It doesn’t get much better than this!To begin, you will be picked up from your lodging and transported into a magical forest with hidde ...

Buena Vista Mega Combo Adventure

This is a full day combination tour featuring zip-lines or hanging bridges, hot springs, waterslide, natural spa, and horseback ride. This fun filled day has something for everyone, adrenaline seekers or nature lovers. Come with us and enjoy gliding through the forest during the canopy tour, then slide down the 400 mts. (1200 ft.) water slide, after these two activities, a delicious lunch will ...

Canopy Zipline - Congo Trails

Congo Trails features a thrilling high flying zip lining experience you won’t want to miss. Located in a protected forest preserve with abundant plant and animal life, this well established company provides an authentic encounter with Nature as you zip through the tops of a giant tree canopy just like the monkeys who live there. Custom engineered cables and back up lines ensure your safety wh ...

Suggested age range: 2+

Catamaran and Snorkeling Cruise - Lazy Lizard Sailing

Adventure, Nature, Romance

Here’s the perfect opportunity to experience the laid back Costa Rican lifestyle aboard a comfortable catamaran sailboat with super attentive crew as you are sailed over to a private beach to swim, snorkel, kayak, and walk or play along the shore. With fresh fruit drinks flowing, both the adult kind as well as for kids, you’ll relax and enjoy cruising over to a secluded tropical cove before ...

Suggested age range: 1+

Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling - Blue Dolphin

Adventure, Nature, Romance, Learning Family

Let’s go sailing for the perfect mix of relaxation, recreation and Nature! Aboard a comfortable 40 foot catamaran, you’ll be wined and dined as you cruise the blue Pacific coastline before dropping anchor at a beautiful secluded bay. Here you’ll enjoy options to snorkel, kayak, paddle board, swim, beachcomb or just laze around on deck. With courteous crew, open bar and delicious meal and ...

Catamaran Cruise and Snorkeling - Marlin Del Rey

Adventure, Nature, Beach

Aboard this 66 foot catamaran sailboat you’ll spend an amazing day cruising along Costa Rica’s Gold Coast. The attentive crew will pamper you with cold tropical drinks as you laze around the spacious deck enjoying the sun or finding a comfortable spot in the shade. Along the way you might like to use the trolling line to catch a fish. You’ll drop anchor in the bay of a remote island where ...

Coastal Kayaking and Snorkeling

Adventure, Snorkeling

The warm dazzling waters in Tamarindo bay invite you to jump in a kayak and paddle to a small tropical island where you can enjoy a guided underwater snorkeling expedition and relax on the beach. The fluctuating tour times are determined by the tide tables and can be scheduled ahead. The certified, bilingual guide is sure to win your favor by pointing out the available marine life on the day of ...

Congo Trails Canopy Zipline and Congo Park

Adventure, Nature, Learning Family, Zipline

Congo Trails is a unique experience located in a natural forest hundreds of years old. Zip lining high in the canopy of giant Guanacaste trees is amazing and there is a good chance you may see monkeys living in the trees here. If you miss them, you can have an up close and personal encounter with both Howler Monkeys and Spider Monkeys when you visit Congo Park, a certified wildlife refuge carin ...

Congo Trails Congo Park

Adventure, Nature, Learning Family

Congo Park is a small animal park with resident rescued monkeys and birds, a serpentarium and a petting zoo. Here you can see three different monkey species: Howler Monkeys, Spider Monkeys and White Face Capuchins. Typically there is a variety of birds in the bird sanctuary. And if you are fascinated by snakes, the Park showcases several different kinds of snakes endemic to Costa Rica.Ho ...

Early Bird Watching Tour

Nature, Learning Family, Birding, Wildlife Hike

With over 850 species of birds identified in Costa Rica, this is the place to do some serious bird watching! In a small group you will be led on an easy hike through a forest at a private farm early in the morning, then walk down to the beach areas to spot the many varieties of shorebirds. Along the way you will stop for breakfast. Your experienced guide with lots of local knowledge will be car ...

Suggested age range: 5+

Finca Verde Tour and Llanos de Cortes Waterfall

Nature, Learning Family, Culture, Hiking, Waterfalls

Experience the magic of nature with our "Finca Verde Tour and Llanos de Cortes Waterfall" excursion. Nestled in the northern rainforests of Costa Rica, Finca Verde is a family-run eco-tourism project that has transformed its land into an organic paradise over the past two decades. Here, ornamental and medicinal plants, along with organic vegetables, fruits, and herbs, thrive in harmony with nat ...

Hacienda Guachipelin One Day Adventure Pass

Nature, Romance, Zipline, Hot Springs, Canopy Bridges

Today you can mix it up with some of the best adventures Costa Rica has to offer including: zip lining, a Tarzan swing, hanging bridges, rappelling, waterfalls, rock wall climbing, horseback riding, hot springs, sauna, mud bath and a delicious traditional hot meal. All in one amazing day!Arriving by the provided transportation, you will be met by your certified, professional bilingual g ...

Suggested age range: 1 - 80

La Leona Waterfall

Adventure, Hiking, Waterfalls

Embarking on a journey to La Leona Waterfall in Costa Rica is an enchanting escapade into the heart of nature's magnificence. This expedition promises not only a visual feast of lush landscapes but also a physical and spiritual immersion in the country's rich biodiversity. The adventure typically commences with a moderate to challenging hike through tropical dry forests, an experience that itse ...

Suggested age range: 12+

Liberia City and Shopping Tour

This historical city tour will illuminate why Liberia has often been referred to as the white city, due to the many adobe houses and churches painted white with natural limestone paint paired with the white sandy roads of the past. Costa Rica is proud to show visitors the rich Colonial style buildings of its cultural heritage in this capital town of the province known as Guanacaste. After the w ...

Miravalles Volcano Combo Tour

Nature, Learning Family, Culture

Today’s exciting adventure will take you through the Guanacaste Mountains up to the Miravalles Volcano, its highest peak. From the base of this volcano you’ll go by horseback or horse drawn carriage to a nature trail where you’ll begin an easy guided hike. You will see various volcanic activities such as steam vents as well as bubbling mud and geysers. Along the beautiful forested hike yo ...

Offshore Sport Fishing 29 Ft. Boat - Full Day

Today you will enjoy a full day of offshore sport fishing on a 29 foot boat. You will be fishing for Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This full day, 8 hour tour includes transportation, boat captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, soft drinks and beer on board. Valid for up to 5 anglers. IMPORTANT! This service does not ...

Suggested age range: 8+

Palo Verde National Park and Lunch

Culture, Safari Cruise

Today you will go on the Palo Verde National Park tour. This tour starts off on a covered riverboat which will take you through the river in the national park. Palo Verde is a bird watchers paradise as it is home to the highest concentration of migratory birds in Central America. You will also have a great chance at viewing crocodiles, monkeys, and other wildlife. After the riverboat ride, you ...

Palo Verde National Park Tour

Nature, Learning Family, Safari Cruise

The Palo Verde National Park tour is a bird watcher’s paradise! Considered to be one of the most important wetlands in the world, this nature reserve with its seasonal flooding contains an abundance of migratory and native birds species alike. On this tour, you’ll journey down the Tempisque River on a covered sightseeing boat searching out a variety of wetland wildlife.Your trip will ...

PRIVATE Hacienda Guachipelin One Day Adventure Pass

Adventure, Nature

Today you can mix it up with some of the best adventures Costa Rica has to offer including: zip lining, a Tarzan swing, hanging bridges, rappelling, waterfalls, rock wall climbing, horseback riding, hot springs, sauna, mud bath and a delicious traditional hot meal. All in one amazing day! Arriving by the provided transportation, you will be met by your certified, professional bilingual g ...

Private Lupo Blue Boat and Yacht Charter - Half Day

Fishing, Romance, Beach, Snorkeling

Embark on an extraordinary half-day adventure with our Private Boat Charters, where the majestic waters await to offer you the ultimate experience at sea! Whether it's casting a line into the deep blue on a fishing tour, exploring vibrant coral reefs while snorkeling, or unwinding during a picturesque sunset cruise, our charters are designed to forge unforgettable memories. Set sail alon ...

PRIVATE Pacific Green Turtle Nesting Tour at Night

Nature, Beach, Learning Family

This tour is an opportunity to see giant sea turtles nesting in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Available from November through late March, the Pacific Green Turtle Nesting Tour is taken at night during the nesting season when the female turtles leave the Pacific Ocean and lay their eggs in the soft sand on the beach. The Pacific Green Turtle is a large sea turtle with an oval shell that can gro ...

PRIVATE Snorkeling Boat Tour

Imagine opening your eyes underwater and discovering yourself surrounded by friendly fish displaying a myriad of colors, shapes, and sizes. This private 3 hour guided tour will take you on a journey into the quiet magical kingdom of the Pacific Ocean where giant starfish dot the sandy bottom, curious pufferfish blow themselves into a ball at your arrival, and colorful angelfish dart all around ...

Rincon de la Vieja National Park Hike

Learning Family, Hiking, Waterfalls

This tour is designed for you to experience hiking at Rincon de la Vieja which is a national park surrounding the volcano of the same name. Translated, “The Old Woman’s Corner”, it stands well over a mile above sea level and last erupted in April of 2020. This is one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica and is surrounded by fumaroles, or steam and gas vents in the earth’s crust, ...

Suggested age range: 6+

Rincon Waterfalls Experience

Adventure, Nature, Learning Family, Hiking, Wildlife Hike, Waterfalls

Prepare for a day filled with immersive natural beauty and exhilarating experiences that will leave you in awe! Your adventure begins with an enchanting horseback ride through a captivating forest, leading you to the mesmerizing Las Chorreras waterfalls nestled in the heart of Rincón de la Vieja. These pristine waterfalls offer a picture-perfect view, immersing you in a world of pure tra ...

Rio Celeste and Tenorio National Park - Jacamar

Adventure, Nature, Romance, Learning Family, Hiking, Wildlife Hike, Waterfalls

The Rio Celeste Waterfall tour is a well sought-after hike that leads to a unique sky blue river and beautiful waterfall. You will see how the combination of two mineral-rich rivers creates the blue appearance of Rio Celeste. As an intermediate hike, it provides a good workout for people of most physical fitness levels.At the beginning of the tour, you will be picked up at your hotel and ...

Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike and Tubing on the River

Adventure, Nature, Learning Family, Rafting, Hiking, Waterfalls

Embark on a captivating adventure in Costa Rica by hiking to the Rio Celeste waterfall and later enjoying a thrilling tubing experience downstream on the same river. The journey begins with a scenic hike through the lush tropical rainforest of Tenorio Volcano National Park. As you trek along well-maintained trails, you'll be enchanted by the diverse flora and fauna that call this pristine ecosy ...

Rio Perdido Adventure Retreat

Adventure, Zipline, Hot Springs, Hiking

The Rio Perdido Adventure Retreat tour is simply amazing! Prepare for an unforgettable adventure that seamlessly blends nature's beauty with adrenaline-packed activities. Embark on a scenic hike, expertly guided, along one of our main trails, and relish the chance to immerse yourself in the crystal-clear river's refreshing waters. As you journey, the river's edge unveils multiple springs, turni ...

Safari Float Tour on Corobici River

Rafting, Safari Cruise

Today you will go on the Safari Float Tour on the Rio Corobici. This is a great tour for those that want the fun of whitewater rafting without the rapids. The safari float is done on a rafting boat, but at a much slower pace on a gently rolling river which creates a fun way to observe wildlife along the river edge. Please inform us if you weigh over 200 pounds as restrictions may apply. This 6 ...

Suggested age range: 4+

Santa Rosa National Park Tour

Nature, Learning Family

The Santa Rosa National Park tour is a great introduction to the history and amazing biodiversity that exists throughout Costa Rica. This National Park was founded in 1972 with the intention to preserve the largest remaining dry forest in the Neotropics. On this tour, you’ll go on a short guided hike of the forest, followed by a visit to Liberia, historically known as “The White City”, fo ...

Suggested age range: 3+

Scuba Diving Catalinas Islands

Scuba Diving Catalina Islands offshore coral and rock formations is the perfect way to capture colorful memories of your trip to Costa Rica. Whether it’s angel fish, octopus or eels you’re after, the spectacular array of marine life found living here is sure to catch your attention. Located on the Pacific coast of Guanacaste province, this is one of the most popular destinations for both ad ...

Suggested age range: 11+

Scuba Diving PADI Discover Scuba

The PADI Discover Scuba Dive in Guanacaste is for those who are eager to know what it is like to scuba dive but have not yet taken the PADI certification course, which is mandatory for most diving tours. This tour provides a great introduction to scuba diving and allows you to go for an ocean dive on the same day.The tour will begin when you are picked up from your hotel and driven to th ...

Suggested age range: 10+

Sportfishing 27 Foot Dusky Outcast - Full Day

Today you will enjoy a full day of offshore fishing on a 27 foot boat. You will be fishing for Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This full day tour includes boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, soft drinks and beer on board. Valid for up to 4 anglers. IMPORTANT! This service does not include the $17 USD fishing l ...

Sportfishing 27 Foot Dusky Outcast - Half Day

Today you will enjoy a half day of inshore fishing on a 27 foot boat. You will be fishing for Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This half day tour includes boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, soft drinks and beer on board. Valid for up to 4 anglers. IMPORTANT! This service does not include the $17 USD fishing license which must b ...

Sportfishing 38 Foot Topaz-Talking Fish - Full Day

Today you will enjoy a full day of Offshore fishing on a 38 foot boat. You will be fishing for Marlin, Sailfish, Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This full day tour includes transportation, boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, soft drinks and beer on board. Valid for up to 6 to 7 anglers. IMPORTANT! This service does not include ...

Sportfishing 38 Foot Topaz-Talking Fish - Half Day

Today you will enjoy a half day of Inshore fishing on a 38 foot boat. You will be fishing for Yellowfin Tuna, Dorado, Mahi Mahi, Snapper, Roosterfish and Wahoo just to name a few. This half day tour includes boat, captain, mate, bait, tackle, lunch, soft drinks and beer on board. Valid for up to 6 to 7 anglers. IMPORTANT! This service does not include the $17 USD fishing license which m ...

Standup Paddle Boarding at Flamingo

Standup paddle boarding, aka SUP, is one of the coolest new sports on the hot beaches of Guanacaste!  The tour starts off with a pickup at your local area hotel and then you will be brought to the Flamingo Marina to start your adventure.  Your bilingual guide will teach you the basics if you are not experienced and then you will be off. The concept of standup paddle boarding is to ...

Surf Lesson - Arenas Adventure Tours

Surfing, Beach

Surf Lessons in Tamarindo are taught at an ideal Costa Rican beach with regular gentle wave action for learning how to surf. Surfing is an activity well-loved by people of all ages. All you need are good swimming skills and a sense of adventure.The tour will begin when you are picked up at your hotel in Tamarindo or the surrounding area. If you are staying in Tamarindo, you may get picke ...

Surf Lesson - PRIVATE

Adventure, Surfing, Beach

Private surf lessons in Tamarindo is a great idea if you would like to learn or enhance your surfing ability with the one-on-one support of a professional instructor.Taking a private surfing lesson gives you individual personalized attention from the instructor and allows participants to have a more intimate learning experience. It is a great option for singles, couples or families who w ...

Tubing at the Rio Celeste

Adventure, Rafting

Tubing at Rio Celeste in Costa Rica offers an exhilarating and unique adventure amid the breathtaking natural beauty of the country. Rio Celeste, known for its striking blue color, is a stunning river flowing through the lush rainforests of Tenorio Volcano National Park, and on through the rural countryside, in the northern region of Costa Rica. The park is renowned for its captivating landscap ...

Whitewater Rafting Rio Tenorio

Adventure, Extreme, Rafting

Whitewater rafting Rio Tenorio is an exciting, adrenaline-pumping river adventure that is not for the faint of heart. The Tenorio River has Class lll and Class lV rapids that will keep you busy paddling your oars as you splash your way downstream. Whitewater rafting in Guanacaste’s beautiful tropical forest terrain is an exquisite opportunity to explore the wild rivers and jungles of Costa Ri ...

What are the best tours in Tamarindo?

Here are some of the best tours in Tamarindo:

Surfing Lessons: Tamarindo is renowned for its excellent surfing conditions, making it a perfect place to take surfing lessons. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are instructors available who can provide personalized guidance and help you catch some waves. Catamaran Cruise : Embark on a relaxing catamaran cruise along the coast of Tamarindo. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, spot marine life such as dolphins and turtles, and take in the breathtaking sunset views. Some cruises also include snorkeling opportunities and a delicious onboard meal. Kayaking : Explore the tranquil waters and hidden coves of Tamarindo on a kayaking tour. Paddle along the coastline, navigate through mangrove forests, and keep an eye out for wildlife such as birds, monkeys, and iguanas. It's a great way to connect with nature and enjoy some peaceful moments on the water. Riverboat Safari at Palo Verde National Park : Take a riverboat safari at Palo Verde National Park. Cruise along the Tempisque River and discover the park's diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, mangroves, and dry forests. Spot a variety of bird species, crocodiles, monkeys, and other wildlife along the way. Canopy Zipline : Experience the thrill of soaring through the treetops on a canopy zipline tour. Zip from platform to platform, enjoying bird's-eye views of the surrounding forests and even glimpses of the ocean. This exhilarating activity offers a unique perspective of the tropical dry forest's natural beauty. Hacienda Guachipelin Day Pass : Visit Hacienda Guachipelin, a working ranch near Tamarindo, and enjoy a day pass that grants you access to a range of activities. You can go horseback riding, take a dip in natural hot springs, hike to waterfalls, go tubing down the river, and even try your hand at rock climbing or rappelling. Visit to Rio Celeste Waterfall : Take a day trip to the enchanting Rio Celeste Waterfall, located in Tenorio Volcano National Park. Hike through lush rainforest trails and witness the stunning turquoise waters of the waterfall, created by a unique chemical reaction in the river. It's a magical sight that will leave you in awe. ATV Riding : Explore the rugged terrain surrounding Tamarindo on an ATV (all-terrain vehicle) tour. Ride through dirt trails, cross rivers, and navigate through forests, enjoying the thrill of off-road adventure while taking in the scenic landscapes. These tours offer a range of exciting activities and opportunities to explore the natural wonders of Tamarindo and its surrounding areas. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, wildlife encounters, or stunning landscapes, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant coastal town.

Unsure of what to do? Let us make you a free custom trip plan!

Marlin del Rey

Catamaran sailing tours in guanacaste, costa rica, catamaran tours at three locations.

• Most Popular
• Hour Glass 4 Hours
• Anchor Public Tour

Catamaran Tours – Playa Tamarindo

Start at Playa Tamarindo, glide along Costa Rica’s Gold Coast, and take in the beautiful views of beaches, bays, and jungles.

Catamaran Tours – Playa Flamingo

Our newest departure location in Playa Flamingo is now available. Take in the beautiful views of beaches, bays, and jungles. Enjoy some time for snorkeling as well! This relaxing four-hour sail is the perfect addition to your tropical vacation.

Catamaran Tours – Playas del Coco

Start at Playa del Coco, glide along Costa Rica’s Gold Coast, and take in the beautiful views of beaches, bays, and jungles.

• Users 25 - 30 People
• Anchor Private Tour

Half Day Private Catamaran Tours

Book your own private excursion for half the day along the northern pacific coast of Costa Rica, starting at 8 a.m. or 1:30 p.m.

• Users 40 - 75 People
• Hour Glass 8 Hours

Full Day Private Catamaran Tours

Book your own private excursion for an entire day along the northern Pacific Coast of Costa Rica starting at the time of your choice.

Marlin del Rey offers both open and private catamaran sailing tours in two locations—Playa Tamarindo and Playas del Coco in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

Enjoy a unique experience along Costa Rica’s Gold Coast as you glide past beautiful bays, beaches, jungles, and more, with a tropical drink in one hand and a camera in the other. Then, take a break to snorkel in the bay, walk along a white sand beach, or enjoy a delicious meal. Whatever you want your vacation to be like, we can help!

5-Star Rating on TripAdvisor

We booked thru our hotel and had a shuttle to coco beach. They are very organized and friendly boat staff. Great music, food and drinks. We saw flying fish, dolphins and stingrays. Ended with a beautiful sunset. We went on a Sunday and had 28 ppl on catamaran...I would go again!

We had a great trip, from prompt pick up on the shore to viewing the beautiful sunset and return to Coco beach. The food was good, crew was attentive, vessel was spotless too. I would highly recommend the trip to anyone wanted to have a great day of beautiful scenery.

What an absolutely fantastic day. There were almost 50 of us on board plus the crew. There is so much space that it never felt crowded once. These amazing men took care of us better than we ever could have expected - felt like Queens and Kings on our ship. The food was delicious, drinks were non-stop and the sights were breathtaking. Could not have picked a better thing to do!

This was by far the best organized tour that I have ever been on. The crew was courteous and helpful; especially Johann Gutierrez. As a Master Diver, he gave me tips on where and how to maximize my snorkeling experience on his waters..EVERYONE was treated like family. Thank you Johann, for everything you did to make this a lifelong memory!!

If you like boats, you should do this!!! Free, premium brand drinks and lunch included on this trip. Just bring your towel, sunscreen and sail. The guys on this catamaran know what they are doing and add some extra fun. The service provided by these guys is top level. The sunset tour is amazing! Great fun for sure.

• Destinations

The Best Tours in Costa Rica’s Beach Town of Tamarindo

Think the beach is the beginning and end of your adventures? Think again! Sailing, surfing, and diving are just the start of some of the top things to do in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. From exploring estuaries to horseback riding, and hot springs to jungle canopy tours, plenty of fun and adventure awaits you. Take a look at this amazing list and choose your own adventure...

38 Things to Do in Tamarindo

Go diving at the Catalina Islands to see one of the country’s most beautiful diving sites. Divers in this area often find themselves surrounded by schools of colorful fish, manta rays, and stingrays.

Head off for a day of sailing, snorkeling, and swimming on this tour. You’ll sail up the coast from Playa Flamingo and explore some of the Nicoya Peninsula’s most beautiful coastal areas.

On this tour you will go for a nighttime walk on the beaches of Marino Las Baulas National Park to look for green turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs. Instead of the park’s heavily trafficked Playa Grande, you will head for the lesser-known Minas or Jesus Nombre beaches.

Take a Tamarindo Sportfishing tour for big game fishing with the area’s most experienced captains on top quality sea crafts. Tamarindo, situated in the Guanacaste region, is Costa Rica’s closest point to the continental shelf, so your trip is spent catching fish instead of searching for them.

We will travel by ATV through the towns of the area of Brasilito and Flamingo crossing rivers visiting rural coast towns and enjoying the nature and wildlife of the tropics

On this tour, you’ll paddle around the Tamarindo Estuary and get a good look at the native wildlife. This estuary is between the Tamarindo Beach and Playa Grande.

Take surfing lessons in Tamarindo and live the fun with sun, beach and sand.

The beaches of Tamarindo, Costa Rica become even more beautiful when you take a moment to quiet your mind, and center your body and spirit. This one-on-one yoga session helps you transform the way you see and connect with the natural world in the span of an hour.

This tour of the Papagayo Gulf will take you along the coast of Costa Rica’s Guanacaste region. Guanacaste is a tropical region with abundant fish near its coast. You can book this tour as either a half-day or a full-day tour.

On this half-day tour, you’ll leave Playa Flamingo behind to find a secluded beach and a stunning place to discover underwater wildlife. Your guide will help you identify new species of fish.

Come join us a paddling adventure enjoying the spectacular views of flamingo bay, Catalina Island and Isla Plata.

This 2-hour tour takes you to some of the prettiest and most accessible beaches in Guanacaste. You’ll also get to try stand up paddleboarding , which will make you feel like you’re walking on the water.

This tour takes place on a series of zip line cables, and is designed to make you feel like you’re traveling through the rainforest like monkey. Along the way you’ll have a good chance of spotting some monkeys, as well as exotic birds.

This calm river is located in Guanacaste, near Liberia. This is an excellent river for families looking to float down a gorgeous and gentle jungle river, surrounded by nature and wildlife.

Indulge your adventurous side with a visit to the underground caves at Barra Honda National Park.

The Santa Rosa National Park is the site of Costa Rica’s most important monument, the Hacienda Santa Rosa. Known locally as La Casona , this monument marks the fall of filibuster William Walker and his professional mercenaries to a local peasant army in 1856. Today, La Casona is a museum dedicated to the memory of this battle. This tour will allow you to stop by and explore this historical sight.

Tamarindo Things to do

Attractions nearby.

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Tours in Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica

What was once a sleepy fishing village, Tamarindo is now one of the most popular beach areas in Guanacaste. With lots of shops, luxury hotels, restaurants and the classic pura vida feel, there is something for everyone. If you're looking to get down in the water, to surf, kayak, sailing, or sportfishing, Tamarindo is the place!

Just in case, If you want to arrange a personalized itinerary with several tours, please click the following button

About Tamarindo Tours

Tamarindo is one of the most popular and attractive tourist spots of Costa Rica. Tamarindo brings together a wide range and diversity and tourist elements to create a complete tourist destination in Central America. Currently known as one of the beaches with the highest commercial value in Costa Rica, Tamarindo has become a key area of Guanacaste. Here in Tamarindo you can find very high-quality hotels, restaurants, and a wide variety of tours and adventures, available to enjoy a wonderful vacation.

The beaches of Tamarindo are white sand and crystal waters. In addition, the beaches are surrounded by important habitats and ecosystems protecting many species, such as monkeys, sloths, raccoons, coatis, and many birds. The mangrove forest is one of the ecosystems which grow around the beaches of Tamarindo, where a huge number of reptiles and native or migratory birds live.

Among the tours that you can enjoy in Tamarindo, you will find options such as surf lessons, jet ski, ocean kayak, horseback riding, scuba diving, zip line canopy, among others ... Also, near Tamarindo we have Las Baulas National Park, which is one of the most important nesting wild corridors for sea turtles. Also, Tamarindo is an excellent option for sportfishing.

The Tamarindo experience and tours will give you an unforgettable vacation in Costa Rica!

Discovery pass Tour in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

Diamante's Animal Sanctuary is one of the finest Wildlife Education Centers in Costa Rica

Aerial Pass Tour in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

Rated #1 on TripAdvisor Diamante's zip line course is Costa Rica's best and only ocean view dual zip line

Adventure pass Tour in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

A Full Day to Experience Adventure, Nature & Culture

Horseback Riding Tour in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

Experience spectacular views, backcountry wildlife, and trails winding through a dry tropical forest

ATV Adventure Tour in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

ATV Tours in Costa Rica are a great opportunity to explore the land, mountains, and dry rainforest

Vandara Hot Springs and Adventure Tour in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

On this tour you can choose from horseback riding or a canopy tour before your visit to the Vandará Hot Springs

Miravalles Volcano Tour in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

Enjoy the most complete Volcano Experience in Costa Rica

Kayak and Snorkeling Tour in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

As you paddle, you can look around and see seafaring birds like brown pelicans, brown booby, magnificent frigate birds

Catalina Islands Diving Tour in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

Nudibranchs sharks, angelfish, jacks, snappers, grunts, octopi, and eels

Tenorio River Rafting Class III/IV in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

Tenorio River winds, churns, and flows for 15 scenic miles before merging with the Corobicí River

Río Celeste and Tenorio Volcano Guided Rainforest Hike Tour in Tamarindo & Guanacaste

This full day tour begins with a hike through a primary forest in the Tenorio Volcano National Park

✅ Tours in Tamarindo - Tamarindo Estuary Tours

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TOURS FROM TAMARINDO

Hourseback Ridding

Estuary Tours

Rincon de la vieja Tour

Tamarindo Hiking

Sloths And Waterfalls

Estuary and horses

Turtle Nesting Tour

Tamarindo Kayak Tour

Palo verde boat Tour

Rincon de la Vieja Tour

Estuary and horses, kayak tour in tamarindo, palo verde boat tour.

Expert in tamarindo tours

My name is David Rodríguez, owner of Tamarindo Estuary. I have more than 22 years of experience in the development tours in the Tamarindo area. It is my passion in life to share my knowledge and love for the Costa Rican nature and wildlife. Through my tours not only will you see and experience amazing scenery but learn a little bit more about this amazing place.

For our tours in the estuary and on the trails of Tamarindo, our boats and vehicles as well as their respective captains and drivers have their correct licenses required by the institutions of the State of Costa Rica. Land and boat tours also follow the proper safety policies required by the institutions of the State of Costa Rica. I am an authorized captain within the Las Baulas National Marine Park as well as any of my crew who will lead you through this beautiful park.

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Best Things to Do in Tamarindo and Tamarindo Tours

November 8, 2023 By Sammi 24 Comments

Are you pllanning to use Tamarindo as your home base in Costa Rica? This beach town in Guanacaste, Costa Rica has tons to offer for all travelers. Tamarindo’s convenient location, sweet surf breaks and laid back atmosphere is one not to miss.

For those who need a bit of help trip planning, here is a list of the best things to do in Tamarindo and Tamarindo tours. And if you want to do any day tours, click this link to get our Guanacaste tours discount!

What to Know About Tamarindo

• 1 hour and 25 minute drive from Guanacaste Airport. 4.5-5 hours from San Jose International Airp ort. Find out how to drive from San Jose to Tamarindo.
• Popular surfing beach town
• Has its own local airport 5 minutes outside town
• 4×4/4wd not required
• Yearly day time temperatures 80-95 F (26 – 35 C). Rainiest month is October. Hottest months are March and April. Driest month is February.

Map of Things to do in Tamarindo and Tamarindo Tours

Click here to go to our interactive map of tour operators, activities and other things to do in Tamarindo.

If you need ideas of an itinerary, here is our dedicated Tamarindo 5 days itinerary (7 days total).

Tamarindo is one of the premiere surfing beaches in Costa Rica, particularly for beginners. The beach has consistent waves so you can catch a wave every day. If you’ve never popped up on a board before, no worries. There are many surf shops in town that teach lessons and offer surf camps and vacations.

We did a surf vacation with Iguana Surf and it was a ton of fun. A group lesson costs around $55 USD per person for 2 hours. You can also book a private lesson. You can also rent boards for about $20 USD for 24 hours.

Since this beach is so great for beginners and there are waves nearly all year long, surfing is one of the must do things in Tamarindo!

If you’re an advanced surfer, you should take a surf trip to Witch’s Rock . When there’s a swell, waves get up to 6 feet, overhead with fast hollow tubes! On a small day, it’s perfect for longboarding.

Estuary Boat Ride

Tamarindo is not just the beach, there is actually a large mangrove and estuary as part of the Marino Las Baulas National Park. Locals have set up boat tours and kayak rentals so that visitors can explore the estuary and see monkeys, birds, crocodiles and more wildlife.

The estuary boat ride is one of the relatively cheaper things to do in Tamarindo and a great place to see wildlife in Tamarindo. It is around $40 USD per adult.

One of the best ziplining tours in Tamarindo is Black Stallion Estates. They have a fun zipline through the mountains right outside town. They also offer horseback riding and gourmet barbecue dinners, excellent for families and groups.

If you want to do a more exciting zipline, head to Diamante Eco Adventure Park , about 1 hour away. It has the longest ocean view superman zipline! Additionally, they have a wildlife sanctuary, botanical garden and cultural house for a full day of fun. (Get 10% off in the link). This is about a 1 hour drive from Tamarindo.

Sunset Sailing

What better way to experience the Pacific coast of Costa Rica than by going for a sailing trip? Head out on a catamaran to do a morning (better snorkeling conditions) or sunset tour to enjoy the open ocean.

On the way, you can may see dolphins, turtles or even whales during the right time of the year. Blue Dolphin and Marlin del Rey are two of the most popular sunset catamaran cruises in Tamarindo and cost around $95 USD per person for a sunset cruise.

A sunset sailing tour is one of the best things to do in Tamarindo for couples and families.

Scuba Diving

Just 30 minutes away from Tamarindo is the Flamingo marina, the launch point for scuba divers to go to the Las Catalinas islands .

You can get your scuba diving certification or if you don’t already have it, go on a discovery dive. They give you an hour of instruction before taking you for two tank dives and you have guides with you the whole time. At Las Catalinas islands, I saw whitetip reef sharks, manta rays, eels, dolphins and huge schools of fish. If you go in August or September, you may see humpback whales or turtles along the way!

Read more about my scuba diving experience here!

Tamarindo fishing is great nearly all year round and you can catch your dinner! Head out to the deep sea to catch fish like mahi mahi, wahoo and more.

Some companies to check out are Go Fish, CR Fishing Charters, Sea Breeze, Bluefishing Tours, Tamarindo Sport Fishing and Coyote Sport Fishing.

ATV tours are very popular in Tamarindo. They normally take you to back roads that lead to great viewpoints, through rivers and up the mountains. For anyone looking for an exciting adventure, an ATV tour is a must do thing in Tamarindo!

Watch the Sunset on the Beach

Last but not least, the one must do thing in Tamarindo is to watch the sunset on the beach. First, it’s completely free!

Second, Tamarindo’s sunsets are one of a kind and once you see one, you’ll be blown away!

When it hits around 5:30 PM, you’ll see everyone walk onto the beach with a camera in their hands. Rainy season sunsets are particularly intense as there are more clouds, turning the sky into rings of fire. Watching a sunset on the beach is one of the free things in Tamarindo!

Tamarindo Tours (Day Trips and Excursions)

There are many great day tours from Tamarindo that we highly recommend. Click here to get our Guanacaste tours discount for the following tours below!

Hacienda El Viejo

This private reserve and farm, Hacienda El Viejo Wetlands is right next to Palo Verde National Park and is perfect for a full day of culture, wildlife and nature. They offer safari boat rides, a cultural experience and rum tour.

The hacienda is about a 1.5 hour drive from Tamarindo one way. We offer a small discount for Hacienda El Viejo , click the link to request your tour!

Palo Verde National Park Boat

If you are traveling with seniors or anyone with limited mobility, this Tamarindo day trip is the best option for you to see wildlife! On this 1.5 hour safari boat ride in Palo Verde National Park in a covered motorized boat, you will be able to see all sorts of wildlife such as iguanas, crocodiles, bats, two types of monkeys, river birds and more.

This is also a great tour if you’re a birder as you can see lots of herons, kingfishers and other cool river birds.

If you have a car, we work with a guide that provides just the guide + boat + National park tickets + lunch (optional). It is a 1.5 hour drive one way from Tamarindo. If you need transportation, we also offer tours with transportation. If you like supporting local businesses in rural communities, this is a great tour to do so.

Rio Celeste

Hiking and nature lovers must visit Rio Celeste, the sky blue river in Tenorio Volcano National Park. It’s a 7 kilometers total hike (about 4 miles), 2.5 hour drive one way.

You’ll see the sky blue waterfall and river in the rainforest which is one of the most beautiful places in Costa Rica! Click the link to read more about it and plan your trip to Rio Celeste!

Rio Celeste is a 2.5 hour drive from Tamarindo one way. You can perfectly do this as a self guided day trip if you rented a car. If you need transportation, there are tours with transportation, lunch and national park tickets included. Get a discount for this tour in the link !

Rainforest and Sloths

Hike through the primary rainforest and spot sloths on this one day rainforest tour in Bijagua. This is excellent for those staying in Tamarindo for their entire vacation and want to see something different. You will be able to experience primary rainforest and see sloths!

This day trip is a 2.5 hour drive one way from Tamarindo.

Turtle nesting

The months of May – December are the best times to see turtle nestings at the Ostional Wildlife Refuge , about 2 hours one way from Tamarindo. 4×4 required.

To visit the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, you must go with a guide and have a reservation. If you have a car, you can contact the Asociacion de Guias Locales de Ostional(AGLO)Costa Rica Facebook page for reservations. It costs about $20 USD per person for a turtle tour.

If you need transportation, you will have to book with a tour company who can arrange transportation and the tour for you. Visitors must be accompanied with a guide into the refuge.

Arenal Volcano one day

Want to see rainforest and volcano? This one day excursion is very long but worth it if you do not plan to return to Costa Rica and want to see the lush tropical rainforest. You’ll also get glimpses of the impressive Arenal Volcano and enjoy the famous hot springs.

Gulf of Papagayo boating trip

This Playas del Coco private beach hopping and snorkeling trip is our favorite thing to do in Guanacaste. On a private boating trip, you will visit hidden white sand beaches and amazing snorkeling spots that other tours don’t go to!

The boat launch is from Playas del Coco (1 hour drive one way from Tamarindo) and is so worth it because there aren’t little bays and white sand beaches like this out of Tamarindo!

If you don’t want to drive that far, there are many snorkeling, fishing and sunset sailing tours right out of Potrero, Tamarindo and Flamingo.

Visit different beaches and beach towns

With so many great beaches around, it’d be a shame not to visit other beaches while in Tamarindo. You can take a boat ride across the estuary to Playa Grande , bike or walk to neighboring Playa Langosta . If you have a car, you can drive to Conchal and Avellanas .

Additionally, if you want to keep exploring beaches, head down further south to lesser known beaches such as Playa San Juanillo and Playa Junquillal. You can even go further down south to Nosara or up north to the La Cruz to see beaches like Playa Rajada .

No matter what, you’ll find a beautiful beach to lay a towel down on and relax and this is a cheap thing to do in Tamarindo.

Hacienda Guachipelin one day adventure tour

Looking for a fun full day tour with adventure, fun and relaxation? Head to Hacienda Guachipelin and embark on their super fun one day adventure tour. It includes ziplining, horseback riding, lunch, white water tubing, hot springs and mud baths!

The park is about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Tamarindo and you can drive yourself to the park or book a tour if you don’t have transportation. Read more about the Guachipelin one day tour here and book your tickets!

Another nice option for volcano and forest is the Miravalles Volcano tour with horseback riding, hiking, lunch, hot springs and mud baths. This area has way less tourists than Rincon de la Vieja Volcano so it’s a great option if you’re looking for something less touristy.

Rincon de la Vieja National Park

This national park offers a variety of excellent hikes from short easy paths to long more challenging trails. But each one offers excellent opportunites to see the dry tropical forest and nature!

Our favorite hike in the Rincon de la Vieja National Park is the Catarata La Cangreja trail but for those who are looking for something less sweaty, the Las Pailas (boiling mud pots) one is better as it’s barely 1 mile on a flat path. But if you to put your hiking shoes to good use, La Cangreja rewards you with an incredible waterfall!

You can hike on your own or book a tour with transportation and a guide. Having a guide does enhance the experience since you’ll learn more about the unique ecosystem and the Rincon de la Vieja volcano. Rincon de la Vieja is a 2.5 hour drive one way from Tamarindo.

Happy Hour and Nightlife

Being a touristic surf town, Tamarindo has a lively nightlife. Pacifico Bar and Crazy Monkey Bar are two popular places to drink and dance. Sharky’s Sport Bar always plays all the games and has live music, ladies night, karaoke, etc. during the week. There is a casino in town as well.

For a good time, you can also check out the Beach & Pool Crawl to party and drink with other young backpackers and surfers on Sundays.

For happy hour, check out Nogui’s (2 for 1 beer at 4 – 5 PM) or The Roof. El Be usually has live music, Barefoot Lounge has a nice happy hour by the pool.

Tamarindo Spas

Check out Coco Beauty Spa (nice massage) or Revive Wellness Center in Langosta Beach Club. For a more luxury experience, check out Los Altos de Eros spa (30 minute drive from Tamarindo). This hotel offers spa day packages, perfect for couples!

Things to Do in Tamarindo with Kids

Our recommended things to do in Tamarindo with kids is an estuary boat ride, surf lesson, boogie boarding, lots of beach and pool time and art classes at Paint Club.

Sample Itineraries

Some people stay in Tamarindo for their whole 1 week vacation, some just stay a few days. Thanks to Tamarindo’s excellent location, it would be perfectly fine to use it as your home base since it’s only 1 hour from Liberia International Airport and Tamarindo has its own local airport.

Hotel: If you are looking for a beach front luxury resort, check out our review of Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort . Feel free to contact us if you’d like to book a room!

Below are some sample itineraries. You can book tours or if you rented a car, go on your own.

Day 1: Surf Lesson , Happy Hour, Sunset

For your first day, take a surf lesson. The time will depend on the tide but lessons are 2 hours long. You can go shopping, walk on the beach and watch the sunset for the rest of the day. For lunch, we recommend the local restaurant Soda Estero to try Costa Rican food.

Then Witch’s Rock is a great spot for sunset happy hour and they have live music on some days. For dinner, you can eat at Witch’s Rock (Vaquero/Eat at Joe’s) or head to Mercadito or the Jardin Food Truck park.

If a surf lesson doesn’t peek your interest, check out an ATV tour.

Day 2: Ziplining All Day

Spend the full day on a fun all day adventure! You can either spend the whole day at Diamante Eco Adventure Park for ziplining, cultural tour, animal sanctuary and lunch or head to one of the adventure parks in Curubande de Liberia like Hacienda Guachipelin for ziplining, horseback riding, white water tubing, lunch, hot springs and mud baths.

For something closer, spend the day at Black Stallion Estates and go ziplining, horseback riding and enjoy their gourmet barbecue dinner (15 minutes driving).

Day 3: Relax, Pool, Beach Hop/Sunset Sail

Sleep in today, lounge by the pool, chill. You can go back to Tamarindo beach to swim and relax at the beach or check out Langosta beach. Then in the afternoon, you’ll go on a sunset sailing trip to watch the sunset, snorkel a bit and enjoy the beautiful coastal views.

For dinner, head to Dragonfly, Pangas or Aguas Saladas for a nice dining experience. We also like Green Papaya for tacos or Surf Shack for burgers.

Want to read about other things to do in Costa Rica? Check these posts out!

Things to do in Dominical/Uvita

10 Things to do in La Fortuna/Arenal

Things to do in Monteverde

Day Trips and things to do in Conchal

Things to do in Manuel Antonio

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Reader Interactions

January 26, 2024

Is it safe to drive from Tamarindo to Potrero in the dark? We’d like to stay for some night life then drive back to Potrero. Same for any area outside of Potrero, Coco, etc. Thanks!

February 1, 2024

Yes you can, it’s all on paved roads for Potrero-Tamarindo, a bit curvy but nothing treacherous.

Beth Jackson says

January 26, 2023

What months are the rainy season in the Tamarindo area and when is the best time to see whales?

You can check our Costa Rica weather post and Costa Rica whale watching post for information

Nancy Gulick says

February 14, 2020

Love this site . Family of 7 adults and 3 kids in CR over Christmas. I’ve rented a house on the beach and looking for a cook to do daily breakfast and maybe 3-4 dinners. Any thoughts would be appreciated

I have heard Tamarindo Sunset Catering is good.

Jackie says

November 3, 2019

I would like to do some snorkeling. Could you please explain more about where to go to rent equipment and the best areas to snorkel? Thank you!

yeison says

November 7, 2019

Hello Jackie,

Tamarindo is not the best area to do snorkeling (it’s more fir surfing) but there are many nice areas that you can go, if you want to access the best areas you can get a boat tour that leaves from Flamingo ( click here to find more information ) and get to know many areas that without a boat you will not see.

There are other good areas for snorkeling but they are located in the Papagayo Gulf 1 hour driving from Tamarindo where you will be able to rent the equipment right at beach (like in Playa Ocotal)

William Mack Brown says

July 16, 2019

Is there fishing in the esturary? How deep is it? Is all a national Park? I would like to bring a fishing kayak up there. Is that a good Idea? Thanks, Bill

July 17, 2019

Hi Bill, to be honest, I don’t believe you can go fishing in the estuary (never seen anyone fishing there). In Tamarindo the fishing is out on a fishing charter. You can go kayak fishing in Playas del Coco though straight from the beach, we used to do that.

DJ Densley says

January 26, 2019

Would you recommend doing the ATV tour in Tamarindo or Manuel Antonio?

January 27, 2019

We haven’t done them in Manuel Antonio so can’t compare, sorry. The Tamarindo one goes around the back of town up to some nice view points.

Deborah says

November 12, 2018

Hi, me and my family are planning a trip to Costa Rica because is my grandma dream, but we are lost because she is 86 years old and we don’t know how to do, she wants to see the greatness of Costa Rica but she can not be traveling in the car for far distances, so which place is the one that you recommend us the most so she can admire everything.

November 13, 2018

Hi Deborah, you can check this post out for best places in CR for first time visitors: Best places in Costa Rica

You will most likely find all the information you need in there to help you decide where to go (I break it down by distances from the airport, how tourist friendly it is, how to get there/around, things to do, hotels and more).

May 23, 2018

Are there any hot springs that aren’t too far for a say trip? Thanks!!

May 25, 2018

Hi Lizzy, the closest hot springs are up in Rincon de la Vieja like at Hacienda Guachipelin, Buena Vista and Rio Perdido, these are all adventure park hotels. We really like the Guachipelin hot springs and it is about a 1 hour and 20 minute drive from Tamarindo. They offer an all day adventure tour with hot springs which we highly recommend especially if you will be driving all the way up there anyways. It has ziplining, white water tubing, horseback riding, lunch, hot springs and mud baths. You can see what it’s like here: Hacienda Guachipelin combo adventure tour

For just the hot springs, I think the entrance is $20 or $25 per person.

March 24, 2018

What about food — any recommendations on where to eat?

March 25, 2018

Hi Naima! Yes we have a section for food recommendations in this post: Tamarindo Costa Rica guide.

February 5, 2018

Love your site. Staying in Brasilito till March 3. Do you know if leatherbacks are still nesting? Thanks for all the info.

Hi! No unfortunately they only had a handful last year 🙁 and the season is about to end and I don’t think they have seen very many either this season in Las Baulas.

Barbara Owens says

December 28, 2017

Can you suggest a favourite restaurant or soda for lunch in Tamarindo?

Hi Barbara, there aren’t many sodas in Tamarindo but there is one a little outside of town (I forget the name) a bit past the Witch’s Rock Surf Camp on the right hand side when driving out of Tamarindo. You can read more of our restaurant recommendations in this post: Playa Tamarindo

Miranda says

November 14, 2016

I like your suggestion surfing and Estuary Boat Ride, Thanks a lot for the tips.

November 15, 2016

You’re welcome!

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Tamarindo Estuary Mangrove Forest Boat Tour

• Glide along a three-mile network of canals
• See dry forest intertwine with the mangrove forest growing in the Tamarindo estuary
• Time Length : 2 hours
• Price : $35 per person
• What to Bring : binocular, camera and sunscreen

Soak up the striking scenery where the dry forest blends in with aerial roots and thick fleshy leaves of red, green and white mangroves as you explore Tamarindo’s only wildlife enclave! Hop on a 22-foot motorboat, and relax as your captain/guide gently takes you through three miles of wide-and-narrow water canals in search of wildlife.

Experience life in the mangrove forest! Monkeys and sloths camouflage in the tree tops looking for fruits and leaves. Below, birds feasting on baby fish, shrimps and crabs at low tide, sparkling flying fish come above the water surface calling the attention of the birds while still crocodiles float on the riverbank waiting for the right moment to catch a meal. Locals cast their lines hoping to catch a fish or two for their own meal or to sell.

As the tides meet the five river currents (Cata Solapa, Lomas, Viejo and La Garita) the water levels in the canal swell and the canals reflect dazzling landscapes from the dry forest and the mangroves. As the tides recede an underwater network of roots and wildlife is exposed to the naked eye with schools of baby fish, and those birds hunting for shrimps as well as baby crabs.

Tour departs from the end of the estuary located on the quiet north end of Tamarindo Beach where the boats moor.

Tamarindo Estuary Mangrove Forest Boat Tour in Pictures

Aerial view tamarindo estauary canals - costa rica.

Aerial View Tamarindo Estauary Canals And Mountains - Costa Rica

Aerial View Tamarindo Estauary Canal Loop And Playa Grande - Costa Rica

Boat On A Tour In The Tamarindo Estuary - Costa Rica

Heron In The Tamarindo Estuary - Costa Rica

Exposed Mangrove Root At Low Tide In The Tamarindo Estuary - Costa Rica

Man Fishing On Tamarindo Estuary - Costa Rica

Mangrove Fringed Riverbank In The Tamarindo Estuary - Costa Rica

Tamarindo Estuary Boats Anchored - Costa Rica

Monkey Moving On A Tree In The Tamarindo Estuary - Costa Rica

Crocodile Sunbathing On The Sand Tamarindo Estuary - Costa Rica

Termite Home Perched On A Mangrove Branch On Tamarindo Estuary - Costa Rica

Amaretto Water Canal In The Tamarindo Estuary - Costa Rica

Mangrove Canal In The Tamarindo Estuary - Costa Rica

Aerial View Tamarindo Estauary Canal Loop And Playa Grande Front - Costa Rica

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Maryola Tours

Boat tour operator, Tamarindo

Maryola Tours is a small family-run boat tour operator in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, specialising in aquatic tours. As owners of one boat in the ocean aswell as partnering with several other tour operators we can offer a great variety of tours. All of our guides speak both spanish and english. On some tours we can also provide swedish-spoken guide as the owners are from Sweden and Costa Rica. 

Your saftey is very important to us. All our boats are equipped with life jackets, fire extinguisher, first aid kit and comunication radio.

The boat in the ocean is a 27ft Liston with a 90hp Yamaha, 2022. It is equipped with a highly tecnological Humminbird GPS. We have all required permits and insurance. 

For each tour, Native’s Way has carefully selected guides who have extensive knowledge of the area to guarantee an authentic Costa Rican experience for you.

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Tamarindo Turtle Nesting Tour

Experience Turtles Nesting in their Natural Habitat

• INFORMATION

Book online now!

On this Tamarindo Turtle Nesting tour, you will have the rare chance to see Olive Ridley and Green Pacific sea turtles lay their eggs, and sometimes even see the babies hatching and going out to sea!

Chance to see Olive Ridleys and Green Pacific Sea Turtles Nesting

Chance of Seeing Baby Turtles Hatching

Local Bilingual Conservationist Guide

Transportation from selected meeting points

$47 per person

Children 5-10:

$37 per person

Private Tour:

2-3 People $95 per person

4+ People $75 per person

Experience:

• Leaving just after sunset, your guide will take you to a protected area located 30-40 minutes away.
• On this Tamarindo Turtle Nesting tour, you will have the rare chance to see Olive Ridley and Green Pacific sea turtles, dig their nests, lay their eggs, and sometimes even see the babies hatching and making their way out to sea! The professional tour guide will take you walking along some remote beaches just North of Playa Grande in search of the turtles as they arrive and dig their nests in the sand!
• Due to the sensitive nature of this naturalist tour, we prohibit the use of flashlights or flash on your cameras, but you may take pictures. A special red light will be provided by the guide that does not disturb the turtles.
• Turtles can be seen year round, but November to April is the peak season for turtle nesting.

Transportation Options:

Tamarindo Meeting point – 5:30pm @ Native’s Way Office – This is the first meeting point. Here you will join the transportation and drive approximately 30-40 minutes to the destination

Huacas Meeting point – 5:50pm @ Huacas Food Truck Park – If you are coming from areas like Flamingo, Playa Potrero or Brasilito, you can meet here and either join the transportation with the rest of the group or follow behind the transportation with your own vehicle. (Pick up is between 5:50 & 6:05pm depending on traffic)

Matapalo Meeting point – 6:05pm @ Matapalo Public School – If you are coming from areas like Matapalo or Playa Grande, you can meet here and either join the transportation with the rest of the group or follow behind the transportation with your own vehicle. (Pick up is between 6:05 & 6:15pm depending on traffic)

Meeting directly at the beach is not recommended due to the loss of cell phone signal.

Additional Transportation:

Please contact us if you would like to arrange additional transportation from the following areas:

• Hacienda Pinilla/JW Marriott: $90 (1-8 pax) / $110 (9-15 pax)
• Conchal (W/Westin Conchal), Brasilito: $80 (1-8 pax) / $100 (9-15 pax)
• Flamingo, Potrero: $100 (1-8 pax) / $120 (9-15 pax)
• Las Catalinas: $120 (1-8pax) / $140 (9-15 pax)
• Grande: $80 (1-8 pax) / $100 (9-15 pax)
• RIU Hotels Main Security Gate, Not the Lobby: $180 (1-8 pax) / $200 (9-15 pax)
• Playas del Coco/Hermosa: $180 (1-8 pax) / $200 (9-15 pax)

Special Notes

• Age limit – Children under 5 years old are not permitted to attend this tour. We need to remain very quiet and often there are extended periods of simply waiting and observing.
• Difficulty/Endurance level – There is not a long hike, however there are times where we move from one beach or viewing point to another. Standing around patiently is normal for this tour.
• Please reconsider booking if you have mobility issues, difficulty seeing in the night, recently undergone surgery, or have current physical injury
• The turtle season generally extends from Mid-November to Mid-April, however since this is a natural phenomenon, the season can start, slow or end without specific reason.
• A minimum of 6 people are required to operate. If we have not reached the minimum we will contact you 1 or 2 days before your tour to offer other options.

Cancellation Policy

Departure/return location, departure time, return time, not included, from our gallery.

Tour Location

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Native's Way

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RIO CELESTE TOUR

Upon arriving at the entrance, you will start out on a 2 hour moderately difficult hike in the park.

Along the trail you will walk through the rainforest and along the Celeste River, where you can observe one of nature’s most intriguing phenomenon.

Half way through the hike we will taking 104 step down to the amazing turquoise waterfall within the National Park.

After this beautiful site, you will continue hiking to where two streams merge together, turning clear water into a divine hue of turquoise that makes Rio Celeste.

This chemical reaction, due to the volcanic minerals, makes for an astounding sight that can only be experienced at this unique location.

This is where you will often see sloths and other wildlife. This hike is a fantastic opportunity for healthy exercise and unforgettable experiences in one of Costa Rica’s most unique hidden gems

Once we exit the National Park after completing the hike we will go to the town of Bijagua to have Lunch and see this sloths, toucan’s, reptiles, blue Morpheus butterflies.

• 2 Hour Hike in Tenorio Volcano National Park
• Visit to Organic Farm with Sloths & Frogs
• View Wildlife and Local Flora
• Costa Rica Lunch
• Bilingual Naturalist Guide
• Stunning view of Turquoise Waters of Rio Celeste
• Door-to-door service: Pick-up and Drop-off at your hotel

Special Notes

Not recommended for participants with heart complaints or other serious medical conditions

A moderate amount of walking is involved

Departure Time: 6:30am

Includes: Bilingual Guide, Transportation door to door pick up, Entrance fees at the Park –Hike in the National Park to Rio Celeste and Teñideros & Lunch.

What to wear & bring:

Comfortable clothes and shoes, bug spray, camera, binoculars, sunblock lotion.

$140 per Person

(shared option) min. 4 Pax

$265 per Person

Private Transfer/shared Activities – min. 2 pax

Write in the comment section which option do you prefer

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Centro Comercial Galerías del Mar. local #1, Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. 50309

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• Destinations
• Frequent Questions

What Makes Tamarindo One Of Costa Rica's Most Beautiful Destinations

Quick links, what to know before going to tamarindo, tamarindo's beautiful beaches & the fun things to do there, the town is an excellent spot for sport-fishing, surfing in tamarindo, there are several costa rican national parks near tamarindo, planning your trip to tamarindo.

• Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is a popular vacation spot known for its stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and excellent nightlife. A must-visit destination for adventure seekers and beach lovers.
• The best time to visit Tamarindo is from mid-November to August, with prime weather and opportunities to see leatherback and green sea turtles nesting in the area.
• Tamarindo offers a wide range of activities, including inshore and deep-sea fishing, surfing for all skill levels, and exploring nearby national parks with abundant wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Start planning your trip to this incredible destination now.

Tamarindo, Costa Rica, began as a modest fishing community but is now one of the most visited places in the Guanacaste province. A typical day in Tamarindo will see about 500 people strolling its streets. Nonetheless, during the peak tourist season, the number might rise to almost 5,000.

Tamarindo has a wide variety of places to stay, eat, and drink, and the main street, lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants, is an entertaining must-visit. Yet the town's most attractive feature is its stunning beach, widely regarded as one of the world's finest spots for surfers and other athletic beachgoers. Factoring in the golden beach, breathtaking sunsets, and lively atmosphere, it's clear that Tamarindo is the ideal destination for vacationers.

UPDATE: 2023/08/28 21:01 EST BY JAIMEE TERESE

What Makes Tamarindo, Costa Rica So Special?

Costa Rica holds the top position for the safest country in Latin America, and one of the most beautiful destinations in Costa Rica is Tamarindo. With an array of attractions, including stunning beaches, world-class surfing, multiple national parks, excellent nightlife, and easy access from the United States, it's no surprise that Tamarindo is one of the most popular vacation spots in Costa Rica.

Related: 10 Of The Nicest Beaches To Visit In Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Tamarindo, conveniently located just 45 minutes from Liberia International Airport, makes the journey stress-free and promises a wealth of adventure. It's no surprise that Tamarindo, located in Guanacaste, has plenty of dining options serving local specialties. A terrific time to visit is during one of the many festivals held throughout the year, such as the BPM Festival, when the streets come alive with music, dancing, and delicious food.

What is the Best Time of Year to Visit Tamarindo

Weather-wise, mid-November through August is a prime time to explore Tamarindo. From November to April, when leatherback and green sea turtles nest in the area around Playa Grande, it becomes a popular tourist destination.

The Tamarindo Marathon, held annually in September, is a significant tourist draw for the town. Those looking to avoid crowds, however, should give these dates a miss.

One of Tamarindo's biggest draws is its abundance of beautiful beaches. Visitors can reach beautiful beaches like these in a matter of minutes from the city center, and they are just as good as any of the other Northern Pacific Coast beaches in Costa Rica. Playa Tamarindo, or Tamarindo Beach, is a popular destination due to its beautiful scenery and the relative calmness of its waters during low tide, making it a great place to go swimming. This beach is also a popular spot for surfers , as it has waves suitable for novices. Other popular activities that are enjoyable for both adults and children are snorkeling and people-watching.

Playa Grande, located north of Tamarindo and within the confines of Marino Las Baulas National Park , is exceptionally picturesque and spotless, thanks to the strict regulations. The public can access the beach during the day. However, leatherback turtles nest there; thus, visitors should be cautious. Playa Grande is an excellent place for those interested in seeing any of these elusive animals, but it might not be the best area for beach volleyball or a stroll at midnight.

In addition to the stunning beaches, this area is a fishing mecca due to the high quality of the inshore fishing and the ease of access to world-class deep-sea fishing. Located at Costa Rica's westernmost tip, travelers can reach the country's continental shelf and deep waters in just half an hour's boat ride. During the green season from May - November, offshore fishing is excellent. During this time, sportfish such as marlin, sailfish, and yellowfin tuna are the significant species in the waters of Tamarindo, with some individuals weighing in at over 250 pounds.

The rugged, volcanic shoreline and rich marine life of the islands near Tamarindo make it an ideal location for inshore fishing during the dry season too. Whether one is fishing for snapper and grouper at "The Coral," a submerged volcanic reef, or for wahoo and roosterfish off the coast of the Catalina Islands, the action never ceases.

Related: A Travel Guide To Costa Rica: 11 Things To Know While Planning Your Trip

Surfers have been flocking to Costa Rica for decades, with the country's Pacific and Caribbean coasts both rich in high-quality waves. The warm tropical water, lush jungle backdrop, and white-sand beaches further add to the appeal. Tamarindo is one of the most popular surfing destinations in Costa Rica, thanks to the variety of waves on offer and the consistency of the surf. From heaving slabs to mellow longboard peelers, surfers of all skill levels can enjoy the waves of the region.

Is Tamarindo Good For Beginner Surfing?

In short, yes. The green season (April - October) sees the biggest waves thanks to the predominant swell direction at this time of year. Even during these months, there are beginner-friendly breaks in Tamarindo. The dry season sees calmer conditions, which can be more conducive for learning both for the waves and for the lighter crowds. In either case, novice surfers should always take a few lessons to get to know the local breaks. Here are some popular options for surf lessons in Tamarindo:

• Witch's Rock Surf Camp
• Iguana Surf
• Tamarindo Surf School
• Kelly's Surf Shop
• Tamarindo Surf Lessons
• Pacific Surf School
• Neptuno Surf Shop & Surf School

The region's national parks and animal refuges are other major draws. The Marino Las Baulas , National Park in Playa Grande, is ideal for kayaking and hiking and features a mangrove swamp and coastline. Numerous endangered species call this national park home, including over 150 kinds of birds and a population of leatherback sea turtles that utilize the area's beaches to lay their eggs. The famous Monkey Park in Portegolpe is only a half-hour drive from the city. The park is run by a non-profit organization that has made itself available to the native species of Costa Rica to meet their needs for rehabilitation and eventual release.

With all the amazing things to do and see in Tamarindo, all that's left to do is start planning a Costa Rican vacation. Here are a few tips to get started:

• Flying to Tamarindo: Those who want to fly to Tamarindo may do so via several airlines. While Guanacaste Airport (GUA) is just about an hour away from Tamarindo, some tourists fly to the much-distant San José International Airport (SJO) , which is a little over a four-hour journey away. Guests can also take a domestic flight to Tamarindo Airport , which will get them there faster but will cost more.
• Where to stay in Tamarindo: There are numerous dining and entertainment options available at the expansive Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort , including four restaurants, four bars, a casino, and a spa. The beach bar and nearby pizzeria are great options if you're looking for somewhere to eat or grab a drink. Guests will appreciate the resort's proximity to the Marino Las Baulas National Park , which is less than a mile away.