Playa Tamarindo

What was once a tiny and secluded beach where people went to watch turtles nest has become a well to do suburbia of expats from all around the world. Much has changed about the beach town of Playa Tamarindo, but the beautiful beaches that made it so popular years ago are still drawing in the crowds today. Thanks to new airports, bridges, and roads, Playa Tamarindo is becoming one of the most popular up and coming destinations in Costa Rica.

Location

Playa Tamarindo is located 171 miles directly south of San Jose on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. Travel time from San Jose is between four and half hours to five hours.

How to Get to Playa Tamarindo

Buses leave from the Empresas Alfaro office starting at 3:30AM, 5:45 AM, and 1:00PM. The bus ride from San Jose usually lasts around five hours.

Weather

Weather on the Pacific coast is about the same as on the Caribbean coast, hot and humid. From May to October expect very regular rainfall throughout the day. The temperature here stays pretty regular year round. The only difference in temperature comes from the altitude.

What To Do

Originally, Playa Tamarindo was made popular by tourists who wanted to view nesting turtles. If this is your thing, you will want to make sure your travel plans are during the summer months from October to March, as these are the turtles most active months.

Surfing is another big attraction for Playa Tamarindo. If you are heading here to ride the waves, you will want to visit during the rainy months of September and October. The increase in rain usually results in bigger swells and waves.

Nearby Parque Nacional Marino Las Baulas is a popular place to not only view the Leatherback Turtles, but a wide array of other animals. The park is open daily, but if you want to view the turtles, you will want to make a reservation.

Where to Stay

Backpackers – Hotel Coco Rico is a budget friendly hostel that is located close to Playa Tamarindo and even closer to plenty of bars and hangout spots.