Tamarindo is a lively beach town on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast in Guanacaste, known for its long stretches of golden sand, excellent surf, estuaries rich with wildlife and lively bars and restaurants. Once a sleepy fishing village, it’s now a popular spot for beach lovers and surfers, although there are still quieter corners to escape to. The best places to stay range from laid-back beach hotels to stylish boutique retreats, with Cala Luna standing out for its chic rooms, tropical setting and lovely location within walking distance of the beach.
Tamarindo is all about long beach days, good food and getting out on the water. Spend the morning surfing or swimming at Tamarindo Beach, then head to quieter Langosta Beach for a more relaxed afternoon. Nearby Grande Beach is an important nesting ground for leatherback turtles, while boat trips along the estuary offer a good chance of spotting howler monkeys and crocodiles. There’s also excellent fishing and snorkelling, plus plenty of restaurants, beach bars and little shops to explore once the sun goes down.
Scroll down the page for our full selection of recommended hotels in Tamarindo or, for a look at different areas, read our guide to the best places to stay in Guanacaste.
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Tamarindo (Guanacaste)
A contemporary boutique hotel boasting an enviable location just steps away from white sand Playa Langosta. Chic rooms, suites and villas are light and airy with soft hues, plenty of glass and luxurious bathrooms. Excellent restaurant, poolside bar and pampering spa treatments. Fabulous.