Tamarindo
Surf, sunsets and Costa Rica's most established beach-town expat scene.
About Tamarindo
Tamarindo is the best-known beach town on Costa Rica's northern Pacific coast, a former fishing village that has grown into a lively hub for surfers, vacationers and expats. It pairs golden-sand beaches and consistent waves with restaurants, nightlife and one of the country's largest English-speaking communities.
Cost of living
As a popular beach town, Tamarindo sits at the pricier end of Costa Rica's cost-of-living range — rents and dining run higher than the Central Valley, though you can still live well below US coastal prices.
Climate
Hot, sunny tropical climate with a pronounced dry season (roughly December–April) and a greener, rainier stretch from May to November.
Is Tamarindo right for you?
For visitors
Travelers come for reliable surf, sunset beach bars and easy day trips to nearby beaches, wildlife reserves and Guanacaste's national parks. Liberia's international airport is about an hour and a half away.
Plan a Costa Rica trip →For expats & retirees
Tamarindo draws remote workers, retirees and entrepreneurs who want an active social scene and turnkey beach living, with established expat services, real-estate agents and bilingual healthcare nearby.
Top things to do in Tamarindo
- Learn to surf or chase waves at the main beach and Playa Langosta
- Watch the sunset from a beachfront restaurant or bar
- Take an estuary boat tour to spot birds, monkeys and crocodiles
- Day-trip to nearby beaches like Playa Conchal and Playa Flamingo
- Go sport fishing, snorkeling or stand-up paddleboarding
- Explore Las Baulas National Marine Park and its nesting sea turtles
Property in Tamarindo
Real estate ranges from condos and beach-town rentals to ocean-view homes; demand from vacation-rental investors keeps prices among the higher in Guanacaste.
This guide is general information, not legal, tax or investment advice. Always verify clear title and work with an independent local attorney.
Other destinations
Compare more of Costa Rica's most-loved towns.
Manuel Antonio
Where rainforest, wildlife and white-sand beaches meet.
La Fortuna / Arenal
Volcano views, natural hot springs and waterfall adventures.
Monteverde
Misty cloud forests, hanging bridges and canopy zip-lines.
Nosara
A Blue Zone wellness haven for yoga, surf and a slow, healthy pace.
Atenas
Famous for the 'best climate in the world' and a longtime retiree favorite.
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