Tamarindo
Costa Rica
Attractions & Events in Tamarindo
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Top Attractions
ATV Tours to Nearby Beaches
Guided ATV tours exploring the rugged backcountry and secluded beaches around Tamarindo, offering a mix of adventure and scenic beauty.
Tips: No prior ATV experience is necessary; wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to get dusty.
Canopy Vista Tamarindo
An adventure park offering exhilarating zip-lining experiences through the tropical dry forest, providing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Tips: Suitable for families and adventure seekers; morning tours offer better chances to spot wildlife.
Guaitil Indigenous Village
A traditional village home to Chorotega artisans, renowned for their ancient pottery-making techniques passed down through generations.
Tips: Visit local workshops to observe the pottery-making process and purchase unique handcrafted souvenirs.
Las Baulas Marine National Park
A protected area renowned for being one of the world's largest nesting sites for endangered leatherback sea turtles, offering opportunities to witness turtle nesting and explore diverse ecosystems.
Tips: Visit between October and March for turtle nesting season; guided tours are required for nighttime turtle watching.
Marlin del Rey Catamaran Tour
A half-day sailing excursion along the Pacific coastline, featuring snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a sunset sail with a fresh buffet and drinks.
Tips: Book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons; bring sunscreen and a swimsuit.
Monkey Park
A private wildlife refuge dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating native animals, providing visitors with close-up encounters with monkeys and other wildlife.
Tips: A great educational experience for families; consider donating to support their conservation efforts.
Playa Grande
A pristine beach within Las Baulas Marine National Park, famous for its consistent surf breaks and as a nesting site for leatherback turtles.
Tips: Access is limited during turtle nesting season; check local guidelines and consider visiting with a certified guide.
Playa Tamarindo
A vibrant beach known for its golden sands, excellent surfing conditions suitable for all levels, and a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants and shops.
Tips: Ideal for beginner surfers; surf lessons and board rentals are readily available along the beach.
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
A vast national park featuring the active Rincón de la Vieja volcano, hot springs, waterfalls, and diverse hiking trails through tropical forests.
Tips: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water; some trails can be challenging and the park is about a 2-hour drive from Tamarindo.
Volcano Brewing Company
Tamarindo's beachfront craft brewery offering a selection of locally brewed beers, delicious food, and live music in a relaxed setting.
Tips: Try their signature Witch’s Rock Gato Malo dark ale; evenings often feature live music performances.
Events & Festivals
Tama Fest
A week-long festival featuring music, gastronomy, rides, and rodeos, culminating in a New Year's Eve party.
When: December
Tips: Book accommodations early due to high demand during the holiday season.
BPM Festival
A multi-day electronic music event featuring world-renowned artists and DJs.
When: January
Tips: Purchase tickets in advance and check the festival's official website for lineup updates.
Ocaso Underground Music Festival
An electronic music festival showcasing local and international DJs, emphasizing sustainability and environmental protection.
When: January
Tips: Participate in the beach cleanup day to support environmental efforts.
Tamarindo Art Wave Festival
An annual celebration of creativity featuring visual arts, performances, and installations from local and international artists.
When: January
Tips: Check the festival's schedule for specific event times and locations.
Tamarindo Music Festival
A summer event featuring a mix of local and international artists across various music genres.
When: July
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good spot and enjoy the full lineup of performances.
Tamarindo International Surf Film Festival
A two-night event featuring surf film screenings, food, music, and raffles, benefiting local non-profit organizations.
When: March
Tips: Buy advance tickets at local venues to secure your spot.
Tamarindo Beach Marathon
An annual marathon event offering various race distances, attracting runners from around the world.
When: September
Tips: Register early and train adequately for the tropical climate conditions.
Tamarindo Moonlight Market
A weekly night market showcasing local crafts, international cuisine, and live entertainment.
When: Year-round
Tips: Visit on Thursday evenings to experience the vibrant local culture.