What to do in Playa Tamarindo

When we arrived at Liberia Airport in Costa Rica Melissa and I were ready for some sun and relaxation.  The first destination on our honeymoon itinerary was Playa Tamarindo and it fit our needs perfectly.  This chill beach town is most famous for hordes of surfers in search of monstrous waves or at least beginner lessons in surfing.  It is considered an ideal base for the sport because there are different waves in various locales to suit the needs and experience of all levels of surf-thusiasts. 

The areas just north and south of Playa Tamarindo are also hot surf spots making the region one of the most important on the Pacific Ocean circuit.  Of the many beaches, river mouths, and reefs some notable spots include Witches Rock and Ollie’s Point.  Surf schools and lessons in and around Playa Tamarindo can help get new surfers on their feet.

Canopy tours, rafting rides, and guided hikes through the forest are all within easy reach of Playa Tamarindo.

What to do in the sea near Playa Tamarindo

While surfing on the Pacific Ocean is a major draw, it is not the only way to get wet and enjoy the sea in Costa Rica.  Water rafting tours float adventurers through forests that are slightly inland and are often coupled with other activities.  Sportfishing is another traveler’s pastime with options including single or multiple days.  The seafood in Costa Rica is delectable and your catch may wind up on your dinner plate.  Scuba divers and snorkelers can find plenty to see in the ocean.

Watching other people surf is an excellent way to enjoy the sunset.  Surfers drift horizontally.  They glide along the water’s surface silhouetted against vibrant reds, pinks and purples.  People-watching on the beach at Playa Tamarindo is always surprising since the beachtown attracts everyone from international backpackers, locals toting dogs and children, and foreigners renting timeshares and condominiums.  For a break from the crowds search out other beaches like scenic Playa Avellanes.

Monkeys visit the beach at Playa Tamarindo on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica.

What to do on dry land near Playa Tamarindo

As in much of Costa Rica, there are scores of options for exploring dry land from the ground and above.  Horseback riding takes visitors up to ridges, through mountains, and around volcanoes.  The Guanacaste province is famous for its Casagua horses.  Riders can take leisurely tours exploring pastures, creeks, and mountains and enjoy a sunset barbecue.

For those who’d like to observe animals rather than ride them, there are many options.  Nature tours put wildlife enthusiasts in the path of howler monkeys, iguanas, sloths, hummingbirds, and the colorful national bird, the quetzal.  Naturalists make the best guides and ensure that if there are animals around they’ll find them.  There is a monkey park/wildlife refuge nearby, and donations are always appreciated. 

If adventure is what you seek then aventura you will find near Playa Tamarindo.  Canopy tours, also known as zipline tours, afford explorers the chance to glide through forests covered in fauna.  Fly by dense vegetation with a local company that offers safety demonstrations and equipment.  Metal cords are anchored to giant trees like Strangler Figs.  Most tours include between six to twelve ziplines, options to swing like a pendulum, and a chance to repel straight down.  Check to make sure that numerous guides are on hand to assist zippers.  Canopy tours are often combined with half a day on an ATV or guided hikes on metal catwalks with panoramic views of the jungle. 

After communing with nature and flying past greenery, discover one of many spas offering yoga, massages, mud baths, and general pampering.  Whether you surf yourself or vicariously through others, Playa Tamarindo offers exciting sea, land, and air options.  Visit this town on the Pacific coast and discover why many people return again.

This post was sponsored by Horizon Pacific Vacations.  They specialize in vacation rentals.