25 Best Things to Do in Tamarindo, Costa Rica (2026 Guide)

Tamarindo has grown fast, but the best experiences still feel wild and authentic. You can surf at sunrise, spot monkeys by afternoon, and finish with oceanfront dining under the stars.

If you stay at Villa Solstice inside Hacienda Pinilla, you get the best of both worlds: quick access to town and a peaceful private retreat to return to each night.

Water adventures worth planning first

Most travelers come to Tamarindo for ocean time, and for good reason. Conditions are beginner-friendly in some zones and advanced in others, so families and experienced surfers can both have a great trip.

Surf Playa Grande and Playa Langosta

Playa Grande (north) usually has stronger, less-crowded waves. Playa Langosta (south) is a reliable option for intermediate riders.

First-timers should book lessons with a reputable surf school. Instructors can help match beach conditions to your level.

Snorkeling, diving, and sunset catamarans

Catalinas Islands offers excellent snorkeling and diving with rays, turtles, and reef life. Advanced divers can look into Bat Islands in the right season.

Sunset sailing tours are perfect for mixed groups. They combine calm cruising, optional snorkel stops, and some of the best Pacific sunsets in Guanacaste.

Nature and wildlife near Tamarindo

Costa Rica’s biodiversity is one of the biggest reasons people return. Even short outings can become a highlight.

Marino Las Baulas and turtle season

Between October and March, guided night tours near Playa Grande give visitors a chance to witness leatherback nesting activity.

It’s an unforgettable experience, especially for families with older children interested in wildlife and conservation.

Hacienda Pinilla trails and estuary life

Inside Hacienda Pinilla, you’ll often see howler monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds on quiet trails. Sunrise estuary paddles near Tamarindo are also a favorite for birdwatchers and photographers.

“Tamarindo is best experienced in layers: ocean in the morning, jungle in the afternoon, and open-air dining after dark.”

Adventure, culture, and food experiences

Beyond the beach, Tamarindo has enough variety for longer stays.

Active experiences

Zip-line tours, ATV routes to hidden beaches, and horseback rides at sunset are all popular and easy to arrange. Sport fishing charters also run year-round, with different target species depending on season.

Food and local scene

Thursday night markets, farm-to-table restaurants, and casual beach bars give Tamarindo a lively social rhythm. You can keep it simple or go upscale — both options are strong.

Wellness and reset time

The region is equally strong for slower days. Yoga studios, boutique spas, and beach walks make it easy to balance adrenaline with recovery.

Many guests say their favorite day was the one with no plan at all — just the villa pool, long meals, and time together.

The full 25-activity list (quick scan)

Water

• Surf Playa Grande & Langosta
• Snorkel Catalinas Islands
• SUP in the estuary
• Scuba at Catalinas/Bat Islands
• Sunset sailing cruise

Nature

• Marino Las Baulas National Park
• Rincón de la Vieja day trip
• Hacienda Pinilla monkey spotting
• Wildlife night tour
• Palo Verde birdwatching

Adventure

• Zip-line canopy tours
• ATV hidden-beach tours
• Sunset horseback riding
• Sport fishing charters
• Golf at Hacienda Pinilla

Food & culture

• Tamarindo night market
• Cooking class with a Tica chef
• Craft beer tasting
• Farm-to-table dining
• Coffee farm visit

Wellness

• Ocean-breeze yoga classes
• Hacienda Pinilla Beach Club
• Spa treatments
• Sunrise walk at Avellanas
• Unplug day at Villa Solstice

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