Where to Eat, Shop and Play in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Whether you’re in search of adventure, relaxation, or a taste of the local culture, Tamarindo’s beautiful beaches and equally beautiful sunsets, welcoming community, and endless options for food and fun make it a must-visit in Costa Rica. To help you make the most of your stay, here’s a curated guide to the town’s best spots for eating, playing, and shopping, bringing you closer to Tamarindo’s true character and charm.

Is Tamarindo, Costa Rica worth visiting?

Tamarindo is a lively beach town nestled on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica in the province of Guanacaste. Known for its unique blend of laid-back charm and vibrant party atmosphere, Tamarindo has become a top destination for travelers seeking a balance of relaxation and excitement. This popular spot offers a mix of activities, dining, and shopping options, as well as a range of accommodations, making it ideal for visitors looking to unwind or explore. Although it can feel tourist-driven during peak season, Tamarindo still holds authentic experiences for those who know where to look.

How to get to Tamarindo from Liberia airport

There are several transportation options to suit different preferences and budgets when traveling from Liberia’s Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport to Tamarindo.

1. Shuttles: Shuttles are a cost-effective alternative, transporting multiple passengers between common destinations. Fares range from $20 to $39 USD per person, depending on the provider and schedule. It’s advisable to inquire about potential additional charges if the shuttle isn’t fully booked.
2. Public Bus: For budget-conscious travelers, public buses are the most economical choice, with fares around $3 USD. The journey involves taking a bus from the airport to the Liberia bus terminal, then transferring to a bus heading to Tamarindo. The total travel time is approximately 2 to 4 hours, depending on connections. This method requires some familiarity with local bus schedules and may involve longer travel times.
3. Taxi: Taxis are readily available at Liberia Airport and offer direct transportation to Tamarindo. The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, with fares ranging from $90 to $120 USD. While convenient, this option is more expensive compared to shuttles or buses.
4. Car Rental: Renting a car provides flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. The drive from Liberia Airport to Tamarindo is approximately 67 kilometers and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes.

The best restaurants, bars and cafés in Tamarindo

In downtown Tamarindo, you’ll find multiple restaurants and cafés, all within walking distance and each with its own charm. There are dining options for every taste, from authentic local meals to internationally inspired fine dining—some with live music and tropical settings. Tamarindo is a gem on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, providing good reason to explore its rich flavors and vibrant atmosphere.

• Start your day right with breakfast at Breakfast Grinds, where you can join locals upstairs for a well-priced meal overlooking beautiful Tamarindo Bay.
• For a Costa Rican coffee experience, pair a freshly baked pastry with a fragrant cup at Café Tico.
• If you’re in the mood for an authentic Costa Rican meal, head to the woman serving food from her car in the town center, just across from Hotel Diria. Around noon, you’ll find both locals and tourists in line, ready to enjoy hot, homemade traditional food. Be sure to ask for a “casado,” a hearty dish that blends rice, black beans, fried plantains, cabbage salad, a vegetable (usually squash), and your choice of chicken or fish.
• For a refreshing mid-afternoon treat, grab a fruit smoothie at Pura Vida Smoothies in the outdoor food court for about $2.50, or enjoy a Costa Rican Michelada—a chilled local beer with lime juice.
• For a laid-back vibe and a classic burger and fries, stop by Surf Shack.
• At Green Papaya, you can relax on swing seats and enjoy “after-surf healthy food” in a fun atmosphere.
• Tamarindo also has several fine dining options, catering to international tastes with fresh, local ingredients; try La Pachanga, Seasons, or Langosta Beach Club for tried-and-true favorites.
• If you’re looking for something unique, check out Volcano Brewing Company for a locally brewed craft beer, often served alongside live music.
• For casual, fresh dining in a vibrant setting, head to Jardín Tamarindo Food Truck Park to try different cuisines among tropical gardens.
• At RURAL, expect high-quality ingredients and a farm-to-table vibe.
• El Pelicano is another great place for seafood lovers, with fresh ingredients and local flavors that embody Costa Rica’s culinary charm.

Where to play in the Guanacaste province

Tamarindo is the perfect place to learn how to surf, and for experienced surfers, it’s one of the top Costa Rica surf spots with waves suitable for all skill levels. With several surf shops throughout town, it’s easy to set up a lesson, and Blue Zone Surf School is a great option for families. Prefer swimming to surfing? Try a SNUBA Costa Rica adventure, where you can swim among rays, whales, and other sea life in the clear water. If you prefer to stay on land, explore La Senda’s double labyrinth for a memorable evening experience.

For nature lovers, Guanacaste’s national parks and wildlife refuges are a big draw. Take a canopy tour or explore Marino Las Baulas National Park in nearby Playa Grande, home to over 150 bird species and the largest nesting ground on the Pacific Coast for leatherback sea turtles. Another spot worth visiting is Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, about an hour from Tamarindo, with waterfalls, natural hot springs, and unique volcanic landscapes.

The Tamarindo Estuary is also accessible from town, providing a habitat for crocodiles, iguanas, crabs, and monkeys. A kayak or boat tour here offers a unique chance to observe Costa Rica’s diverse wildlife up close. Nearby, the valleys of Santa Rosa offer horseback riding, zip-lining, and farm-to-table dining, while Llanos de Cortez Waterfall and Poza los Coyotes are beautiful spots to relax and connect with nature.

A sunset sailing trip along the coast on a catamaran is a must for anyone wanting a breathtaking end to their day. And for those interested in diving, Catalina Islands, located just 30-40 minutes off the coast, offer clear waters filled with diverse marine life like manta rays, sharks, and vibrant schools of fish.

Shopping in the town of Tamarindo

Tamarindo has no shortage of souvenir shops, but for unique finds, explore these local favorites. EK Art Jewelry offers handmade silver and gemstone jewelry, while Girlfish and Azul Profundo have breezy beachwear for this trip and the next. Pick up a book for your flight home at The Bookstore of the Waves and discover a story by a local author. If you’re in town on a Wednesday or Saturday, visit the Tamarindo Feria (Farmer’s Market) for artisan foods, crafts, and other handmade goods.

Where to beach in Tamarindo bay

For those looking to soak up the sun, Playa Avellanas offers a serene atmosphere with yoga centers and local eateries, while Playa Ventanas provides a quieter, more secluded experience surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Both beaches give a refreshing contrast to Tamarindo’s bustling main beach, allowing for moments of relaxation and connection with Costa Rica’s nature.