Choose Your Own Adventures.

We want everyone to enjoy Costa Rica at their own pace!

If you're looking to explore, here are a few of some favorite ways to experience tamarindo:

looking for a little adventure? we recommend native’s way costa rica, a local tour company in tamarindo offering everything from smooth nature tours to extreme adventures. they can help you find and book whatever fits your vibe.

You can explore their full list of activities and book directly at nativeswaycostarica.com, or call their toll-free U.S. line at 1 (800) 605-2806.

some popular options...

- The Mangrove Estuary Boat Safari: A calm, shaded river boat cruise to see wild monkeys, crocodiles, and exotic birds. Perfect for families and all ages with zero hiking required.

- Catamaran Sunset Cruise: A relaxing afternoon sail on a large, stable catamaran with an open bar, food, snorkeling, and sunset views.

- Adrenaline & Day Trips: They also offer ziplining, ATV tours, surfing lessons, volcano hikes, and trips to local waterfalls if you want to get active.

we recommend booking your favorite activities in advance once your travel plans are set!

Playa Langosta (The Calm Side): The main beach in town can get wavy. If you want a quieter day with smooth, flat sand and massive, warm shallow tide pools at low tide, this is your spot.

Getting there: Take a 5-minute taxi or rent a golf cart (highly recommended!). It's a bit too far to walk in the heat.

tamarindo beach: the easiest and most convenient option, right in town with plenty of restaurants and activities nearby.

playa conchal: a beautiful day-trip option for clearer, calmer water.

try a traditional costa rican "soda"

Skip the tourist traps and head to a Soda (traditional family-owned kitchens) to get a Casado—the staple local plate of fresh fish/chicken, rice, beans, and sweet plantains.

some local favorites...

- Soda La Marimba: Hands-down the best authentic local flavors in town. Very casual, high quality, and close to the town center.

- Soda Marcela: A traditional, relaxed local spot famous for its fresh catch of the day and hearty portions.

- Tropic Tamarindo: Traditional Costa Rican flavors with an elevated, modern twist in a beautiful outdoor garden setting.

The main strip of town is completely flat and easy to walk. Drift through the local boutiques and grab a scoop at Central Gelato.

Hacienda Pinilla Course

A world-class 18-hole championship course right on the Pacific coast, located 15–20 minutes south of the villa. You will need a taxi or shuttle to get there since it is too far for the town golf carts. Rental clubs are available at the pro shop, and you can book afternoon tee times for cheaper twilight rates.

Email golf@haciendapinilla.com a few weeks in advance to secure your spot.

el vaquero beach bar hosts family-friendly beach bonfires on the sand. it is completely casual and features live music and great food right next to the waves. it is the perfect spot to grab a drink, watch the sunset, and let the kids play in the sand by the fire. no reservations needed.

check their current bonfire and live music schedule during your stay.

🛺 Getting Around: While the town center is walkable, renting a gas golf cart for the weekend is the ultimate move. It makes zipping down to Playa Langosta's tide pools or hitting the grocery store effortless and fun.

How to Book: Reserve a few weeks early at nativeswaycostarica.com or call their toll-free U.S. line at 1 (800) 605-2806. They will deliver them straight to the villa. Drivers must be 21+ with a valid license and passport.

⚠️ Staying Safe: costa rica is very safe, and tamarindo is a welcoming tourist beach town. as with any destination, normal travel precautions still apply. we recommend leaving expensive jewelry and valuables at home and keeping personal belongings secure while out and about.

if your hotel or villa is tucked into the hills outside of the main walkable town strip, keep a trusted local taxi number handy for getting around, especially at night.