Family-Friendly Costa Rica: Planning a Tamarindo Vacation with a Baby

Thinking about traveling to Costa Rica with a baby or toddler? Here’s one thing we know: You’re definitely in for an unforgettable adventure! And we’re here to help make it the good kind of adventure. Luckily, family-friendly Costa Rica is a pretty easy ask – almost everything is family friendly! – and Tamarindo, with its warm beaches, kid amenities, and laid-back vibe, is the perfect place for your family vacation, even (or especially) with a little one in tow.

Whether you’re seasoned family travelers or this is your first big trip as parents, we’ll fill you in on what you need to know to ensure a fun, safe, and stress-free experience in Costa Rica – especially here in Tamarindo.

Why Tamarindo is Perfect for a Family-Friendly Costa Rica Getaway

If you’re not familiar, Tamarindo is located on the north-Pacific and is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, great area beaches (both surf and swim), and a vibrant travel culture. Add to that an abundance of nature, wildlife, and kid-friendly activities, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a dream destination for families.

So, let’s start with that – with a few of the top reasons why Tamarindo is perfect for you and your baby:

• A Natural Playground: Tamarindo’s beaches are stunning, and many of them are calm enough to enjoy with your little one. Plus, with so much lush greenery and wildlife, you might even be lucky enough to spot sloths, monkeys, and other fascinating animals, all from the safety of your arms!
• Fresh Food Galore: Costa Rica’s tropical climate means fresh fruit is abundant, perfect for baby-led weaning, whizzing up purees (check that your vacation home has a blender!), or finger foods. Whether you’re stopping at a local restaurant or shopping at the market, you’ll always find something fresh and delicious to feed your little one.
• Welcoming Culture: Costa Ricans, or “Ticos,” are known for their warmth and hospitality. You’ll find that Ticos adore babies and often go out of their way to make your family feel comfortable, from making faces at your baby while waiting in a line, trying to get a giggle at a restaurant, or conducting almost any everyday activity.
• Easy Access to Essentials: Traveling with a baby means you need access to baby gear, and Tamarindo has you covered. Whether you need to pick up diapers, formula, or baby food, the area’s supermarkets are well-stocked with familiar brands. (See below.)
• Childcare Services: As an extremely family-friendly destination, of course Tamarindo has stacked on some parent-friendly services, including nanny/childcare. Be sure to ask our concierge, Cris, for more details1

Navigating Baby Gear in Tamarindo

When you’re traveling somewhere far away with a baby, packing light is key! Fortunately, you can rent nearly everything you need before you even arrive in Tamarindo; just ask, and we’ll help you coordinate everything! From cribs and strollers to highchairs and car seats, baby gear rental companies will help make your stay as easy as possible.

Here are some tips to make baby gear logistics a breeze:

• Rent a Car Seat: If you’re planning to rent a car, most rental companies offer car seats as part of the package. However, if you prefer to bring your own, Costa Rican taxis and shuttle services are happy to accommodate them.
• Pack Light, Rent Gear: It’s easy to rent larger items like cribs and highchairs, which means you can avoid overpacking. Many of Costa Rica private villa rentals will either have these items on hand or can coordinate to secure rentals prior to your arrival.
• Baby Carrier or Stroller?: Tamarindo is generally jogging stroller-friendly – note, you’ll definitely want an articulating front wheel to help navigate bumps and unpaved roads – especially if you plan to walk through town, go to the beach, or hit the supermarket. However, for hiking or exploring Costa Rica’s national parks, you’ll want to bring a baby carrier, as most trails are decidedly not stroller-accessible.

Feeding Your Baby

Whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, or a combination of both, you’ll find Tamarindo a breeze when it comes to feeding your baby. Here’s what to know:

• Breastfeeding: In Costa Rica, breastfeeding is widely accepted, including in public, and you’ll likely see plenty of moms breastfeeding openly. Here, you can feel comfortable nursing your baby wherever you are, whether it’s on the beach or at a local café.
• Formula Feeding: Formula is readily available in Costa Rican supermarkets, and you’ll find familiar brands like Enfamil and Nutramigen. Just be aware that the packaging may be in Spanish, and specific formulas (ex. for allergies) may not be available, so having a translation app can be helpful. You can also bring your own formula if you prefer the comfort of familiarity.
• Dining Out with a Baby: Costa Rican restaurants are generally very family-friendly. Highchairs are available in most places, and baby-loving staff will often go out of their way to accommodate your baby’s needs. Local dishes like “casado” (a combination of rice, beans, salad, and meat) are nutritious and can be easily adapted for little ones. Don’t forget to pack a suction plate and sippy cup for your baby to make mealtime easier!

What to Do in Tamarindo with Your Baby

Tamarindo’s laid-back vibe makes it such a great choice for your family-friendly vacation. Whether you want to explore the trails, hit the beach, or take a day trip to nearby attractions, there’s plenty to do not just with a baby in tow, but with your baby.

• Hit the Beach: Tamarindo Beach offers soft sand and plenty of shade, shallow waters, and gentle tidepools, making it ideal for a day out with your baby. Pack sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, and enjoy some playtime in the sand.
• Nature Walks: While some of Costa Rica’s more rugged trails may not be suitable for strollers, there are plenty of easy nature walks where you can see wildlife like howler monkeys, sloths, and tropical birds. The nearby Las Baulas National Marine Park is a great spot for a relaxed stroll with your baby in a carrier.
• Day Trips: Looking for a short day trip? Consider visiting the nearby beaches like Playa Avellanas or Playa Conchal. They’re both a quick drive from Tamarindo and offer calm waters that are perfect for families.

A Few Precautions to Take

One of the biggest worries for parents traveling with a baby is staying safe and healthy while abroad. The good news is that Costa Rica has excellent healthcare, clean water, and fresh, healthy food. That said, here are a few tips to ensure everyone stays healthy during your trip:

• Bottled Water for Baby: While the tap water in Costa Rica is safe to drink, babies are often extra-sensitive, so we’d recommend giving your baby filtered or bottled water to avoid any tummy issues.
• Stay Sun Safe: We’re pretty sure you’ll love Tamarindo’s sunny weather, but remember that the rays are strong here. (We’re close to the equator!) Be sure to pack plenty of baby-safe sunscreen, a sunhat, and lightweight clothing to keep everyone protected and comfortable in the heat.
• Plan for Jet Lag: Depending on where you’re flying from, your baby may experience some jet lag. To help adjust to the new time zone, try to keep your baby on a consistent sleep schedule, and be flexible with naps during the day.

Where to Stay

Looking for family-friendly Costa Rica accommodations? We have just the homes.

One of the best ways to experience the country, and especially a coastal town like Tamarindo is in a Costa Rica private villa. Our vacation homes offer space, privacy, and the flexibility you need when traveling with a baby. Many villas come with private pools, kitchens (perfect for warming bottles or preparing meals), and even the option to hire a private chef or nanny/childcare service.

A Costa Rica private villa allows you to create a home-away-from-home environment, giving your baby a quiet space to nap while you relax by the pool or enjoy the sunset with your family. Plus, with easy access to baby rentals in Tamarindo (more on that later), you won’t have to bring a lot of extra gear.

Casa Maui

Tamarindo | 3 bedrooms | 3 baths | 6 guests

A beautiful and ultra-modern home, Casa Maui is designed to exceed expectations and charm hearts. As soon as you step inside, you’re greeted by enormous sliding-glass panels that seamlessly blend the indoors with the outdoors, allowing natural light to flood the home and showcasing Guanacaste’s stunning jungle panoramas.

In addition to its gorgeous architecture, Casa Maui boasts fine amenities, including a private swimming pool, gym room, and media room. Best of all, the home is just across the street from Tamarindo Beach, famous for its surf, and Pangas Beach Club, voted one of Travel & Leisure’s 20 once-in-a-lifetime restaurants with spectacular views.

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Soul House

Playa Langosta | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Baths | 14 Guests

Create lasting family memories at Soul House, a stunning Balinese-inspired villa nestled in the peaceful community of Playa Langosta, just a few minutes from Tamarindo. This spacious home is designed with families in mind, offering comfort and privacy for everyone. The second-floor apartment provides an ideal space for grandparents or parents seeking a little extra quiet time, while the open layout ensures plenty of room for the whole family to gather.

Step outside into a lush tropical oasis where the private pool, shaded seating areas, and vibrant gardens invite relaxation and fun. Spend sunny afternoons splashing in the pool with the kids, hosting a family barbecue, or simply lounging in hammocks and enjoying the ocean breeze.

Inside, the villa’s modern design, bright spaces, and high ceilings offer a serene retreat after a day of adventure. Large windows fill the home with natural light, creating a welcoming ambiance. Gather around the firepit to share stories, enjoy a quiet moment in the garden, or simply relax in the comfort of Soul House, where family connection and relaxation form the heart of your stay.

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Casa Quebracho

5 Beds | 6 Baths | Sleeps 12

Casa Quebracho is the ultimate destination and a great reason to press go on your out-of-office message – a tropical haven designed for pure indulgence and relaxation, especially after enjoying some family-friendly Tamarindo excursions.

This property features a main house and two detached suites, making it perfect for a family getaway or a group of friends who want to spend time together while also having their own private spaces. Each luxurious bedroom is equipped with a king bed, a Smart TV, and air conditioning, ensuring you can either binge-watch your favorite shows or enjoy a restful night’s sleep in comfort.

Your private paradise includes a stunning pool, ideal for sunbathing or taking a refreshing dip without ever leaving the property. Located in a secure gated community, Casa Quebracho is just minutes from the vibrant heart of Tamarindo and the beach. You’ll also be close to charming cafés, exquisite dining options, lively shops, and captivating cultural attractions. It’s the perfect balance: close enough to enjoy all the excitement, yet far enough to retreat to your peaceful sanctuary when you’re ready for a break.

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Villa Estrella Azul

Playa Langosta | 8 Beds | 6 Baths | Sleeps 18

Situated just minutes south of downtown Tamarindo, Villa Estrella Azul offers the ideal balance: accessibility to all amenities paired with just enough distance from bustling crowds. This gem among Tamarindo villa rentals exudes the exclusivity of a private boutique hotel rather than a mere residence.

With its eight opulent bedrooms, a state-of-the-art kitchen fit for a gourmet chef, and an exquisite infinity pool, Villa Estrella Azul promises more than just luxury. Nestled a stone’s throw away from Tamarindo Beach, this property boasts one of the most enviable entertainment spaces around. Your private backyard features a pool with a gradual depth transition, surrounded by ample shaded verandahs and an intimate yoga pavilion.

Amplifying the outdoor experience, the estate offers a ping-pong table and alfresco dining amenities, complemented by a gas grill and a brick pizza oven. Engage in a spirited ping-pong round while the day’s fresh catch grills to perfection. Relish your meal, and afterward, indulge in a languid swim or a rejuvenating nap under the canopy. Every choice promises delight, even if choosing is a delightful challenge.

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Seeking More Family-Friendly Costa Rica Fun? 

That just happens to be our concierge, Cris’s, specialty!

She’s an expert in travel, relaxation, and tours in Tamarindo, Costa Rica: Digging beneath the surface and reaching beyond the norm, Cris not only makes it her job to know Tamarindo (and its restaurants), but to get to know you, too! She’s like a real-life guidebook who expertly overlays Tamarindo’s most iconic experiences and must-do adventures with your needs, preferences, and plans. What’s more, she’ll work with your budget.

It begins with our welcome packet, which you’ll receive after you make a booking. It’ll introduce you to many of our favorite things, so have a look. Start building your wish list. And then, talk to Cris and let the fun begin. It’s part magic, part expertise. Go ahead, pick Cris’s brain! She can’t wait to hear from you!

Posted on 09/27/2024 in Tamarindo Vacations