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Costa Rica Digital Nomads: Welcome to a Remote Work Paradise
Heard about the recent updates regarding Costa Rica digital nomads? The new visa (not really, see below!) is officially in place and applications are being approved. You could apply today and call Costa Rica home by next month!
Costa Rica Digital Nomads: The Requirements
Because Costa Rica digital nomads apply for an estancia (a “stay”) rather than full-fledged residency – more on the differences, below – the requirements are easy and straightforward.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Income from Outside Costa Rica: You’ll be required to show proof of income for a minimum of $3,000 (single applicants) or $4,000/month (couples and families). Note that your income must derive from sources outside Costa Rica.
- Health Insurance: Because you’re not a resident of Costa Rica, you won’t have access to the public healthcare system, known as the Caja or CCSS. As such, you will be required to demonstrate proof of insurance for a minimum $50,000, which must cover the full duration of your stay in Costa Rica.
- Copy of Your Passport: This is your official ID document. You must provide a copy of your photo page and entrance stamp (Immigration) to Costa Rica.
- Payment: There is a $100 application fee. Speaking of which…
- Official Application: The government has made this wonderfully easy; you can apply online! Visit the official Tramite ¡YA! online portal for full instructions. If you don’t speak Spanish, be sure to click the flag at the top-right of the page to choose English.
Additionally, if you’re married and/or a family and applying for a joint Digital Nomad estancia – as in, applying for the $4,000 joint visa, rather than applying separately for the $3,000 (each) single visa – then you’ll have to supply a few additional documents:
- Certificate of Marriage or Civil Union: This documentation must be issued within the last six (6) months.
- Birth Certificates for Dependent Minors: If you’re moving with children or dependents, you will be required to provide their birth certificates.
- Sworn Declaration of your Bond and Coexistence: This is a form letter.
If any of your documentation is issued in a language other than Spanish, note that it will require official translation. (Official translation = through a translator that has been certified by the Costa Rican government. They’re easy to find. Ask us, if you need a point in the right direction!)
Note that the Digital Nomad estancia, often called the Digital Nomad Visa (it’s not really a visa), tacks on an additional 6-to-12-month extension to your initial Immigrant entrance stamp, which is usually given for 90 days. You may also extend your digital nomad visa for an additional year.
What’s the Difference Between the Digital Nomad Visa & Residency
This is a topic long enough to warrant its own article or chapter in a book, but not because the digital nomad visa is so complicated; it’s residency that’s at fault here. Costa Rican residency has so many categories, options, updates, and requirements, it can be hard to keep up!
The big difference is that the digital nomad visa is not residency. Therefore, you have fewer hoops to jump but your benefits aren’t as comprehensive, as this isn’t intended to be a permanent status. If you plan to stay more than two years, which is the current maximum for digital nomads, then you’ll want to look into residency.
Anywayyy, the big differences come down to bits and bobs that won’t matter (much). For example, while residents can get a Costa Rican driver’s license, digital nomads are permitted to drive for the duration of their legal stay on their home license. Digital nomads don’t pay into or have access to public healthcare (but you will have insurance). Digital nomads won’t be granted major tax exemptions if they ship household goods (because the assumption is that you won’t); you will, however, be permitted to import work-related electronics and technology tax-free. You’re also exempt from Costa Rican income tax (residents aren’t).
There are a few other differences, too, but they’re minor. Get in touch if you have specific questions!
The Best Places to Work Remotely in Costa Rica
We know that this is a big, important, and popular question but unfortunately, we can’t answer it. You have to answer it.
What we mean is, Costa Rica is generally a great place to work remotely. Unless you pick the most far-flung, rural destination, you’ll probably have access to the basics of a comfortable home, reliable electricity (do buy a battery UPS backup; the thunderstorms here can be impressive!), and high-speed internet.
Do note, however, that fiber-optic internet is available only in certain areas of the country. They’re the most populous and affluent areas, so many digital nomads naturally gravitate that way anyway, but it’s something to keep in mind. If you absolutely require fiber-optic internet or a redundant connection (ex. cable and fiber-optic), then you’ll want to start there, as it’ll reduce your potential pool of home bases.
From there, the big question is beach or mountain? Because Costa Rica towns are generally divided into one or the other: you’re either close to sea level and near the beach, or you’re climbing the mountain into cooler weather. What’s your lifestyle – do you lean one way or the other? Do you want to try out both? You can do that! You’re a digital nomad, after all.
Our forte is beach life, obviously. More specifically, the beach lifestyle of Guanacaste and Tamarindo. We think this is a great place to live, for a few reasons:
- The Beach: We are definite beach people! And there’s nothing quite like doing our jobs as we watch the Pacific, or swing in a hammock, or bury our toes in the sand…
- The Lifestyle: It’s all one country but Costa Rica’s beach lifestyle and mountain lifestyle are very different. In a nutshell, the mountains are a bit more go-go-go and accordingly have heavier traffic (especially in the Central Valley). The beach, on the other hand, is more laid-back. And we came to Costa Rica to lay back a little.
- The Weather: This one’s not about the beach but rather, about Guanacaste’s beaches. In a country where there are only two seasons (rainy and dry), we live in the least rainy province. And come every May through November, we’re really happy we do.
- Tamarindo: In a lot of Costa Rican towns, the difference between the beach and the mountains comes down to a question of convenience. And the Central Valley mountain towns have most of the convenience! Enter Tamarindo, our little mini-metropolis – and at just over a mile long, it is mini – that has everything from the top import-friendly grocery store to dozens of restaurants and nightlife. We have nearly everything we need within walking distance and what’s not here, we can find at a max 90-minute drive to Liberia.
Now, speaking more to specifics. Let’s talk about how you could live in Tamarindo. Costa Rica digital nomads often prefer condo living, as it blends the economy and convenience of a shared space – often, with a better location and more striking views than you’d find in a single-family home! – with the amenities you really want to call your own, like swimming pools, outdoor grill kitchens, and paths to the beach.
Here’s what we mean:
Ibis Condo 6
Tamarindo | 2 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 6
This 1,377-square-foot luxury condo is exactly what digital nomad singles, couples, or small families love: Spacious, upscale, and just across the street from the beach. That’s steps to the sun, the surf, the sand, and the glorious lifestyle that Costa Rica digital nomads so often seek.
What’s more, rent includes a Beach Club membership (bougie!), there’s a gourmet kitchen, and this home offers 100 MB fiber-optic internet with battery backup for your modem and router.
>> Inquire <<
Sunrise 31
Tamarindo | 3 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7
Need a little more space? This wonderful condo will immediately feel like home, thanks to all the little things: spacious interiors, free parking, a private balcony, and an oversized resort pool, paired with easy walking distance to all of Tamarindo’s restaurants, bars, shops, and nightlife.
What’s more, you’re across the street from the beach and just a 5-minute walk to some of the best sunsets in Costa Rica. And, of course, your home comes with 100 MB fiber-optic internet with battery backup for your modem and router.
>> Inquire <<
Need More Info on Being a Digital Nomad and Living in Costa Rica?
Whether you’re already nomad-ing or are just starting to plan your move to Costa Rica, we’re here to help you through the process. Ask your questions. Tell us your priorities. And let’s make your remote work dreams a reality.
We offer everything from cozy two-bedroom condos to well-priced family vacation rentals equipped with swimming pools, a fully equipped kitchen, and so much more. Search our inventory to find your perfect vacation home!
Budget Guide to Tamarindo: Tamarindo Rentals, Things to Do & Eats
When it comes to Tamarindo rentals, activities, restaurants, and more, there’s not always a lot of focus on budget options. And yet, plenty of travelers enjoy Tamarindo on a budget.
From the tightest budgets to more of a we-have-a-specific-budget approach to travel, Tamarindo is very accommodating. Because here, there are tons of free, almost free, and inexpensive things to do. Things you’ll love to do. There are lots of tips to lower your food costs (while still enjoying the heck out of your vacation eats). And there are plenty of Tamarindo condos for rent that invite you to enjoy the good life without spending a fortune.
Here are a few of our on-the-ground, we-have-budgets-too suggestions for enjoying Tamarindo on a budget:
Budget Things to See & Do in Tamarindo
Tamarindo is a great choice for budget travelers! There are tons of free or nearly free things to do in this beachside community. Paired with some on-budget Tamarindo rentals (with kitchens, to lower food costs!) and some of our top budget eats (below), and you’ll be well on your way to a champagne vacation at beer-budget costs. Because why wouldn’t you, when you can?
Body Boarding / Boogie Boarding / Surfing
It’s no secret that Tamarindo is a world-renowned surf destination. It’s a little bit of a secret that you don’t need to splash out to splash into our waves.
If you want to go completely free, then try your hand at body boarding. Choose a beach with smallish waves – beginner Tamarindo surf spots are the best choice – and a sandy floor bottom, and you’ll be well on your way to a great day in the sand. Level it up and buy a $15 boogie board at almost any local grocery store or shop or, if you want to get the full experience, you can rent a surfboard starting around $20/day.
Ride the Estuary Ferry
Tamarindo’s “estuary ferry” connects northern Tamarindo Beach to southern Playa Grande, right near Panga’s Restaurant. This iconic Tamarindo fun is just $1 to ride and, once you’re over on the Playa Grande side, you’re greeted with new surf waves, new beaches to explore, and new miles to walk.
Watch for Endangered Leatherback Sea Turtles
Speaking of Playa Grande, did you know that Las Baulas National Marine Park (home to Playa Grande) is one of the world’s important leatherback sea turtle nesting sites? Nesting and egg-hatching can be hit-or-miss but ask around shortly before or while you’re in town; if the leatherbacks are here, locals will know! And it’s just $25 to access the national park for a night nesting tour.
Beach Sunsets + Fire Dancing
There’s nothing more “beach vacation” than simply claiming your spot on the sand, digging your toes in, and watching the sun make its fiery descent behind the horizon, setting the sky ablaze in a rainbow of pinks, peaches, oranges, and purples.
And there’s nothing more “Tamarindo beach vacation” than following up that toes-in-the-sand sunset with toes-in-the-sand fire dancing – fire dancing spectating, that is! TamaOnda (great food, by the way) is a favorite site for nightly fire dancing shows, hosted from 7:00 to 7:30 p.m. It’s going to be one of your favorite things!
Beach Hopping
“Budget” is a relative term, but there are ways to beach-hop around Tamarindo without splashing out on a rental car. Yes, we’re talking Tamarindo rentals of a different stripe!
If you’re relatively intrepid and can stand the heat, consider a beach cruiser (banana) bike rental: For $15 per day, you can rent a cruiser that’ll take you to beaches as far as you can pedal. Level it up with an electric bike or scooter rental. Or, if you just want to sit back and enjoy the ride, consider hiring a local driver for a day; while the cost is higher (think $100+), you can get a lot of sightseeing in when you’re driving!
Tip: Be sure to check out all of our favorite Tamarindo-area beaches for a beach-hopping day.
Budget Eats in Tamarindo
Don’t believe the hype: there are plenty of inexpensive places to eat and budget restaurants in Tamarindo. That said, we’re not going to name them here. (Things are always changing AND there are so many, they’d need their own post.)
What we will tell you is that, in addition to budget restaurants, there are tons of cheap things to eat in Tamarindo. Here are a few of our can’t-miss favorites:
Pipa (Fresh Coconut Water)
Spend just an hour on the beach and you’re likely to see one of Tamarindo’s “coconut guys” – enterprising Costa Ricans who collect fresh, young coconuts daily and sell them, ice cold. Buy one for about $1-$2 and the coconut guy will lop off the top with a machete, insert a straw, and hand you the tastiest coconut water you’ve ever had.
Costa Rican Sodas
No those sodas! In Costa Rica, soda refers to a homestyle eatery, similar to a diner only a lot smaller. (Think zero to four tables, typically. The bigger the soda, the more they’re marketing to the tourist crowd…) Find the right soda and you can dine on a typical Costa Rican feast – rice, beans, salad/veggies, sweet plantains, and your favorite protein (usually fish, chicken, beef, pork, or eggs) – for $5-$7.
Tamarindo Farmer’s Market
If you want to blend cultural attraction with cheap eats, then look no further than the Tamarindo farmer’s market, or fería, held Fridays in Playa Grande and Saturdays in Tamarindo. In addition to super inexpensive fruits and vegetables – grab a bunch to try! – you’ll also find inexpensive prepared foods, including stuffed empanadas, tortillas, and chorreadas (a corn-and-cheese tortilla, very filling!).
Tamarindo Night Market
If you didn’t make it to the Tamarindo farmer’s market, then don’t miss the Tamarindo Night Market, open Thursdays from 6 to 9 p.m. In addition to lots of local artisan goods for sale, you’ll find food trucks and street food vendors serving everything from kebobs on a stick and cheesy pizza slices to pulled BBQ and traditional arepas.
Budget Tamarindo Rentals:
Ibis Condo 10
Playa Langosta | 3 Beds | 3 Baths | Sleeps 8
When do budget Tamarindo rentals feel like upscale Tamarindo rentals? When you stay at Ibis Condo #10, a gorgeous penthouse condo located across the street from the luxurious Langosta Beach Club and spectacular Playa Langosta.
Welcome to this lovely home-away-from-home, which is located in an exclusive, small, and gated community with just ten condos. In addition to airy interiors, gorgeous local woods, a gourmet kitchen, and other incredible amenities, you’ll also have free access to Langosta Beach Club, where you can swim, lounge, and dine.
>> Inquire <<
Monte Perla 10
Tamarindo | 2 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 6
Monte Perla #10 stands out as one of our top Tamarindo rentals for discerning travelers on a budget. Here, overlooking the sparkling Tamarindo Bay, this little corner of paradise offers all the luxury amenities of a palatial vacation home – including ocean views from every room!
Additionally, you’re located just a short walk to downtown Tamarindo and all its myriad attractions, amenities, and services. (Walking or taxi/Ubering is a great way to save on your transportation costs, too.) And yet, Monte Perla #10 is still a peaceful getaway and homey respite, with an outdoor patio and sitting area, custom granite countertops, custom local wood furnishings, a resort pool & sun plaza, and many other upscale details.
>> Inquire <<
Need More Budget Tamarindo Rentals, Things to Do & Place to Eat? Let’s Chat!
Whether you’re venturing off the beaten path or sticking firmly to it, we can help you make the most of your time here – even and especially if you’re traveling to Costa Rica on a budget. At Vacation Rentals of Tamarindo, our job and calling are to make you feel at home, everywhere and anywhere you find yourself adventuring.
We offer everything from cozy two-bedroom condos to well-priced family vacation rentals equipped with swimming pools, a fully equipped kitchen, and so much more. Search our inventory to find your perfect vacation home!
6 Exotic Costa Rica Tropical Fruits You HAVE to Try
In our experience, food is one of the greatest and most enjoyable features of travel. And if you’re anything like us – from a casual taster to full-on foodie – then you’re going to love all the Costa Rica tropical fruits that are in store!
Keep in mind that Costa Rican fruits are highly seasonal and, despite how small our country is, fruit seasons do vary by region. So, while you may hear about dozens of fruits you’d like to try, know that only a third to a quarter of them will be available in a single region, at any given time.
The only solution: Visit again. And again. And again! Until you’ve hit on all the seasons and sampled all the Costa Rica tropical fruits. And now, a few of our favorites to add to your list:
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Jocote (Red Mombin)
Also known as purple mombin and hog plum – so appetizing, we know! – jocote (pronounced hoe-coe-tay) are a cousin of the cashew (who knew?!) and one of Costa Rica’s favorite fruits!
Jocotes may be eaten either green (unripe), pintones (partially ripe), or ripe. You’ll know which you’re getting because green jocotes are, quite literally, green; ripe jocotes, on the other hand, slowly transition from green to red to orange. (When they’re soft and orange, they’re at peak ripeness.)
When to Eat Jocote: High rainy season, typically July through October.
How to Eat Jocote: If you’re sampling green jocotes, cut them open and add a squeeze of lemon juice and a bit of salt. Going for ripe jocotes? Eat them as they are, just avoid the pit!
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Guanábana (Soursop)
We swear that guánabana (pronounced gwah-nah-bah-nah) tastes like pear ice cream, if pear ice cream were a fruit! It’s sweet, it’s creamy, it’s white, and it’s heavenly… as we said, ice cream!
You can’t mistake this popular fruit, which is green and sized anywhere between a softball and an American football – only spikey! Look for one that has a bit of give (but isn’t squishy); that’s when you know you’ve found just the right ripeness.
When to Eat Guanábana: Soursop is in season almost year-round in Costa Rica so, no matter when you visit, you’ll likely find it at a farmer’s market stand. (Most vendors sell it whole or, given its size, in easier-to-handle pre-cut chunks of one to two pounds.)
How to Eat Guanábana: We’re not going to sugar-coat it; breaking down a soursop, with all its many seeds, takes a while. But, since the seeds are large and black (in contrast to the white fruit) and the skin peels away easily, it’s a fairly simple process. From there, throw into a blender with a bit of water or milk (we prefer milk, so creamy!) and enjoy it as a smoothie.
Stay Here: Sunrise 4
Tamarindo | 3 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 6
A gorgeous, luxury, ocean-view penthouse located just across the street from the beach, Sunrise 4 is a retreat to wide glass doors and flowing natural light, downtown convenience and a spacious outdoor terrace.
This 3-bedroom, 2-bath condo is undeniably one of Tamarindo’s best: Located on the top floor of one of downtown’s most popular vacation rental complexes, Sunrise 4 overlooks the expansive pool and the Pacific, and puts you within steps of crashing waves. And isn’t that why you’re here? For Tamarindo, for the Pacific, and for you…
>> Inquire <<
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Manga (Mango)
You may think you’ve had mango before, but chances are good that you haven’t had this mango. We’re talking mango so juicy, it literally runs down your chin when you bite in. Mango so sweet and velvety, it’ll make your toes curl…
Costa Rican manga is pretty close to a perfect fruit. Note that we have specified manga, not mango: In Costa Rica, mango is a wilder, often more fibrous variety, while manga (pronounced mahn-gah) is silky smooth. (There are many, many varieties, too!)
When to Eat Manga: They’re available year-round in Costa Rica but mangos really hit their peak during the dry season (think: December to May), when more varieties are available and you can buy them for as little as 25 U.S. cents per pound!
How to Eat Manga: Believe it or not, when mango is fully ripe, you can peel it (almost like a banana!). Simply cut a shallow X (about 2 inches/5 cms long) on its top end and peel. You’ll peel away a small amount of flesh but manga is cheap and this method is infinitely faster than any other. From there, simply cut away from the core – or eat like an apple!
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Mangostán (Mangosteen)
It would barely be hyperbole to call mangostán (pronounced mahn-goe-stahn) heaven on earth. And we do mean barely. There’s almost nothing like it!
Purple and about the size of a plum – and eerily similar to caimito, or star apple, another (but not quite equal, if we’re playing favorites…) Costa Rican fruit you should try! – mangosteen is often referred to as the Queen of Fruits. That’s Queen of the World. Because as we said – heaven.
When to Eat Mangosteen: Mangosteen has a very short season in Costa Rica, usually peaking for a few weeks in the middle of the rainy season (July/August).
How to Eat Mangosteen: Grab a sharp knife and slit that baby open! You’ll reveal the inner pods, which are fleshy and white. Many of the larger pods have seeds, which you’ll want to remove. Now, eat, eat, eat!
Ibis Condo #5
Tamarindo | 2 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 6
Located in a small, luxury condo complex just across the street from Tamarindo Beach, Ibis Condo #5 welcomes you to downtown convenience alongside a nature conservancy.
You’ll love the home’s finishes, which extend to teak ceilings and woodwork, travertine floors, custom Costa Rican furniture, and Bosch kitchen appliances – true luxury in the heart of the tropics! Pair that with bright and breezy indoor/outdoor common areas, luxury bedrooms with ensuite baths, in-home laundry, and 100 Mbps internet, and it’s easy to see why this is one of our guests’ favorite homes-away-from-home.
>> Inquire <<
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Pejibaye (Peach Palm Fruit)
A deviation from what many consider a fruit, pejibaye (pronounced peh-hee-bi-yay) are fruit from a particular palm tree. And when we say fruit, we mean a starchy, nutty one that eats a bit like yucca mixed with warm roasted chestnuts.
You’ll find pejibaye in supermarkets and farmer’s markets all around Costa Rica: They’re usually sitting in a vat of water, where you can pick your own. (They’re all ripe so just grab whatever looks good to the eye.)
When to Eat Pejibaye: Peach palm fruit is available almost everywhere, year-round. You won’t have trouble finding this one!
How to Eat Pejibaye: Do yourself a favor and do not buy raw pejibaye. Instead, always opt for the pre-cooked fruits, which you’ll peel (use a knife to score an x-opening) and separate from the center seed. Most Costa Ricans top with a small dollop of mayonnaise, which helps cut the dry fibrousness (it’s a word!) of the fruit.
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Granadilla (Sweet Passion Fruit)
Welcome to the world of weird-but-amaaaazing fruits. Granadilla (pronounced grah-nah-dee-jah) is what Costa Rica calls passion fruit – well, one of the passion fruits!
The truth is that there are several kinds of edible passion fruit in Costa Rica; granadilla is the sweet version, which you eat with a spoon, and maracuyá (pronounced mahr-ah-coo-jah) is a tarter variety that’s blended into drinks. (The other varieties are a little harder to find commercially.)
When to Eat Passion Fruit: Granadilla is available year-round in Costa Rica. You’ll know it by its almost crisp, orange outer shell (similar to a candy coating) and tiny white freckles; its tart twin, maracuyá, is much softer and prone to forming depressions in the skin, when squeezed.
How to Eat Passion Fruit: Simply break it in half and eat with a spoon! The gel-covered seeds are a textural adjustment but the sweet fruit and crunchy seeds are a local favorite!
Traveling Costa Rica on a Budget? Let’s Chat!
Whether you’re venturing off the beaten path or sticking firmly to it, we can help you make the most of your time here – even and especially if you’re traveling to Costa Rica on a budget. We’ll make you feel at home, everywhere and anywhere you find yourself adventuring.
We offer everything from cozy two-bedroom condos to well-priced family vacation rentals equipped with swimming pools, a fully equipped kitchen, and so much more. Search our inventory to find your perfect vacation home!
5 Health Benefits of Travel to Costa Rica
Travel is restorative. Travel is a salve for a dulled sense of wonder. Travel is a balm for the weary soul. Because travel is good for us. This renewal, this wonder, this restoration – these are the things we crave, thanks to the health benefits of travel. And these are things we know we’ll receive, both intuitively and thanks to science.
The truth is that travel offers so many advantages, so many wonders, so many deviations to our everyday. And all this newness, all this breathtaking beauty, all this challenge to our routine and to boredom and to the everyday — these are the things that wake us up and improve our mood and boost our well-being. These are the promises of travel, especially to Costa Rica.
But you don’t have to take our word for it. Science and evidence and travelers themselves have all the proof that you, and we, need.
Benefit #1: You’ll Spend Time Outdoors
There’s no denying the difference between indoor activity and outdoor explorations; it’s the contrast between summer and winter, between the treadmill and forest trails, between tile flooring and the sand between your toes.
Being outside, even when we’re doing the same or similar activities that we would do inside, feels different. It makes our lungs expand and our muscles stretch, our minds to wander and our hearts to sing. It feels amazing.
And so, it’s easy to see why, at least with travel to Costa Rica, you’ll love exploring the great outdoors. You’ll relish swimming in the Pacific Ocean and hiking through the rainforest you’ll look forward to grilling on your pool terrace and watching the sunset over the ocean. And you’ll wake up every morning to a new adventure — to catamaran sailing and whitewater rafting, to beach wanderings and waterfall chasing, to Pacific surfing and estuary paddling.
If all that’s not enough to be considered a benefit, then know that being outdoors is proven to keep us healthier and that regular travel, especially outdoor travel, can significantly improve our health. (The studied metrics included risk of heart attack and mortality.)
Benefit #2: You’ll Leave Your Stress Behind
You may into it it but did you know that it’s been shown, scientifically, that travel can reduce your stress? It’s true! Multiple studies have demonstrated that stress reduction is one of many health benefits of travel.
In fact, one study showed that just three days away from your everyday life, traveling anywhere but to work, can help you feel less anxious, improve your mood, and boost your feelings of restfulness.
But, even more interesting – and, perhaps, more importantly – The stress reduction imparted by travel persists for long after you return home. In other words take a vacation and you’ll not only reduce your stress for the duration of vacation, but for days and weeks to come. And, as almost any overworked adult will tell you, that is a huge benefit to life!
Spotlight on: Monte Perla 2
Tamarindo | 2 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 5
Located in the heart of Tamarindo, this upscale two-bedroom condo is nestled into green hills with a backdrop of Pacific Ocean views.
Because, when you need something to stoke wonder or invoke a deep sense of gratitude, there is nothing better than these incredible ocean views. Than daily sunsets, often more brilliant than any hue you could find in an artist’s toolset. Than sunset barbecues with friends on your condo terrace. Than tropical gardens and an expansive resort pool. Than staying within walking distance of restaurants and nightlife.
Than Monte Perla 2, the perfect beach getaway that you have been dreaming and hoping and wishing into reality. Welcome!
>> Inquire <<
Benefit #3: You’ll Also Boost Your Happiness
Happiness can be hard to quantify but it’s easy to feel: when we travel, we are happier. Scientists believe that the “happiness quotient” of travel comes down to two main factors: anticipation and the subsequent satisfaction of your anticipation.
One of the more interesting takeaways from a Cornell University study demonstrated that even planning your upcoming travel can make you feel happier. But the real quantification came later, during travel: vacationers reported greater happiness from their travel experiences than had they purchased a physical possession. In other words, we’re happier spending money on experiences than on stuff.
What’s more, Wisconsin’s Marshfield Clinic did a study that showed how well travel can reduce our depression: Among their results, they were able to demonstrate that women who vacation at least twice annually experience lower rates of depression and are less likely to report chronic stress, when compared to women who vacation less often than once every-other year.
Benefit #4: You’ll Step Outside Your Comfort Zone
The health benefits of travel are not always intuitive or easy to grasp. And, when it comes to nudging, pushing, or even leaping outside our comfort zones, it can be hard to understand how this is beneficial, when it’s not our natural state or desire.
But it’s been proven, time and time again, that flirting with the boundaries of our known world can be very good for our mental health and emotional well-being. The good thing is that you can design your own boundary-pushing. You don’t need to bungee jump into the unknown or white water raft a Class V river; the new and the unknown can be as wondrous as snorkeling for the first time or experiencing a humpback whale calf follow its mother through the Pacific.
The key is in your approach: are you willing to try something new in Costa Rica? Because, if you are, then you may just find yourself learning a new turn of phrase or having dinner with a new friend, experiencing a wildlife first or hiking to a heretofore unknown waterfall. And all these experiences, all these firsts, even when they’re more wondrous than challenging, can and do benefit your overall wellbeing and outlook on life.
Spotlight on: Ibis Condo 4
Tamarindo | 2 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 4
When you want to step out of your comfort zone in the absolute best way possible, then step into this gorgeous two-bedroom condo. Located just across the street from the beach, Ibis Condo 4 is as distinct from everyday life as they come!
What’s more, this lovely retreat is not only one of the best spots in Tamarindo, not only an elite gated beach community, not only luxury at an accessible price, but also includes Langosta Beach Club membership with access to the exclusive Club features a fitness center, a Pilates and yoga studio, a French restaurant, a bar with a spectacular ocean view, and an infinity pool.
>> Inquire <<
Benefit #5: You’ll Cultivate Gratitude
Sometimes, it’s all about perspective: We don’t fully comprehend our place in the world, or our little blessings, or our many joys, until we earn a little perspective.
And yes, we say earn. Because perspective is something we have to work for; It’s something that we challenge ourselves to obtain and to cultivate. Travel is one of the ways we do this.
When we go somewhere new, we learn about people whose lives and circumstances and perspectives are different from our own. We learn about life’s differences but, often more importantly, we learn about all the overlaps between us and others. We realize that no matter who we are or where we’re from, we humans all have a lot in common. We are more alike than different.
And all this — these similarities and differences, these contrasts and overlaps – help us understand and appreciate our own circumstances. When we return home, we see our routine and our house and our life through, if not fresh, then fresher eyes, and we push the reset button on our gratitude.
This outlook, this thankfulness – they make all our post-travel days a little better, a little happier, a little more thankful. And that does great things for our quality of life.
Experience the Health Benefits of Travel for Yourself!
Whether you’re venturing off the beaten path or sticking firmly to it, we can help you make the most of your time here – even and especially if you’re traveling Costa Rica on a budget. We’ll make you feel at home, everywhere and anywhere you find yourself adventuring.
We offer everything from cozy two-bedroom condos to well-priced family vacation rentals equipped with swimming pools, fully equipped kitchen, and so much more. Search our inventory to find your perfect vacation home!
How to Select the Perfect Rental Home for Costa Rica Digital Nomads
The world’s freelancers, remote workers, and telecommuters recently celebrated the news that Costa Rica digital nomads will soon have a path to seek legal residency (technically, an estancia – essentially, a right to reside). The question is, are you one of them?
If you’re considering embracing the digital nomadic lifestyle ad moving to Costa Rica, then you probably have a lot of questions. Beginning with, where do I start?
And the answer to that one is: Right here!
Step 1: Think About Your Lifestyle
One of the most important things to consider, when preparing for your move to Costa Rica, is your lifestyle. Because, while Costa Rica offers the “tropical lifestyle,” there is actually quite a bit of difference between living here versus living there.
One of the first major considerations is whether you’ll live at the beach or in the mountains near San Jose, a region often referred to as the Central Valley. The Central Valley is an excellent choice for people who have been relocated by major corporations operating in Costa Rica (almost always in the Central Valley) or for digital nomads who require cool, springlike temperatures year-round.
But, for the rest of us, the beach is where it’s at. And, for most of this rest-of-us, it’s the Pacific beaches: from about Manuel Antonio in the central Pacific, north into the Nicoya Peninsula and then northwestern Costa Rica, a.k.a. the Gold Coast and the province of Guanacaste.
That’s our wheelhouse, through and through, so if you think the NW Pacific beaches might make your list, get in touch! We’ll be happy to help you talk it through, do some research, and start figuring out all the possibilities of life in Guanacaste.
Step 2: Consider Your Budget
While the exact regulations of Costa Rica’s new digital nomad residency requirements have not yet been established, your budget will be more a function of your income than any governmental requirement.
So, as you consider your lifestyle and where you might like to live, also keep your housing budget in mind. We say this because, it can often be helpful to work backward, from a budget standpoint: your budget, particularly a tight budget, will partially determine where you live.
What we mean by that is that you can’t find a four-bedroom, ocean-view family home within a 5-minute drive of the best private schools in Costa Rica, for $750 a month. That’s just not the economics of Costa Rica’s beach towns – at least, not right now. So, begin by hammering out a list of your must-haves and would-like-to-haves, and then work your way through potential locations.
Featured Costa Rica Digital Nomad Rental:
Ibis Condo 2
Tamarindo | 2 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 6
Ibis Condo #2 is one of our top choices for digital nomads who seek a balance between budget and lifestyle, location, and convenience.
This cozy 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo is just across the street from the Pacific, has exclusive access to the beachfront Langosta Beach Club, and is just a 10-minute walk to downtown Tamarindo. It’s a best-of-both-worlds kind of home: tranquil while close to everything, beach-adjacent but budget-friendly.
So, make yourself at home. Lounge on your private terrace, surrounded by lush plants and gardens. Prepare a meal in your fully equipped kitchen. And spend your downtime at Langosta Beach Club, where you’ll have full membership privileges and access to its beachfront, infinity-edge swimming pool overlooking the warm Pacific, plus upscale amenities including a French restaurant, full fitness center, Pilates and yoga studio, and a great bar with spectacular ocean views.
>> Inquire <<
Step 3: Choose Your Location
One of the best things about being a digital nomad in Costa Rica is that you don’t have to commit. It’s all in the name, after all: you are a digital nomad and that means you have the freedom to move around, both around the world and even within a specific country in the world.
You can consider it to be casual dating, or even speed dating, if the need arises: Choose a destination and, if you find it’s not right for you, no problem! You can always move on to the next location on your list.
But, to do that, first, you will need a list. So, once you’ve determined your preferred lifestyle and determined a housing budget, start whittling down your list of locations that fulfill your lifestyle goals while also meeting your budget requirements. This sounds simple, but it can be more challenging than you think. Here’s why:
Step 4: Consider Availability
One of the biggest challenges you’ll face during this process is housing availability. It’s very much a question of supply and demand: Costa Rica is a small place but demand is high and continues to grow. What that means is that, in many sought-after destinations, the housing supply is low.
It’s even lower, when you begin adding on your lists of must-haves and would-like-to-haves. So, try valiantly to not wholly commit your heart to a few places; first, determine availability and feasibility, then fall in love.
Step 5: Consider Short-Term Rentals
One of our favorite housing hacks – and we know we sound biased, but we’re not saying this solely as a vacation rental company! – is to search short-term rentals in your target areas.
There are a few reasons for this:
- Online Availability: It can be challenging to find long-term rentals online in Costa Rica. The ones you find are a very select few and do not even begin to represent the available market. Short-term rentals, on the other hand, are all listed online (we have dozens) and usually show up-to-date, accurate availability calendars. Life just got easier.
- Better Inventory: Again, you’re probably going to have a hard time finding any decent inventory of long-term rental homes online. And again, short-term rentals are all Even better, many can be negotiated for long-term stays (ask us!). Et, voilà! An entire online inventory of potential homes.
- Access to On-the-Ground Experts: There’s always a local someone behind a quality vacation rental and that means, there’s always an attentive expert who’s willing to answer your questions and fill you in on where to buy XY ingredient or which restaurants have the fastest WiFi.
- A Housing Smorgasbord: Even if you’re relatively committed to a general location, there’s still a whole lot of variation in your options. For example, our area (Guanacaste’s Gold Coast) includes everywhere from Hacienda Pinilla north to the Flamingo/Potrero area. And while that’s just a 30-km (19-mile) stretch of coastline, the difference between downtown Tamarindo (party town, great for Costa Rica digital nomads who want to be in the center of it all) and Flamingo (a quiet choice, ideal for singles, families, and semi-retired digital nomads seeking a more tranquil lifestyle) are vast.
Featured Costa Rica Digital Nomad Rental:
La Perla 154
Tamarindo | 3 Beds | 3 Baths | Sleeps 6
When you’re looking for a bit more space and a touch of luxury living, La Perla 154 delivers: This spacious, upscale condo is just two blocks to the beach, downtown Tamarindo, and all things dining, nightlife, and lifestyle.
Located on the fifth floor, La Perla 154 welcomes you to spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, Tamarindo Bay, and our region’s lush green hillsides – all of them so close, you almost feel like you could touch them. Or, at least hear the crashing surf…
Inside, you’ll enjoy a chef’s kitchen, three ensuite bedrooms, and a unique (and uniquely enjoyable) shaded balcony in the round. You’ll also have access to La Perla’s community amenities, including a resort pool, 24-hour security, an expansive lobby, Schindler elevators, a sparkling resort pool, and an owners’ clubhouse with an ocean-view sun terrace.
>> Inquire <<
Step 6: Do Plenty of Research
A huge part of relocating to another country is being willing to educate yourself. And, in the digital age, you know that means not just online research, but online conversation.
So, read those lifestyle blogs. Watch YouTube videos. Download a few eBooks. But, we recommend also talking to people. More specifically, we recommend mostly talking to people…
Step 7: Talk to Expats & Other Costa Rica Digital Nomads
Because there’s nothing like a one-on-one, personalized conversation between you and a real person.
You can start by doing this in online groups and forums, of which there are many dedicated to life in Costa Rica. But, as we’ve mentioned before, it can also mean getting in touch with us. We live here. Many of us are expats. We’ve made the transition, we understand the challenges, and we know the genesis of your concerns and questions. We get you! And so, when we answer your questions, we answer them from personal experience.
Whether venturing off the beaten path or sticking firmly to it, we help Costa Rica digital nomads get their feet on the ground and started on their life in paradise.
We’ll make you feel at home, everywhere and anywhere you find yourself living, working, and adventuring. We offer everything from cozy two-bedroom condos to well-priced family vacation rentals equipped with swimming pools, fully equipped kitchens, and so much more. Search our inventory to find your perfect vacation home!
Traveling Costa Rica on a Budget: 6 Tips for Savvy Travelers
Have you ever heard that Costa Rica is not a “budget destination”? You’ve heard right. But what that usually means is that Costa Rica is a challenge to shoestring budgets because traveling Costa Rica on a budget is possible. And not just possible, but very doable.
Certainly, you’ll have to get a little creative. And you may have to make a few swaps of this for that. And you’ll more frequently choose a free beach day or a $10 pp national park hike over a $150 pp tour day. But you can and will travel, explore, and enjoy the wilds and wiles of Costa Rica on a budget.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
Tip #1: Always Read the [Menu] Fine Print
In Costa Rica, all restaurant service taxes (13%) and a basic tip (10%) are supposed to be included in the prices listed on the menu. In other words, if a dish is listed at ¢5,000 (about $7.50), then the final price should be ¢5,000 – not ¢5,000 + 13% service + 10% tip.
That said, some restaurants list their prices without the service and tip. So, do your budget a favor and always check the menu (usually at the bottom/footer) for text along the lines of “Los precios incluyen I.V.I.” (Prices include I.V.I., or the service + tip tax) If you see something along the lines of “Los precios no incluyen I.V.I.”, then the 23% additional is not included. Some restaurants will include the 13% service fee but not the 10% tip; in this case, the 10% tip is not optional and will always be added onto your final bill.
Tip #2: Avoid Renting a Car
This one doesn’t apply to everyone – but not for budget reasons! Because, without a doubt, rental cars are a big expense in Costa Rica. (More on that, in a minute.) But first, a stipulation: If you’re an adventurous, independent traveler who loves venturing the road less traveled (literally), even if you’re traveling Costa Rica on a budget, then you will absolutely want a car. And make it a 4WD because you’re going to need it.
But if you’re looking to save some dough, don’t. Here’s why: You may find a great deal online for a rental car. You may also have a credit card that you are absolutely positive will act as your third-party liability car insurance (required by law). And yet, most rental car agencies will be absolutely positive that it does not.
You can fight the good fight – and some people win – but unless you’re one of the lucky ones, you will be asked (subtext: required) to pay an additional $30-$60 per day in insurance – and that’s not even full rental car insurance! Want zero liability and roadside assistance? Tack on an additional $20+ per day. In other words, it adds up.
And now, you’re wondering about rental car alternatives? You can also ask your travel concierge to find you an all-in rental car price to fit your budget OR you can use a combination of airport transportation, private drivers/taxis/Uber, public buses, bike rentals, and walking, depending on where you’re headed. (Get in touch and we’ll be happy to help you figure it all out!)
Tip #3: If You Need More than One Room, Rent a Vacation Home
Unless you’re a true shoestring traveler staying in hostel dorms, then you’re probably working with a modest accommodation budget (say, about $100/night/room).
If that’s the case, then consider staying in a vacation home and not a hotel. Here’s why: In addition to offering more space, greater privacy, and just-for-you amenities, private vacation homes are often less expensive than their hotel counterparts. For example, several of our Tamarindo vacation homes are under $100/night per bedroom – and they offer a lot more than a bedroom.
Bonus: You can also save money prepping meals at home in your vacation home’s fully equipped kitchen. Even if you’re prepping just your morning coffee, breakfast, and a quick lunch sandwich, you’ll save over dining out (even on the cheap) for every meal.
Stay Here: Sunrise #4
Tamarindo | 3 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 10
While we’re on the topic of traveling Costa Rica on a budget, consider Sunrise #4, a luxury, oceanview penthouse across the street from the beach. Not only that, but its location is ideal (especially if you want to ditch the rental car): Situated in Tamarindo – one of the most accessible, amenity-rich beach towns in the county – Sunrise #4 puts you close to everything.
And, did we mention? Starting at well under $100/night per bedroom, Sunrise #4 also offers a spacious terrace and BBQ area, a gorgeous resort pool, and powdery beach, just across the street. You cannot beat the location, the home, or the value!
Tip #4: Do NOT Exchange Money at the Airport. Or Anywhere, Really!
One of the biggest rip-offs in Costa Rica? Currency exchange counters. Whether they’re at the airport, the grocery store, or a local souvenir market, chances are very good that you’ll get hosed by the exchange rate.
Instead, always skip the exchange step and let the banks do it for you: Withdraw Costa Rican colones (pronounced co-lo-nays) from any ATM within your network. What ATMs are in your network, you ask? Almost any ATM marked ATH (a toda hora, or all-hours) is equipped to handle international ATM cards; additionally, all ATMs will be marked with network stickers, ex. MasterCard and Cirrus/Plus.
That said, you probably won’t need a lot of cash. Costa Rica’s credit card acceptance network is wide – many taxi drivers can even accept credit cards! – and most payments are contactless. That said, cash is required for tips, small artisan souvenir purchases, oceanfront coconut water (fresh from the coconut), and other minor purchases.
Tip #5: Eat at Sodas
One of the best ways to save money when traveling Costa Rica on a budget is to savor (and fill up on) a dose of Costa Rican culture is at a local soda. (Note: Not a fizzy drink.)
Sodas are Costa Rica’s version of the mom-and-pop or corner diner, serving up hearty, homemade, and traditional fare. The most filling and typical meal: a casado, which “marries” (casado means “married”) many of Costa Rica’s most traditional dishes, including your choice of protein (beef, chicken, pork, or eggs/fried cheese for the vegetarians), rice, beans, salad, and fried plantains, often served with a small fruit juice. For $3-$5 (at local sodas, not tourist traps), you cannot beat this cheap and filling meal!
Stay Here: Casa Limoncillo
Tamarindo | 2 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 10
For luxury on a budget, you cannot beat the lovely and luxe Casa Limoncillo. Located just a 5-minute drive to Tamarindo’s sand and surf, this modern home offers all the amenities. And boy, do well mean ALL of them.
We’ll start by singing the praises of the home’s outdoor rancho, BBQ, and saltwater swimming pool, which offers a gentle retreat and cool respite from the tropical sun. Its neighbor: a fire pit (excellent for star gazing!) and the jungle gym/climbing structure and trampoline of your children’s dreams. And all around: lush gardens, exotic birds, and tropical wildlife. It’s paradise.
>> Inquire Here <<
Tip #6: Travel During the Shoulder or Green Season
Costa Rica’s shoulder season – typically, April/May and November/early December, but it depends on the destination! – is one of our favorite times to travel. Not only will you still have a good chance at great weather (more sunny hours, less rain), but you’ll get a price break on accommodations and, often, certain tours, transportation, and other services that rely on demand.
What’s more – and, granted, this isn’t a budget thing – but shoulder and green season mean fewer tourists, which in turn means more of Costa Rica to yourself. And that, in itself, can feel pretty luxurious. Just imagine having the beach alllll to yourself… Nothing is sweeter!
Traveling Costa Rica on a Budget? Let’s Chat!
Whether you’re venturing off the beaten path or sticking firmly to it, we can help you make the most of your time here – even and especially if you’re traveling Costa Rica on a budget. We’ll make you feel at home, everywhere and anywhere you find yourself adventuring.
We offer everything from cozy two-bedroom condos to well-priced family vacation rentals equipped with swimming pools, fully equipped kithen, and so much more. Search our inventory to find your perfect vacation home!
Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Guanacaste
Sometimes, the hardest part of your vacation is simply choosing where to vacation. So, while you’ve likely narrowed down your country of destination (Costa Rica, hurray!), you haven’t yet gotten so far as to whittle down the regions, towns, or places you’d like to stay. Let us offer some inspiration (and a few Guanacaste, Costa Rica rentals to consider).
We’re here to help. Because, while Costa Rica appears small by map standards, the country is vast: From high-montane cloud forests and river headwaters to coastal beaches and tropical dry forests, you could spend a lifetime exploring Costa Rica’s diverse sights, enormous biodiversity, and varying terrain.
You have to start somewhere, though. And, as residents of the great province of Guanacaste, we’d like to recommend right here: on Costa Rica’s famed Gold Coast, home to pink shell-strewn beaches and howler monkey-filled forests, world-class surf and some of the world’s best sunsets.
So, let’s get right down to it: 10 beachy destinations to submit for consideration. From north to south:
Playas del Coco
Decades ago, Playas del Coco was the Place to Be in Guanacaste: an oceanfront “city” (your chosen adjective may vary, depending on how big of a city you’re from!) with all the accouterments, from dark-sand beaches and Gulf of Papagayo views to world-class sportfishing and family-friendly swimming spots.
Over the decades, Playas del Coco ceded its vacationer status to clout of a different kind: It became one of Guanacaste’s go-to destinations for expats, particularly those from the United States, Canada, and Europe. The transition has been to Coco’s benefit, ushering in a new age of restaurants, amenities, activities & attractions, and even Guanacaste, Costa Rica rentals that appeal both to your standard vacationers and to slow travelers – those who prefer to stay awhile – as well as curious, maybe-someday expats. One thing is for sure: If you come here, prepare to fall a little (or a lot) in love. Coco is undoubtedly and eternally that kind of place!
Playa Potrero
Tucked into a quiet cove just north of Flamingo Beach, Playa Potrero is that not-quite-hidden but not-quite-discovered destination that creates vacation alchemy: Here, you’re convenient to it all and at the epicenter of all things Costa Rica, and yet you’ll have no trouble carving out a little space all your own.
Once a quiet fishing village, Potrero Beach is now more known for its serene landscapes, which roll back from the crashing Pacific and into Guanacaste’s hills, forests, and diverse wildlife. You’ll probably find yourself spending more time staring out than in, though, because Potrero’s sapphire waters, sun-bleached sands, and kaleidoscopic sunsets demand both your attention and your devotion. It won’t be hard to comply, though, we promise!
Playa Flamingo
Both beautiful and idyllic, Flamingo Beach occupies a sun-splashed and sandy crescent between Playa Potrero and Brasilito. Here, where almost a mile of powder-puff, super-soft blonde sands span the oceanfront, you’ll want to spend every minute with your toes in the Pacific.
Because Flamingo Beach is just this side of mesmerizing: The water is so clear, you can often see fish and rays swimming at your feet. The forest hums with the calls of howler monkeys and wild parrots. And then, there’s the new Flamingo Marina – one of the country’s newest, largest, and most luxurious… All this, on oceanfront so tranquil, you’ll have no trouble taking your afternoon nap. Luckily, many of our favorite Guanacaste, Costa Rica rentals in Flamingo offer hammocks, shaded pool terraces, and other perfect napping spots!
Playa Conchal
Long beloved and easily one of Costa Rica’s most talked-about beaches, Playa Conchal is the kind of place that decorates postcards – only, this place is real and no Photoshop is required. So named for the eponymous shells (conchales) that decorate its beachfront, Playa Conchal (“Shell Beach”) is just this side of unique: an oceanside scattered with tiny seashells (not fine sand) and a hue that trends more pink (think rosé, not baby pink) than white or cinnamon.
Of course, Playa Conchal is more than its shell-dappled shoreline: Here, you’ll find gentle surf ideal for wading, snorkeling, and swimming. You’ll find a coast lined with waving palms – the perfect spot to set up your beach chairs. But, fair warning: You’ll find other beachgoers, too, as Conchal is one of Costa Rica’s more visited beaches, in part thanks to the resorts that line its shores.
Bonus: One community (see Casa Moderna, below) is home to a 7,021-yard, par-71 championship golf course! (Tee time reservations recommended.)
Stay Here: Casa Moderna
Playa Conchal | 5 Beds | 4.5 Baths | Sleeps 14
Just as its name suggests, Casa Moderna is a beautiful and modern luxury vacation home – one of our newest Guanacaste, Costa Rica rentals – where clean lines and a beachy color palette let the true star (Costa Rica’s great outdoors) take center stage.
Indeed, Casa Moderna’s soaring ceilings and walls of glass remind you of why you’re here: Lush landscaping recalls Costa Rica’s biodiversity, while shaded outdoor living and a sparkling private pool beckon you to stash away your schedules in exchange for spontaneity and carefree vacationing.
As a guest a Casa Moderna, you’ll also have exclusive access to community amenities, which include a spectacular Beach Club, tee times at a championship golf course, and 24/7 security.
Playa Grande
Located just north of Tamarindo – across the estuary and into Las Baulas National Marine Park, Playa Grande is a must-visit for beach lovers, surfers, and wildlife aficionados.
Why, you ask? Let’s start with the obvious: Set on a quiet stretch of cinnamon-sand beach, Playa Grande unfolds over some of the quietest beachfront you’ll find near Tamarindo. What you will hear? Crashing surf! Because Playa Grande is one of the area’s best spots for intermediate and advanced surfers. And then, there’s Las Baulas National Marine Park, one of the world’s critically important nesting sites for leatherback turtles.
Note: To get to Playa Grande, always drive or take the lancha (about $1) across the estuary, as there are crocodiles in the river.
Tamarindo
Famous for a reason, Tamarindo is a seaside locale with city amenities and small-town charm – and everything you need for an incredible vacation. Starting with some of the best Guanacaste, Costa Rica rentals – everything from budget-friendly, ocean-adjacent condos to full-on luxury mansions. The choice is yours!
Whatever you choose, your vacation here begins on Tamarindo’s soft, white sands and famous surf, which carves out waves suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers alike. It transitions into the town’s incredible array of restaurants – everything from the freshest caught seafood and juicy burgers to eclectic food trucks and vegan feasts. And then, there’s the nightlife and the shopping and the tours and the spectacular sunsets… Because Tamarindo really is an anything-goes and everything-you-hope-for kind of place. Enjoy!
Stay Here: Villa Estrella Azul
Playa Langosta | 8 Beds | 6 Baths | Sleeps 18
Just a few minutes south of downtown Tamarindo, Villa Estrella Azul occupies that perfect location: Convenient to every amenity, and yet somehow removed – far from the crowds and away from it all, in one of our Guanacaste, Costa Rica rentals so exclusive, it feels more private boutique hotel than single-family home.
Villa Estrella Azul’s eight luxury bedrooms, gourmet chef’s-ready kitchen, and custom infinity pool are just the beginning. This stunning home is just steps to Tamarindo Beach and owns one of our favorite entertainment spaces in the area: In your private backyard, the pool slowly transitions from shallow to deep. Shady verandahs abound. You have your very own, private yoga pavilion.
There’s even ping-pong and outdoor dining, which pair perfectly with the gas grill and brick pizza oven. Catch a quick match while your catch-of-the-day sizzles to grilled perfection, then enjoy every bite at your leisure. Afterward, enjoy a lazy dip in the pool or a nap in the shade. The choice is yours, even if it is a tough decision.
>> Explore Villa Estrella Azul <<
Hacienda Pinilla
Both extraordinary and exclusive, Hacienda Pinilla is a master-planned community about 3.5 miles south of Tamarindo. But it’s so much more than that: To many, Hacienda Pinilla is paradise. It’s ecological blue-flag beaches and miles of hiking trails, championship golf and tennis beneath the palms.
This is where Costa Rican heritage meets vacation dreams – where natural beauty abounds and adventure runs wild, where relaxation goes upscale and recreation beckons around every corner. It’s both an escape from life and an escape to life: to everything you love and crave while you’re here, sitting on a quiet beach, your toes in the Pacific and a spectacular Beach Club and resort pool at your back.
Nosara
There’s a certain expectation set when you make your motto, “no shirt, no shoes, Nosara.” It’s an expectation that Nosara is happy to fulfill, as this laid-back beach town most often sheds its shoes and shirts for a jump into the waves. Indeed, Nosara is best known (although not wholly known… keep reading!) for its stellar surf, which lures surfers from around the world.
And yet, while Nosara could undoubtedly rest on its surfing laurels, it’s doesn’t. This tranquil hamlet also goes hard on wellness, leaning in to yoga retreats, clean living, and active travel that gets you out the door and into the great beyond: To Playa Ostional, the world’s second-most important nesting site for olive ridley sea turtles; to wildlife-watching at the Nosara Biological Reserve and Nosara Wildlife Rescue; to the tropical rainforests (rare, in our area) of the Monte Alto Reserve; to inshore and deep-sea fishing for snook, mahi-mahi, and other hard fighters; and, of course, to dozens of beaches – some, perfect for surfing and others, more tuned to swimming, snorkeling, and boogie boarding.
Santa Teresa
Big sister to its neighboring Mal País, Santa Teresa is the kind of bohemian surf town that was once so abundant in Costa Rica. Today, its easy-going vibe and slow pace are hard to find, making Santa Teresa all the more appealing to the laid-back travelers, surfers, and yogis who make their way here.
A former fishing hamlet turned international community, Santa Teresa rose to fame for its legendary surfing waves, including steady left and right breaks that appeal to everyone from beginner to seasoned surfers. (Novices, take heart! Surf instruction is a big part of Santa Teresa’s local economy.) And yet, there are also the reliable kite-surfing winds and warm sportfishing waters, sun-drenched beaches and wildlife-rich, rocky tidepools. There are zip-line canopy tours and ATV rides, oceanview yoga and long nature hikes. There’s a little bit of everything, if you’re only willing to deviate off the more beaten path.
Note: Santa Teresa is located on the southern Nicoya Peninsula (note: geographically in Puntarenas Province, not Guanacaste!), which is one of Costa Rica’s more rugged (read: less developed) destinations. Many businesses still shut down during high rainy season (September/October) and you will need a 4WD vehicle from May-November (recommended December-April, too!).
(p.s. Sorry for all the parentheses!)
Montezuma
Swing around the southern tip of the Nicoya Peninsula, and you’ll reach endearing Montezuma, home to some of the wildest, most authentic, and genuinely inviting vibes north of the Osa Peninsula. Welcome to a favorite spot for artists and yogis, surfers and escape artists – to a destination where life moves slower, your cares melt upon entry, and the clock ticks backward.
Indeed, Montezuma is that nature-loving, take-it-one-minute-at-a-time kind of place that bids you give in to the moment. Step out onto white-sand beach, kick off your sandals, and maybe run into surf (check out that right-point break!). Catch a yoga class or set off on a snorkeling expedition to idyllic Isla Tortuga or Curu Wildlife Refuge. Kayak into the gulf or take a hike through Cabo Blanco Reserve. Truly, Montezuma is where you go when you don’t want to be required to go anywhere: Just be. Enjoy the moment. Follow a whim. And enjoy a side of Costa Rica that only the adventurous get to see.
Inquire About Our Guanacaste, Costa Rica Rentals
Whether you’re venturing off the beaten path or sticking firmly to it, our Guanacaste, Costa Rica rentals make you feel at home, everywhere and anywhere you find yourself adventuring.
We offer everything from cozy two-bedroom condos to 8+ bedroom private resorts equipped with ocean-view infinity pools, daily meals, and so much more. Search our inventory to find your perfect home!
2022 Featured Family Activities & Vacation Rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Tamarindo is the kind of place that families love. In addition to great dining, incredible scenery, and plenty of family-friendly vacation rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, our corner of paradise offers much for families to see, do, and experience together.
Because, whether you’re the kind to tackle adventures – everything from zip lines and volcano-climbing to surfing and ocean kayaking – or more the type to relax at the pool together, Tamarindo is just the kind of place for your family.
And with that in mind, here are a few of our favorite things. Which will become a few of yours?
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Go Surfing
There’s nothing as quintessential to Tamarindo as surfing. And, while Tamarindo is one of the world’s favorite surfer spots, it’s also surprisingly welcoming to beginners and kids, too. Because yes, there are great challenges to be found but there are also gentle waves and sandy ocean bottoms perfect for your first ride or your hundredth practice. And there’s nothing like seeing the expression on your kid’s face when she catches her very first wave!
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Go Zip-Lining
If surfing is quintessential to Tamarindo, then canopy zip-lines are the OG Costa Rican adventure. While they’ve been around for decades, this high-flying fun is still just as popular as ever. And that’s because they’re good, safe, family fun! Kids aged 4+ can test their mettle and squeal with delight as they fly through the trees, catch up-close glimpses of wildlife, and experience nature as never before.
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Go ATV Off-Roading
Let loose your wild sides on the saddle of an ATV! These all-terrain vehicles easily conquer Costa Rica’s backroads and hillsides, taking you to views and spots you’d have a tough time accessing otherwise. (FYI, most vacation rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica are either downtown or on paved hillside roads!) And then, there’s the serious bonus of seeing your kids’ faces light up with joy and exhilaration – the wind in their hair, the breeze at their back, and the wheels beneath their seat.
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SUP, Paradise?
If surfing isn’t quite your thing but you still want to get out onto a surfboard, then consider stand-up paddleboarding (aka SUP). This wildly popular watersport is both relaxing and more challenging than it looks – you’ll have to check your balance and engage your core, but once you’re up, it’s easy paddling! – and offers some of the most incredible sightseeing and wildlife watching around Tamarindo Bay.
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Hit the Farmer’s Market
Take a break from the adrenaline and explore a beloved niche of Costa Rican culture: the weekly feria, or farmer’s market, held every Saturday morning. Both adventurous and picky eaters alike will find something love here, from ripe red strawberries and juicy mangos to more exotic fruits, including spiky soursop (guanabana) and hairy red rambutan (mamón chino).
Featured Family Rental: Ibis Condo #1
Tamarindo | 2 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 6
When you seek rest, harmony, and total relaxation, Ibis Condo #1 delivers. One of our favorite family-friendly vacation rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, this cozy condo is just right for small families who seek big amenities and serious oceanfront charm.
Located at the serene and beachfront Langosta Beach Club, this lovely condo is directly across from the beach – and yet, just a 10-minute walk to downtown Tamarindo. It’s the best of both worlds, for travelers who prefer to have one foot in tranquility and the other in the joys of downtown life, from tours and shopping to dining and nightlife.
At Ibis Condo #1, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world: Sit out on your private terrace, surrounded by forest foliage. Retreat to your condo interiors, warm with local hardwoods, tropical ambiance, and modern touches. Prepare a meal in the fully equipped kitchen, read a book outdoors in the shade, or simply spend time with your travel companions. That’s why you’re here, after all!
Your rental also includes full membership privileges at Langosta Beach Club, with its beachfront, infinity-edge swimming pool overlooking the warm Pacific, plus upscale amenities including a French restaurant, full fitness center, Pilates and yoga studio, and a great bar with spectacular ocean views.
>> Inquire Here <<
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Go Dolphin & Whale Watching
Almost nothing can match the delight of a child who has just spotted a breaching whale or playful dolphin. Find out for yourself when you book a Tamarindo whale-watching tour, which takes you aboard a boat to spot humpback whales, several area dolphin species and, if timed right, the occasional nesting sea turtle.
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Smear Yourself with Mud (+ Hot Springs!)
The family that giggles and gets muddy together, stays together! That’s our motto, at least when we’re out for a day at nearby Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you and your family will explore volcanic fumaroles, bubbling mud, and eerie steam holes before heading to the hot springs, where you can soak away the day (and treat your skin to some volcanic mud!).
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Go Horseback Riding
If you’ve ever dreamed of riding down the beach at sunset (or in the surf), then here’s your chance! And while Tamarindo’s horseback riding tours are the stuff fantasies are made of, they’re also a hint of our local culture: Our province of Guanacaste has been the wild frontier, teeming with cattle ranches, cowboys, and their trusty steeds.
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Take a Sunset Sail
If your kids are a little older – or if they just love a good swim in the sea followed by a tranquil sunset – then a Tamarindo sunset sail is a Can’t-Miss Activity. This afternoon tour first ferries you to a secluded cove, where you’ll snorkel, swim, or simply enjoy the sun, before motoring out into the Pacific for a close-up view of the fiery sun and its evening friend, the horizon.
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Ride a Jungle Water Slide
THE bucket-list activity of many a kid (and their kid-at-heart parents), Costa Rica’s famous jungle waterslide is an absolute must for many visiting families. Located on the slopes of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, this jungle adventure includes horseback riding, zipline canopies, open-air hot springs, and the promised 400-meter (a quarter-mile!) waterslide through the rainforest.
Featured Family Rental: Sunrise 3
Tamarindo | 3 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 6
Nicknamed “Bella Vida” – the Beautiful Life – Sunrise 3 is one of our most popular vacation rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica for great reasons: It has Pacific Ocean views. The community has incredible amenities. And the condo walking distance to everything.
That last part is important. Here in the land of year-round sun and the pura vida, you usually have to make a choice: Do you want views or do you want convenience? Sunrise 3 defies the can’t-have-it-all trope and delivers both! Because, while you’ll have ocean views from your private terrace, you’re also in the heart of Tamarindo – no taxis, no Ubers, no asking for a ride… You can walk everywhere.
And did we mention? Said everywhere includes the beach, which is located just a few steps across the street. Ahhh, paradise!
Added to the condo’s unparalleled convenience and location, Sunrise 3 also delivers cozy condo interiors, a breezy private terrace/balcony, a beachy color palette, a well-equipped kitchen, and lightning-fast 100 Mbps internet. You’ll also have access to the community’s oversized resort pool, with a spectacular water feature and many sun loungers.
As we said, welcome to paradise!
>> Inquire Here <<
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Go Boogie Boarding
If you (or your kids) aren’t quite feeling the surf, then take some time to enjoy the next-best thing: boogie boards! While tamer (thanks to smaller waves and full-body-to-board contact) than their surfboard counterparts, boogies boards still offer an exciting ride and a chance to claim a bit of Tamarindo’s surf as your very own! You can rent a board for a budget-friendly $10-$15/day, and the ultra-gentle waves in front of Hotel Capitán Suizo are perfect for even the tiniest boarders.
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Explore the Ocean by Kayak
Whether you’re here for birdwatching (go early) or prefer sun-splashed scenery (all day), an ocean kayak can provide a window into the Tamarindo that few ever see. It’s active, it’s fun, and, if you hit the waves right, it’s exciting! And it’s also enlightening: Depending on the time of day (and your luck), you could spot birds and monkeys in the mangroves or sea turtles and dolphins out at sea. And even when the wildlife is taking a nap, the estuaries and Pacific remain an incredible sight.
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Discover a Waterfall
If you can think of nothing more refreshing (and memorable) than a hike to and swim beneath a waterfall, then welcome! Our scenic province of Guanacaste is studded with falling water both great and small, many accompanied by cool, mountain-fed swimming holes below. Be sure to ask, though, before you swim: Some waterfalls are safe, while others are considered to be viewing-only! (Check out 5 of our favorite waterfalls in Guanacaste.)
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Find a Secluded Beach
While beaches are an integral element of any family vacation, secluded beaches are the kind of thing that takes your visit from family fun to forever memories. So, take a day (or a few) to peruse some of our area’s off-the-beaten-path sands – ask us, and we’ll point you in many right directions! – and discover everything from tiny strips of sand to huge swaths of beach that you can almost call your own, if only for a few hours.
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Go Fishing
Tamarindo is world-renowned for its sportfishing – everything from hard-fighting billfish to yellowfin tuna and mahi-mahi (dorado). For fishing and outdoorsy families, this can be one of your trip’s most memorable experiences: teaching your kids how to hold the reel, watching their excitement as a fish tweaks their line for the very first time, and cheering them on as they reel in (or lose) their first fighter. And hey, if you catch something worth eating, our family vacation rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica have fully equipped kitchens (and often, outdoor grills) perfect for preparing your catch-of-the-day!
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Take a Hike
Life comes at us fast and before we know it, our kids are grown. Sometimes, we need to take a beat and remind ourselves to slow down. Hiking is one of those times: It’s an hour, an afternoon, or a day to take your time and look around. To chat with your kids and create new memories. To delight in watching a monkey troupe pass through the trees or squeal at your first wild sloth sighting. Because in life, especially family life, sometimes the simple things are the most rewarding.
Inquire About Our Family-Friendly Vacation Rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Whether you’re traveling with just the kids or are planning a huge family reunion, our vacation rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica can more than accommodate! We offer everything from cozy two-bedroom condos to 8+ bedroom private resorts equipped with ocean-view infinity pools, daily meals, and so much more.
Can you imagine a 2022 family vacation in Costa Rica? We sure can! Get in touch.
Our Favorite Places to Stay & Things To Do in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Tamarindo is as close as Costa Rica’s Gold Coast comes to a beach metropolis and yet, it’s the furthest thing from a city: A mile long from stem to stern, this golden-sand and cerulean-sea travel hotspot packs restaurants and shops, activities and attractions into one sand-dusted town.
For this little town lives by the motto of “surf, eat, and have fun” – and all three, we readily accept as a contractual obligation! It’s the life you lead, when you live or vacation in Guanacaste’s chilliest city by the sea.
While you may have heard about the first (surf) and be tempted by the second (eat), today we’re here to discover the third: Have fun! There are tens, if not hundreds of ways to have fun in Tamarindo. And now, we’re going to discover some of the must-dos, the must-sees, and the you-wouldn’t-want-to-miss-‘ems.
Things to Do in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
When you visit Costa Rica (and especially the Pacific), your activities will be most often divided into land activities and water activities. Make enough time for both because, by land and by sea, Tamarindo is a wonder!
Here are some of the highlights:
Things to Do in Tamarindo: Land Activities
When you think Tamarindo, you likely think ocean. And so, we thought we start with the land: spectacular, wild, and not to be overlooked, our landscapes and scenery house heart-stopping sights and bucket-list wildlife.
Wildlife & Nature Tours: It’s undeniable that nature and wildlife are one of Costa Rica’s primary draws. And yet, many people who visit Tamarindo fail to discover even a sliver of the biodiversity our area holds. These tours change that, taking on your choice of a hike, river float (we know, technically a water activity, or other conveyance to discover monkeys and crocs, parrots and sea turtles, waterfalls and dry forests.
Canopy Ziplines: One of the most iconic things to do in Tamarindo, a canopy zipline tour offers a blend of nature and thrill, adrenaline and wonder. Our favorite takes you into a 150-year-old Costa Rican cattle ranch, to discover 11 cables, a swinging bridge, and a heart-pounding rappel.
Horseback Riding: If you’ve ever wanted to ride down a beach or travel into Costa Rica’s backroads, then horseback can be just the ticket: Roam, explore, and discover the places and spaces that would be nearly impossible to see via car or your own two feet.
Volcano Tours: Take a full day to explore one of Costa Rica’s active volcanoes, where you can hike to blue waters, discover waterfalls, soak in hot springs, slather yourself in mineral-rich mud, and so much more.
Where to Stay in Tamarindo: Puesta del Sol
Tamarindo | 6 Beds | 6 Baths | Sleeps 16
Have you dreamed of flying – of rising high, your arms spread, your hair blowing in the breeze, and your heart soaring, your body ablaze with exhilaration?
Puesta del Sol is a little like that.
Set high on a hilltop overlooking the beach town of Tamarindo, this spectacular home delivers 300-degree panoramic views and architecture designed to amaze. Here, ocean breezes whip and race up the mountain, wrapping you in their refreshing chill. Here, the Pacific Ocean unfurls at your feet and swooping seabirds frame your view. Here, you’re floating above it all – almost flying, high above earth and sea, in a special paradise all your own.
Named for the sunset – or, more precisely, for the “setting of the sun” – Puesta del Sol is one of our most outstanding homes: upscale yet warm, both remarkable and welcoming. Oversized windows both frame the artwork of this view and beckon sunlight to steam indoors. An expansive infinity pool bids you to spend your mornings, your afternoons, your every moment on the terrace. Sliding glass doors blur the line between indoors and out.
And then, there’s Puesta del Sol’s namesake: the blazing tropical sunset that sets the sky on fire, a riot of jewel tones, bright fluorescents, and muted pastels. Because, while this is a home built on details and rooted in refinement, it always remembers and honors the very reasons you’re here…
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Things to Do in Tamarindo: Water Activities
From the estuaries to the grand Pacific, here’s what awaits in Tamarindo’s waters:
Surfing & SUP: From surf lessons to stand-up paddleboarding (and even SUP yoga!), Tamarindo is well known for its epic surf, gentle waves, and everything in between. So, whether you’re a brand-new beginner or a seasoned pro, you’ll find something to make your board rock and your soul soar.
Catamaran Sailing: Named a perennial favorite and an absolute must, a catamaran cruise takes you out into Tamarindo’s bays and shallows to float, swim, and snorkel (spot octopus, pufferfish, manta rays, starfish, and more!). Choose an afternoon cruise to top the day off with an incredible sunset!
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving: Private excursions will take you to the Catalina Islands, secluded coves, and tiny inlets to seek out the best underwater sights on the North Pacific coast.
Turtle Nesting: Las Baulas National Marine Park, located on the north end of Tamarindo, is one of the world’s most important leatherback turtle nesting sites. While the turtles are only in residence a few times a year, neighboring beaches also host green sea turtles and olive ridleys.
Sport Fishing: Undeniably one of Costa Rica’s most beloved ocean adventures, sport fishing offers a scenic journey and, if luck and skill are on your side, a hard-won victory. Better yet, not only can we arrange traditional sport fishing excursions, but we can also set you up for a day on a panga, for an authentic and traditional Costa Rican fishing experience!
Mangrove & Sea Kayaking: If you prefer your paddle to a motor, Tamarindo delivers with quiet kayaking adventures out into the Pacific or deep into the wilds of the town’s mangrove estuaries. Spot all manner of wildlife and venture out to where you’re nearly alone with the Pacific, for an experience few will ever have.
Where to Stay in Tamarindo: Casa Xanadu
Tamarindo | 4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Baths | Sleeps 10
At the juncture of sea and sky, of downtown and out-of-the-way, Casa Xanadu overlooks the marvels of Tamarindo: Las Baulas National Marine Park, the Tamarindo wildlife estuary, a rolling mountain range, and two scenic beaches. From here, you can see it all – including the day’s surf conditions!
For here, amidst the biodiversity afforded by rare tropical dry forest – one of the last remaining swatch in the world – Casa Xanadu is at the epicenter of wonder and wildlife: Green forest, sun-drenched sands, and the sparkling Pacific, where seabirds swoop and iguanas sun, where howler monkeys holler and parakeets squawk.
Just a few minutes from the beach – take the golf cart or follow your own two feet! – this stunning home welcomes you to four spacious bedrooms, a private infinity pool, shaded terraces, and sun-splashed balconies. Indoors, a beachy color palette and a chef’s kitchen, indoor-outdoor dining and windows to frame your every view.
Because yes, always, it’s that view. That’s why you’re here. That’s why you’ll never want to leave.
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Ask our Concierge: What Are the Best Things to Do in Costa Rica?
Did you know that when you stay with Vacation Rentals of Tamarindo, you gain access to complimentary concierge services?
But it’s so much more than that. Because working with our friendly concierge, Cristina (or Cris, for short) is a shortcut to zero stress, vacation bliss. It’s saying adios to handling the time-intensive, little-things-matter, what-does-this-say-in-English? details. Because Cris – well, she takes care of everything.
Even better, her services are completely complimentary. Because we’ve all been roped into believing we can do it ourselves. We’ve all bought a $15 travel guidebook and said, “This is going to be fun!” And then, we’ve all had a moment or two that we’ve pulled out hair, lambasted the computer, and generally threw our hands up in frustration.
That’s not what you want out of your vacation.
But then, there’s also the Costa Rica quotient: Smaller than the country of West Virginia, our little nation seems like it would be easy to navigate. Keyword: Seems. Because here, where the rivers block certain roads during the green season and where it can take an entire day to travel 150 miles, there are things you should know. But you won’t know them.
Cris will. Because that’s her job. She knows all the ins and outs and, what’s more, she can advise you on the best, the bucket-worthy, and the not-everyone-knows-about-them things to do in Costa Rica. And then, she’ll build you a custom itinerary. At exactly the same price you’d book it. Only, without the hiccups and the problems and the redundancies of the uninitiated.
Welcome to your carefree Tamarindo vacation.
Where to Stay: Casa Rebecca
Hacienda Pinilla | 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms
The epitome of a tropical lifestyle, Casa Rebecca is a sleek and chic retreat ensconced within the pristine community of Hacienda Pinilla: a championship golf course, a luxurious beach club, multiple restaurants, and pristine beaches, bordered by tennis courts, walking and biking trails, horseback riding stables, and rolling cattle ranch. A slice of traditional Costa Rica, yours to explore.
For this, Casa Rebecca is your perfect spot. A retreat to walls of glass and high ceilings, a private pool and breezy terraces, this is vacation. Vacation, to the tune of sun-drenched terraces and expansive pool deck, airy indoor-outdoor living and lush tropical gardens. And, if you’re traveling with kids, they’re sure to love the bunk room – the perfect spot for a vacation slumber party!
>> Inquire Here <<
Ready to Choose Your Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Tamarindo?
We know, the options can be overwhelming. But, as ever, we’re here to help. Cris is here to help.
Simply put: She’ll handle everything. All the logistics. Every reservation. Airport transportation. Tamarindo transportation. From A to Z and everything in between: When you book one of our Tamarindo vacation rentals, our in-house concierge will quickly be in touch.
She’s an expert in Tamarindo travel: Digging beneath the surface and reaching beyond the norm, Cris not only makes it her job to know Tamarindo, 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. Any budget – really.
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. And, as we said, completely free. So go ahead, pick Cris’s brain! She can’t wait to hear from you!
Tamarindo Nightlife: Where to Go, What to See & What to Do
Tamarindo is the kind of place where you don’t have to look for something to: Tamarindo nightlife finds you. Everywhere you go, almost anywhere you look – there’s a bar, a restaurant, or a hangout where you can spend your evening hours.
That said, everyone has their favorites. Here are a few of ours.
Must See: Tamarindo Night Market & Feria
Ferias, or farmer’s markets, are a Costa Rican staple. And nowhere are they more enjoyable than right here in Tamarindo, where the feria becomes a night market complete with live music, international food, and artisan vendors selling jewelry, clothes, art, and so much more.
Open every Thursday from 6-9 p.m., this is our version of the feria gone wild. Only, instead of carrots and mangos, you’ll snack on arepas and empanadas, pizza and pulled pork, lasagna and cocktails. And then, there are the fire dancers and the traditional dancers, the DJs and the clowns – the absolutely everything you need to enjoy an open-air night out on the town!
And hey, if you’re also looking for the more traditional feria, we have that, too. (It’s on Saturday mornings!)
Stay: La Perla 154
3 Beds | 3 Baths | Sleeps 6
Luxury amenities meet the eco-lifestyle at La Perla 154, a spacious fifth-floor luxury condo just two blocks to wide, sandy beach, downtown, and Tamarindo nightlight.
For here, overlooking lush green hillsides and the dotted rooftops of Tamarindo, where the Pacific is almost close enough to reach out and touch, La Perla 154 frames sapphire views of Tamarindo Bay, passing sailboats (and the occasional humpback whale), and what may be some of the world’s most spectacular sunsets.
Step inside and into a world of creature comforts: a chef’s kitchen and resort pool, three bedroom suites and a shaded balcony in the round, a striking color palette and again, those views. Because they are everywhere and undeniable. And outside, La Perla’s community amenities, including 24-hour security, expansive lobby, Schindler elevators, a sparkling resort pool, and an owners’ clubhouse with ocean-view sun terrace.
All this, just minutes to all things Tamarindo. Set on a hilltop and yet, just a short ride down to the center of town – to restaurants and nightlife, to shopping and activities, and to everywhere you want to be in charming Tamarindo town center.
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Tamarindo Nightlife Must Dance: Tuesday Night Salsa
Costa Ricans love to dance. And by love, we mean that dance is a part of almost every Costa Rican cultural event and holiday. This rhythmic art is a thread woven through the tapestry of Costa Rican life. And it’s something everyone should try, at least once!
While in Costa Rica, you’re most likely to hear one of three styles of Latin music: merengue (fast and frenetic), cumbia (da-da-da da-da-da, you’ll want to jump to the beat!), and salsa (a bit slower, not so bouncy). Of the three, salsa is typically the easiest to pick up (especially if you’ve ever taken a high school ballroom dance class).
If that’s the case, then head to Utopia, where you can take some basic salsa classes and then, get dancing! Every Tuesday.
Must Experience: Weekend Parties at Pacifico
If delicious eats and great drinks aren’t enough to lure you to Pacifico Bar, then its Tamarindo nightlife options should do the trick!
Every Friday and Saturday night, this beloved Tamarindo mainstay hosts a dance-and-music party that will have you feeling the beach life right down to your soul. As the sun goes down and the moon comes up, you can drink and dance and laugh and enjoy the balmy night air and tropical beat. It’s pretty perfect!
Stay: Casa Calico
4 Beds | 3 Baths | Sleeps 12
It’s not often you find a place like Casa Calico. Nestled into the beating heart of Tamarindo, this intimate home has absconded to its own private world – one made of cool waters and whispering palms, private gardens and twinkling lights. If you’ve ever wondered where fun-loving fairies and forest sprites go on vacation, our bets are here.
Because Casa Calico offers a spectacular walled sanctuary that affords both a walkable downtown location and the luxury of privacy. From its sparkling pool and shaded patio to the chef’s kitchen and graceful indoor-outdoor living spaces, this home instills both wow and wonder – a not-oft-found blend of exhilaration and serenity.
Ideal for small groups and multigenerational travelers, the property is separated into a main home (3 bedrooms) and an independent poolside casita (1 bedroom), joined by the pool terrace. It’s just minutes to the beach and a secret garden, making Tamarindo feel like your own personal wonderland.
Specifically, a wonderland just a short walk to all things nightlife: to restaurants and bars, fire dancing and moonlit beach strolls. To everything and anything you want for on vacation, because Tamarindo is that kind of place. And Casa Calico is that kind of home.
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Upscale Tamarindo Nightlife Must: Pangas by Night
When you’re looking for a more refined approach to Tamarindo nightlife, Pangas Beach Club delivers with candlelit dinners, twinkling string lights, and the crash of surf, just a few feet from where you dine.
It’s dinner and drinks. It’s the area’s freshest seafood. And it’s both a consummately chill, yet tropically upscale approach to whiling away your evening hours.
Must See: Friday Night Sunsets at El Vaquero (+ Live Music!)
There’s nothing quite so Tamarindo as a sunset on the beach, unless it’s a sunset on the beach accompanied by live music!
That’s why we consider Friday nights at El Vaquero as some of the best that Tamarindo nightlife has to offer: A relaxed vibe. Good eats (and drinks). Incredible sunsets. And live music, every week. It’s the perfect end to the week, in a perfect place on Earth.
Stay: Las Mareas Villa 1
4 Beds | 4.5 Baths | Sleeps 12
Overlooking the gentle curve of Las Baulas estuary – a privileged point where the horizon kisses the turquoise twins of sea and sky – Las Mareas Villa 1 unfolds over some of Tamarindo’s best views – a skyline that stretches from Tamarindo to the protected shores of Playa Grande.
And here, where you can check the surf conditions from the comfort of your own private balconies and covered terraces, this graceful home rises to deliver the Costa Rican dream: a gourmet kitchen and an infinity-edge pool, a beachy color palette and lush foliage, lightning-fast internet and a front-row seat to the sun’s daily passage across the sky. The sunsets are spectacular! A tropical oasis awaits.
This oasis also comes with convenience and location, too. Set on a hilltop just above Pangas Restaurant & Beach Club, Las Mareas 1 is less than a half-mile to downtown Tamarindo – at once in the heart of it all and far-flung to the inner reaches of secluded paradise. It’s the best of all worlds and just minutes to all of Tamarindo’s cultural and nightlife pursuits.
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Must Relax: Stargazing
Tamarindo nightlife is more than dancing, dining, and fire dancing. Because here, in one of the world’s most beautiful places, nightlife can simply be night life.
And by that, we mean that some nights, there’s no better place to enjoy life than in your own private slice of paradise. Your feet in the pool. Soaking in a hot tub. Lounging on a terrace. Listening the crash of the surf and watching as streaky sunsets fade to twinkling stars. Because here, you see the constellations. You can dine on your own private deck. You can whip up your favorite drinks and serve them in the privacy of your own home and patio. And when it’s time to go to sleep, you can count stars instead of sheep.
Plan Your Tamarindo Vacation
Seeking a little planning know-how? Looking for a great deal? Can’t decide on which of our rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica is right for you?
Get in touch! We love to chat Tamarindo, getaways, and vacation rentals. We readily share our experiences and advice. And we promise, we’re friendly, to boot. We look forward to hearing from you!
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