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November 15,2021

Top Tamarindo Rentals for Christmas 2021 & New Year’s 2022

When you’re in the mood for a holiday escape – and by that, we mean anything from a tinsel-draped escape in paradise to an escape-the-holidays in paradise – then Costa Rica (and our available Tamarindo rentals, below) graciously delivers.

The consummate host and a happy celebrant, this tropical nation invites you to celebrate the season with walks on the beach and long afternoons on the terrace, soul-shaking sunsets and leisurely swims in the pool. Because what better way to celebrate Christmas or toast to the New Year, than with your toes buried in sand and your hair slicked back from a recent swim?

That said, the holidays here book up fast. Not only is the sun shining and the weather perfect, but we’re heading into our busiest season of the year. So, to make your last-minute holiday planning a little easier, we’ve pulled together our rentals with last-minute availability. (Check the bottom of each description for Christmas/New Year’s week availability.)

Casa Guayacan

Hacienda Pinilla | 4 Beds | 4 Baths | Sleeps 11

A beach holiday – literally! Gather your nearest and dearest, swap your pine trees for palm trees, and escape to a Pacific-adjacent, golf-course getaway in the tropics.

Steps to the beach, Casa Guayacan invites you to take a morning (and evening) stroll down the beach, whenever the whim strikes. Prefer private waters to crashing waves? This luxurious home delivers, with a private infinity pool and sun-splashed outdoor terrace, where you can dip your toes into refreshing waters, lounge in the sun or shade, and grill up a feast in the outdoor kitchen.

Indoors, Casa Guayacan is just as impressive: neutral color palettes and warm woods, floor-to-ceiling glass and exquisite indoor/outdoor living spaces, golf course views and four private bedroom suites, each opening independently to the outdoors. All this, plus access to Hacienda Pinilla’s myriad amenities, including said aforementioned golf course, plus a luxury Beach Club, tennis courts, trails, and more.

Availability: Christmas and New Year’s

>> Inquire <<

Must-Taste Costa Rican Holiday Tradition: Tamales

If you’re lucky enough to visit Costa Rica over the holidays – say, any time between mid-November and mid-January – then be sure to try a traditional tamale!

Be aware, these holiday treats are only slightly reminiscent of their corn husk-wrapped Mexican cousins; Costa Rican tamales are instead wrapped in plantain leaves and tied with a bow. Try them with a bit of salsa Lizano, hot sauce, or a dab of local sour cream (known as natilla).

Casa Kenkai

Hacienda Pinilla | 4 Beds | 3 Baths | Sleeps 8

One of our newest single-story, four-bedroom Tamarindo rentals, Casa Kenkai is a spectacular golf course home in the Reserva de Golf residential community of luxurious Hacienda Pinilla.

The holidays take on a decidedly tropical feel in this modern home, which curves around its centerpiece: your private outdoor pool, sparkling by day and shimmering by night. Indoors, abundant natural light meets high ceilings and a neutral color palette, to create open spaces and a visual breath of fresh air – a gentle reminder to greet the day and appreciate the beauty that surrounds.

Casa Kenkai is the kind of place that lets you be you: If you’re seeking a quiet holiday, hole up in your own little paradise. Whip up a feast and serve a holiday meal on the shaded outdoor patio. Pour a cocktail and toast to golf course views. Enjoy the quiet, the peace and tranquility, tropics-style.

If you’re more of a social holiday traveler, escape to the luxuries of the Hacienda Pinilla Beach Club. Located oceanfront on Playa Avellanas, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, the club offers a beachfront infinity pool, oceanfront restaurant, and fitness center. Or, reserve your favorite tee time, grab a match at the tennis courts, take a horseback ride, or simply hike into the wilds. Here, your holidays are whatever you wish them to be.

Availability: Christmas

>> Inquire <<

Casa Cielo

Playa Flamingo | 4 Beds | 4.5 Baths | Sleeps 8

Translated both as “heaven’s home” or the “house in the sky” (both would be accurate!), Casa Cielo is a dream vacation home: Not far from our Tamarindo rentals, this Flamingo Beach home unfolds over beach and ocean views and 360º panoramas, which extend to Playa Conchal, Playa Brasilito, Playa Flamingo, Playa Potrero, Sugar Beach, and the Catalina Islands. Just imagine the sunsets!

Ample, expansive, and exquisite, this vacation home spares no detail: Prepare holiday meals in the gourmet-equipped kitchen, then serve them on the tropical terrace-in-the-round. Swim away your stress in the crystal-clear pool and rinse off in a tropical outdoor shower. Douse yourself in relaxation and toast to the holidays in paradise.

When you can bear to leave Casa Cielo behind, descend the breezy hill and visit Playa Flamingo, one of our area’s most beloved swimming beaches. Looking for a little seclusion? Thanks to mountain formations with fingers that reach into the sea, this section of the Gold Coast is known for its secluded beaches, tidal pools, and lagoons – all ideal spots to dig your toes into white sand and take a dip in pristine blue waters.

Availability: Christmas

>> Inquire <<

Casa Xanadu

Tamarindo | 4 Beds | 3.5 Baths | Sleeps 10

Life’s unwritten rule declares you can’t have it all. Casa Xanadu begs to differ. Because here, tucked onto a quiet hillside, this luxury vacation home serves up views over two beaches, one national park, one wildlife estuary, and one imposing mountain line. It’s the diverse wonder and wild nature of Costa Rica, all wrapped into a single panorama. Talk about a holiday gift!

Spectacular in every sense, Casa Xanadu is one of our most breathtaking Tamarindo rentals: In addition to its ocean views, the home perches over rare tropical dry forest that teems with life: flocks of parakeets, troupes of howler monkeys, clouds of fluttering butterflies, and lazy iguanas all act as next-door neighbors, at least while you’re here.

And when you’re not outside, enjoying the views, Mother Nature, your private infinity pool, and an expansive sun terrace, you’ll be inside, enjoying the home’s spacious interiors and ample social spaces. And everywhere, always, there’s that view. That view that beckons, that calls you forth. So go ahead, answer the call. This is what the holidays in Costa Rica are all about.

Availability: Christmas

>> Inquire <<

Casa Serena

Hacienda Pinilla | 5 Beds | 5 Baths | Sleeps 10

The word decadent might call to mind pecan pies and sugar plum fairies, but it’s also a perfect description for Casa Serena – a home as indulgent, as luxurious, and as downright decadent as your holidays deserve.

Because Casa Serena sits beachfront on the Pacific Ocean – a rare luxury in Costa Rica, and even rarer still in the exclusive community of Hacienda Pinilla. Experience true extravagance, every time you wander out your doorway and onto the sand. With each dip in the custom infinity pool, which wraps around a tree. And whenever you discover those telltale grains of white sand between your toes. This is life.

Of course, Casa Serena is not content to deliver just one of the best outdoor experiences; she demands to be the best indoors, too. Here, every bedroom suite has a private bath, the WiFi is lightning-fast, the kitchen is gourmet equipped, and the spa and full gym are yours, any time. Because Casa Serena is all about serenity – about wanting for nothing and sparing no luxury, no exquisite detail, no touch of comfort.

Availability: Christmas

>> Inquire <<

Must-See Costa Rican Holiday Tradition: Lit Town Trees

Far be it from dampening the holiday spirit, tropical weather puts an outdoors-all-the-time spin on end-of-year celebrations.

One of our favorite traditions is the annual tree lighting, which occurs throughout Costa Rica in almost every major town and provincial capital. Most light artificial evergreens but, depending on where you are and the personality of the province, you’re also likely to find lit palm trees, decorated street lamps, and other sparkling somethings of the holiday variety. Whether you celebrate the holiday or are here to escape the trappings, a little twinkle is sure to shine a special light on your holiday in Costa Rica.

Flamingo Blu

Playa Flamingo | 5 Beds | 6 Baths | Sleeps 10

Beautiful and beachfront, open-air Flamingo Blu is your ticket into the blue: an oceanfront-all-day kind of place where you’ll split your hours between the sun-splashed pool, palm-thatched lounge chairs, and the sparkling Pacific Ocean.

Set onto the hillside and reaching down to the sands of Flamingo Beach, this is one of those Tamarindo rentals (or Tamarindo-area rentals) that has it all: ocean breezes and a beachfront location, incredible panoramas (ocean, mountains, and sky) and direct access to the sands. In a word, it’s perfect, especially for the holidays.

Gather, whip up holiday meals, and enjoy yourself in Flamingo Blu’s open-air living areas, private infinity pool, and an expansive curved terrace, with front-row seats to some of the coast’s best sunsets. This is where incredible memories are made, from the moment the howlers hoot in the morning to the time you bid goodnight to the winking stars at night.

Availability: Christmas

>> Inquire <<

Casa Bonita Beach

Hacienda Pinilla | 6 Beds | 6 Baths | 19 Guests

When’s the last time you celebrated the holidays with an afternoon of pool fun, barbecuing, and your very own waterslide?

Welcome to Casa Bonita Beach, where breezy pool terraces and shaded outdoor dining promise the perfect foil to your private pool and delightful waterslide (designed both for kids and for kids-at-heart!). Because when you holiday in the tropics, you deserve the tropical lifestyle, complete with all-day sun, lounge chairs, and an outdoor wine fridge.

Inside, Casa Bonita Beach is just as extravagant, opening onto high ceilings, a beachy color palette, a gourmet-ready kitchen, and verdant views. And for our multigenerational families and travelers with disabilities, this elite property has now added a wheelchair-accessible independent apartment – ramp access to a king bedroom and second full-twin bunk room, plus a kitchenette, private terrace, and a wheelchair-accessible bathroom.

Availability: New Year’s

>> Inquire <<

Sunrise 3

Tamarindo | 3 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 6

Set right in the heart of Tamarindo, Sunrise 3 is the epicenter of all things convenient and wonderful. Because, when you’re the type of holiday traveler who prefers to dine out on a holiday and toast to the coming year with a sunset stroll, this is exactly where you want to be.

A warm and central condo – and one of our top downtown Tamarindo rentals – Sunset 3 is a special place: walking distance to absolutely everything, it puts you just across the street from the beach and the Pacific, which you can enjoy from your ocean-view terrace. Venture out into the oversized resort pool or simply tuck into a cozy evening overlooking the brilliant streaks of a tropical sunset.

So, what does the holiday season have in store at Sunset 3? Greet the day with your toes in the sand or your feet in the sea. Spend the day discovering tropical traditions – sandy “snowmen,” anyone? – or simply enjoying the slow life in a hammock beneath a tropical sun. Whip up a feast in the well-equipped kitchen – or dine out at one of Tamarindo’s many international restaurants. Celebrate however you’d like or in no way at all; the choice and the day are yours.

Availability: Christmas

>> Inquire <<

Villa Marlene

Playa Conchal | 4 Beds | 3 Baths | Sleeps 11

If you’re perusing Tamarindo rentals this holiday season, look a little north and into the promises of Playa Conchal, Costa Rica’s pink-hued beach and quiet haven. For here, within the exclusive beach and golf resort community of Reserva Conchal, Villa Marlene welcomes you to a quiet a picturesque holiday season.

When you first arrive, you’ll immediately know why you’re here: This is paradise, in a grand paradise that comes with a private pool and Pacific Ocean views. Indeed, Villa Marlene is designed around its open terraces, dining pavilion, and sparkling pool, which overlooks Reserva Conchal’s forest panoramas and stretches all the to the blue Pacific and beyond.

You’ll fall in love with the hammocks and grill station, open interiors and beachy color palette, fine finishes and spacious rooms. And you’ll be forever drawn outdoors, into the tropical sun, whether you’re lounging on your private deck or venturing out to enjoy Reserva Conchal’s many amenities, including a luxurious beach club and championship golf course.

Availability: Christmas and New Year’s

>> Inquire <<

Spending the Holidays in Costa Rica? Looking for Tamarindo Rentals with Availability?

The holidays are a very particular time: Either you love them (and can’t wait to love them in a tropical setting) or you escape the rush (and want to do so in a tropical setting). Either way, we get it! And we’re happy to help.

We’re here to share all our planning know-how and to help you jump onto last-minute holiday travel. Whether you’re looking to narrow down your options for Tamarindo rentals or are looking for a few yes-they-still-have-availability suggestions, we’re here and we’re ready.

So please, get in touch! We love to chat about 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!

October 15,2021

Now Planning: 2021 and 2022 Vacations (Featuring Our New Tamarindo, Costa Rica Vacation Rentals)

Whether you’re packing your bags for a last-minute trip or taking the long view to 2022, a world of adventure, fun, and relaxation awaits! We’re talking long walks on the beach and ocean-view infinity pools, epic surf and a handful of luxurious new Tamarindo, Costa Rica vacation rentals. In other words, the perfect recipe for a perfectly memorable vacation.

Now Enjoying: Last-Minute Vacations to Costa Rica

Itching to get away? Can’t wait to pack your bags again? Love a great deal? Then last-minute may be just the ticket (literally)!

While last-minute vacations aren’t for everyone, they’re increasingly right for more and more someones. And that’s because last-minute travel provides you with the latitude and flexibility – not to mention, the deals and discounts – that you crave right now. Here are a few of the perks that await:

• Last-Minute Discounts: It’s no secret that last-minute deals and discounts are out there. Not just on flights (but yes, often on flights!), but also extending to your accommodations, transportation, and even activities. And that means more bang for your buck. And, perhaps even more importantly, more buck to create your desired bang.
• The Thrill: It may not be a quantifiable perk, but it’s a perk nonetheless: Last-minute travel feels thrilling. It ups the adventure quotient. Just the thought of it is probably enough to make your heart accelerate.
• Concierge Coordination: If you’re concerned that last-minute travel can’t be well-planned travel, then we’re here to assuage your concerns. Because last-minute travel could be your best-planned vacation ever.
• Firm Footing: The last ~18 months have taught us to be cautious, both in everyday life and travel. Enter last-minute travel: You know exactly what’s going on in the world, right now. ou know what Costa Rica’s travel requirements are, right now. (Not sure? Ask us!)

Tempted to travel last-minute? Get in touch or read more about last-minute travel to Tamarindo, Cosa Rica.

Now Planning: 2022 Tamarindo Vacations

Last-minute travel is definitely not for everyone. Whether you don’t have the right-now time or the desire to hop on a plane tomorrow, you’re more of a planner than a seat-of-your-pantser. We embrace that!

So, here’s your official invitation: 2022 is officially open for enjoyment! (Can you believe we’re just a few months away from New Year’s?!)

But right now is the time to begin dreaming, to start planning. To think about what you want from Tamarindo, Costa Rica vacation rentals – about whether you want to step out directly onto the sand or into a hilltop ocean breeze, whether you prefer an ocean-view infinity pool or the seclusion of your own private compound. You know, to make all the big and little decisions that will make your trip the Best One Ever.

We’re here to help. In a very real sense! Did you know that your Vacation Rentals of Tamarindo booking includes complementary and comprehensive concierge services?

Concierge Services

What’s that, you ask? Simply put: We’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, Costa Rica vacation rentals, you’re also reserving a one-on-one chat (or many of them) with our friendly in-house concierge, Cris.

She’s an expert in all things Tamarindo and she’ll work with your budget, preferences, and wishes. 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!

Ultimate Privacy & Healthy Travel

In addition to Costa Rica’s invitation to get outdoor and enjoy the fresh air – water adventures, land adventures, and day trips (and everything in between) – at Vacation Rentals of Tamarindo, we also offer the ultimate in privacy, seclusion, and healthy protocols.

Because the beauty of our Tamarindo house rentals is that it’s yours: Your kitchen. Your bedroom. Your private pool. Your own expansive terrace. Your own tropical gardens. Your, well, everything.

What’s more, we fully clean and sanitize that privacy before you arrive:

• Full COVID Cleaning: We follow a comprehensive list of cleaning protocols, including sanitizing all our homes with both chlorine-based and organic disinfectants proven effective in killing the COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2).
• Stocked Hand Sanitizer: All our home rentals come equipped with complimentary hand sanitizer.
• We Wear Masks: Our staff and cleaning crew are fully masked, throughout every stage of traveler contact.
• Private Plans: If you’ve fallen for any of our water, land, or full-day adventures, fear not. We can book tours and equipment rentals for you and your “travel bubble” alone. You won’t have to come into contact with other travelers.

Now Introducing: Our Newest Tamarindo, Costa Rica Vacation Rentals

There’s something special about being one of the very first to enjoy a new experience. And yet, being one of the first is only one of the many perks that await at three of our newest Tamarindo, Costa Rica vacation rentals:

Casa Moderna

5 Beds | 4.5 Baths | Sleeps 14

What’s in a name? If you’re staying at Casa Moderna, it’s the truth: Modern to its core, this sleek and beautiful luxury home delivers clean lines, polished finishes, and a neutral color palette that invites nature to take center stage. Welcome to floor-to-ceiling glass, soaring interiors, and an outdoors – lush tropical landscaping – that’s invited in.

This five-bedroom home offers a perfect escape: One of our more secluded Tamarindo, Costa Rica vacation rentals, the property encircles you in waving palms and lush hedge, creating a tropical oasis from the private pool and shaded terraces. Indoors, your eye is drawn to the floating stairway and double-height ceilings, breezy décor and chef-ready kitchen.

All this, located within spectacular Reserva Conchal, just a few minutes’ drive to one of the most beautiful beaches in Guanacaste. You’ll also have access to Reserva Conchal’s luxury Beach Club and tee times on the golf course.

>> Inquire <<

Casa Savanna

4 Beds | 4 Baths | Sleeps 13

One of the more elite Tamarindo, Costa Rica vacation rentals, Casa Savanna is located within the exclusive community of Hacienda Pinilla.

So, we’ll start there: Hacienda Pinilla, located 15 minutes south of Tamarindo, unfolds over 4,500 acres of golden beaches, tropical dry forest, and open savannah – a scenic cross-sampling of all great things Guanacaste, rolled into one welcoming community. Welcome!

Because, when you stay at Casa Savanna, you’ll have full access to Hacienda Pinilla’s myriad amenities: an incredible oceanfront Beach Club, hiking and biking trails, pristine beaches, the Hacienda Pinilla Golf Course, tennis courts, and much more.

Of course, you’re here not only for the community but for Casa Savanna itself: an incredible home comprised of four independent bedroom suites with private baths, joined at their center to form a common living/dining area with a fully equipped chef’s kitchen. And at their heart, your private swimming pool, terrace, and shaded gazebo. The finest in indoor/outdoor living!

>> Inquire <<

Villa Motmot

6 Beds | 4 Baths | Sleeps 14

Villa Motmot – named for the motmot bird, one of Guanacaste’s most beautiful birds and a frequent visitor to the home – is both one of the newest Tamarindo, Costa Rica vacation rentals and completely luxurious, in all the right ways. We’re talking a secluded hilltop location and Pacific Ocean views, a rooftop deck and a front-row seat to some of Costa Rica’s most magnificent sunsets.

Located just 10 minutes (on foot!) to Tamarindo beaches, this eco-villa has a green soul and a story to tell: For more than 25 years, its builders have helped protect and reforest Costa Rica’s rainforests and now, they have built an incredible home with a low carbon footprint, including solar-heated water, solar-powered energy, water recycling, and a highly biodiverse garden to support birds and mammals.

Inside and out, you’ll spot no shortcuts: Villa Motmot is a celebration of modern and environmentally friendly design. As an example, each of the homes six bedrooms features a king bed, smart TV, and A/C; the tropical gardens host not only wildlife but also a 12 x 7 meter Boule court for Boccia and Petanque; and the rooftop deck sprawls over 100 square meters (1,080 square feet).

>> Inquire <<

Plan Your Trip & Get to Know our Tamarindo, Costa Rica Vacation Rentals

Seeking a little planning know-how? Ready to jump on 2021 last-minute travel? Looking toward 2022? Just want to peruse our Tamarindo house rentals?

Get in touch! We love to chat about 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!

September 15,2021

Costa Rica Wet Season & Tamarindo Beach 2021 Update

Sometimes, it feels like we hardly have our feet planted before the rug gets pulled out from under us again. (For the n-th time, it seems.) Over the last 18 months, everything has been so in flux that it’s been hard to keep our current events straight. (Did you even know that it’s the Costa Rica wet season? And that the deals are great?!)

So, we thought we’d give you a boots-on-the-ground kind of update: a quick overview of what’s happening in Tamarindo. Because there’s nothing like being here – like knowing what happened yesterday, what’s happening today, and what’s scheduled for tomorrow – to help you feel a little more secure in your travel decisions (for today or tomorrow).

Update #1: Yes, the Costa Rica Wet Season is Here!

It’s September, and that means that the Costa Rica wet season is in full swing! Here in Costa Rica’s driest region, that’s a great thing, because it means that our landscapes have greened up, our flowers are in full bloom, and everything looks just beautiful.

It also means that Costa Rica wet season deals and perks have been officially activated. We’re talking discounts on vacation rentals and fewer crowds for activities, better deals on airfare and cooler afternoon temperatures. Because, if you ask any local, you’ll probably hear that the green season is the best season, for all these many reasons (and more… go ahead, ask us!).

So, if you’re in a traveling state of mind, we urge you to consider last-minute travel during the Costa Rica wet season. If you’re tempted, here are a few Tamarindo vacation rentals that still have some availability over the next couple of months:

Villa Motmot

6 Beds | 4 Baths | Sleeps 14

This brand new, luxurious home is an ideal choice for Costa Rica wet season travel. Its location – concealed within the hills of Tamarindo, overlooking ocean views and magnificent sunsets – affords some of the region’s best views. Especially now, when the entire coast has erupted with every shade of green, sprinkled in a rainbow of tropical flowers.

Just a 10-minute walk to Tamarindo beaches, surf spots, and everything downtown the villa offers a luxury vacation experience, starting with your very own private pool. We think you’ll also love the lush gardens, which are ablaze this time of year, and which give the villa its name: the motmot, one of Guanacaste’s most beautiful birds, is a frequent visitor here.

>> Inquire About Villa Motmot <<

Casa Calico

4 Beds | 3 Baths | Sleeps 12

Hidden in the heart of downtown Tamarindo, this gorgeous and wild (at least, wild-adjacent!) property promises a sparkling pool, tropical gardens, and a convenient location within walking distance to sandy beaches and some of Costa Rica’s best surf breaks (thrilling, especially during the Costa Rica wet season!).

There is something truly special about a home this central and this convenient, while also this private and this secluded. You’ll feel like you’re vacationing within your own private garden, especially now, when everything is in bloom! And, if you are traveling with friends or family, you’ll appreciate the main home’s three bedrooms, paired with an independent casita’s additional bedroom suite.

>> Inquire About Casa Calico <<

Ibis Condo 10

3 Beds | 3 Baths | Sleeps 8

When you want to stay right across from the beach, when you crave the amenities of a larger resort, when you seek a great deal (especially during the Costa Rica wet season), then you should look no further than Ibis Condo #10.

This luxurious condo promises seasonal ocean views from the great room and grand deck. But, what you can’t always see, you will hear: crashing surf and the sound of happy beach-goers. Feel free to join them, because world-famous Langosta Beach and Tamarindo Beach are just steps away!

>> Inquire About Ibis Condo 10 <<

Update #2: Tourism is Back (and in full swing!)

Working hand in hand with our first update, we thought we’d share that tourism is back! Here in Tamarindo, people are visiting. Restaurants and attractions and national parks and everything… well, it’s all open. The sun is shining and the sea breeze is blowing. Our toes are in the sand and we are reveling in this return to everyday life! Because life the beach? Well, it’s glorious. (Even when it’s just for a week.)

It helps that Costa Rica is open to international travelers. And by open, we mean OPEN: there are no restrictions on who can visit. And there are very few requirements; the only real condition is that you must be either fully vaccinated or you must carry a travel insurance policy. Beyond that, you need only your passport and the easy government Health Pass, and you are into the country and enjoying your vacation.

Bottom line: Costa Rica is one of the easiest countries to travel to, as of September 2021.

Update #3: Real Estate is Booming

Perhaps not surprisingly, given all the pent-up energy and anticipation, after putting our lives on hold for a year-and-a-half, Tamarindo real estate is now booming. Buyers are buying and sellers are happy. Time on market is short and our inventory – well, it’s in flux, in the best way possible.

If you’ve ever considered purchasing a home in Tamarindo, this is a good time to keep your eyes open. You’ll see many new listings pop up and maybe one will be your next home in Costa Rica.

Update #3.1: New Housing Developments Have Arrived

Speaking of real estate, we are also seeing the emergence of new developments and communities. Some that were on pause from 2019 and 2020, while others have announced brand new development. Again, in a word, real estate here is booming.

Update #4: Markets are Open Again

One of the greatest signs of return to everyday life – and one of the things we missed most, when we weren’t living that so-called everyday life – is the return of Tamarindo’s markets.

That’s right, our Thursday night farmers market and Saturday morning farmers market have both reopened, so, whether you’re here to vacation or to live, you can now, once again (!), buy all your favorite fruits and vegetables, fresh from the farm stand.

Update #5: The Police Station is Open

Another sign that we have returned to everyday life? Our brand-spanking-new Tourist Police delegation – a joint effort between the institute of tourism and the ministry of public security – has finally opened in downtown Tamarindo.

The Tourist Police are a special branch of the Costa Rican police, designed specifically to attend to tourist needs. The benefit is that most officers speak excellent English and they are well versed in all types of tourist concerns and challenges. We hope they will be a great asset to our community.

Update #6: There Are New Stores in Town

It has been incredibly fulfilling (and quite exciting) to see new stores, shops, and stands opening all over Tamarindo. We hope you’ll stop by and see what sparks your interest!

Update #7: Covid Protocols are Being Followed

Many of these updates would not be possible, were it not for Costa Rica’s strong pandemic response – and Tamarindo’s adherence to COVID protocols. If you are considering a visit, but you were concerned about your safety, then know that here, in Tamarindo, health and safety protocols are being followed.

We wear masks in public spaces, and especially indoors. we keep our distance. Plastic barriers separate customers from store employees. And Costa Rica’s vaccine rollout has been strong. Beyond that, Costa Rica is a naturally “COVID-safe” destination, in the sense that most of our time is spent outdoors, walking the beach and enjoying the sunshine – some of the safest current health conditions, according to science.

Update #8: Live Music at Our Restaurants

For those of us who like to spend the evening out, great news! Due to COVID curfews, many of our local bars have adapted and become restaurants, often accompanied by live music. So now, you can order some of your favorite foods, request your favorite drink, and enjoy outdoor dining, all while taking some live music. It’s an innovative and welcome solution!

Update #8.1: And New Restaurants are Opening!

What’s more, we’ve noticed new restaurants opening up and down the beach! Stay tuned, as we’ll be sure to update you with some of our new favorites. (Or, take the taste-testing into your own hands and let us know what your favorites are.)

Update #9: The Roads to Langosta and Under Repair

We’re happy to report that the road between Tamarindo and Playa Langosta are under repair. Will update you when there’s more to tell.

Update #10: Health Retreats are a Growing Trend 

And, finally but not surprisingly, we’ve noticed that health retreats have seen a serious uptick in interest. This is likely a response to the past 18 months – to a world more focused on health, but still eager to travel and dash and we are so glad that Tamarindo is one of the chosen destinations for this new (or, perhaps, renewed) travel trend.

Explore More Costa Rica Wet Season Deals & Vacation Rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Seeking a little planning know-how? Want to enjoy the best of Costa Rica wet season travel? 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!

August 15,2021

What Does the Costa Rica Wet Season Really Mean for Your Travel Plans – and 4 Perks of a Last-Minute Vacation in Costa Rica

So, you’re thinking about traveling during the Costa Rica wet season? So, you’re a little concerned about just how wet the wet season can really be? So, you’re wondering what the difference is between the wet season and the dry season?

We can help with that, with all that. From what the green season is really like – and, for the record, the wet season is the same as the green season, but keep in mind there are mini-seasons within the season – to the many perks of the wet season, we’re filling you in on what locals already know:

Costa Rica’s green season can be a perfect time to visit. Provided you love emerald-green landscapes and heart-stopping sunsets, beaches all to yourself and significant discounts…

What’s the Costa Rica Wet Season Really Like?

In a word: Green!

We are so witty and creative, we know. But seriously, the green season was not so much bestowed a name, but rather earned its name, from the landscapes that grow greener and greener as the rains fall. Your very first experience with the season will likely be a colorful one: lush and ripe and green, everywhere, paired with the tropical fluorescence of orchids and heliconia, cloud-dappled skies and kaleidoscopic sunsets.

And, while we (the collective “we”) tend to talk about the Costa Rica green season as one lump season, the reality is that the rain and overall weather can be very different from month to month. So, we thought we’d give you a brief rundown of what you can expect from the Costa Rica wet season, specifically  here in Tamarindo and Guanacaste (Costa Rica’s driest region):

• Shoulder Season (May and November): As the weather transitions from dry to wet (May) and then back again (November), you can expect occasional showers. Depending on the year and general weather conditions, “occasional” could mean one 10-minute shower every day, a downpour every-other day, or an entire week with not a raindrop in sight.
• Moderate Green Season (June-August): These months are perhaps the steadiest, in terms of expectations. Essentially, you know what to expect: Daily rainfall that sticks to a pattern of glorious mornings, followed by early afternoon rainfall and then, a clearing of evening skies that often produce the year’s best sunsets.
• High Wet Season (September and October): The Costa Rica wet season can get very – well, wet. While exact weather patterns depend on the year – for example, a La Niña year is typically wetter than an El Niño year – September and October are always the wettest months of the year. That could mean an hour or two a day of gentle rainfall, or it could mean a quick-and-furious torrential downpour.

Here’s the real secret to weathering (if you’ll forgive the pun) the Costa Rica wet season: Plan for it! Build a bit of early-afternoon relaxation into your itinerary, literally. Schedule time every day, after lunch, to read a book or unwind at your vacation home. Sit out on your deck or balcony, watch the storm roll in (it’s impressive!), and enjoy one of life’s simplest pleasures: watching the rain pour down. Give yourself the time to enjoy this season. We locals sure do!

Spotlight: Villa Brisa del Mar

5 Beds | 4 Baths | Sleeps 10

Bordering the leatherback turtle nesting grounds of Las Baulas, the recently redesigned Villa Brisa del Mar is named for the sweet sea breezes that kiss the air.

Welcome to the kind of place where the iguanas and toucans are your neighbors, and you’ll dine with a view of the Pacific. A luxury home with a patio and private pool that look like the set of a movie (but is really just your vacation home-away-from-home). A world where you can check the surf as you sip your morning coffee, and walk to the beach as quickly as you’d load Netflix.

Welcome to your last-minute, green-season paradise.

>> Reserve <<

4 Perks of a Last-Minute Vacation in Costa Rica

Last-minute vacations aren’t for everyone but they’re increasingly becoming for more someones. And that’s because last-minute travel provides you with the latitude and flexibility – not to mention, the deals and discounts – that you crave right now. Here are a few of the perks that await:

Perk #1: Last-Minute Discounts

It’s no secret that last-minute deals and discounts are out there. Not just on flights (but yes, often on flights!), but also extending to your accommodations, transportation, and even activities.

It’s not so much about the deal, though, but about what these discounts mean: Namely, more latitude with how you spend your vacation dollars. More bang for your buck. And, perhaps even more importantly, more buck to create your desired bang.

Spotlight: Villa Motmot

6 Beds | 4 Baths | Sleeps 14

One of Tamarindo’s newest luxury vacation homes, Villa Motmot combines an ecological conscience,1,000 square-foot rooftop terrace, private pool, and magnificent sunset and ocean views, to create a perfect vacation home – and a paradise during the Costa Rica wet season.

From here, you’re just a 10-minute walk to Tamarindo beaches, surf spots, and restaurants. And you’re a 0-minute commute to the villa’s namesake: Motmots frequently visit the fruit gardens surrounding the home, which hosts a variety of tropical wildlife, exotic blooms, and other must-sees during your visit. And did we mention the 12 x 7-meter Boule court for Boccia and Petanque?

This environmental leaning – and love for Costa Rica’s landscapes and biodiversity – is evident throughout the home: Its owners and builders have spent more than 25 years protecting and reforesting the country’s rainforests. It’s only natural, then, that they’d build a luxury home-away-from-home with a low-carbon footprint, thanks to solar-heated hot water, solar power, water recycling and, yes, incredibly biodiverse gardens that feed and shelter the wildlife you’ve come to see.

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Perk #2: It’s Thrilling

It may not be a quantifiable perk, but it’s a perk nonetheless: Last-minute travel feels thrilling. It ups the adventure quotient. Just the thought of it is probably enough to make your heart accelerate.

So go ahead, indulge in your next hit of adrenaline. Give in to exhilaration. Let yourself dream – and then, turn that dream into tomorrow’s reality. Because when travel is last-minute, you really can be on the plane tomorrow.

Perk #3: Concierge Coordination

If you’re concerned that last-minute travel can’t be well-planned travel, then we’re happy to tell you that last-minute travel to Costa Rica could be your best-planned vacation ever.

It sounds like a line but it’s also true: At Vacation Rentals of Tamarindo, your reservation includes free concierge services: Knowledge, expertise, and planning from our in-house expert, Cristina, who knows Tamarindo better than the back of her hand. Her secret skill: Turning “I want to this, this, and this tomorrow” into “you’re doing this, this, and this tomorrow.” Go ahead – try her.

Spotlight: Las Mareas Villa 1

4 Beds | 4.5 Baths | Sleeps 12

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the looping curve of Las Baulas Estuary – the gateway between Tamarindo and Playa Grande – Las Mareas Villa 1 promises some of Tamarindo’s best views and spectacular scenes.

While we love this home every month of the year, its setting and architecture are particularly well suited to the Costa Rica wet season: Perched on the hill – a perfect vantage point to watch the storms roll in – Villa 1 features many covered terraces and private balconies where you can sip a mug of Costa Rican coffee, read a book, and watch the rain patter down. Let the season wash over you (literally!).

When the weather is fine – and it should be fine, during much of your stay – pour yourself a cool drink, take a dip in your infinity-edge pool, whip up a feast on the ocean-view barbecue, and track the sun’s passage across the sky. And, come evening, watch as the sun sinks into the sea: You have a front-row seat to one of Costa Rica’s most stunning sunsets!

>> Reserve <<

Perk #4: Firm Footing

The last ~18 months have taught us to be cautious, both in everyday life and travel. Changing requirements, updated protocols, even the news cycle – the world travel panorama hasn’t felt stable in many months.

Enter last-minute travel: You know exactly what’s going on in the world, right now. You know what your home country’s travel requirements and recommendations are, right now. You know what Costa Rica’s travel requirements are, right now. (Officially: No test required for entry. No insurance necessary, if you’re vaccinated. You need only fill out the Health Pass.)

Plan Your Visit during the Costa Rica Wet Season

Have questions? Prefer to speak to someone in person? Want to pick our brains about the good, the bad, and the ugly of the rainy season? We’re game!

Whether you’re seeking a little planning know-how, looking for a great deal, or just can’t decide on which of our Tamarindo rentals is right for you, we’re happy to help. So please, 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!

 

July 15,2021

Costa Rica in September & October: Save Some Green on Green Season Travel

So, you’re thinking about visiting Costa Rica in September or October (also known as the green season)? And you’re also wondering just how much of a euphemism is “green season,” really? Are we talking sun-showers-and-rainbows season or daily-deluge season?

Costa Rica in September and October: How Rainy Are the “Rainiest Months”?

The answer is, it depends.

The very shortest answer we can give you is that Costa Rica’s green season (aka rainy season) runs from about mid-May through mid-November, and September and October are the rainiest months. (Don’t click away yet! There’s a but.)

BUT, “rainiest” depends on where you’re visiting – for example, Guanacaste province, home to Tamarindo and beyond, is the driest province in Costa Rica – and your rain tolerance. (More on that, in a moment.)

Before we can get into that, though, let’s talk about Costa Rican weather. When it comes to generalizing the country, we divide our weather into two basic seasons: the dry season (December-May) and the rainy/green season (June-November). Here’s how the 12 months break down, both weather and tourism-wise:

• Dry Season (Dec through Easter): Sun, sun, sun! And, the highest prices of the year.
• Shoulder or Mid-Season (Easter to mid-June): A great bang for your buck, with lower prices and a great chance of sun.
• Summer Season (mid-June through mid-August): A mid-year peak, with prices just under the true high season.
• Green Season (mid-August through mid-Dec): A daily chance of rain sends prices to their lowest points of the year.

So, Why Visit Costa Rica in September or October?

Broadly speaking, there are four main reasons you might be considering traveling to Costa Rica in September or October:

• You love a great deal;
• You don’t want to fight off crowds;
• You crave lush landscapes; and
• Your vacation time demands it.

They’re all good reasons. Great enough, even, that you shouldn’t feel like you’re settling.

The secret is (seriously, ask any local), green season can be the very best season. For many reasons. Especially so in our province Guanacaste – again, home to Tamarindo – which breaks the mold, at least a bit: We’re drier than the rest of the country so, while we do experience a marked dry season and a wetter season, our green months are less wet (and, therefore, a little more enjoyable) than, say, in wetter regions south, like Manuel Antonio or the Osa Peninsula.

What to Expect: What’s It Really Like in September and October?

So, now you know that it’s not quite as simple as “green.” So, what can you expect in September and October?

That varies, as we said. But in Tamarindo, you’ll have a good chance of afternoon showers and the occasional thunderstorm. Most days, the rain will last anywhere from 15 minutes to a couple of hours. Evenings usually clear up and usher in the best sunsets of the year. They are truly spectacular.

Our best advice is to plan your September/October travel days: Book activities for the morning and reserve your early to mid-afternoons for time in your villa. Watch the storm roll in (it can be very impressive!) Read a book. Spent time together. Take a siesta. And if it doesn’t rain, take a dip in your private pool. Get bubbly in the hot tub. Drink in a little extra sun on your terrace.

And then, enjoy your evening. Revel in the sunset. Walk along the beach. Pick a new restaurant to try. Because, more often than not, September and October mornings and evenings, in Tamarindo, are very similar to mornings and evenings the other 10 months of the year. Only less expensive.

How to Get the Best Prices in Costa Rica: Green Season Travel

While we’re on the topic of less expensive: You can google and price compare for weeks and even months, and you’re not likely to ever find a price that compares to green season travel.

That’s the simple truth: Costa Rica’s best prices are offered during the green season. From flights to accommodations to some tours and activities, you’ll find lower prices, better perks, and fewer crowds, especially in the August-October window. (More on green season benefits, below.)

As an example, we’re happy to offer the following discounts for travel to Costa Rica in September and October 2021. Note, please reserve through our sister site, Stay in Tamarindo, or by getting in touch.

Reserve 7 Nights, Get 1 Free

Book your September/October 2021 stay before June 30, 2021, and get one night free for every seven you book. Discount applies to all homes and condos, except El Chante, Casa Serena, Flamingo Blu, Compass House, and Casa Leo Loco. Coupon code FreeOne.

Thanksgiving 2021

Book 7 nights (November 21-28, 2021) and get a 10% discount on the following homes with Promo Code THANKS2021:

• Villa Tranquila
• Villa Motmot
• Villa Brisa del Mar
• Casa Puros Dieces
• Villa Royal
• Puesta del Sol
• Soul House

Other Specials

We’re also offering a range of rental-specific specials, including:

• Casa de Los Monos (August 22-26, 2021): Base rate before: $1511, Base rate now: $1208
• Casa Lomas del Mar August 15- 21, 2021 Base rate before: $4049, Base Rate now: $3642*
• Casa Tranquila (September 11-18, 2021): Base Rate before: $5,562.00, Base Rate now: $4452
• Casa Costa Blanca (October 17-23, 2021): Base Rate before: $6,831.00, Base Rate now: $5460.00
• Casa de Luz (July 29-August 1, 2021): Base Rate before: $4,477.00, Base Rate now: $3,580.00
• Casa de Luz (October 24-27, 2021): Base Rate before: $3,300.00, Base Rate now: $2640

Only valid for these specific dates, bookings via Stay in Tamarindo. Prices are subject to taxes and fees. For more information about our latest specials, please view our specials or send us an email.

6 Benefits to Costa Rica in September and October

So, now that you know what to expect, what are the benefits of travel during the green season – and, specifically, during the months of September and October?

Here are the top six (in no particular order):

• Lower Prices: We’ve covered it already but, in a nutshell, you’ll usually see a 5-20% drop in everything from your airfare to your vacation rental.
• Lush Green, Everywhere: Photos of Costa Rica are often a study in how many hues of green Mother Nature can dream up. But here’s a secret: If you want to see those photos in real life, then you’ll have to visit during green season.
• Bye, Bye, Crowds: There’s nothing like tourist throngs and overcrowded beaches to throw a damper on your vacation. Welcome to the absolute fewest crowds of the year. In other words, paradise!
• Nature, in Perfect Harmony: It’s not just the landscapes that are happy in September and October; the birds, the monkeys, the lizards, the everyone is simply delighted by the rain and its accompanying abundance. Welcome to the theater of the tropics.
• Whales, Ahoy!: Did you know that Costa Rica has one of the longest whale-watching seasons in the world? That’s because whales migrate from the north and south, during different times of the year. But the best time of all is mid-July to mid-November, when you can even spot breeching humpbacks from your lounge seat on the terrace of your ocean-view villa. Oh YES.
• The Weather: Wait, what? That’s right, we said the weather. If you’re the type who loves the rain – or who can love the rain, when you have nowhere to be and plenty of time to lounge – then you’re going to love the slightly cooler weather, melodic rainfall, and all the many benefits of Costa Rica when it’s well watered.

Of course, there are other benefits. For example, if you want to book white-water rafting, rainy season is the time to do it. Scuba diving? Great in the rainy season. Etc. etc. There’s

Where to Stay: Three Vacation Villas for Your September/October 2021 Stay

Wondering where to stay? We have dozens. Here are three you’ll love – and that still have availability for September and October 2021.

Casa Calico

Tamarindo | 4 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 12

Within the heart of Tamarindo but absconded to a world of whispering pines, cool waters, and twinkling lights, Casa Calico is a vacation paradise. This beautiful walled property features private gardens and a refreshing pool, shaded patio and chef’s kitchen, generous outdoor living and graceful interiors – everything you seek (and probably more).

The property is separated into the main home, with three bedrooms, and an independent poolside casita, perfect for multigenerational travelers and small groups. You will all love Casa Calico’s proximity to the beach – a few minutes, and you’re there! – but what we think you’ll love most is the sheer ambiance.

A true secret garden, Casa Calico makes Costa Rica feel like your own personal wonderland. Have breakfast surrounded by tropical gardens. Spend hours (and entire days) lounging poolside. And be sure to earmark an afternoon for the deeply shaded, covered patio – the perfect spot to watch the storm roll in and to delight in tropical rainfall – to not just a pitter-patter, but a full drumbeat on the roof over your head.

Casa Calico also offers 100 Mbps high-speed WiFi internet, battery backout (modem and router), and access to a portable wireless router, upon request.

Inquire

Casa Xanadu

Tamarindo | 4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Bedrooms | Sleeps 10

Paradise is real, friends. And you’ve found it. Right here, at the nexus of national park and rolling mountain range, spectacular beaches and wildlife estuary. Right here, at Casa Xanadu, a tropical paradise within a tropical paradise, overlooking Las Baulas National Marine Park, Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge, the Tamarindo Wildlife Estuary, and both Tamarindo Beach and Playa Grande.

A convergence of all things wonderful. And speaking of wonderful things, it’s right here, surrounded by rare tropical dry forest – one of the world’s last remaining swaths – that Casa Xanadu rises from the hillside and promises the perfect home base for all your September and October adventures. Yes, even storm-watching. There’s no better perch than this terrace!

So, lounge in the infinity pool, set your watch for epic sunsets, and never grow tired of the spectacular Pacific vistas. Walk softly, listen and look closely, and the howler monkeys, parrots, and butterflies will join you!

Inquire

Ibis Condo #2

Tamarindo | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6

Where would you be, if you could somehow drop a secret garden by the sea – a private paradise, steps from crashing waves and soft sands, yet secreted into a lush hidey-hole that feels like it’s just for you?

We think you’d be right here, at Ibis Condo #2, a quiet two-bedroom condo both cozy and expansive. Artisanal wood ceilings and granite countertops, plush beds and a beachy color palette, a private outdoor patio and lush landscaping welcome you to this lovely rental. We promise, the patio and gardens are a lovely place to watch the raindrops fall!

Of course, when you rent Ibis #2, you’re reserving more than a home-away-from-home. Because here, you also have access to community: executive access to the Langosta Beach Club, where you’ll enjoy the use of a luxurious and oceanfront infinity pool, with its languid pool loungers, full-service poolside bar, private cabanas, fitness center, and beachfront restaurant.

And you’re also a short walk to Tamarindo’s vibrant restaurant offerings and nightlife, as well as a full menu of adventure activities, shopping, surfing beaches, and more. Welcome to exactly where you want to be.

Inquire

Plan Your Visit to Costa Rica in September / October 2021

Have questions? Prefer to speak to someone in person? Want to pick our brains about the good, the bad, and the ugly of the rainy season? We’re game!

Whether you’re seeking a little planning know-how, looking for a great deal, or just can’t decide on which of our Tamarindo rentals is right for you, we’re happy to help. So please, 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!

June 15,2021

Discover 5 Hidden Beaches & 4 Off-the-Beaten-Path Waterfalls in Guanacaste

You’re ready to travel again (or nearly so) and you’ve begun planning. It’s exhilarating. You haven’t done this in awhile. And oh, you’ve missed it! Now, you’re trying to determine the best time to travel to Costa Rica.

Now, you’re focused on the when. And the truth is, the best time to travel to Costa Rica is right now. Or tomorrow. Or next year. Whenever you’re ready. Whenver the beaches are sun-splashed and the waterfalls are roaring. Whenever adventure is in the air. Whenever you have the time. Because you’re going to want enough time!

Case in point: these five not-so-touristed beaches and four off-the-beaten-track waterfalls, which don’t feature in many guidebooks but do feature among our favorites. Because, Costa Rica is the kind of place that makes you want to walk a little further, explore a little more, see something that not everyone has seen.

We can help with that.

5 Not-Your-Average Guanacaste Beaches

Costa Rica’s rocky coast is not only scenic but effective at separating the shoreline into hundreds of small (and sometimes long) beaches to explore. You may already be familiar with some of the more popular beaches, but here are five you likely haven’t visited yet:

Playa Puerto Viejo

Located just west of Brasilito and Playa Conchal, this quiet and often secluded beach unfurls over wide cinnamon sands overlayed with shimmering pink. The sand here is soft enough to dig your toes into – and inviting enough that you’ll want to do just that, for hours on end. Bonus: The sparkling Pacific waters are usually calm and ideal for swimming.

Playa Negra

What’s in a name? Not quite the truth, if we’re talking about Playa Negra. Spanish for Black Beach, this stretch of smooth sand – about 30 minutes south of Tamarindo – isn’t always black (although it sometimes is): As you walk down this untouristed stretch, best known for its challenging surf (not for swimming), you’ll wend and weave between blonde sands, cinnamon-tinged coasts, crushed seashells and, yes, nearly black volcanic sands.

Playa Danta

A distinctly gray-sand beach interspersed with pebbles and sells, Playa Danta has a certain quality – a broad appeal that doesn’t boil down to just one thing. For some, it’s the rocky outcroppings that are exposed at low tide, inviting visitors to hop rocks and explore the world beneath the sea. For others, it’s the relative isolation, close only to the nearby car-free community of Las Catalinas. And for others, it’s the onsite adventure opportunities, including kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, surfboards, boogie boards, snorkeling gear, and mountain bikes. Here, the best time to travel to Costa Rica is whenever you’re ready for on-the-water adventure.

Playa Minas

Set your GPS for Playa Zapotillal and you’ll find your way to Playa Minas, home to golden sands, bright blue waters, and a coast lined with trees that offer dappled shade in the dry season and thick cover when the rains come. Year-round, you’ll be able to dip your toes into the Pacific walk the entire scenic length in just 10-15 minutes. Be careful with swimming, as this seemingly gentle cove can churn some serious (and dangerous) waves. 

Playa Penca

Following a seemingly Costa Rican beach tradition, you should know that there are two Playa Pencas – both in Guanacaste and just a short drive from each other. The one on our list is located just north of Playa Potrero and snuggles into the curve of a quiet cove, bordered on either side by scenic rocks and lush jungle. Between the two: white-and-cinnamon-sand beach with only the gentlest waves, making this a perfect choice for a quiet swim.

4 Must-Visit Waterfalls in Guanacaste

Yes, do go chasing waterfalls. It’s worth it, when you find these cascades at the end of your journey! Bonus: While most guidebooks tell you to travel during the dry season (mid-November through mid-May), the best time to travel to Costa Rica waterfalls is during the rainy season, when they run strongest.

La Leona Waterfall

La Leona is one of Those Places. You know the kind: The destination that you’d swear had to be Photoshopped… until you see it for yourself. And it’s not. It’s just that spectacular. And then, it becomes the kind you feel compelled to share with everyone you’ve ever met.

Welcome to La Leona Waterfall, one of Guanacaste’s best-kept secrets. Veiled within the forests surrounding Rincón de la Vieja, this blue-hued cascade features a natural stone slide and a waterfall cave: massive rocks and towering stone, arched to form the entrance to La Leona, which tumbles several stories into a cool turquoise pool below.

Llanos de Cortés Waterfall

Located between Liberia and Bagaces, less than two hours from Tamarindo, Llanos de Cortés is one of Guanacaste’s most famous (and favorite) waterfalls. And, depending on who you ask, it’s also one of (if not the most) beautiful waterfall in Costa Rica.

Towering 12 feet tall and 50 feet wide, this refreshing oasis spills cool (or cool-ish) water throughout the year, albeit more of a flow than a roar in the dryer months of March and April. You’ll love swimming in the clean, clear pool beneath the falls – and following up with a picnic on the adjacent sandy beach.

Rio Celeste Waterfall

If you’ve ever image-searched Costa Rica’s waterfalls, then this is the one you’ve seen: The rustic trail and stairs that lead down to an iconic, frothing waterfall tumbling into a celestial blue pool below.

Located within secluded Tenorio Volcano National Park, Río Celeste, so named for its eye-catching color, is the product of volcanic waters and their resulting mineral mix of sulfur and calcium carbonate – a blend that turns the river and its 100-foot waterfall into a photogenic and milky blue wonderland.

Hacienda Guachipelín Waterfalls

More than a jumping-off point for waterfalls, Hacienda Guachipelín is rural Costa Rican tourism at its finest: part cattle ranch, part Rincón de la Vieja Volcano wonderland, part all things adventure, Hacienda Guachipelín is also home to three waterfall destinations:

Las Chorreras Waterfalls: A pair of twin falls that pour into blue-tinged mineral waters. Go ahead, jump in! This waterfall pool is safe for a cool swim.

Victoria Waterfall: Tumbling 115 feet into the Black River, or Río Negro, this offer not only a spectacular sight but the origin point for an adrenaline-soaked tubing adventure.

Oropendola Waterfall: Rushing 82 feet down a rugged cliffside and lush river canyon, Oropendola Waterfall splashes into the scenic White River, or Río Blanco (surprisingly turquoise, not white!). Take a swim!

Beaches, Waterfalls & Outdoor Adventures: Where to Make Your Home Base

Your bags are packed and you’re ready to explore. Here’s where to stay, when you want to adventure into the wilds (and waterfalls) of Costa Rica’s North Pacific.

Casa Puros Dieces

8 Bedrooms | 8 Bathrooms | Sleeps 20

The apex of tropical luxury – literally, as it sits atop a hillside – Casa Puros Dieces is the “perfect 10” or “pure tens,” in Spanish. And this environmentally friendly, Balinese-style home lives up to that name in every way, from its stunning ocean views to its expansive indoor-outdoor living areas.

Crafted for natural light and ventilation, Casa Puros Dieces compels you to throw open the windows and drink in the fresh ocean breeze. To take a dip in the ocean-view infinity pool and jacuzzi, and then to stop to drink in the view. To spend time with your family and friends, on wide sun terraces and decking, and then retreat to the luxury of your private spaces.

>> Book Now <<

Casa Xanadu

4 Bedrooms | 3.5 Baths | Sleeps 10

Where can you find the overlap of one national park, one wildlife estuary, one mountain range, and two scenic beaches? At Casa Xanadu, a tropical paradise surrounded by a tropical paradise.

For here, amidst rare tropical dry forest – one of the last remaining swaths in the world – and an incredible roster of wildlife, you’ll find the perfect home base for your Costa Rican adventures. Lounge in the infinity pool, set your watch for epic sunsets, and never grow tired of the spectacular Pacific vistas. Walk softly, listen and look closely, and the howler monkeys, parrots, and butterflies will join you!

>> Book Now <<

Crystal Sands 104

3 Beds | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 12

Steps from the sand, aptly named Crystal Sands 104 is one of our select oceanfront Tamarindo vacation homes – a cozy, ground-level condo perfect for families and surfers with boards in tow.

Fully air-conditioned and with no detail spared, this rental promises a gourmet kitchen and outdoor shaded dining, in addition to oversized glass doors, laundry facilities, and full private baths for each bedroom, Crystal Sands 104 is also perfectly equipped for remote work and schooling: 100 Mb high-speed internet, with a battery backup and portable wireless router, so you’ll never be without a connection.

>> Book Now <<

Casa Limoncillo

2 Beds | 2 Baths | Sleeps 10

This newly built modern home (not even a year old!) is also one of the newest additions to our Tamarindo villa rentals. And we’re so excited to share! Because Casa Limoncillo, dedicated to outdoor living and leisure, offers an incredible setting for family and friends.

Here, the joy is in the details: It’s the saltwater pool and adjoining shaded rancho with outdoor seating. It’s the outdoor firepit, where you can roast marshmallows, sit beneath the start, and let the crackle and pop lull you into vacation bliss. It’s the playground of children’s dreams, complete with a rock-climbing wall. It’s the quiet surrounds, populated by exotic birds and wildlife. It’s even the on-property chickens, who lay eggs for your breakfast.

It’s everything, really. You’re going to love it!

>> Book Now <<

Wondering About the Best Time to Travel to Costa Rica? Have Questions?

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!

May 15,2021

Spotlight On: 5 Condo Community Rentals in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

April 15,2021

8 Reasons to Plan a Last-Minute Tamarindo Vacation

Pack your bags and get ready to go! It’s time for sun and fun, for footloose and fancy-free. That’s right: It’s time for a last-minute Tamarindo vacation. 

From epic surf and long walks on the beach, to private ocean-view infinity pools and last-minute deals on condos, small villas, and large homes, we offer up our expertise, planning, and select vacation home – everything you need to get planned, get going, and get here. ASAP. Whether that P stand for tomorrow or next week. Welcome to your next Tamarindo vacation!

Reason #1: Sun, Sand & Surf

It’s the tropics and the weather is fine! The sun is shining (most of the day, at least!), the sand is warm, and the surf is excellent. The truth is, it’s always a good time to plan a Tamarindo vacation. So, why wait?

Reason #2: Las Mareas Villa 1

4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Sleeps 12

Did you know that last-minute vacations come with last-minute vacation deals? Take Las Mareas Villa 1, one of six luxury Tamarindo vacation rentals perched above downtown, the estuary, and Pangas Restaurant.

This little (ok, rather large!) slice of privacy overlooks the looping curve of Las Baulas estuary, right where it meets sweeping Pacific Ocean views. So, grab a cup of local coffee and relax on the terrace. Count the white caps while you drink in spectacular ocean views. Stretch out on a daybed or prep a meal at the gourmet kitchen or outdoor barbecue. And, whenever and for however long you want, cool off in your private infinity-edge pool. Coastline views, included!

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Reason #3: Outdoor Pursuits

Sure, you want to get out of the house, but you what you really want is to get out – as in, outside and into the great outdoors. And a Tamarindo vacation promises just that: 

Water Adventures: From sportfishing and surf lessons to snorkeling and kayaking, Tamarindo promises a bevy of on-water diversions. So, whether you’re a surfer hunting down the perfect break, a wildlife aficionado in search of mangrove mammals, or an angler seeking your next record catch, Tamarindo promises both the opportunity to get outside and do your favorite things. 

Land Adventures: While you would be forgiven for thinking that Tamarindo is all about the water, you’d also be wrong. Our sandy little surf town delivers the landlubber goods, in the form on horseback riding and hiking, ATV rides and zip line canopy tours, mountain biking and turtle tours. In other words, all the out-in-the-fresh-air, into-the-sun adventures that keep your feet on the ground (and your soles enviably worn). 

Full-Day Tours: Want to pack some serious punch into your Tamarindo vacation? Then, welcome to the world of all-day tours, which take you to dry forest, up active volcanoes, into rivers and hot springs, and even squelching through mineral muds. It’s wild, it’s wonderful, and it’s the essence of not only Tamarindo, but Costa Rica. It’s why you’re here!

Reason #4: Crystal Sands 104

3 Beds | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 12

Steps from the sand, aptly named Crystal Sands 104 is one of our select oceanfront Tamarindo vacation homes – a cozy, ground-level condo perfect for families and surfers with boards in tow. 

Fully air-conditioned and with no detail spared, this rental promises a gourmet kitchen and outdoor shaded dining, in addition to oversized glass doors, laundry facilities, and full private baths for each bedroom, Crystal Sands 104 is also perfectly equipped for remote work and schooling: 100 Mb high-speed internet, with a battery backup and portable wireless router, so you’ll never be without a connection.

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Reason #5: Ultimate Privacy

There’s luxury and then, there’s the ultimate 2021 luxury: Privacy, seclusion, and room all your own. And that just so happens to be the promise of our Tamarindo vacation rentals. 

The beauty of renting your own home is just that: It’s yours. Your kitchen. Your bedroom. Your private pool. Your own expansive terrace. Your own tropical gardens. Your, well, everything. 

What’s more, we fully clean and sanitize that privacy before you arrive: 

• Full COVID Cleaning: We follow a comprehensive list of cleaning protocols, including sanitizing all our homes with both chlorine-based and organic disinfectants proven effective in killing the COVID-19 virus (SARS-CoV-2).
• Stocked Hand Sanitizer: All our home rentals come equipped with complimentary hand sanitizer. 
• We Wear Masks: Our staff and cleaning crew are fully masked, throughout every stage of traveler contact. 
• Private Plans: If you’ve fallen for any of our water, land, or full-day adventures, fear not. We can book tours and equipment rentals for you and your “travel bubble” alone. You won’t have to come into contact with other travelers.

Reason #6: Sunrise 31

3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 7

A comfortable condo in the heart of downtown, Sunrise 31 is across from the beach and just a 5-minute walk to your next favorite sunset or life-changing surf lesson. It’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves the feeling of sand between their toes, the sound of crashing waves, and walks along the beach. 

So, beyond its breezy interiors and outdoor dining, granite countertops and spacious bedrooms – what’s there to love about Sunrise 31? Quite a bit, actually! We’re talking an oversized resort pool and lovely private balcony, tropical vistas and a location walking distance to restaurants, bars, shops, and nightlife. 

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Reason #7: Free Concierge Services

Did you know that your Vacation Rentals of Tamarindo booking includes complimentary concierge services? 

What’s that, you ask? Simple put: We’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 ourTamarindo vacation rentals, you’re also reserving the services of our friendly in-house concierge, Cris. 

Cris in 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!

Reason #8: Casa Zen

3 Beds | 3.5 Bathrooms | Sleeps 8

Ensconced within an exuberant garden, Casa Zen is a secluded getaway for family and friends – an immersion within tropical settings, now all your own!

Casa Zen is special for many reasons. Upon arrival, the first becomes immediately evident: A private pool, surrounded by comfortable indoor/outdoor sitting areas, a serene garden walkway, and sun-dappled loungers. It’s the perfect place to watch the sunrise, while away the day, and end a perfect day in paradise with a cocktail in hand. And, did we mention? Casa Zen is just a 10-minute walk (or 5-minute drive) to the beach!

Planning a Last-Minute Tamarindo Vacation? Get in Touch!

Seeking a little planning know-how? Looking for a great deal? Can’t decide on which vacation home 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!

January 17,2020

How to Be Happier and Healthier in the New Year with a Costa Rican Vacation

Happy 2020!   The new year is here, and it’s going to be the best one yet!   As you’re making your plans for the year and thinking about how to focus on well-being, don’t forget that a Costa Rica vacation is one of the healthiest choices you can make.  Forget Disney World–come to the happiest country on Earth, where the air and water are clean, monkeys swing through the trees, and the sun shines 365 days a year!

When we say a Costa Rica vacation is a healthy vacation, we’re not making it up.  One of the world’s Blue Zones, where longevity is unusually high, is right here on the Nicoya Peninsula only a few miles from Tamarindo.  If being healthier than ever is one of your resolutions for 2020, coming to Tamarindo is the right way to get started. A Tamarindo vacation rental is the perfect way to relax with family and friends and get your healthy year started off the way you want to.  Here are a few of the reasons Costa Rica is good for you: 

1. It’s the Perfect Place to Unwind

The best thing you can do for yourself this year is unwinding and relax.  Stress ties your body and your mind in knots, and the first step to a healthy 2020 is letting go of your worries. Tamarindo, Costa Rica is the perfect place to do just that.  We have the beaches, the sun, the flora and fauna, the bars and restaurants, the health and wholeness spas, and the perfect Tamarindo vacation rentals to make this trip the one that points your year in the right direction.  

Tropical vacations are special because they are geared toward relaxation.  No matter what time of year you chose to visit us, you’ll enjoy warm weather, lush gardens, and warm ocean water. Leisurely sunset walks on the beach are an ideal and even romantic way to unwind.  Costa Rica’s laid-back atmosphere and favorite expression “Pura Vida” will quickly loosen the knots and help you unwind.  

We’ll help you pick a Tamarindo vacation rental with what you really need to let the stress melt away: a hammock, a private pool, the sound of the ocean nearby, and a five-star concierge to make sure you have everything you want at your fingertips.

2. Sunlight is Good for You

Newsflash!  Direct sunlight is good for you!  Simply receiving sunlight can increase the vitamin D levels in your body, set circadian rhythms which improve sleep, strengthen your bones, improve your mood and mental health, make your heart healthier, improve your brain function and overall help you live longer.  You might feel better just thinking about it!  

Of course, too much sun in the middle of the day can cause sunburn which we don’t recommend, but human beings were made to be in the sun, so put that bikini in your suitcase and get on a plane!  It’s good for you! A hat and a light-colored long-sleeved shirt can cut down on the amount of chemical sunscreens you need to use on your skin, which is a healthy way not to get too much sun.  

3. Being in or Near the Ocean is Good for You

Historically, doctors often recommended that their ailing patients go to the seaside to breathe in the salty air absorb sun on their skin and bathe in the natural mineral salts.  Unfortunately, your health insurance probably doesn’t cover seaside visits–but maybe it should.  

Breaking waves fill the air with negative ions that purify the air and have an antidepressant effect in the human brain.  The fact that looking at the ocean relaxes you, and that being near it makes you feel better and immediately calmer is not in your imagination.  It’s chemistry. 

For even more negative ion benefits, get out there in those waves and go for a swim or grab a board and catch some waves.  A Tamarindo surf lesson is not only one of the most fun things you can do in Costa Rica, it’s also excellent for the health of your brain.  Ever wonder why surfers are so laid back and happy?  

4. There Are All Kinds of Exercise Options

It’s a pleasure to exercise in Costa Rica where the sun is shining and the weather is beautiful.  Forget the gym! Walk or run on the beach. Hike. Surf. Swim. Snorkel. Go kayaking or whitewater rafting.  Try a stand-up paddle board. Enjoy yoga in a shady open-air dojo, or on the beach in the cooler hours of the early mornings.  As your mind relaxes and your body strengthens, you’ll feel better and better with each day of your Costa Rica vacation.    

5. The Environment is Clean

A Costa Rica vacation is a healthy vacation because our environment is one of the cleanest and greenest on the planet.  25% of Costa Rica’s territory is either a national park or a protected area. Imagine what that does for our air quality, the cleanliness of our water, and the health of our ecosystems.  The air pressure at sea level gives your blood cells an oxygen boost with every breath you take, so come get energized!  

6. Costa Rican Food is Healthy Food

You are what you eat, and an obvious product of Costa Rica’s clean environment is clean food.  It’s easy to eat healthy and be healthy in Costa Rica. Organic farms all over the country make chemical-free meals something you can find almost anywhere, and most towns have local farmers’ markets.  You won’t want to miss our Saturday farmers’ and craft market here in Tamarindo!

Traditional Costa Rican meals are comprised of rice, beans, corn tortillas, simple salads, and a protein–usually chicken, fish, or beef.  Eat a variety of these items, mixed with a variety of fresh tropical fruits, fresh cheese and eggs, and you’ll be amazed by how wonderful you begin to feel.  

2020 is going to be your best year yet.  Contact us now and let us help you get started planning your healthy vacation to Costa Rica.  Start 2020 off right!

January 09,2020

Tamarindo Vacation Rental of the Month: The Sunrise Condo Collection

Our Property of the Month to start the year out is located in the heart of Tamarindo and is a standard favorite for family vacations.  The Sunrise Condo Collection is comprised of 5 different vacation rentals of Tamarindo that, individually or as a multi-location unit, bring you the best Tamarindo has to offer.  Before we explain what’s special about each of the Sunrise Condos we offer, have a look around the property in general:

It’s right in the center of town.

A Sunrise condo or set of condos is the right choice for anyone who wants to truly experience a slice of life in Tamarindo because the Sunrise Complex is right in the center of town.  Check out the map and you’ll see what we mean. Bars, restaurants, grocery stores, and the beach are just steps from your door at Sunrise. 

It’s right across the street from the beach.

In Tamarindo, you can’t get any closer to the beach than the Sunrise Complex.  It’s location directly across the street from the warm golden sand places you steps from the water.  Are you a surfer or a beach-lover? Then your ideal vacation rental condo is at Sunrise! Sit on the terrace of your Tamarindo vacation rental after a busy day of fun in the sun, and listen to the soothing sounds of surf breaking on the sand. 

It is fully gated and off the street.

The Sunrise property is a safe place for your family and your rental vehicle.  A single entrance point is monitored by a guard service 24 hours a day to make your vacation worry-free.  

It has an amazing pool and common area.

Sunrise’s 4-story buildings are located around a giant internal common area with an oversized child-friendly pool and a sunny area for lounging.  The pool features a separate shallow section for Sunrise’s smallest guests and an interactive waterfall feature that provides hours of family fun.  

Many of the units are ocean-view.

The only thing that could make your vacation better than a Sunrise condo across the street from the beach is if the home offers an ocean view as well.  And many of our units do! Imagine waking up in an ocean-view bedroom or sipping your first cup of coffee while checking the surf. You can do this and more at Sunrise.

You can walk anywhere.

From Sunrise, everything in Tamarindo is within walking distance.  Nothing makes your vacation relaxing like being able to keep it simple, and Sunrise is the premier place for un-complication.  Save your rental car for trips to other beaches like Flamingo or Avellanas, and enjoy Tamarindo on foot.  

You can reserve multiple units for larger groups.

Vacation Rentals of Tamarindo offers you five different units within Sunrise, so feel free to invite everybody!  Extended families and groups of friends love to vacation together at Sunrise where each family unit has its own home away from home, but there is plenty of space to be together.  

Our concierge service is yours.

Vacation Rentals of Tamarindo offers you Tamarindo’s premier concierge service.  We’re the long-time local experts on Tamarindo’s best tours, activities, and transportation options, and our guests at Sunrise get to enjoy our five-star service.

Now that we know you can’t wait to pick the unit for your Costa Rica vacation, we’re ready to unveil the choices:

CASA BELLA VIDA – Sunrise #03

3  bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 6 guests

Casa Bella Vida has all the best of Sunrise wrapped into a small package.  This compact and affordable vacation rental is perfect for small families. The kitchen and living area are fully equipped with everything you’d expect in a Tamarindo home away from home, and in Casa Bella Vida, you’ll enjoy an ocean view from the terrace and from the master bedroom. One of the home’s two full baths is a private bath in the master bedroom.

OUR TAMARINDO –  Sunrise #14

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 6 guests

Our Tamarindo is our other small-scale Sunrise complex condo.  In Our Tamarindo, the terrace overlooks the sun deck and the resort pool.  You’ll enjoy the natural light that pours through the windows and sliding glass doors into every room of the house.  The kitchen, dining area area, and living area are a single comfortable open space where you and your family or friends will enjoy time together planning activities and then re-living them at the end of each day.  Our Tamarindo has the perfect simplicity of bringing you everything you need in a compact three-bedroom space. 

CASA SOL Y LUNA – Sunrise #31

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 8 guests

Casa Sol y Luna is our Sunrise condo that celebrates the sun and moon.  This simple three bedroom unit follows the layout you’ve already seen in the previous Sunrise units we’ve featured, with the difference that this one has additional sleeping space available.  A bunk bed in one of the guest bedrooms turns that room into a favorite with the youngest members of your party!

SUNRISE PENTHOUSE –  Sunrise #04

3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 8 guests

The Sunrise Penthouse is our top-shelf choice for small vacation rental condos in Tamarindo.  This oceanview penthouse is a corner unit on the top floor of Sunrise. The terrace the opens from the living room to the ocean breezes overlooks the pool area, Tamarindo rooftops, and the blue pacific horizon.  Our favorite thing about the Sunrise Penthouse is the ocean view from the master bedroom. This is the best view for the best price in all of Tamarindo. The other thing that sets this bright and beautiful condo apart from others like it is the additional sleeping available on the sleeper couch in the living room.  The more, the merrier–and the Sunrise Penthouse has room for everybody!

5 BEDROOM PENTHOUSE – Sunrise 28

5 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 12 guests

If you’re ready to pull out the stops and enjoy a five-star luxury vacation in the center of Tamarindo Beach, then only our two-story 5-Bedroom Penthouse will do.  This home is the crowning jewel of the Sunrise Complex. Vaulted ceilings, Roman columns, an interior balcony surrounding the living area on the second level, and multiple outdoor terraces make our Five Bedroom Penthouse spectacular.  Here, you’ll enjoy all the Sunrise Complex amenities, but the private ocean view jacuzzi sundeck with a wet bar and dining table is going to capture your imagination and steal your heart.  

Contact us right away about our Sunrise Condo Collection.  We’ll help you make the reservation you need to get the new year started with a smile!