Plan A Perfect Day: Tamarindo, Costa Rica Excursions, Dining & Relaxation

Playa Tamarindo beach

What does a perfect day look like? For us, it’s about pairing a few Tamarindo, Costa Rica excursions with plenty of relaxation, sightseeing, and an abundance of good company and great food.

Begin your perfect day by catching the early morning waves, as the sun rises over the horizon (or not… sleeping in is also a valid option!), offering a breathtaking backdrop for your surfing adventures. After an exhilarating session in the surf, unwind on the soft sands of Playa Tamarindo, basking in the warmth of the tropical sun and listening to the soothing sound of the waves.

As the day transitions into evening, take one of our guest-favorite Tamarindo day trips and embark on a sunset sail along the Pacific coast, where you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the vibrant sky ablaze with hues of orange and pink.

Upon returning to shore, indulge in a culinary masterpiece prepared by your private chef, who crafts a gourmet feast showcasing the flavors of Costa Rica with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dine al fresco under the stars, surrounded by the tropical landscapes as you reflect on the perfect day spent in paradise.

Start: Sit Down to a Prepared Breakfast

elite services breakfast preparation

Enjoy a meticulously prepared breakfast served at your exclusive villa.

Elevate your vacation experience with our Elite Service, offering a heightened level of luxury and assistance to select rentals. Included in your Elite Service stay, available at select villas, we offer daily housekeeping, laundry services, and – you guessed it! – daily breakfast preparation. Snacks and cocktail preparation are also included!

First Stop: Surf’s Up!

Tamarindo is renowned for its magnificent surf, attracting surfers from far and wide to experience its colossal (and not-so-colossal) waves, impressive breaks, and exhilarating surf culture. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, our shores offer something for everyone.

And if you’re feeling a bit apprehensive about tackling Tamarindo’s renowned waves, don’t worry! We can point you in the direction of surf instructors who cater to all skill levels, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience in the water. With just a two-hour lesson, you could find yourself catching your very first wave!

Alternative: What’s SUP?

SUP paddle boarding Tamarindo Guanacaste 16 9

If you love the idea of getting up on a board but surfing isn’t quite calling your name, then consider a board of a different kind: stand-up paddle boarding, aka SUP.

Challenge your dexterity and embark on an ocean SUP adventure, a popular watersport blending elements of surfing and balance. Our expert instructors will guide you through the basics, allowing you to navigate the tranquil waters of Tamarindo’s coastline with ease.

Alternative: Ocean or Mangrove Kayaking

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If you don’t want to get on a board of any kind but still crave an above-water adrenaline rush, then consider an ocean kayaking tour, one of our favorite Tamarindo, Costa Rica excursions. Choose from leisurely paddling near the shore or embark on a thrilling journey to Capitan Island, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking scenery, snorkeling opportunities, and a day filled with excitement.

If you’re more of a nature-watcher than an adrenaline junkie, embark on a serene kayaking excursion through the mangroves, beginning at the estuary near the river mouth and venturing into the wilderness of Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge. Keep an eye out for monkeys, iguanas, and a variety of bird species during this two-hour tour.

Dig In: Lunch Time!

Pangas restaurant Costa Rica

Indulge in a delectable lunch featuring culinary delights ranging from jumbo prawns to classic lobster thermidor, offered at some of the best restaurants in Tamarindo.

As avid food enthusiasts, we understand the allure of Tamarindo’s vibrant culinary scene, which is one of the reasons we’re drawn to this tropical paradise. And we’re always happy to offer some restaurant suggestions!

Afternoon Relaxation: Beach-Hopping

beaches are the centerpiece to things to do in Costa Rica

While Tamarindo’s surf is undeniably impressive, its pristine beaches offer a tranquil escape. Whether you prefer lounging on the soft sands of Playa Tamarindo or take some Tamarindo day trips to explore nearby beaches like Sugar Beach and Playa San Juanillo, you’re sure to find your own slice of paradise along our coastline.

Alternative: Waterfall Swimming

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Swap the saltwater for cool mountain rivers, and embark on a leisurely hike and a refreshing swim in a natural waterfall pool. Whether you prefer to explore independently or join one of our guided tours, the beauty of Tamarindo’s natural landscapes awaits.

Final Delight: Sunset Sail

Tamarindo vacation outdoor activities sunset sailing

Experience the magic of a Pacific sunset aboard a luxurious catamaran, long one of our guests’ top Tamarindo, Costa Rica excursions, where you’ll enjoy hammocks, snorkeling opportunities, and unparalleled views. If you’re lucky, you may even spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.

There’s no better way to unwind and embrace the beauty of paradise.

Enjoy Dinner In: Private Chef

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Swap a restaurant meal for an indulgent, private chef experience for a truly memorable evening.

Escape the restaurant scene and savor a gourmet meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients in the comfort of your own villa. A vacation in Tamarindo is already luxurious, but with the addition of a private chef, it becomes a culinary delight beyond compare.

Where to Stay:

Wondering what to pair with a perfect day of Tamarindo, Costa Rica excursions and relaxation? How about one of our exclusive private villas? Here are three to whet your palate for dreaming:

Crystal Sands 104

3 Beds | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 12

Tamarindo vacation rental Crystal Sands 104

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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Casa Ventana

Tamarindo | 5 Beds | 5.5 Baths | Sleeps 12

Tamarindo Costa Rica Casa Ventana Tamarindo

Discover unparalleled spaceprivacy, and luxury at Casa Ventana—your exclusive retreat.

Perched majestically on the Tamarindo hillside, this stunning home offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, a sun-drenched coastline, and the lush tropical forest. Rejuvenate your spirit and satiate your wanderlust beside the full-length private infinity pool, where you can create unforgettable BBQ feasts against this breathtaking backdrop. And here’s the icing on the cake—daily breakfast preparation is included!

Saving the best for last, Casa Ventana boasts a prime location within walking distance of the beach. Revel in the convenience of strolling to the iconic Tamarindo surf, the local hotspot Pangas, and everything your heart desires—from fishing and sailing to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Embrace the epitome of luxury living at Casa Ventana.

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Compass House

Tamarindo | 8 Beds | 8 Baths | Sleeps 16

Compass House luxury villas for rent in Tamarindo Costa Rica

Set on a hillside overlooking Tamarindo’s rooftops, the Tamarindo Bay, and Punta San Francisco toward Langosta, Compass House is a quintessential, modern-chic minimalist retreat. Here, sharp angles and muted colors accentuate the brilliant blues, greens, and the organic shapes of trees and clouds that surround the home.

From each room of the house, giant glass windows and sliding doors blur the lines between indoors and out. A kitchen spans the back of the living area, which includes an indoor dining option, and opens onto the pool terrace where an outdoor dining table made of a single slab of local wood stretches the length of the space. Here, as brilliant cloud colors illuminate the background, Compass House’s terrace is the perfect spot to watch a storm or enjoy sunset cocktails on the terrace. Welcome to paradise!

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Need Help Planning Your Tamarindo, Costa Rica Excursions?

They just happen to be our specialty!

Whether you’re venturing off the beaten path (or, shall we say, the ridden wave?) or sticking firmly to it, we can help you make the most of your time (and buck) here – even and especially if you’re traveling 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 top-tier luxury Tamarindo, including ocean-view swimming pools, rooftop terraces, chef’s kitchens, and so much more. Search our inventory to find your perfect vacation home and then, get in touch for planning help from our friendly and knowledgeable concierge.