What does a perfect day look like? To start, it doesn’t look like any one thing, because there are so many versions of perfect here in paradise. From being jam-packed with Tamarindo excursions to planning a day of almost nothing at all – nothing but relaxation, that is! – destination perfection is an achievable goal, every day of your trip.
For us, it’s all about blending exciting excursions and tours in Tamarindo, Costa Rica with ample opportunities for relaxation, sightseeing, and enjoying great company and delicious food. But if we had to nail down just one version of a perfect day, here’s what it might look like:
Begin with Beach Hopping
It’s no secret that our beaches are a major draw for your visit to Costa Rica, especially when you’re headed to Tamarindo. So, why not dedicate a morning (or more) to exploring this stunning coastline?
For the budget traveler, grab a banana bike and pedal your way to the best beaches around. If you prefer a more convenient option, rent a car, hire a driver, or call a taxi/Uber to take you from beach to beach. However you hop the sands, be sure to mix it up between popular beaches and secret nooks!
Then, Go Surfing!
Tamarindo is world-renowned for its incredible surf, so it’s practically a must-do activity during your stay.
Surfing here can be budget-friendly, thanks to affordable board rentals available along the beach for $10-$20 a day. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, Tamarindo offers top surf breaks for all levels. Grab a board and enjoy the waves to your heart’s content!
Or Learn to SUP
If traditional surfing isn’t your thing, how about an exciting challenge? Enter stand-up paddle boarding (SUP), an engaging water sport that combines balance, core strength, and a spirit of adventure.
All you need is a SUP board (similar to a surfboard) and a paddle. With a calm ocean and a desire to explore, you can paddle out, stand up, and start your journey—the vast Pacific Ocean awaits!
Then, Rest & Relax
We believe in taking time to unwind during your vacation, especially mid-trip. Dedicate a day – or part of a day – to total relaxation. Swim in your private pool, soak in the hot tub, stroll along the beach, browse souvenir shops, or simply read a book under the palms or by the pool. Whatever your favorite way to relax, make sure to carve out time for it.
In the Evening, Dine Out
Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, and particularly Tamarindo, offers a culinary scene where the freshest seafood meets vibrant fruits and vegetables, creating exquisite beach cuisine.
The best dinners in Tamarindo offer tempting spots to indulge in fresh-caught seafood, seared veggies, cold soups, rack of lamb, Argentinian barbecue, shrimp cocktail, and almost anything and everything else in between. We encourage you to try them all (ask us for recommendations!), especially dishes featuring the Catch of the Day and signature tropical cocktails. The ultimate test is whether it makes your mouth water!
Or Hit the Food Trucks
Not in the mood for a sit-down meal? Tamarindo’s food trucks have a unique charm that makes dining an adventure – and they definitely deserve a spot on our list of favorite Tamarindo excursions!
Tamarindo is home to Jardín de Tamarindo, also known as the Tamarindo Garden, a delightful gathering of food trucks offering a wide variety of dishes. Here, you can savor budget-friendly Costa Rican ceviche, massive waffles, cheesy tequeños, and flavorful stir fry. It’s an international feast, and we love it!
Or Visit the Tamarindo Night Market (Thursdays)
To truly experience the town’s essence, don’t miss the Tamarindo Night Market. Open every Thursday from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., this vibrant event is a blend of dining, entertainment, and shopping.
Explore dozens of local artisan vendors offering handcrafted jewelry, glass-bottled kombucha, and more. Enjoy fire dancers, DJs, and traditional Costa Rican dancing, all perfectly complemented by the market’s onsite restaurants and food vendors. Indulge in a variety of delicious options, from cheesy pizza and pork BBQ to empanadas and vegan delights.
Bonus: Upgrade to an Elite Experience
The perfect vacation starts well before you arrive. When choosing your vacation villa, consider not just the amenities and location but also the level of service. While many homes offer luxurious architecture and features, a true luxury experience lies in the details.
At Stay in Tamarindo, our luxury homes come with our exclusive 5-star Concierge Service. This includes a dedicated concierge who will assist you before, during, and after your stay. From pre-trip planning to seamless check-in and ongoing support, your concierge will be your trusted guide throughout your stay.
Our 5-star concierge services include:
- Kitchen Stocking: We can stock your fridge and pantry before your arrival (at the guest’s expense) for convenience and peace of mind.
- Transportation: Whether you need a rental car or airport transport (even by helicopter!), we’ll handle it.
- Tours: Your concierge, an expert in all things local, will help you choose and plan the best Tamarindo excursions for a dream trip.
- Private Chef: Enjoy special meals prepared by a private chef in the comfort of your villa.
- Spa Services: Arrange in-home spa services for ultimate relaxation.
For the pinnacle of luxury, our Elite Service offers an extra layer of pampering and comfort in select rentals. Enjoy daily indulgence and a worry-free Costa Rica vacation with:
- Daily Housekeeping: Available Monday to Saturday, excluding holidays.
- Laundry Service: Daily laundry needs handled by your housekeeper.
- Daily Breakfast Preparation: Savor a delicious traditional Costa Rican or alternative breakfast prepared by your housekeeper.
- Snack & Cocktail Preparation: Your housekeeper can also prepare snacks and refined cocktails throughout the day, with poolside service always available.
Please note that for all food and drink services, guests will need to supply the ingredients. Your concierge can arrange for kitchen stocking before your arrival.
Indulge in the ultimate luxury experience with our Elite Service, and enjoy a truly unforgettable Costa Rica vacation.
Where to Stay
Wondering what to pair with a perfect day of Tamarindo excursions, great food, and relaxation? Our private villas will do just right! Here are a few to whet your palate for dreaming:
Cabana de Playa
6 bedrooms | 6 baths | 12 guests
Enveloped into vibrant surrounds and located in the heart of Tamarindo, just a coconut’s throw from soft sands, Cabana de Playa is the newest gem in our collection of Tamarindo villas. This newly-built, over-8,500-square-foot retreat is the perfect embodiment of a Costa Rican getaway, combining sleek urban conveniences with a tranquil coastal ambiance.
Indulge in ultimate comfort and luxurious details, carefully curated to elevate your tropical escape. Can’t you just see yourself relaxing on this private rooftop – the ideal vantage point for breathtaking sunsets? Enjoy a dip in your spacious private pool, or lounge on the expansive pool terrace, perfect for sunbathing, socializing, or diving into a good book.
Cabaña de Playa strikes the perfect balance between serene seclusion and vibrant local life. Don’t miss the chance to experience this extraordinary retreat!
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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? Who needs Tamarindo excursions when you have Casa Motmot?
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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Casa Howler
Tamarindo | 4 Beds | 4 Baths | Sleeps 8
Impeccably designed to leave a lasting impression, Casa Howler stands as a luxurious vacation haven nestled within Tamarindo Park—a captivating new community gracing the hills around downtown Tamarindo.
In this idyllic setting where nature’s marvels unfold just beyond your doorstep, and every facet radiates the essence of modern tropical living, Casa Howler positions itself just a short 10-minute stroll from all the places you long to explore, from Playa Tamarindo itself to the town’s diverse array of restaurants, nightlife, tours, attractions, and more.
Step inside Casa Howler, where the allure of floor-to-ceiling glass beckons you to embrace forest views from every corner, seamlessly blending the indoors with Costa Rica’s exotic flora. Alternatively, bask in sun-drenched afternoons by your private pool, craft culinary delights in your chef’s kitchen, or unwind in the generously appointed king-sized bedrooms. Casa Howler delivers everything you desire and more for an opulent family retreat in the heart of Costa Rica.
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5 Beds | 6 Baths | Sleeps 12
Casa Quebracho is the ultimate destination and a great reason to press go on your out-of-office message—a tropical haven designed for pure indulgence and relaxation, especially after enjoying some high-adrenaline Tamarindo excursions.
This property features a main house and two detached suites, making it perfect for a family getaway or a group of friends who want to spend time together while also having their own private spaces. Each luxurious bedroom is equipped with a king bed, a Smart TV, and air conditioning, ensuring you can either binge-watch your favorite shows or enjoy a restful night’s sleep in comfort.
Your private paradise includes a stunning pool, ideal for sunbathing or taking a refreshing dip without ever leaving the property. Located in a secure gated community, Casa Quebracho is just minutes from the vibrant heart of Tamarindo and the beach. You’ll also be close to charming cafés, exquisite dining options, lively shops, and captivating cultural attractions. It’s the perfect balance: close enough to enjoy all the excitement, yet far enough to retreat to your peaceful sanctuary when you’re ready for a break.
>> Book Now <<
Seeking More Tamarindo Excursions, Tours & Activities to Add to Your Itinerary?
That just happens to be our concierge, Cris’s, specialty!
She’s an expert in travel, relaxation, and tours in Tamarindo, Costa Rica: Digging beneath the surface and reaching beyond the norm, Cris not only makes it her job to know Tamarindo (and its restaurants), but to get to know you, too! She’s like a real-life guidebook who expertly overlays Tamarindo’s most iconic experiences and must-do adventures with your needs, preferences, and plans. What’s more, she’ll work with your budget. 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!
