Playa FlamingoGuanacaste, Costa Rica
Aerial view of Tamarindo town, beach, and river mouth
30 to 40 min from FlamingoSurf lessonsNightlifeRestaurants

Tamarindo

The coast’s big surf town: lessons, restaurants, and late nights

Photo: Tamarindowiki, CC BY-SA 3.0

Tamarindo, from Playa Flamingo

Tamarindo is the easiest big day trip from Playa Flamingo: roughly half an hour south, and a complete change of pace. Where Flamingo is quiet and residential, Tamarindo is busy, walkable, and international, with surf schools lined up on the sand and more tour operators per block than anywhere else in Guanacaste.

It is worth the trip for surf lessons and the estuary boat tours into Las Baulas mangroves especially. And when Flamingo’s dinner scene starts feeling small, Tamarindo has the region’s widest choice of kitchens and its only real late-night scene. Surfers chasing quieter waves continue south to Avellanas and Playa Negra.

The beach

A long town beach with learner-friendly waves at the north end and rentable boards everywhere. Swimmers should stay clear of the river mouth.

Eat & drink

Everything from sodas to serious kitchens, plus bars that actually stay open late. Weekends get crowded in high season.

Getting there

30 to 40 minutes by car via Huacas. Shuttles and local drivers run the route daily; leaving before dinner beats the after-sunset rush back.

Tours around Tamarindo

Live listings with traveler reviews (avg 5.0), instant confirmation, and free cancellation on most tours.

Showing all 22 experiences

Beginners surf lessons on tamarindo beach
Top Rated

Beginners surf lessons on tamarindo beach

5.0(83)

This surf lesson experience stands out due to its unique feature of learning from local surfers who are deeply connected to the Tamarindo surfing community. This aspect adds cultural depth to the lessons, providing participants with a deeper understanding of the sport and its significance in the area. The private nature of the lessons ensures personalized instruction tailored to each individual's skill level and goals, guaranteeing an efficient and focused learning experience. Set against the stunning backdrop of Tamarindo's coastline, participants can enjoy the beauty of the surroundings while catching unforgettable waves.

From$80
2 hrsInstant
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Surf Lesson in Tamarindo: Private and Group
Top Rated

Surf Lesson in Tamarindo: Private and Group

5.0(78)

Discover why surfing in Tamarindo is one of the best activities in Costa Rica with Blue Wave Surf & Tours! Experience an unforgettable surf lesson with our local surf instructors. Whether you're new to surfing or an experienced wave rider, Blue Wave Surf & Tours offers private and group lessons that are perfect for all ages and skill levels. Learn and practice surfing at one of the best beaches in Costa Rica, and create unforgettable memories in paradise. Beyond surfing, we also organize a variety of tours in Playa Tamarindo, ensuring you experience the best this beautiful area has to offer. Pura Vida! Don't forget to check out our adventures on Social Media! You might just find yourself featured in one of our posts. Follow us and join the Blue Wave community!

From$80
2 hrsInstant
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ATV Hidden Beaches Tour

ATV Hidden Beaches Tour

5.0(74)

This is a very popular ATV tour. We start in Brasilito and hit south from there along the beaches and through the dry forests of Guanacaste. We’ll cover a lot of ground and visit Playa Puerto Viejo, Playa Bahia de los Piratas and Playa Minas where a small hike is optional to see a beautiful viewpoint. Also along the trip we will stop to take beautiful pictures and take an optional swim for a little time on the ocean.

From$140
3 hrsInstant
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Best Surf Lessons in Tamarindo – MouseHead Surf School with Mao
Great Value

Best Surf Lessons in Tamarindo – MouseHead Surf School with Mao

5.0(53)

Surf Tamarindo Like a Local Tamarindo Beach is one of the best places in Costa Rica to learn how to surf, thanks to its consistent waves and sandy bottom. With local instructor Mao guiding you, you’ll feel safe, supported, and confident from start to finish. This is more than just a surf class — it’s an unforgettable Costa Rica experience. Perfect For First-time surfers Families with kids Couples Travelers only Teens Intermediate surfers improving technique Do not experience necessary. Just bring your energy and we’ll handle the rest.

From$55
1h 30mInstant
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SSI Open Water Diver Course

SSI Open Water Diver Course

5.0(44)

TamaDive is focused on safety and personalized service. Don’t worry about anything; that's our job! In this 3 days course you will learn the basics of diving. During the first day, you will watch some diving videos and practice basic diving skills in the pool with your instructor. On the second day, you will discover the wonderful underwater fauna of Costa Rica in 2 open water dives while applying everything learned in the first day. And, on the last day, you will do the last 2 dives and take the final exam, thus consolidating everything seen before.

From$705
72 hrs
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Private Tamarindo Costa Rica Surfing Class
Great Value

Private Tamarindo Costa Rica Surfing Class

5.0(40)

Welcome to Costa. Surf! I’m Jason from the Caribbean side of Costa Rica. Join me for an authentic surf experience in Tamarindo and secret local spots. All levels welcome—beginner to advanced. Connect with the ocean, nature, and pura vida spirit. After the session, enjoy fresh tropical fruit and local refreshments. Come for the waves, stay for the vibe. ‍

From$60
2 hrsInstant
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Surf Lessons in Tamarindo With Local Coaches
Great Value

Surf Lessons in Tamarindo With Local Coaches

5.0(40)

With Tamarindo Surf & Tours you'll have two hours of fun living the local, Costa Ricain surf experience you've been dreaming about. Your instructor will give you plenty of instruction and tips both in and out of the water for you to get very good chances of catching plenty of waves. We guarantee you will enjoy your lesson with us. Surfing is all about having fun and living in the moment, and that is our number one goal for you. - Lockers, showers, bathroom and changing room available. - Lessons are available in English, and Spanish. - You can easily meet your instructor at our surf shop Tamarindo Surf & Tours. - Surfboards and rash guards are provided, so there's no need to rent them. - This experience is suitable for all ages and skill levels, and children are welcome. - Your guide will be informative, friendly, and professional. Come catch some waves and make unforgettable memories in Tamarindo!

From$50
1h 30mInstant
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Surfing Lesson in Tamarindo

Surfing Lesson in Tamarindo

5.0(39)

Entry level surf class Supervised and encouraged by ISA certified instructors  2 hours clase 3 students per instructor Transportation included Soft board and rash guard  Lesson in Tamarindo beach

From$85
1h 30m
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The Official Craft Beer Tour of Costa Rica

The Official Craft Beer Tour of Costa Rica

5.0(36)

We are The Official Craft Beer Tour of Costa Rica. We are the first and only craft beer tour available in the area.

From$149
5 hrsInstant
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Tamarindo Scavenger Hunt
Great Value

Tamarindo Scavenger Hunt

5.0(30)

Get ready for an exciting adventure that takes you through the VERY BEST of Tamarindo, Costa Rica’s top beach destination! From hidden gems to iconic hotspots, our Self-Guided Interactive Scavenger Hunt will have you discovering, exploring, and unlocking surprises along the way. With 7 days of access, you can complete the hunt at your own pace—whether you want to race to the finish or soak in the experience little by little. Are you ready to uncover the magic of Tamarindo? Let the adventure begin!

From$59
24 hrsInstant
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Private Rainforest Tour: Sloths, Hanging Bridges & Coffee

Private Rainforest Tour: Sloths, Hanging Bridges & Coffee

5.0(28)

Unlike standard group excursions, this is a fully private all-inclusive rainforest day created exclusively for your party, with personalized timing, exclusive transportation, and a professional bilingual guide from pickup to drop-off. In one seamless journey from Guanacaste, you will experience Costa Rica’s most sought-after nature highlights together: a seasonal waterfall, guided hanging bridges, exceptional sloth spotting in a protected habitat, and authentic coffee and chocolate tastings — all without crowded buses, rushed schedules, or multiple bookings. Every detail is handled for you, including resort pickup, entrance fees, lunch, refreshments, and flexible pacing, allowing you to enjoy a true one-on-one wildlife experience in total comfort.

From$295
6–7 hrsInstant
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Celeste River Waterfall and Wildlife Reserve

Celeste River Waterfall and Wildlife Reserve

5.0(28)

The excursion to the stunning Rio Celeste Waterfall offers an immersion in the natural beauty of Tenorio Volcano National Park. Enjoy a hike along trails surrounded by lush greenery and marvel at the sky blue waters of the waterfall. Relax on the Río Celeste, where you can connect with nature, and enjoy a typical Costa Rican lunch at a family-run coffee shop in Bijagua. The day culminates in a Private Wildlife Reserve, where you will learn about sustainability and the importance of environmental conservation. In the end, you will receive photographs of your unique experience. - Hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park and visit to the waterfall - Enjoy a swim in the waters of the Celeste River - Typical Costa Rican lunch in Bijagua included - Visit to a Private Wildlife Reserve to learn about sustainability

From$215
10–11 hrs
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Multi-Adventure Tour in Guanacaste Nature and Culture

Multi-Adventure Tour in Guanacaste Nature and Culture

5.0(27)

Your guide on this adventure day where you can experience the most important attractions of the province of Guanacaste. It also helps you make your investment and time worthwhile. The perfect combination of Adventure, Nature and Relaxation, all in one place and very close to the main beaches of the North Pacific. It will be an honor to be part of the family, you focus on your safety and your complete satisfaction, in a healthy and natural environment.

From$225
10–11 hrs
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Tamarindo 4 Seat Golf Cart Rental with Delivery

Tamarindo 4 Seat Golf Cart Rental with Delivery

5.0(27)

**IMPORTANT!** CHOOSE 1 TRAVELER TO SEE CORRECT AVAILABILITY These electric golf carts are the best way to get around Tamarindo! Choose from 4 or 6 Seater Golf Carts Centrally located Tamarindo office - stop by to charge while hanging around town! Collision Insurance INCLUDED 100 Ft. Extension Cable – Charge Anywhere Environmentally Friendly Anti-Theft GPS System Lift Kit and All Terrain tires for the rough back roads Long Range Optional Rain Cover for Rainy Season Deep Cycle Battery – 20 Kilometer range! Lift Kit & All Terrain Wheels Front Guard Dashboard Storage State of Charge Meter Earth Gear & Carts is a sustainable initiative by Native’s Way Costa Rica to improve the impact traveling has on our environment. We offer Electric Golf Cart Rentals in Tamarindo, Sustainable Travel Gear such as solar powered chargers, and tour operations are on the front line of Costa Rica’s sustainability initiative.

From$105
24–336 hrs
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Surfing with Locals at Tamarindo Beach
Great Value

Surfing with Locals at Tamarindo Beach

5.0(27)

Why Choose Us? - Local Expert Coaches: Learn from the best in the industry. - Safety First: ILS certified instructors ensure a safe environment. - All Levels Welcome: Suitable for everyone, from novices to advanced surfers. Starting at age 5 years old.

From$65
1h 30mInstant
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Sloth tour, Coffee, Chocolate and Tons of Wildlife

Sloth tour, Coffee, Chocolate and Tons of Wildlife

5.0(27)

Discover the vibrant culture and spectacular nature of Costa Rica with the "Coffee and Wildlife" tour. Your journey begins with a refreshing swim at the stunning Llanos del Cortés Waterfalls, followed by an immersive coffee experience, where you’ll learn how coffee is cultivated, roasted, and ground. Delve into the rich tradition of chocolate making with an intriguing presentation, and savor the local flavors that define Costa Rican life. This six-hour adventure promises to blend natural beauty with cultural insights, crafting unforgettable memories of "Pura Vida." Join us for a day filled with exploration and delight. - Tour duration: Approximately 6 hours from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm - Refreshing swim at the picturesque Llanos del Cortés Waterfalls - Authentic coffee tour showcasing the journey from seed to cup - Fascinating insights into traditional chocolate making - And the always happy Sloth of Costa Rica Please enjoy this quest, of finding Costa Rica's unique species, a Sloth.

From$164
7 hrsInstant
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Rincon De La Vieja Volcano Adventure Day.

Rincon De La Vieja Volcano Adventure Day.

5.0(25)

There is no better place to enjoy the adrenaline that Costa Rica can offer. Nothing compares to flying over the largest volcano in Costa Rica: Rincon De La Vieja. In this adventure you can enjoy the best zipline in the Guanacaste area but we can also enjoy horseback riding, a 420 meter long water slide, a cultural experience that includes an explanation about sugar cane, typical food and a detailed explanation about the Pottery. To relax at the end, this park offers hot springs and mud baths. Don't forget, from the heights of the zipline to the relaxation of the hot springs, this is the best tour you can book and the best part is that it is private.

From$200
10 hrsInstant
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Adventure Tour Hot Springs, Ziplining, Water Slide & Cultural

Adventure Tour Hot Springs, Ziplining, Water Slide & Cultural

5.0(24)

Experience the ultimate Mega Combo Tour in Costa Rica, where adventure, natural beauty, and culture come together in one unforgettable day. This best-selling tour takes place in the iconic Rincón de la Vieja region, famous for its volcano, tropical dry forest, hot springs, and wildlife. Enjoy a full day of activities including zip lining, a scenic horseback ride, and an exhilarating ride down a 1,230-ft natural water slide—one of the longest and most exciting in Costa Rica. After the adventure, savor a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch before unwinding in soothing hot springs, complete with a volcanic mud bath known for its therapeutic benefits. Common search terms your listing will capture naturally: "ziplining Costa Rica," "hot springs," "Rincon de la Vieja National Park," "water slide adventure," "volcanic mud bath."

From$190
7 hrsInstant
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Discover Rio Celeste Labyrinth, Sloth Sanctuary & River Swim

Discover Rio Celeste Labyrinth, Sloth Sanctuary & River Swim

5.0(24)

Embark on a distinctive journey with our Costa Rica tour, where nature comes alive and local communities thrive. What sets us apart is our commitment to supporting the local economy. From enjoying meals at charming eateries to visiting lesser-known attractions like the Katira Labyrinth and Zona Magnética, we prioritize authentic experiences that directly benefit the communities we visit. As you explore the Sloth Sanctuary and Tenorio Volcano National Park, your adventure is not only a connection to nature but also a contribution to the sustainable growth of the region. Join us for a tour that embraces the essence of Costa Rica while making a positive impact on the places we touch.

From$290
8–10 hrsInstant
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Punta Cacique ATV 4WD Jungle and Mountain Adventure in Costa Rica

Punta Cacique ATV 4WD Jungle and Mountain Adventure in Costa Rica

5.0(23)

Unforgettable ATV adventure in the lush landscapes of Costa Rica. This tour is perfect for all skill levels, guided by experienced professionals who prioritize your safety while ensuring a thrilling ride. Discover hidden waterfalls (rainy season mostly), as you explore the heart of this tropical paradise. Capture the beauty of Costa Rica's diverse ecosystems while enjoying the rush of off-road exploration. ATV Trail hunt has regular option or complete service Regular option: 2-3 hrs of fun under the sun riding threw the lush jungle rivers and inner towns avoiding the main road as much as possible, waterfall stop is included seasonal ,when dry season we ride threw the dry rivers to find the last of the puddles splish and splash Complete service : ATV 4-5hrs full experience : This is the top sold service bringing you the best of the best Includes the lush jungle ,rivers and waterfall seasonal plus ocean view spots and white sand beach stops for swimming with out a doubt the best !

From$119
2h 30mInstant
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Hiking and Climbing to La Leone Fall

Hiking and Climbing to La Leone Fall

5.0(22)

Set in the beautiful Dry Tropical Forest on the foothills of the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, the hike to La Leona Fall is a unique journey that will challenge your senses and your endurance. For about 21⁄2 hours, you’ll explore uneven terrain, cross rivers, and witness the transformation of the water into a vibrant sky blue, resulting from volcanic minerals. When you arrive, you can enjoy this natural gem, a real gift of nature that invites you to connect with the beauty of the environment. It is not a recommended route for people with poor health or physical condition.

From$140
6–7 hrs
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3 HOURS Coastal ATV Adventure from Tamarindo to Playa Negra

3 HOURS Coastal ATV Adventure from Tamarindo to Playa Negra

5.0(22)

Embark on an unforgettable off-road adventure! We'll head south from the beach town of Tamarindo to explore some of the Guanacaste coast's finest beaches - Playa Pinilla, Playa Avellanas and Playa Negra. Take in the awe-inspiring beauty of the Tamarindo area as we meander through lush forests, traverse mountains, and conquer river crossings. Marvel at the pure natural beauty of Guanacaste as we head down off-road trails through beautiful tropical forest and breathtaking coastal vistas. Along the journey, keep your eyes peeled for Costa Rica’s diverse wildlife - from mischievous monkeys to sun-soaked iguanas and an array of tropical birds. This tour is ideal for both families and thrill-seekers alike, ensuring a safe and fun ride with all essential equipment provided. We have more than just one ATV so if you are traveling with more people just go along and book it as many times as needed or contact us directly for help.

From$270
3 hrsInstant
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Need more options around Tamarindo?

The full Viator catalog has every operator, with the same reviews and free-cancellation terms. Prices in USD.

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On the water from Marina Flamingo

2 sailing and fishing trips in this area depart from the Flamingo and Potrero side of the coast. Compare boats, not towns.

Rather have a local sort it out?

Pecari Rides runs private transfers, drivers, and trip help across Flamingo, Potrero, Tamarindo, and the wider coast, including Tamarindo.

Contact Pecari Rides

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