Are you searching for things to do in Tamarindo, Costa Rica? Are you in search of the most exciting and fun activities to do during your stay?
This guide includes ten attractions to consider when planning your trip!
10 Things to Do in Tamarindo, Costa Rica
1. Zip Lining
Zip lining is one of the most fun and exhilarating things you can do during your stay in Tamarindo. Costa Rica has been a major zip lining destination for years, and in just a short drive from Tamarindo, you can be on one of Costa Rica’s best zip lining courses. There is nothing more memorable than soaring through the tree tops and seeing the beauty of Costa Rica from a zip line.
About an hours drive from Tamarindo, you’ll find Hacienda Guachipelin Adventure Tours which includes a full day of adventure in the forest including a canopy tour and hot springs swim!
2. Caving in Barra Honda National Park
Spend a day exploring one of the 42 caves located in Barra Honda National Park, just outside of Tamarindo. Tours include a hike through typical dry forest before descending into the one cave of the system that is open to visitors. After exploring the cave, you’ll be served lunch before being transported back to your hotel. This is a truly unique experience.
3. ATV Tour 25802-Mountain Tour
If you’re looking to ramp up the adrenaline a bit more than a peaceful, sunset horseback ride, then check out one of the ATV tours available through the various tour companies in the area. You’ll be blazing new trails as you trek through jungle terrain and Guanacaste’s unique dry, tropical forest.
4. Surf the Waves
Whether you’re an experience shredder and you brought your own board or you’re planning on taking your very first lesson, one thing is for certain, you don’t want to miss out on surfing in Tamarindo. Famed for its steady and consistent good waves, Tamarindo is one of Costa Rica premier surf locations. A trip to Tamarindo that didn’t involve surfing would simply be a shame.
5. Monkey Park
A private wildlife refuge, Monkey Park is not a zoo, or your typical wildlife center. Working a small budget, the owner of Monkey Park has been saving as many wild animals as possible for the past decade. If you don’t have the time or the patience to spot monkeys in the wild, a visit to Monkey Park is a sure way to see monkeys and other wildlife native to the area. It’s also a great place to donate some of your time or money if you’re looking for a worthy cause while in Tamarindo.
6. Miravalles Volcano Tour
Located an hour drive from Tamarindo is the Miravalles Volcano, and while no major eruption has happened for quite some time, it continues to expel gas and geysers near its base. You’ll see scenic views of Guanacaste as you drive to the volcano, spend some time hiking around the area and finish the trip with a soak in some natural hot springs.
7. Palo Verde National Park River Cruise
Float down the Tempisque River, which flows through the Palo Verde National Park and spot a variety of birds such as egrets, storks, spoonbills, and more. Also calling this river home are monkeys, iguanas, crocodiles, and caiman. This is real life Jungle Cruise, so don’t forget your camera, you’re sure to spot something picture worthy.
8. Horseback Riding
Watching the sunset over the water of Pacific Ocean as you ride atop a majestic horse along the beach in Tamarindo may sound too good to be true, but it’s a pretty standard attraction in paradise. Horseback riding is great way to explore the beaches and surrounding area of Tamarindo. Even if you’ve never been on horse before, this is a must do during your Tamarindo trip.
9. Catamaran and Sailing Tours
Take to the high seas aboard one of the many catamaran or sailing excursions offered throughout Tamarindo. A variety of packages are available ranging from all day trips that include whale and dolphin watching, exploring pristine, remote beaches, to dinner and drinks while watching the sunset. Catamaran and sailing tours are a little taste of the luxuries that Tamarindo has to offer.
10. Stand Up Paddle Boarding
One of the newest and hottest sports to hit the scene, stand up paddle boarding is quickly becoming one of the most popular activities to do while in Tamarindo. While some people make this sport look real easy, it is a true test of strength and balance. Give it a shot, rent a stand up paddle board for the day or join up with a tour group exploring mangrove systems on stand up paddle boards.
