Top Experiences in Tamarindo

Unique things to do, curated by kimkim specialists
If you want to be close to the water in Tamarindo, consider some of kimkim's selection of experiences in Tamarindo. Take surf lessons at Tamarindo Beach, one of Central America's prime surf spots, and learn the basics of surfing with a private lesson. Go on a kayak and snorkel tour in Tamarindo Bay and observe the underwater coral reef, home to exotic fish. You could also embark on the Tamarindo Mangrove & Estuary Boat excursion, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna and see birds, fish, iguanas, and monkeys swinging from the famous Guanacaste trees.
Meet your professional surf instructor for a day of catching waves
Private Surf Lessons at Tamarindo Beach
5.0
(10)
2 hours
·
Private
Learn to catch a wave at Playa Tamarindo, one of Costa Rica's prime surfing spots, with a private lesson to learn the basics—or hone your skills—outside of a large group setting. Under the supervision of an experienced guide, surfing at Tamarindo is suitable for both novices and seasoned surfers...
Semi-Private Surf Lessons at Tamarindo Beach
5.0
(10)
2 hours
·
Private
Learn to catch a wave at one of Costa Rica's prime surfing spots with a semi-private surfing lesson at Playa Tamarindo. With the supervision of experienced guides, you'll learn the basics on the beach before heading into the surf to hear about paddling techniques and the secrets of reading the...
Mangrove & Estuary Safari by Boat
4.5
(4)
3 hours
·
Small group
Embark on a fascinating journey through Tamarindo's intricate network of mangroves and waterways, making up one of the largest estuaries along the Guanacaste coast and part of Las Baulas National Park. Glide along the river in a comfortable open-air boat, exploring narrow canals and observing...
Kayaking is a popular activity at the Gulf of Papagayo
Kayak & Snorkel Tour in Tamarindo Bay
5.0
(1)
3 hours
·
Small group
You will paddle out over the azure waters of Playa Tamarindo and eventually reach Capitán Island, located about a 20-minute paddle offshore. There, you'll have the opportunity to do some snorkeling and observe the underwater coral reef, which is home to exotic fish. After snorkeling, you'll...
Wetlands Boat Ride and Rum Tasting at Hacienda El Viejo
4.0
(2)
4 hours
·
Small group
Adventure at a family-owned "hacienda" or ranch where you will enjoy a spread of tropical fruits and fresh coffee or tea. From there, you will embark on a private boat safari of the wetlands, where you'll encounter an abundance of tropical birds, reptiles, and monkeys. You'll then return to land...
Prepare for a jungle cruise
Palo Verde National Park Safari Cruise
3.7
(7)
4 hours
·
Small group
Discover the natural wonders of Palo Verde National Park on a safari cruise along the Tempisque River. As you navigate the internationally recognized wetlands, white-faced capuchin monkeys swing from the tree branches onshore as caimans and crocodiles patrol the waters. Ideal for nature...
Mangroove Kayaking
Tamarindo Mangrove & Estuary Kayak Tour
4 hours
·
Small group
Embark on a kayaking adventure through the Tamarindo estuary, where the Tamarindo River meets the Pacific Ocean, creating a diverse ecosystem teeming with wildlife. Paddle through mangroves and wetlands, spotting exotic animals such as flying fish, iguanas, crocodiles, sharks, monkeys, and...
Catalina Islands Scuba Diving
5 hours
·
Small group
Explore an underwater world on this diving tour off the Catalina Islands! From a local dive shop in Playa Flamingo, you'll embark on a 40-minute ride to a group of volcanic islands and rock formations that rise above the ocean's surface in front of Flamingo Bay. If you're a beginner, your lesson...
Leatherback turtle hatchling
Leatherback Turtle Nesting Experience
3 hours
·
Small group
Witness the awe-inspiring arrival of endangered leatherback turtles at Playa Grande, where they have returned to lay their eggs for thousands of years. With an expert guide, you'll observe these magnificent creatures climb ashore to complete their ancient nesting ritual.
Hacienda El Viejo
Private Wetlands Safari & Rum Tasting with Lunch
1.5 hours
·
Private
Boat along the private waterways of Hacienda El Viejo, followed by a rum distillery tour and a tasting. You'll first cruise along the Río Tempisque, where there's a great chance of spotting endemic wildlife, including crocs! Then, it'll be time to visit the family-operated estate's distillery and...

Experiences in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Leatherback turtle
The Best Turtle Nesting & Hatching Experiences in Costa Rica

One of the most popular experiences in Costa Rica is observing the mighty sea turtles. For thousands of years, several turtle species have used Costa Rican beaches to safely lay their eggs, with each turtle laying roughly 60 to 100 eggs at a time. About two months later, baby turtles wriggle out of the sand and make their way to the surf. Two of the best places to observe nesting and hatching are Guanacaste and Tortuguero, and kimkim provides details on which tours to choose.

San José from above
Top Cultural Experiences in Costa Rica

From vibrant cities to humble artisanal villages, protected jungles to stretches of farmland, and sweet chocolate to rich rum, Costa Rica is a country full of cultural experiences. You can enjoy cooking classes to discover traditional recipes; learn how farmers grow and process important exports like coffee, chocolate, and sugar cane; visit hamlets known for artisan crafts; or tour museums and beloved neighborhoods in the heart of San José.

Sunset on Tamarindo Bay
Best Things to Do in Tamarindo

Set in Guanacaste Province, Tamarindo is a dreamy coastal escape with long white-sand beaches known worldwide for surfing. It's idyllic for relaxing and offers several adventures, including snorkeling or diving in the nearby Catalina Islands, boating through the famed Tamarindo Estuary, and exploring dense wetlands teeming with wildlife. To make your visit a bit more cultural, try visiting a traditional hacienda and learn the secrets behind the region's rum-making techniques.

Hiking in the Rainforest
Top Active Experiences in Costa Rica

Sporty travelers, adventure seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts will find endless active experiences in Costa Rica, a country filled with rainforests, beaches, coral reefs, volcanoes, national parks, waterfalls, rivers, and more—all waiting to be discovered. In Costa Rica, you can rappel into canyons, raft through whitewater rapids, mountain bike near active volcanoes, hike through national parks, surf at world-renowned beaches, snorkel above reefs, zipline through the rainforest, and more!

Hiking in Costa Rica
Top Family Experiences in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers adventures suitable for all ages, making it an excellent choice for a family vacation. Kids and adults alike love spotting wildlife, ziplining through cloud forests, learning how to surf, touring organic farms, and much more. The unique experiences you can enjoy in Costa Rica—a country leading the world in eco-tourism and wildlife conservation—will leave a lasting impression on the entire family for years to come.

Learn more about Tamarindo : Best of Tamarindo · Top Hotels in Tamarindo
Top experiences in Costa Rica