Tamarindo, Costa Rica is all about contrasts. The streets are dusty and rutted, and the town’s full of tourist and souvenier shops, but the beach is one of the longest in Costa Rica. We were in Tamarindo for over a month, and got to know Tamarindo’s hidden charms (and its warts, too).
Ask any surfer to name the top ten surfing destinations, and Tamarindo will probably be on the list (the classic surf movie Endless Summer II was filmed here). There’s a consistent break on Tamarindo’s main beach, and the famous Witches’ Rock break is close by.
Playa Longasta, just south of Tamarindo, has gentler breaks for little ones and beginners.
You can grab a spot anywhere on the uncrowded beach at Playa Longasta, but we loved to hang out at the LongastaBeach club’s infinity pool. There’s a small fee for day use (about $15 USD for a family). They make a mean fruit smoothie and the desert crepes are out of this world.
Charles and the Kids at Longasta Beach Club
Our favorite activity on Playa Longasta was hanging out on the beach at sunset. Every night, the sun would put on a spectacular display as it disappeared into the Pacific ocean.
Sunset at Playa Longasta Costa Rica
Beaches and surfing are great fun, but Tamarindo has a lot more to do. You can watch an endangered leatherback turtle lay her eggs on the beach nearby Playa Grande’s Parque Nacional Marino las Baulas, or ride horseback on the beach at Playa Conchal.
We took both of our little ones zip lining at New Monkey Jungle, and had an amazing time. Check out the video of Cole, at age five, rocking the tarzan swing.
Tamarindo is much drier than the lush interior of Costa Rica, but flowers and wildlife are still everywhere.
Seed Pods
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The Barefoot Nomad
Today’s guest post is by MICKI at TheBarefootNomad.com.
Micki and Charles have been traveling together since 2003. Along the way, they’ve added two adventurous little travelers to their family, and hope to inspire you to take a break and explore your world.
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Would love to go to Costa Rica someday. It looks like a great place that you could take your kids. Love that the little guy in the video is having so much fun!
Lanie, Costa Rica is guaranteed fun for kids and adults alike! ;)
Hi,
We intend on going to Costa rica in the next two weeks. Can you please tell us how to commute in costa rica? Can you rent cars like in the USA. We intend on flying into SJO and driving to La fortuna and guanacaste.
-Adi
Yup! You can rent a car and drive around Costa Rica. La Fortuna is amazing! :)
Thanks Ashray,
I just booked my air tickets and will soon be renting a car.
Also I would like to say that your travels are really inspiring and helpful. All the very best to your future endeavors.
Thanks,
Adi