Visitors to this coastal town can take part in surf lessons for every level, including private coaching for true beginners in need of basic instruction. Or, take to the treeline with ziplining through the jungle and hikes across the hanging bridges in Monteverde Cloud forest. There are also guided tours on horseback and whitewater rafting trips available for the more adventurous sightseer.

Tamarindo is one of the most popular tropical getaways on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica and is packed with outdoor recreation, surfing spots for every skill level, and plenty of chances to try the local food. A trip here showcases some of the best that the country has to offer, and may be made even more memorable with a Daytrip private transfer to start your visit out smoothly.

Book activities in advance

For activities such as private surf lessons or smaller group tours on horseback, it’s a good idea to plan and book your guides as early as possible ahead of your trip. Particularly in peak travel seasons, the most in-demand activities can be filled for weeks!

Stop along the way

If you want to experience as much of Costa Rica as possible, make the trip to Tamarindo with a private Daytrip driver. You can stop at places such as the Arenal Volcano National Park or La Fortuna waterfalls. These slight detours will create lasting memories on your travel day without requiring you to stay the night outside of the major towns or factor in a separate day trip.

Bus from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

There is a public bus route from La Fortuna to Tamarindo that takes about 6.5 hours and requires at least one transfer to a new bus in Cañas. There is also often a stop required in Tilaran about 30 minutes before you reach Cañas. This is likely the cheapest option, averaging around $25-40 for tickets. However, keep in mind that buses can sometimes fill up before you get a seat, and you will still have to navigate to and from your accommodation in either city.

Group shuttle from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

Daytrip offers a group shuttle service for up to 7 people at a time, with multiple daily departures. It’s more reliable than the public bus, and you get better service, with a friendly, English-speaking driver to talk to along the way. Since it’s direct from La Fortuna to Tamarindo, it’s also faster, taking just under 4 hours in a comfortable van. Prices start at just $32.

Private car transfer from La Fortuna to Tamarindo

A Daytrip private car transfer from La Fortuna to Tamarindo is the best option for many travelers, as it provides stress-free door-to-door transportation and lets you stop along the way to experience more of Costa Rica. You will also receive local insights from your friendly English-speaking driver, providing you with a more personalized experience. A private car service is more reliable and cheaper than relying on local taxis, and you can let Daytrip know if you’re traveling with large luggage like surfboards. Starting at $48 per person, it’s a great deal considering the service you get.

Surf Playa Tamarindo

This is the most popular beach for beginners, with small waves and a sandy bottom (no danger of reef incidents.) This is also the closest beach to the center of town and is great for swimming and sunbathing too if surfing isn’t the goal of your trip!

Playa Casitas

This charming beach may be suitable for all surfers, beginners and pros alike, as the different breaks offer smaller waves and larger swells depending on where (and when) you visit. The beach is named for the tiny houses scattered along the shoreline and is worth a visit for the quaint coastal scenery even if you won’t be surfing.

Playa Langosta

Langosta is known for larger waves and crystal clear waters coming in from Tamarindo Bay, and it may be best for intermediate-advanced surfers.

Playa Grande

As the name suggests, this is a very large beach offering a few different surf breaks. Generally, though, the waves are stronger and larger across all of the breaks and are best left to more advanced surfers. This can be a great spot to come watch others take on the powerful swells while you soak up the sun from the soft sand!

Playa Avellana

Avellana is perhaps the most famous beach in Tamarindo among experienced surfers, and is known by the locals as “little Hawaii.” The waves here are big, sometimes reaching heights of up to 18 feet (5.5 meters), so it’s best left to the most advanced surfers!

Take a jungle trek

Beyond the beaches, be sure to explore the surrounding natural beauty of Tamarindo with one of the many jungle treks or trips to the volcanic national parks. This town highlights the surreal beauty of Costa Rica, in the water and on dry land.