Costa Rica’s premier surf spot, Tamarindo epitomizes the national “pura vida” lifestyle and is home to seemingly endless, forest-fringed beaches ideal for a day in the sun and sand. Mellow waves make it a perfect place to learn to surf, while beach-hopping in an ATV or a sunset catamaran cruise also top the list of things to do in Tamarindo, a Pacific Coast paradise. The fun continues after dark, too, with plenty of nightlight options from tropical bars and breweries to the lively Tamarindo Night Market.

Some of our favorites or highly recommended spots:

- Origen: Located in Cala Luna, international cuisine combined with Costa Rican flavors for farm to table dinners. All ingredients grown from Cala Luna's own organic garden, La Senda, or sourced from local Guanacaste region farmers/ranchers.

- TROPIC: Costa Rican dishes with Caribbean touch using local ingredients and bold flavors. Known for creative cocktails and focuses on smoke meats, fresh seafood, and tropical flavors.

- RURAL: Few min outside of town, traditional local cuisine, popular for lunch. Speciality is “make your own cansado”.

- Pangas Beach Club: Beachfront spot known for seafood dishes

- Dragonfly Bar & Grill: Local fusion flavors located in the lively center of town.

- Nogui’s: beachfront spot, good place for sunset. Known for local cuisine and seafood

- L’Estanco “the hidden garden”: Moroccan, French, and Costarican influences

- Little Lucha: lively taqueria feat Mexican style street tacos with live music.

- Tandoor Indian Restaurant Tamarindo: delicious Indian cuisine walking distance from Cala Luna Hotel.

- The Roof: pizzeria located on top of building in center of Tamarindo with amazing sunset views.

- El Mercadito: outdoor food court concept with tropical greenhouse vibes. Fun boat bar in center. Little bit of everything offered inside.

- Cafe Tico: gourmet coffee from small coffee famers, honeys, jams, and hot sauce made in CR

- Sentido Norte: located 1 hour north of Tamarindo, fine dining establishment with breathtaking sunset and ocean views including Las Catalinas islands.