Surrounded by world-class golf, three stunning beaches, and plenty of peace and quiet, if you’re vacationing at Pura Vida House in Hacienda Pinilla, you’re already in paradise! But for travelers who crave a little more action now and then, Tamarindo Beach Costa Rica offers the perfect contrast: bustling beach vibes, great food, boutique shopping, and a laid-back surf town vibe you can’t get by looking at a postcard.
And the best part? Tamarindo is just a short 35-minute drive from your front door at Pura Vida House. Close enough for a spontaneous afternoon outing, but far enough that you can return to the comfort and tranquility of Hacienda Pinilla after the sun sets.
Here’s why Tamarindo Beach makes an ideal day trip and how to enjoy the best of both worlds.
A Taste of Tamarindo Energy When You Want It
Let’s be honest – sometimes you want to hear the waves and nothing else. Other times, you want live music, happy hour mojitos, and a sunset you’ll never forget with 50 new friends. Tamarindo Beach, Costa Rica delivers that lively energy without being over the top. It’s the most popular surf town in Guanacaste, and for good reason.
Tamarindo Beach is where the surf culture meets Costa Rican charm. Expect to see barefoot locals heading to catch a wave, vacationers trying out their first surf lesson, and maybe even a beach volleyball game or two happening under the palms.
But don’t worry – after a day of soaking up the buzz that is Tamarindo Beach, you’ll be grateful to head back to your peaceful home base at Pura Vida House in Hacienda Pinilla, where the only sounds you’ll hear are rustling palms and howler monkeys in the trees.
Surf, Sand, and a Sunset You Won’t Forget
Even if you’re not a surfer, Tamarindo Beach is a beautiful spot to kick back and take it all in. The beach stretches wide and long – perfect for a walk, a beach nap, or a sunset picnic.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you’ll find plenty of surf schools offering lessons and rentals right on the sand. The waves here are beginner-friendly in many areas, especially at the southern end of the beach. Surfing Tamarindo at least once is practically a rite of passage in Costa Rica!
Prefer to stay dry? You can rent a lounge chair, sip a cold drink from one of the beach bars, and people-watch to your heart’s content. Don’t miss the sunset views from the beach – they’re some of the best in Guanacaste!
Tamarindo Eats: From Tacos to Fine Dining
One of the biggest draws of Tamarindo is its surprisingly diverse food scene. Whether you’re craving local casados (typical Costa Rican dish), sushi, burgers, vegan treats, a nice steak, or wood-fired pizza, you’ll find something to make your tastebuds happy.
A few local favorites to check out:
- Green Papaya Taco Bar – Known for its fresh ingredients and swings for seats.
- Dragonfly Bar & Grill – Upscale dining with a tropical garden setting.
- The Red Door – A beachfront hideaway spot with a Monday burger deal.
- Nogui’s – Iconic beachfront restaurant with unbeatable pie and views.
After dinner, stroll through town for gelato or stop at one of the bars offering live music, salsa dancing, or a laid-back cocktail under the stars.
Tamarindo Shopping & Souvenirs with Local Flair
Tamarindo is a great spot to pick up locally made goods, beachwear, jewelry, and gifts to bring home. It’s not your typical tourist trap – many of the shops here are owned by locals or expats with a love for Costa Rica and a creative eye.
You’ll find:
- Handmade jewelry made with shells and stones
- Locally designed clothing brands and boho beachwear
- Organic skincare, essential oils, and natural remedies
- Art galleries with pieces from Costa Rican and international artists
There’s even a farmers’ market on Saturdays (Tamarindo Feria) where you can find fresh produce, homemade treats, crafts, and more. It’s a fun way to support the local community and connect with the culture.
Quick, Easy Day Trip from Pura Vida House
Staying at Pura Vida House in the resort community of Hacienda Pinilla gives you the best of both worlds. You’ll enjoy a private, secure, and peaceful setting with exclusive amenities like a private beach club, a championship golf course, tennis and pickleball courts, and miles of hiking and biking trails. And when you’re ready for a little more activity, Tamarindo is just down the road.
Most guests take their own rental car, but taxis and private drivers are also available if you’d rather not navigate. Our 24/7 concierge team is happy to help you plan the perfect Tamarindo outing – from where to park to where to grab lunch and what to skip if time is limited.
After a full day of beach, bites, and browsing, nothing beats returning home to the comfort and calm of Pura Vida House, where hammocks, howler monkeys, and a starry sky are waiting to welcome you back.
A Note on Safety and Serenity
We hear it often: guests love visiting Tamarindo but are relieved to have a quieter, safer place to return to at night. That’s one of the reasons so many families, couples, and solo travelers choose to stay at Hacienda Pinilla. The community is gated, secure, and patrolled 24/7, offering peace of mind and a stress-free experience.
So go ahead and enjoy everything Tamarindo Beach has to offer. Just know that when you’ve had your fill of the hustle, your peaceful oasis is only 35 minutes away.
Plan Your Tamarindo Fun from a Distance
Are you ready to put a stop at Tamarindo Beach Costa Rica on your itinerary? We’d love to help! Whether you want to surf, shop, or just enjoy a sunset cocktail with your toes in the sand, we’ll point you toward the best Tamarindo has to offer – all while giving you the perfect home base at Pura Vida House in Hacienda Pinilla.
Reach out today to book your stay or ask us anything by calling (614) 600-1904 or email info@thepuravidahouse.com. We’re here to make your Costa Rica vacation as magical as possible. Pura Vida, and see you soon!
Blog by: Jennifer LaCharite – Costa Consultants, International
