Surfing-Surfing is why Tamarindo became popular. There is a good break for beginners in Tamarindo.
The bigger surf can be north at Playa Grande or south at Playa Avellanas. Both are a short drive. If you
have to takelonger drive and find the perfect break. The surf just to the south of Playa Langosta can be
big and dangerous as there are many rocks in the water. Just around the point to the north is a good
beach for body surfing. It's in front of Captain Suizo's. Boards can be rented at any of the surf shops.
Ziplining-The biggest Ziplines are around Arenal and Monte Verde. There are many local Zipline tours
that don't require a long drive. Operators may incorporate multiple activities; Zipline, ATV, Repelling,
Rafting, and/or Horseback Riding. Guachipelin and Buena Vista Adventures are good tour operators that
can have 4 or 5 activities in one day.
ATV-This is a great way to get into the jungle. Rentals are available in town (Hightide Adventures) at any
tour desk. Most are half day and include a guide.
Sailing-Marlindelrey.com and cupotico.com offer sail boat trips for day tours and sunset sails in
Tamarindo. Some of the boats offer snorkeling trip too.
Sportfishing-You may charter a half or full day sportfishing boat out of Tamarindo or at Flamingo (about
30 minutes north). Capullo.com runs a good boat out of Tamarindo. I have had good luck with the
American Captains. If you charter with a local captain make sure you get the boat and price you asked for.
River Rafting-The local tours have tubing in smaller rivers. To get the Class 3 and 4 river rafting trips you
should head for the Arenal area (El Río Toro).or for a world class river rafting trip you need to book out of
San Jose for the Pacuare River. Try exploradores.com for this trip.
Horseback-Local operators can be booked in town. You can take a valley ride, mountain trail, beach ride
or a combination. Costa Ricans are very proud of their horses and equestrian skills. There is often a
parade, rodeo, or show in the area.
Scuba Diving-Many dive operators are in Flamingo and further north in Playa Coco. The diving on the
Pacific side of Costa Rica is in warm clear water with abundant pelagic species.
Golf-There are two courses near Tamarindo. Hacienda Pinilla and the Arnold Palmer course at the Four
Seasons. Pinilla is your best bet as the Four Season's course in currently for guest only. Pinilla is just 25
minutes from Tamarindo.
Beach Clubs-There are two beach clubs nearby, the Langosta Beach Club and the Pinilla Beach Club.
Both charge around $20/person and that applies to your food bill. Both Clubs are next to the beach with
pools, dining and a bar. I like Pinilla.
Beaches-Playa Langosta is right out in front of the condo. It's a good beach for sunning, tide pools, and
shelling. A five minute walk north or south brings you to beaches more suited for swimming.
Playa Avellanas is just south of Pinilla. This is probably one of the best day trips you take to a beach. Miles
of undeveloped beach and Lola's, a great beach restaurant. PlayaTamarindo is the busiest beach with
vistors from North America and Europe all learning how to surf. Pirate's Cove, Playa Grande, Playa
Conchal and Nosara make great day beach outings.