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Weather in Tamarindo
Guanacaste surf and sea turtle beaches
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About Tamarindo
Tamarindo is Guanacaste's crown jewel—a beach town that has evolved from backpacker haven to upscale resort destination. The beach itself is stunning: white sand, consistent waves, and a rocky point creating multiple breaks. Tamarindo serves as a hub for northern Pacific adventures, with nearby national parks and wildlife reserves.
Best months to visit
January, February, March, December
Language
Spanish, English
Things to do in Tamarindo
Surfing lessons at multiple beach breaks
Sea turtle nesting tours (seasonal)
Wildlife spotting in nearby reserves
Snorkeling and diving at nearby islands
Nightlife and restaurant scene exploring
Zip-lining and canopy tour adventures
Weather by month
Click any month for detailed weather information and travel tips.
Recommended
January
32C
Hot and humid, and mostly sunny skies.
Recommended
February
33C
Hot and humid, and mostly sunny skies.
Recommended
March
34C
Hot and humid, and mostly sunny skies.
April
33C
Hot and humid, with some rainy days.
May
31C
Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.
June
30C
Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.
July
30C
Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.
August
30C
Hot and humid, with frequent heavy rain.
September
29C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
October
28C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
November
29C
Warm and pleasant, with frequent heavy rain.
Recommended
December
31C
Hot and humid, with occasional showers.
Tamarindo is Costa Rica's best-known surf town, a buzzing stretch of Guanacaste coastline where consistent beach breaks, beachfront bars and a strong expat community have built a reputation as both a surf destination and a lively party town. Beyond the surf, nearby estuaries and beaches offer leatherback turtle nesting and quieter alternatives just a short drive away.
Best areas to stay in Tamarindo
Tamarindo Beach / Town
The main strip with surf shops, restaurants, bars and most accommodation.
Playa Grande
A quieter beach just across the estuary, known for surfing and protected turtle nesting.
Playa Langosta
A calmer beach a short walk south of central Tamarindo, with tide pools and fewer crowds.
Playa Avellanas
A laid-back surf beach a short drive south, famous for its beachfront bar 'Lola's'.
Getting to Tamarindo
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Flights
Tamarindo has a small domestic airport (TNO) with flights from San José (~50 minutes); Liberia's international airport (LIR) is about 1 hour by road.
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From London
~50 minutes by air or ~5 hours by road from San José; ~1 hour from Liberia airport.
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Getting around
Tamarindo town is walkable; rental cars, ATVs or taxis are useful for reaching nearby beaches like Playa Grande and Avellanas.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Tamarindo?
December to April is the dry season and busiest period, while the green season (May-November) brings bigger surf swells and lower prices.
Is Tamarindo good for beginner surfers?
Yes — Tamarindo Beach itself has gentle breaks suitable for beginners, with more advanced spots like Playa Grande and Witch's Rock nearby for experienced surfers.
Can you see turtles nesting near Tamarindo?
Yes — Las Baulas National Park at neighbouring Playa Grande protects nesting leatherback turtles, with guided night tours during nesting season (October-March).
Is Tamarindo expensive?
It's one of the pricier beach towns in Costa Rica, reflecting its popularity with international tourists and expats.
What's the nightlife like?
Tamarindo has one of the more active nightlife scenes on the Pacific coast, with beach bars and late-night spots along the main strip.
Traveler reviews
★★★★☆
The beach break right in town is great for beginners, and the sunsets over the water with a drink in hand were a daily highlight.
Brody K. · March 2024
★★★★★
Took a night tour to see leatherback turtles nesting at Playa Grande — an incredible, humbling experience just a short drive from the busy main beach.
Isabela M. · October 2023
★★★☆☆
Tamarindo itself felt quite touristy and pricey, but driving south to Avellanas for a quieter beach day was a great escape.
Tyler N. · January 2024
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