A Tamarindo Beach Vacation Guide

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Like None You’ve Ever Seen

You’re coming to Costa Rica and you have a few questions. Costa Rica travel guides are everywhere, but don’t you wish you could talk to someone who lives here? Somebody who would tell you what’s really going on with out trying to sell you something? You’ve got your Tamarindo vacation rental lined up. You get it about Arenal tours of the volcano being a must-see, the things to do in Tamarindo that are must-dos, and you’re smart enough to have figured out yourself that you’re going to need sunscreen. But, seriously. There’s more you want to know to feel sure you’re making the right decision about your Tamarindo vacation. Right?

A group surf lesson on the beach in Tamarindo
A group surf lesson on the beach in Tamarindo

Great news! You do have a friend in Costa Rica! You have quite a few of them, actually. Vacation Rentals of Tamarindo has drafted a Tamarindo vacation guide for you that is unlike any other. It’s wise, it’s honest, it’s entertaining, and it answers the questions behind your questions. It even includes some vacation hacks—short cuts to a safer, more enjoyable visit.
Here’s a look at the contents of our Tamarindo Vacation Guide:

1. Is it going to rain?
This segment answers all of your questions about the weather in the province of Guanacaste where Tamarindo is located. Learn when the wet season and the dry season occur, what to expect during each, and learn how the wind direction effects ocean water temperature.


It’s not that hard to be prepared for anything
It’s not that hard to be prepared for anything

2. Omg. Is there a bug in here?
Maybe the most important information you need to know before coming to Costa Rica is found here. Learn about Costa Rica’s biodiversity and get a clear grasp on realistic expectations for what you might experience in a Tamarindo vacation rental.

Harmless leafcutter ants march in lines with pieces of leaves that look like green sails
Harmless leafcutter ants march in lines with pieces of leaves that look like green sails

3. Is the tap water safe?
Even if we say it is, we know you’re going to buy bottled water anyway, just to because. No harm in that. But can you brush your teeth with it? Make coffee? Cook? It’s a good thing you have a friend among the Tamarindo locals to ask these questions to.

Bottled or tap? Just be sure to drink a lot of it!
Bottled or tap? Just be sure to drink a lot of it!

4. What do you mean Mother Nature loves to play tricks?
In this chapter of the Tamarindo Vacation Guide, learn about the common challenges created by a tropical climate. It’s true—we never have to shovel snow here, but that doesn’t mean Mother Nature hasn’t got any tricks up her sleeve. We know you want to know about them before you get here, so don’t miss this section.

Crabs, not known for their intelligence, often tumble into swimming pools and cannot get out on their own
Crabs, not known for their intelligence, often tumble into swimming pools and cannot get out on their own

5. The electricity just went off. Now what?
In your town utilities are like air—everywhere all the time. In our town we have fantastic first-world service…except when we don’t. Of course we wouldn’t lie to you about it and here’s how to prepare.

Candlelight. What’s not to love?
Candlelight. What’s not to love?

6. What about sharks, crocodiles, and rip tides?
Learn about the habits and habitats of marine life with big teeth. Find out whether your fears are founded or unfounded. Learn how to pick a safe spot on the beach to surf or swim. Get life-saving info on what to do if you are ever caught in a rip tide anywhere in the world, ever.

A crocodile swimming in the Tamarindo estuary, April 2016
A crocodile swimming in the Tamarindo estuary, April 2016

7. Why is this taking so long?
You do realize you’re headed from the busy modern world to a relaxed culture in a Third World country, right? It’s one of the world’s safest countries and it’s for sure the world’s happiest country, but it might not be the speediest.

Happy and relaxing, yes. Stunningly speedy, maybe not.
Happy and relaxing, yes. Stunningly speedy, maybe not.

8. So, what’s the story of Tamarindo, anyway?
We know you’re going to fall in love with Costa Rica and with Tamarindo. We did–that’s why we’re here working hard to create amazing Tamarindo vacation rentals to share with you. We know you’ll be curious about how (and how recently!) Tamarindo turned from a sleepy jungle into the vibrant destination you see today.

Aerial view of Tamarindo Beach
Aerial view of Tamarindo Beach

Then come the 9 vacation hacks to keep you safer and more relaxed. Following, we give you our short list of restaurant recommendations. The expertise of foreign locals who have lived in Tamarindo, Costa Rica for over 20 years is just what you need to get ready for your vacation. Don’t stress. It’s going to be awesome. And if you forget the sunscreen or your toothbrush, don’t panic. Stores carry these things. Where do you think we get ours?
Stay tuned!