Tamarindo beach Holidays

You'll find Playa Tamarindo in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste province. With the North Pacific lapping at its sandy white shores and lush palm trees waving in the balmy breeze, it's the poster child for tropical. The beauty of this bay attracts beach lovers, partygoers, yachters and surfers in equal measure.

This bay's a favourite for surfers – and no wonder, with decent swells for beginners and pros alike. Playa Tamarindo, as well as neighbouring Playa Grande and Playa Langosta, all have well-established surf schools to get you riding the waves in no time.

Tamarindo's crown is Las Baulas National Park, a protected mangrove estuary that's dripping in Mother Nature's jewels. Leatherback turtles are the main attraction here – especially during nesting season from March to May – and visitors stay on through 'til evening for the breathtaking sunsets.

For bumping island nightlife, Tamarindo town's the spot. Casual bars line the beach, and restaurants plate up local yummies like crispy fish fritters. If you're craving some shopping, check out the sports outlets to splash out on surfing gear, or browse luxury boutiques and local craft stalls.