Looking for the best Tamarindo day trips? With Wonder Away, we’ve crafted an extensive list of the top excursions for you to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re a hobby surfer, a young traveler, a family on vacation, or a backpacker, this guide will provide an array of exciting day trips from Tamarindo, Costa Rica. Get ready to surf, hike, discover, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and vibrant culture of the region.

Distance from Tamarindo: Our boat is departing from Playa Tamarindo.

Activites:

• Scuba Diving: Las Catalinas Islands are known for their vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters. Divers can explore an underwater world teeming with colorful fish, rays, eels, and even sharks. With dive sites suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, it’s a must-visit spot for underwater enthusiasts. You can also get your PADI certification with us.
• Snorkeling: For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling offers an equally captivating experience. The reefs around Las Catalinas are perfect for spotting a wide variety of marine wildlife.
• Boat Excursion: The boat ride to Las Catalinas Islands offers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and the chance to see dolphins, whales (seasonal), and sea turtles along the way.

Dive Shop Recommendation:

• Scuba Tamarindo: Located just right on the beach, behind TABU restaurant. This dive shop offers professional and friendly service, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. They provide all necessary equipment and cater to divers of all skill levels.

Playa Conchal: A Unique Beach Experience

Distance from Tamarindo: Around 30 minutes by car until Playa Brasilito, then a 15 minute walk to Playa Conchal.

Activites:

• Swimming & Beach Relaxation: Playa Conchal is covered with tiny crushed shells and white sand, providing a unique experience. It is also famous for its clear blue waters. Fun fact: in 2022 they ranked Playa Conchal as the best beach in the world by Big 7 Travel in its annual publication ‘The 50 Best Beaches in the World.’
• Water Sports: Engage in activities like jet skiing and snorkeling.
• Horseback Riding: Enjoy a sunset ride along the coastline before dinner.

Restaurant Recommendations

• Deli Café: A cozy café with a variety of breakfast and lunch options.
• Patagonia Del Mar: A beachfront restaurant with a cuisine of Argentinian and Costa Rican influences, offering fresh and delicious seafood.
• Masala Indian Restaurant: One of the best Indian restaurants in the area.

Visit Playa Flamingo, then hop on a sunset catamaran

Distance from Tamarindo: 35 minutes by car.

Activites:

• Water Sports: Enjoy activities like e-foiling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Leaving from the Flamingo Sailing Center.
• Beach Relaxation: Spend beach day on the nearby beaches. Playa Potrero, Penca or Prieta.
  
• Sunset Catamaran: Set sail from the Bay for a breathtaking sunset cruise with Why Not Oceanic exclusive catamaran. Inquire a private tour here.

Restaurant Recommendation

• Surfbox: Ideal for breakfast, brunch or lunch. This cute in the Marina Flamingo is offering healthy and delicious dishes.

Spend a day in the town Las Catalinas and hike to Playa Danta

Distance from Tamarindo: 1 hour by car.

Activites:

• Walking in Town: Las Catalinas is a charming little town with colorful buildings and quaint shops, similar to a little Italian village. You can enjoy local cafes, artisanal boutiques, and scenic pathways perfect for a morning or afternoon stroll.
• Hiking: Take the scenic hiking trail to Playa Danta, surrounded by lush forests and coastal views. There is also a chance to spot howler monkeys and different bird species on the way.
  
• Swimming and SUP boarding: The calm waters of Playa Danta are perfect for swimming and paddleboarding.
• Mountain Biking: Rent a bike or take a tour, and explore the well-maintained trails.

Restaurant Recommendations

• Tamaki: Experience exquisite Asian cuisine and enjoy some of the finest sushi in a welcoming and stylish atmosphere.
• Chunches: The best milkshakes to refresh on a hot day, offering a variety of delicious flavors.
• Casa Chameleon: Enjoy a delicious meal with stunning views of the ocean and surrounding hills. The amenities include a gourmet restaurant, a bar, and an outdoor infinity pool. Reservation required!

Playa Avellanas

Distance from Tamarindo: 30 minutes by car (south of Tamarindo)

Activites:

• Surfing: Known for its consistent waves, Playa Avellanas is a surfer’s paradise suitable for both beginners and advanced surfers.
• Beach Relaxation: Enjoy this spacious, less crowded beach compared to Tamarindo.

Restaurant Recommendations

• Lola’s: Famous for its beachfront location and delicious menu, Lola’s is a must-visit for a laid-back lunch or refreshing drink.
• Il Rustico: One of the best Italian restaurants and pizza places in the area. Open only for dinner.

Nosara

Distance from Tamarindo: About 2 hours by car, south of Tamarindo. Note: during the rainy season, we recommend taking the longer route through Nicoya. The dirt road along the coast is shorter, but can be challenging, with a river crossing at the end. Ideal with a 4×4 car.

Activites:

• Surfing: Playa Guiones is ideal for surfers of all levels.
• Yoga: Nosara is also a yogis paradise, so it’s easy to join a class before or after your surf session.
• Exploration: Visit the Nosara Biological Reserve for nature and wildlife. To access the reserve you need to go to the Lagarta Lodge Hotel reception. The entry is around $10/person.

Restaurant Recommendation

• La Luna: This beachfront restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine and a perfect sunset view.

Playa Grande

Distance from Tamarindo: 25 minutes by car (north of Tamarindo)

Activites:

• Surfing: Playa Grande offers powerful waves that attract surfers from all over the world.
  
• Beach Relaxation: Bring your own shade, as this beach offers limited natural cover. Located within Las Baulas National Park.

Restaurant Recommendation

• Pots & Bowls: This hidden gem offers only healthy options: smoothies, bowls, salads and more. Located in town, not on the beach. Check the menu here, and let’s bring together your friends for your next surf trip!

Witch’s Rock/ Roca Bruja

Distance from Tamarindo: 1.5 hours to Playa Coco, then an additional 60-minute boat ride to Witch’s Rock.

Activites:

• Surfing: Witch’s Rock, or Roca Bruja, is iconic for its formidable waves, making it a bucket-list surf spot for experienced surfers. The consistent offshore winds and impressive breaks ensure a thrilling surf experience.
• Boat Excursion: The journey begins with a scenic boat ride from Playa Coco, offering stunning views of the coastline and a chance to spot marine life such as dolphins and sea turtles.

Restaurant Recommendation

• Papagayo Seafood: This seafood restaurant in Playa Coco offers a delicious and fresh selection of dishes, perfect for refueling after a day at Witch’s Rock.

La Leona Waterfall Hike

Distance from Tamarindo: 1,5 hours by car

Activites:

• Hiking: A very adventurous hike, where you’ll walk through lush jungle, bat caves and cross rivers on your way to the waterfalls.
• River Tubing: Experience river tubing after the hike on the nearby river. Duration is approximately 60 minutes.
• Hot Springs & Volcanic Mud Treatment: Relax and unwind in Rio Negro hot springs in Rincon de La Vieja National Park.

Restaurant Recommendation

• Soda Lili: We always highly recommend our client to stop at this soda half way, in Filadelfia for a filling local Costa Rican breakfast. Here is the Location

La Oropéndola Waterfall in Rincón De La Vieja National Park

Distance from Tamarindo: 2 hours by car

Activites:

• Hiking: Explore the park’s trails that lead to waterfalls, and hot springs. Some combo tours offer horseback riding to reach your jungle destinations.
• Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for exotic birds, monkeys (howler and white face), and other wildlife.
• Zip Lining: This canopy is unique, passing through waterfalls and an amazing canyon.
• Mud Baths and Hot Springs: After the activities enjoy the relaxing hot springs waters of Rio Negro and volcanic mud baths.

Restaurant Recommendation

• Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin Restaurant: They offer a buffet style lunch with Costa Rican meal. Can be included in any of the combo packages or you can just visit the restaurant separately. 

Llanos de Cortez Waterfalls and Poza Los Coyotes

Distance from Tamarindo: 2 hours by car

Activites:

• Waterfall Exploration: Llanos de Cortez is the 5th tallest waterfall in Costa Rica, cascading down from a height of 100 meters. It’s easily accessible, only a short walk down from the parking lot.
• Picnic: The front area provides a perfect setting for a picnic in the middle of the nature. It’s like a little beach in front of the waterfalls.
• Swimming and Cliff Jumping:At Poza Los Coyotes, you can enjoy a day in the clear, refreshing water, floating around in tubes. For the adventurous, there is cliff jumping available as well.

Restaurant Recommendation

• Meztli Coffee House: This cute coffee house is located right by Liberia Airport. Stop here for a refreshing cup of coffee and a delicious breakfast before heading to the waterfalls. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it worth the stop. 

Tamarindo is not just a destination; it’s a gateway to an array of unforgettable day trips that cater to every type of traveler. From surfing and hiking to exploring wildlife and relaxing on the most beautiful beaches, there’s something for everyone. Make the most of your stay in Tamarindo by embarking on these exciting excursions, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Ready to plan your adventure? Feel free to reach out to Wonder Away for personalized vacation ideas. info@wonderaway.com