Where to Stay in Tamarindo, Costa Rica: 3 Best Areas and Hotels
Planning a trip to Tamarindo and trying to figure out the best place to stay? You’re in good hands!
After living in Costa Rica and spending tons of time exploring every corner of this lively little beach town, we’ve come to really understand what makes Tamarindo so special and what to expect from each of its neighborhoods.
Want to be steps from beach bars and surf schools? Prefer a more local vibe with fewer crowds? This place has a spot that fits your travel style and budget. In this guide, we’re breaking down the three best areas to stay in Tamarindo, so you can find the perfect base for your Costa Rican adventure. Let’s get to the good stuff!
Don’t miss out!
Our Top Choice
This is the hotel and area we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP!
Our personal FAVORITE area to stay is Tamarindo North! Not only can you enjoy the amazing beaches here, but the atmosphere is fun, lively, and full of great restaurants and shops.
We recommend staying at Perla de la Playa Beachfront Hotel. It offers luxury without breaking the bank, and the beachfront views can’t be beat!
Tamarindo North
- Our Top Choice
- Where To Stay in Tamarindo Map
- Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Tamarindo
- Important Tip
- Where to Stay in Tamarindo
- Check prices and availability for this beachfront resort here!
- Snag a room at Perla de la Playa Beachfront Hotel here before it sells out!
- Secure your stay early here—this little gem books up fast!
- For comfort, space, and convenience, book The Breeze Hotel here!
- For a sleek, low-key stay near the beach, reserve your room here!
- For affordable charm in a prime location, book Hotel Luna Llena here!
- For a luxury beachfront escape in Playa Langosta, book Capitán Suizo here!
- Check availability and reserve your stay at The Coast Beachfront Hotel here!
- For a homey, low-key stay near the beach, check out Casa Sueca here!
- Top Activities to do in Tamarindo
- Pura Vida!
- Getting Around Costa Rica
- AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code "DTRAVEL15"
- What’s an eSIM?
Where To Stay in Tamarindo Map
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Tamarindo
Each part of Tamarindo offers something a little different, and where you stay can really shape your experience. Whether you’re here for the surf scene, planning a relaxed family trip, or just want a quiet escape near the ocean, choosing the right neighborhood makes all the difference.
Below, we’ve highlighted our three favorite areas, along with one standout hotel in each, to help you find the perfect spot to call home while you’re here.
- Tamarindo North – This buzzy beachfront neighborhood is where Tamarindo truly comes alive with surf lessons, beach bars, and gelato shops all within walking distance. Our top choice here is Perla de la Playa Beachfront Hotel, a peaceful gem just steps from the sand that blends resort perks with boutique charm.
- Tamarindo South – A little quieter and more laid-back, this neighborhood is a favorite among solo travelers and surfers. It’s got a social vibe without the noise, and is just a short walk to Playa Langosta. Tamarindo Bay Suites offers stylish, modern studios in a leafy garden setting—central, calm, and surprisingly spacious.
- Playa Langosta – Just south of the main strip, Playa Langosta is all about peace and space. Expect ocean breezes, tide pools, and a slower pace of life. The Coast Beachfront Hotel is a beachfront boutique stay with roomy suites, full kitchens, and a dreamy pool—perfect for a quiet escape near town.
Important Tip
Multiple Tamarindo trips have taught us that this city doesn’t reward spontaneity when it comes to planning. The good places get snapped up months in advance, leaving the overpriced and underwhelming options for last-minute travelers.
The sweet spot for booking Tamarindo accommodations is 3-4 months out—enough time to secure good rates but not so far ahead that you’re locking in plans excessively early.
Where to Stay in Tamarindo
Tamarindo North
Tamarindo North is where the action happens. This area is north of Central Avenue and is the liveliest part of the town, packed with beach bars, restaurants, surf schools, and boutique shops. You’ll find a mix of locals, expats, and visitors all enjoying the laid-back vibe, whether they’re catching a sunset surf or sipping drinks at a beachfront bar.
Despite its buzz, Tamarindo North is surprisingly family-friendly. The beaches are wide and walkable, and there’s a growing number of casual eateries and gelato shops that are great for kids.
Tamarindo North also works well for digital nomads or longer-term travelers. You’ll find coworking spaces, good Wi-Fi in cafes, and accommodations ranging from budget studios to upscale beachfront condos. The mix of short- and long-term stays adds to the neighborhood’s open, communal vibe.
It’s also a prime base for activities like surfing lessons, ATV rides, or boat tours through the Tamarindo Estuary. Plus, you’re close to Las Baulas National Marine Park, where you might spot nesting leatherback turtles depending on the season.
While it’s not the quietest corner of town, Tamarindo North balances energy and convenience. If you want to walk everywhere, be close to the beach, and have plenty of dining and activity options, this is your zone!
Pros
- Walkable to the beach, restaurants, and shops
- Lively atmosphere with lots to do
- Great for surf lessons and water activities
Cons
- Can get noisy, especially in peak season
- More touristy than other areas
- Limited free parking
Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort – $$$
The iconic beachfront pick in Tamarindo North is Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort, and it absolutely looks the part. Think massive swaying palms, oceanfront pools, and a front-row seat to those golden Tamarindo sunsets.
The location is unbeatable – right on the sand and just steps from restaurants, shops, and surf schools. Rooms are spacious and classic, with options that overlook the gardens, pool, or ocean, and yes, there’s a swim-up bar (because how could there not be?). This is one of the few resorts in town with multiple pools, a full spa, and even a little casino if you’re feeling lucky.
It’s a big resort with a local feel and all the amenities you’d want on a tropical getaway. Rates typically range from $250 to $500 USD per night, depending on the view and season. It books up fast for good reason, so don’t wait too long!
Perla de la Playa Beachfront Hotel – $$
Perla de la Playa Beachfront Hotel ended up being our absolute favorite stay in Tamarindo. It’s small, low-key, and literally steps from the sand—we could even hear the ocean from our room!
The vibe was super relaxed, with just enough privacy to feel like a peaceful retreat, but still close to all the restaurants, surf shops, and sunset bars in Tamarindo North. Our room was bright and breezy, with strong A/C (bless) and one of the comfiest beds of the trip.
The best part? We got access to the bigger pool and breakfast next door at Diria, which felt like getting resort perks without the resort crowd. This place nails the balance between value and location, and we wouldn’t hesitate to stay here again. Rates usually run between $100 and $230 USD a night, depending on the room.
Ten North Tamarindo Beach Hotel – $
For a fantastic budget-friendly option that doesn’t feel “budget” at all, Ten North Tamarindo Beach Hotel is the perfect choice. Just a short 3-minute stroll from the beach, it puts guests right in the heart of Tamarindo while still offering a peaceful, garden-like setting.
The property features a small outdoor pool and a variety of room types, from cozy doubles to spacious apartments with full kitchens and living areas. Everything is clean, stylish, and well-maintained, with thoughtful touches like private patios, strong A/C, and friendly staff who can help arrange everything from surf lessons to volcano tours.
There’s even breakfast on-site if you want to keep things easy in the morning. Prices start as low as $75 USD per night, depending on room type and season. If you’re looking to stay central without overspending, Ten North makes it easy to save without sacrificing comfort.
Related Read: If you’re looking for a fun activity, check out our top zipline tours in Tamarindo here!
Tamarindo South
While it’s a little quieter than the northern end of town, Tamarindo South still has its own thing going on and offers plenty to do. This area (everything south of Central Ave) is especially popular with backpackers, solo travelers, and surfers thanks to its mix of laid-back hostels, affordable restaurants, and casual beach bars. It’s got more of a low-key, local vibe, but is still close enough to all the action that you’ll never feel too far away.
The southern stretch of Playa Tamarindo is great for beginner and intermediate surfers, and you’re also closer to Playa Langosta, a scenic beach that feels worlds away but is just a short walk or drive south. You’ll find yoga studios, smoothie bars, and a handful of relaxed co-working cafés here, plus beach access that’s often less crowded than in the north.
This part of town is ideal for travelers looking for a social scene without late-night party noise. It’s also a good pick for those who want more affordable accommodation options, especially for longer stays.
While it’s not the heart of the action, Tamarindo South offers a nice balance of calm and connection, and it’s still easy to get everywhere on foot.
Pros
- More affordable accommodations, especially for long stays
- Relaxed and social vibe, ideal for solo travelers and backpackers
- Quieter beaches and easy access to Playa Langosta
Cons
- Not as lively or central as Tamarindo North
- Fewer upscale restaurants and shops
- Some areas are more spread out and less walkable at night
The Breeze Hotel & Villas – $$$
The Breeze Hotel & Villas is a quiet, upscale hideaway in Tamarindo South—perfect for those who want a little extra space and comfort without sacrificing location. Each villa feels like its own private oasis, complete with a full kitchen, stylish living area, and a shaded patio that opens up to the lush garden and shared pool.
It’s modern, homey, and beautifully maintained, with thoughtful extras like washing machines, comfy beds, and even outdoor grills in some units. The whole property feels tucked away and peaceful, which makes it especially appealing for couples or families who want to unwind between beach outings.
While the setting is calm and residential, you’re just a 2-minute walk to the beach and close to Tamarindo’s best food trucks, yoga studios, and casual cafes. Villas typically range from $200 to $360 USD per night, including larger family units that work well for small groups or longer stays.
Tamarindo Bay Suites – $$
A stylish, adults-only property that blends boutique charm with modern convenience, Tamarindo Bay Suites is one of the top picks in Tamarindo South. The self-check-in process makes arriving easy, and the whole space feels private and well thought out—ideal for couples or solo travelers looking for something peaceful but central.
Each studio or apartment includes a kitchenette, spacious layout, and high-end touches like pillow-top mattresses and soundproofing. Guests love the quiet garden setting and dual outdoor pools, as well as the location—just a short stroll to both the beach and the town’s main strip.
The vibe is calm and residential, but you’re never more than five minutes from great coffee shops, restaurants, and yoga classes. Prices typically range from $90 to $250 USD per night, depending on the suite.
Hotel Luna Llena – $
Hotel Luna Llena is a charming, budget-friendly stay tucked just off the main road in Tamarindo South. It’s peaceful, leafy, and has the kind of relaxed, tropical vibe that makes it feel like a true little oasis. Rooms are colorful and comfortable, and the split-level bungalows with kitchenettes are a great choice for longer stays or small groups.
Guests love the pool area, which is surrounded by gardens and shady palapas—perfect for mid-day lounging. It’s also just a five-minute walk to the beach and even closer to Tamarindo’s restaurants and nightlife, offering easy access without the late-night noise.
A hearty breakfast is included, and the on-site Italian restaurant is a nice bonus. Rates typically range from $110 to $230 USD per night, depending on the room and season.
Playa Langosta
If you’re looking to slow things down and enjoy a quieter, more residential side of Tamarindo, Playa Langosta is the perfect pick. Located just south of the main town, it’s close enough to walk or drive into Tamarindo’s lively center, but once you’re here, it feels like a world away.
You won’t find big crowds or loud beach bars—just quiet streets, ocean breezes, and a slower pace of life. It’s a great choice for anyone craving space, serenity, and easy beach access without the party scene.
The beach itself is a mix of soft sand, tide pools, and lava rock formations, making it ideal for sunset walks, shell collecting, and watching the waves roll in. It’s also popular with more experienced surfers thanks to the consistent break, though swimming conditions can vary depending on the tide.
Langosta is best for couples, families, or anyone planning a longer, more relaxed stay. The neighborhood is home to boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and luxury condos—plus a few tucked-away cafes and markets. There’s not much nightlife here, and that’s kind of the point.
Whether you want to unwind with a book by the pool or wake up to the sound of crashing waves, Playa Langosta delivers a peaceful beach escape that still keeps Tamarindo within reach.
Pros
- Quiet and peaceful
- Beautiful beach with tide pools and great sunsets
- Close to Tamarindo, but without the crowds
Cons
- Limited dining and nightlife options
- Strong surf and rocky areas make swimming tricky
- Fewer budget accommodation choices
Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel – $$$
Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel is one of the most serene and scenic stays in Playa Langosta. This eco-conscious, Swiss-owned property sits right on the sand at the southern end of Tamarindo, offering a peaceful setting that feels far from the noise, without being far from town.
The grounds are lush and tropical, with howler monkeys and birds making regular appearances around the garden pathways and palm-shaded pool. Rooms are spacious and airy, with wooden accents, private terraces or balconies, and upscale touches like orthopedic mattresses and rainfall showers.
Guests love the relaxed beachfront restaurant, the generous breakfast buffet, and the laid-back vibe that defines the whole experience. Whether you’re here for romance, rest, or just a truly relaxing beach escape, this place delivers. Rates typically range from $360 to $1,000+ USD, depending on room type and season.
The Coast Beachfront Hotel – $$
The Coast Beachfront Hotel strikes a perfect balance between comfort and laid-back beach vibes. Located just south of the main town near Playa Langosta, this boutique property is right on the sand and tucked into a quieter, more scenic part of Tamarindo. Guests love the peaceful setting, spacious suites, and clean, modern design.
Each unit comes with a fully equipped kitchen, private patio or balcony, and access to a gorgeous pool surrounded by tropical greenery. It’s just a 5-minute walk into town, so you can enjoy the restaurants and shops when you want, but return to a calm, oceanfront retreat when you’re ready to relax.
The hotel doesn’t have a restaurant, but breakfast is delivered daily to your room, and having your own kitchen gives you plenty of flexibility. Suites usually range from $160 to $300 USD per night.
Casa Sueca Hotel – $$
Casa Sueca Hotel – At the Beach is a small, peaceful hotel just steps from the sand on the quieter south end of Tamarindo. While prices here are a little higher than typical “budget” stays, you get a lot for what you pay—full kitchens, comfy living areas, shaded patios, and a leafy pool that’s perfect for cooling off after the beach.
The location is a standout: just across the road from the beach and about a 10-minute walk from Tamarindo’s main strip. This is a great option for couples, small families, or anyone planning a longer stay. The rooms feel homey and well-kept, and the tropical landscaping adds to the sense of privacy.
Add in BBQ areas, surfboard storage, and strong Wi-Fi, and it checks a lot of boxes. Standard rooms typically range from around $140 to $260 USD per night.
Related Read: Want to make the most of your time in town? Don’t miss our full list of 10 fun and exciting things to do in Tamarindo here!
Top Activities to do in Tamarindo
Now that you’ve figured out where to stay in Tamarindo and settled into your hotel, it’s time to plan your adventures! From adrenaline-pumping jungle rides to laid-back catamaran cruises and unforgettable wildlife encounters, these are some of our favorite experiences in and around Tamarindo. Be sure to book early—these tours are popular and often sell out fast!
- Zip through the jungle and soak in hot springs – This Guachipelin adventure has it all—ziplining, river tubing, horseback riding, volcanic mud baths, hot springs, and a buffet lunch. Set in the scenic Rincon de la Vieja National Park, it’s the most action-packed way to explore Costa Rica in just one day!
- Sail into the sunset on a catamaran cruise – Nothing beats sipping drinks on the open water, and this 5-hour sailing trip delivers. You’ll snorkel, kayak, or paddleboard in a secluded bay before enjoying a delicious onboard lunch. The cruise ends with a sunset over Tamarindo Bay—an unforgettable way to spend an afternoon.
- Explore the Catalina Islands on a snorkeling tour – We joined this half-day adventure for two guided snorkel stops around the Catalina Islands and weren’t disappointed. We saw sea turtles, pufferfish, and even dolphins! Between sites, you’ll relax with fresh fruit on the boat and take in sweeping views of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
- Hop on an ATV and ride through the jungle – This ATV tour winds through scenic jungle trails, quiet backroads, and stretches of untouched beach. We stopped at a few remote beaches along the way and even crossed rivers! Don’t worry if you’re new—guides offer quick, easy instruction before you hit the trail.
- Tackle Class III & IV rapids on the Tenorio River – Whitewater rafting through Costa Rica’s lush countryside is a thrill you won’t forget. This full-day tour includes 2.5 hours of paddling powerful rapids, spotting wildlife in calmer sections, and wrapping it all up with a dramatic drop over a 12-foot waterfall. Adrenaline rush guaranteed!
Getting Around Costa Rica
How you choose to get around Costa Rica is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your holiday here! How you do it depends on your budget, travel style, and comfort level.
Renting a Car
Without a doubt, the number one way to explore Costa Rica is in a rental car. We book rental cars on the Discover Cars website as we have had good experiences with them in the past.
One of the things you need to watch for when renting a car in Costa Rica is the mandatory insurance that the government requires you to have. There are a lot of very cheap rentals that don’t include this mandatory insurance (TPL) in the original booking price, but there are also ones that do. To avoid additional surprise charges when you pick up your rental car, be sure to rent a car that includes the mandatory insurance when you book.
Thankfully, on Discover Cars it’s easy to tell apart the companies that include the mandatory insurance and those that don’t. The trick is you can’t pick any car on their website. In the picture below, you can see this rental car, with pick up in Jaco, includes the TPL. That means the mandatory insurance is included in the price. Any cover you get above that is extra.
Of course, I still suggest getting the full coverage offered by Discover Cars, which covers you even more.
You can browse cars on Discover Cars here.
Book Shuttles
If renting a car isn’t in your budget, you don’t feel comfortable driving in Costa Rica, or you just don’t like driving, shuttles are the next best option. There are hundreds of shuttle routes available all over the country, and they are very affordable.
Shuttles in Costa Rica are specifically for tourists and often include pick up and drop off at your selected hotels and airports. The drivers also speak some English, and the vehicles have air conditioning. You’ll also be guaranteed a seat when you book a shuttle (which isn’t the case with the public bus system.)
To get the best price, use the website Bookaway. They compare all the offers and prices of shuttle companies in Costa Rica so you get the best price! Honestly, we have saved so much money using Bookaway!
You can search for shuttles online on Bookaway here.
Public Bus
Lastly, you can use the public bus system. On short journeys, such as from San Jose to La Fortuna or Uvita to Manuel Antonio, this system is great. However, the longer the journey the more hassle and time spent on a bus. It’s undoubtedly best to save the public bus in Costa Rica for short and straightforward trips!
The public buses are definitely the cheapest way to get around Costa Rica, but they are not always very reliable and schedules often change without notice and delays are to be expected. The buses can also be very crowded and hot – so just be prepared!
It’s also good to speak some Spanish if you plan on riding the public bus since most drivers and ticket booth operators don’t speak English.
AIRALO e-SIM Up To 15% Off With Code “DTRAVEL15”
What’s an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card. Instead of buying a little plastic chip and swapping it into your phone, you just download it. It connects your phone to a local network in whatever country you’re visiting — no stores, no waiting, and no fiddling with tiny cards.
In simple terms, it’s the easiest way to get data and stay connected while traveling.
We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs in North America, and after a few frustrating experiences, we’ve found our favorite — Airalo. It’s fast, reliable, and incredibly easy to use. You can set it up in minutes (even my mom managed it solo on her first try!), and the prices are some of the best out there.
🔥 Hot Tip: Choose the Latin America-wide eSIM! It works across 17 countries, so you can hop from Costa Rica to Panama to Nicaragua without ever losing connection. One download, endless adventures.
Bonus: We’ve got an exclusive 15% discount for our readers. Use the codes:
Pura Vida!
Tamarindo is one of our favorite areas of Costa Rica, and choosing the right place to stay can make or break your vacay! If one of these recommended hotels are still available, you’ll be sure to have a comfortable stay, be centrally located, and be able to totally relax into your Tamarindo time.
If you need help planning more of your travels, check out all of our blogs here! After living in Costa Rica, we have tons of resources on top activities, itineraries, and more, including where to stay guides. Here are a few related blogs to inspire your travels – cheers!
10 Best Tamarindo Tours and Excursions You NEED to Check Out!
Best Ziplining Tours in Tamarindo and 8 Things to Know BEFORE Booking
