Car Hire in Tamarindo Beach, Costa Rica

Tamarindo

The beach of Tamarindo lies upon the northern Pacific coast of Costa Rica and is one of the most easily accessible coastal villages. It is reachable by plane from San Jose as well as by road, whether through car rental or the regular bus service that runs from the capital and surrounding environs. National Parks, mountains, volcanoes and world class surfing are just some of the delights to be encountered in this lush playground. In Tamarindo, you are literally enveloped by nature; you may be lucky enough to witness a flock of pelicans as they descend upon and skim across the shallow surf. If not, the surrounding beaches of Playa Grande and Playa Langosta are home to the giant leatherback turtle, which litter the sands from October to March in order to lay their eggs on this seasonal nesting ground.

In terms of climate, Tamarindo experiences two very distinct seasons. November to April is the dry spell; arid, scorching and muggy. The other extreme is the rainy season, which takes place from May to October. During this period, the weather is generally fine until late afternoon, at which point a short and refreshing downpour occurs, creating the most extraordinary sunsets.

Tamarindo is a popular destination for families, couples and honeymooners alike. The village itself has an extremely laid-back, carefree vibe; nothing moves too fast and everybody knows everybody else, making for an extremely sociable and convivial atmosphere. Popular with both Costa Ricans and foreign visitors, many choose to settle here, resulting in an ever-expanding community, the multi-cultural range of residents and tourists making for a mixed and vibrant flavour.

Attractions

Tamarindo and its surrounds hosts an action-packed amalgamation of activities from jet-skiing to horse riding, and much, much more.

The Pacific Ocean lies on the doorstep of the village. Diving the warm bath-like water will bring you closer to giant manta rays, red snapper, pufferfish and other exotic sea-life, often spotted around sites such as the Catalina Islands. Agua Rica Diving Centre offers courses from Openwater Diver to Divemaster.

Papagayo Excursions boasts an array of exciting experiences based within and utilising the surrounding natural beauty of the area. One might choose to enjoy the flora and fauna of Tamarindo's very own Baula National Park, in which the laying of the leatherback turtles� eggs can be witnessed. Alternatively, venture further afield and take part in tours which visit spectacles such as the still-active Arenal volcano or a leisurely and informative raft along the Corobici River.

If you want to try your hand at or hone your already experienced skills of fishing, Capulla Sportfishing offers various packages and trips, the seas off Tamarindo possessing some of the world�s best fishing locations.

With a number of notorious breaks in the environs, surfing is a must whilst visiting Tamarindo, and made all the more enjoyable through the temperate warmth of the water. Iguana Surf caters for surf lessons and equipment hire as well as a range of equally exhilarating water activities, such as banana boat rides, snorkelling and kayaking.

Casagua Horses provide lessons and a number of tours that allow for the exploration of quaint villages, the depths of the forest or traditional fiestas.

If, however, all of the above just seem far too exhausting, then why not indulge in a spot of golf or relax on the gorgeous beach before visiting the local spa, where a number of treatments can be enjoyed?

Shopping

There are several surf shops situated in the village, as well as some souvenir/ knick-knack shops, whilst those creative types interested in the arts may prefer the gallery and pottery shops. One can also find a selection of bakeries, an open-air vegetable market, various gift shops selling quirky locally-crafted bits-and-bobs, whilst similar stalls displaying jewellery and the likes are scattered along the dusty streets. Additionally, there is a pharmacy, a hardware shop and various internet cafes. Larger, more commercial shops, however, are to be found in the capital.

Nightlife/ Dining

Tamarindo caters for a variety of culinary tastes with food influences from all over the world; Japanese, Italian, traditional Costa Rican and Mexican to name but a few. There are over forty restaurants as well as a variety of small clubs and bars. After sundown, the relaxed atmosphere is injected with life and music fills the air. The Yucca Bar features live music, whilst Zullymar boasts wonderful cocktails and a spectacular view. Enjoy a sun-downer at beach bars such as Monkey Bar and Bar Palma.

For an insight into some of the many eateries, Lazy Wave rotates its menu regularly with fairly reasonable prices. Frutas Tropicales and Stellas are good options for those wanting to sample regional cuisine, or choose El Coconut for exceptional seafood and delicious deserts.

If it's a light lunchtime snack you�re after, however, visit Shark Bite Deli, where you can pick up a quick sandwich, choosing from a range of fresh fillings.

Kahiki restaurant and bar, a particularly popular Polynesian-type haunt, is located on the road to Langosta and features an interesting and varied menu including Asian Barbeque Tofu and Hawaii Five-O Burger, for example.

Tourist Information

CR Paradise
Playa Tamarindo

• Tel:011 (506) 653-0981
• Fax:011 (506) 653-1022
• email:info@crparadise.com

Airport

Tamarindo has its own airstrip which welcomes daily flights from San Jose. Alternatively, forty-five minutes from the town, Liberia's airport hosts international flights.