Heredia, Costa Rica has a unique combination of a rich historical past, relaxed country-style living, and the convenience of a Central Valley location. As one of the most desirable destinations for expats and investors in the country, Heredia has a great potential for return on initial investments with the amenities of a modern, developed community.
With so many options available, Costa Rica continues to be a prime expat destination. Heredia is one such location that can satisfy the desire for a less hectic existence without sacrificing modern conveniences.
Samuel Anugual School
Heredia’s Historical Roots
Long before the Spanish arrived, the area in what is now present-day Heredia was occupied by the indigenous Huetares led by a prominent chieftain, Garabito. Throughout much of middle 1500s, Garabito contested the area with the Spanish and today is viewed as one of the best known tribal leaders in Costa Rica.
In 1706, Spanish settlers established a church known locally as Alvillria. A decade later, this small settlement was moved north to a location known by the Huetare name of Cubujuqui. The community continued to grow and in 1763, was given the status of “villa” and renamed Heredia in honor of the president of the Audiencia of Guatemala, don Alonso Fernández de Heredia.
Following independence from Spain in 1821, Heredia along with Cartago decided to become part of the new Mexican government while the other two major cities, Alajuela and San Jose wanted to be independent. A short civil war resulted in a four year rotating capital city arrangement.
As a result, Heredia became Costa Rica’s capital in 1835 until the arrangement was rescinded some years later.
City of Flowers
Heredia’s nickname is the “City of Flowers.” The lush gardens and wide variety of stunning flora in the area are said to be the inspiration for the name.
There is a second version that states that the correct nickname is actually the “City of Flores” after a prominent political and social family who lived there in the 19th century. A third, and more romantic origin, is that the city’s name comes from the beauty of its women.
Mario André Cordero Alfaro
Heredia Today
Heredia has become an important hub in the vibrant Costa Rican economy. A number of technology companies have made their home in the area, adding to the prospect of growth in the future.
Additionally, Heredia is also the location of the National University and several Spanish language institutes. The combination of instruction and immersion in Costa Rican culture holds tremendous potential for the future of the region and the country as a whole.
Tico Timess
What Makes Heredia, Costa Rica a Great Investment
Heredia has some unique qualities that enhance its desirability as an investment location. Expats have long known that this Central Valley gem has an intrinsic value as well as a great potential for a positive return on their initial expenditures. Here are some of the highlights:
Reasonable Cost of Living
The cost of basic utilities in Heredia compares favorably with other Central Valley communities. The range for electricity, water, garbage, and internet/cable is a reasonable $104 to $120. Importantly, more moderate temperatures means not having to use air conditioning (a major factor in electricity costs) as much.
Being located just ten kilometers from San Jose, Heredia has a wide variety of properties for sale or rent. The choices can range from small “tico style” houses to modern condominiums to luxurious single family mansions.
The amount needed to rent or purchase is a direct reflection of the location (city center versus more rural), type of property (single family or multi-unit) and amenities included. Locations further away from the major metropolitan area are more economical than those closer to the major centers of Escazu and San Jose.
It’s All About Location
Heredia is, literally, in the heart of the action in the Central Valley. Close to the major metropolitan areas of San Jose, Escazu and Alajuela, shopping and entertainment are within easy reach.
Located in the foothills of the now-extinct Barva Volcano, Heredia still retains its essence as a quiet community whose pace of life is not as hectic as its larger neighbors.
Close and Convenient
The Juan Santamaria International Airport is less than a half an hour drive away, making Heredia an easy destination for travelers from the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Rental cars, private shuttles, and public buses are both inexpensive and plentiful.
Heredia is also close to several of the most popular tourist locations in the country. The Arenal and Poas National Parks are home to two of the most stunning and most visited volcanoes in Costa Rica.
There are several coffee plantations located in the Heredia area offering tours and tastings. Various celebrations and the weekend farmer’s markets provide a unique opportunity to experience life the “pura vida” way.
Though not close to the beach, Heredia’s proximity to the airport makes flying to one of the beachfront communities along the Pacific an easy option. Both Sansa Air and Nature Air offer domestic flights to beachfront destinations like Nosara and Tamarindo.
Central Valley
Great Climate
The weather in Heredia is one of its most desirable features. With temperatures in the 75-80 degree range, the need for constant air conditioning is greatly reduced; a real benefit on the budget as well.
Language Is Not a Barrier
One of the most attractive features of Heredia (and the Central Valley in general) is the large expat community that lives in the area. While having some knowledge of Spanish is always useful, there are abundant English speakers in the area, making daily living that much less of a challenge.
Making the Most of the Money
Heredia, Costa Rica holds a great potential as a source of rental income for those who aren’t quite ready to make Costa Rica their full-time residence. Tourists and vacationers will find the Central Valley location, ease of airport access, and proximity to modern amenities a desirable alternative to staying in a hotel. With the growing number of internet-based resources, gaining a strong return on the initial investment is easier than ever.
Map of Heredia, Costa Rica
Hererdia, Costa Rica Fast Facts
- Population: 13,500
- Typical temperature: 70 degrees Fahrenheit
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: San Jose, Costa Rica
- Nearest U.S. consulate: San Jose, Costa Rica
Blue Zones, those special places on earth where people live longer and healthier lives, first came to prominence in the ground-breaking book by Dan Buettner, Blue Zones.
Nicoya, Costa Rica is one of those unique locations where lifestyle, diet, and low stress have dramatically bettered the lives of Ticos and expats alike. Truly, Nicoya embodies the essence of the Costa Rica mantra “pura vida”– pure life.
Nicoya, Costa Rica
As a result of the publicity generated by Buettner’s book, towns in the Nicoya Peninsula, such as Nosara, are experiencing a new level of growth. Expats seeking a less frenzied existence have discovered what native Costa Ricans have known for years – that Nicoya is a special place to live, explore, and experience.
Nicoya, Costa Rica Has Been a Desirable Location from the Beginning
Even from its earliest days, the Nicoya Peninsula has been a valued location. In the pre-Colombian era, the peninsula was occupied by two groups: the Churusteca and the Nicoya. However, after a visit by the Spanish conquistador Gil Gonzalez Davila in 1523, Nicoya’s colonial era began in earnest.
From Spain to Nicaragua to Costa Rica, Nicoya Followed Its Own Course
The first chapel in Nicoya was erected in 1544 and is considered to be the oldest parish in Costa Rica. Ten years later, Pedro Ordonez was appointed magistrate of Nicoya as the whole Guanacaste region became part of what was known then as Nicaragua.
Natives of the area, called Gunacastecos, had a strong independent spirit and on July 25th, 1824 voted to secede from Nicaragua and join Costa Rica. Later, on December 7th, 1848 Guanacaste and the Nicoya Peninsula formally became a Costa Rican province.
Even today this spirit can be found throughout the peninsula. The flag of Guanacaste is still flown although the principles of “pura vida” temper this desire of a separate destiny from the rest of the country.
What Makes Nicoya a “Blue Zone”?
The term “blue zone” is defined as a region or group where the residents live longer, healthier lives. Originally used in studies done by demographers Gianni Pes and Michel Poulain of Sardina’s Nuoro County, the term was popularized by Dan Buettner in his book of the same name.
Buettner identified the Nicoya Peninsula as an area meeting the criteria for a “blue zone”. In 2007, Nicoya was the subject of a Quest Network expedition examining these findings.
Nicoya Peninsula from the air
What Expats Can Expect Living in Nicoya
Perhaps the key feature of moving to the Nicoya Peninsula is the pleasant discovery that the pace of life is slower. Three of the most popular towns on the peninsula – Nicoya, Nosara and Samara – are all small communities with a true Costa Rican “vibe” attractive to visitors, expats and locals. Amenities are basic and are continuing to be improved to provide service to the new arrivals from the U.S., Europe, and Canada.
The cost of living, while not the most inexpensive in the country, is far more affordable for those on a budget than other expat destinations such as Escazu, Tamarindo, or the Central Valley. The types of properties available for sale or rent is broad and can range from a small “tico” house to a modern residence with landscaping and pool; again, price can vary on what a particular individual is seeking as their ideal tropical escape.
Higher-end items like vehicles, appliances, and electronics are higher priced (as is the case throughout Costa Rica) since they have to be imported and are subject to import taxes. Most big ticket items would require a trip to the San Jose area since that is where the vendors who sell them are located.
Getting There and Back Again
International flights into Daniel Oduber Quiros airport in Liberia make travel from outside the country to the Nicoya region a convenient task. With the number of daily flights increasing, flight options will increase in the future.
There is a small airport at Tambor that does have scheduled flights with domestic carriers Sansa and Nature Air. There is a second airport located in Samara that does not have regularly scheduled flights. However, it is possible to arrange for private charter flights from San Jose.
There are a number of transportation options to get to the Nicoya Peninsula proper. The first option is to drive; while there are some paved roads, the number of gravel and dirt roads in the area make having a 4×4 vehicle the most desirable choice. Rental cars are available in Liberia or San Jose (if that is your initial point of arrival.)
There are buses that connect the communities in the Nicoya region with both Liberia and San Jose. This is part of the excellent public transportation system in Costa Rica and is an economical way to get where you are going and to actually have the time and freedom to enjoy the ride.
Lastly, for those seeking a different approach, the ferry from Puntarenas travels to both Naranjo (for the area around Nicoya and Nosara) and Paquera (for Tambor, Montezuma, and Santa Teresa). The roughly hour-long ride can give passengers a great opportunity to see the Gulf of Nicoya and views of the peninsula from a new perspective.
Things to See, Things to Do
The Nicoya Peninsula has a large collection of activities to go with its stunning beaches, natural preserves, and colorful villages. Whether your tastes run to pulse-pounding adventure or quiet contemplation, there is something here for everyone.
Adrenaline and Meditation – the Surf/Yoga Blend
As part of the lifestyle options available in Nicoya, there are many yoga, spa, and meditation retreats that have become world renown. Contemporaneously, surfing has become a major draw for those seeking the adrenaline rush of riding the challenging waves. In a uniquely “pura vida” approach, there are a growing number of ocean side establishments that offer both yoga and surfing in a merger of activities that challenge both participants’ bodies and minds.
Explore Natural Beauty
The Casa Blanca Absolute Wildlife Reserve, with its 3000 acres, has been rightly called one of the most scenic spots on the Pacific Coast. The Reserva Biologica Nosara is a 35 hectare reserve with trails that lead through a mangrove wetland. Well known as a great place for bird-watching, visitors can arrange for self-guided tours through the park.
One of the most ecologically important and profound experiences on the peninsula can be found at the Ostional Wildlife Reserve. It is here, during the months of August through November, where the giant leatherback and green sea turtles come ashore to nest.
These mass inland migrations, called arribadas, occur at night (usually between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m.) just prior to the new moon. Watching these special creatures heed this primal instinct is something that can truly be said to be a once-in-a-lifetime event.
Celebrations and Festivals
The Nicoya region has a number of special festivals that can allow visitors and expats to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of this land. Perhaps one of the most important celebrations is the Fiestas Civicas.
Occurring in mid-January, this is a celebration of the life and culture of the sabaneros – the Costa Rican cowboys who are an essential part of Guanacastan and Nicoyan heritage. Much like their North American counterparts, this festival is a chance to demonstrate the skills of the sabanero in the form of contests and rodeos.
The week of July 20-25th celebrates the entire province of Guanacaste, including the Nicoya Peninsula, leaving Nicaragua and becoming part of Costa Rica. It is one of the major holidays of the year.
Pica de Leña, the festival of wood cutting, is held on November 12th, celebrated with music, food, and drink. A month later, on December 12th, the wood that was gathered is used for the communal cooking in the celebration of Yeguita – when the image of the dark Madonna is paraded through the streets of Nicoya and then returned to the main church where food and drink are once again served.
A Celebration of the Spirit
Nicoya is a special place where expats can spread their wings and explore what a life less encumbered may offer. Truly, this is the essence of what “pura vida” – the pure life – is all about.
Map of Nicoya, Costa Rica
Nicoya, Costa Rica Fast Facts
- Population: About 14,000
- Typical temperature: Mid 80’s
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: Liberia, Costa Rica
- Nearest U.S. consulate: San Jose
When looking for the perfect destination in the Latin tropics, many would-be expats have things like beautiful scenery, good weather, modern amenities and services, close-knit community, and laid-back atmosphere on their list of must-haves. Then they quickly find that it’s difficult to find all of these characteristics in a single destination.
Not so in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.
Located on the Nicoya Peninsula on the country’s northwest Pacific coast, Tamarindo has practically everything you could want in a beach town. The sun shines almost every single day. It’s warm all year. May through October sees a frequent afternoon shower, just enough to make the wet sand sparkle beneath a sunset exploding with color.
The almost two mile stretch of white sand is dotted with shady palms. And the sparkling turquoise water is warm with gentle waves. It sounds like a nice postcard picture. And it is. But that’s just the beginning. There’s so much more than just its picturesque setting that makes Tamarindo stand heads above other Costa Rican beaches.
Kristin Crane
Its people make up one huge multi-cultural family.
When sport fishermen and pioneering surfers first discovered Tamarindo, it was a tiny fishing village with about 50 residents. Word began to spread and the town has experienced quite an influx of tourists and expats. It has a number of hotels and luxury resorts, restaurants, and other businesses.
But it never lost its small-town feel.
A large number of visitors come and go, but they blend in nicely with the 4,000 or so long-term residents who all seem to know each other. Tamarindo has one of the most diverse populations in all of Costa Rica, with immigrants hailing from Italy to Argentina to Canada to Israel.
They’ve all brought tidbits of their culture with them and seasoned it with authentic Costa Rican flair. What results is a fusion of traditions, cuisines, and lifestyles that is 100% uniquely Tamarindo.
It has a funky, laid-back atmosphere.
Tamarindo is a beach town through and through. There are surf schools, souvenir shops, and dozens of places you can enjoy a meal or a cocktail right on the beach.
Shirts and shoes are optional. Watches are unnecessary. And “pura vida” is an appropriate response to almost every prompt. Yet because of its multi-cultural population, Tamarindo has a very cosmopolitan vibe.
It’s also a very friendly town. Everything’s within walking distance. So locals are out and about to greet strangers or stop and chat if they see a familiar face.
While there’s plenty to walk around and see in town, the beach is where everything happens. With just the right amount of activity, it’s a great place to spend time with your family or even meet new friends. It’s the gathering place of the community, and at sunset the action really picks up.
Locals show up to go for an evening stroll or meet friends for cocktails. Kids play soccer on the sand. Surfers take advantage of the last few minutes of daylight. There are frisbees, dogs, blankets, bonfires. It’s like one big community picnic. And it happens every day.
In Tamarindo, your time is yours to use as you wish.
Other than your presence at the daily sunset beach party (which is really more of a much-anticipated event than an obligation), there is absolutely nothing that’s required of you in Tamarindo. Life there runs at a slower place, and it’s yours to fill with whatever you desire.
The most common praise that expats offer for Tamarindo is how it has helped them regain their sense of family and community and how they’ve instilled those same values in their children. They feel in control of their own schedules and their own futures.
And goodness knows there are plenty of things in and around Tamarindo to help fill your time. There are water sports to enjoy, mangroves to explore, languages to learn, animals to discover, and tons of people to meet. There are also restaurants serving up every cuisine imaginable, art galleries, spas, and fitness centers.
So, if you’re considering becoming an expat in Costa Rica–or anywhere in the Latin tropics, for that matter–make sure you give Tamarindo a try. Plan a visit to check out this popular destination.
Don’t forget to show up at the beach at sunset and mingle with the locals. They may not speak your language, but that’s okay. “Pura vida” is universal.
Worst case scenario…you’ll enjoy what will end up being one of your best vacations ever. Best case? You might find your forever home in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.
Map of Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Tamarindo Fast Facts
- Population: About 150,000
- Typical temperature: 84 degrees
- Nearest airport with U.S. flights: The nearest major airport is Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport in Liberia, Costa Rica.
We recently had the chance to ask the owners of Los Altos de Eros, the Tamarindo, Costa Rica Viva Picks hotel winners, a few questions about their move to Costa Rica where they became expats.
1. How did you end up in Tamarindo?
We came here from Florida on our honeymoon. We liked the area so much that we decided to buy a condo here and spend half our time in Florida and half in Costa Rica. While looking for a condo, we saw a beautiful piece of land and just got totally carried away!
2. Did you have experience in the hotel business before you came to Costa Rica?
Not directly in the hotel business. I had an internet based company which I sold in 1999. I also had a little experience in the restaurant business. When it came to Los Altos de Eros, Jacqueline and I simply fell in love with the piece of property where it stands today and visualized building a Costa Rica luxury hotel and spa. We understood the risk we were taking and the amount of competition we were up against. That’s why we knew it had to stand out from the rest. My philosophy is you get what you give. So, we started out giving away complimentary Spa Days to our friends and acquaintances in Tamarindo. It was wonderful to put the whole thing to the test and realize people loved it! Soon enough, they were sending us business just through word of mouth. And that’s how our business began to ascend.
3. Explain to our readers what makes Altos de Eros unique and why they should stay there.
What can I say, if you are looking for a place with 5 star service, great value, gourmet cuisine, and the best Spa in Costa Rica, you should come stay here.
Our Guests are treated like royalty the minute they’re picked up from the airport. Our 3 to 1 staff to guest ratio guarantees exceptional, personalized service. Almost all of our staff have been with us 5+ years. They are happy and take pride in their work. As many guests have said, you are treated like family here, which is true, and we will do our very best to exceed all your expectations.
We take care of every detail, with no hidden charges or ridiculous prices, something you will not find elsewhere. From laundry service to Cuban cigars, our wonderful range of amenities is transparently included in our rates so you can just sit back, relax and enjoy your vacation.
Our food is spectacular, thanks to our talented Chef Andrea and kitchen staff, who prepare every meal to guarantee 5 star quality cuisine. Our Chef will even have a personal dialogue with our guests to accommodate food restrictions or special diets and create a custom menu that meets their needs.
Our breathtaking Spa de Eros is our jewel. The Balinese style, bamboo and teak layout opens up to views of the jungle and ocean. The spa attendants are exceptional massage therapists and deliver the most soothing treatments. It is a space for rejuvenation and pampering like no other.
4. What types of things can your clients do in Tamarindo?
We provide transportation, so clients can partake in all kinds of activities in Tamarindo and nearby areas. Activities include surf lessons, paddle boarding, sunset Catamaran, sports fishing, zip-lining, horseback riding, ATV tours and so much more. Clients also have the option to go into Tamarindo for lunch or dinner, shopping, night life, or simply to relax on the beach.
Situated on a 27-acre estate 20 minutes outside of Tamarindo, Costa Rica, we offer you a supreme “5-Star” destination. Los Altos de Eros means ‘”the heights of love” and you will love everything about us: our location, our ambiance, our cuisine, our Spa, and our Staff. All we ask of you is that you come with a smile on your face and a song in your heart.
Goldberg
The surfing mecca of Playa Tamarindo put Costa Rica on the map for tourism and is consequently its most frequented beach town. With year-round surfing for all levels, comfortable accommodations, accessible roads, and a plethora of tours, it is well established for even travel novices.
However, there is much more to Playa Tamarindo than the crowded beaches, high-rise hotels, and all-night parties that cause some travelers to avoid it altogether. In fact the popular beach town is bordered by two estuaries and is teeming with wildlife.
The long wide bay of Tamarindo is split by Central America’s largest mangrove forest, the Estero de Tamarindo. This protected park is known for the giant leatherback turtles who come here to lay their eggs which nest between December and April. These endangered creatures grow up to seven feet long and over two thousand pounds.
The popular Playa Tamarindo sits on the South side with Playa Grande, a much less populated strip of sand, to the North. South of Playa Tamarindo lies another estuary called Estero de San Francisco, which along with the Estero de Tamarindo creates Las Baulas National Park. Further South beyond the Estero de San Francisco is another beach, Playa Langosta which has excellent surfing and beautiful tide pools. Let’s take a look at some of the beaches of Tamarindo.
Playa Tamarindo
The long, wide bay of Playa Tamarindo has soft sand, warm water, and lush jungle. This is where cult surf films like Endless Summer popularized Costa Rica. Surfers of all levels can find waves, with experts often paddling to nearby Playa Grande or Playa Langosta. Near the mouth of Estero de Tamarindo the waves are excellent with a rocky point break and a rivermouth break but better suited to advanced surfers, while the beach breaks are perfect for learning. During November and December waves can get up to twelve feet.
Currents can be strong but many sections of the bay have no waves at all and are perfect for swimming. Fishing charters leave from here and take participants deep sea fishing. With its proximity to the two estuaries you will likely spot howler monkeys, tropical birds, and other wildlife.
The town of Tamarindo is lively with many bars, restaurants, hotels, and shops. Many of the restaurants offer world class dining with fresh seafood prepared by chefs from all over the world. A variety of accommodations are available from backpacker hostels to luxury resorts. For those looking to relocate, the town boasts luxury condos, private homes, and view lots. The many establishments make Playa Tamarindo a great base for those looking to explore the surrounding beaches and wilderness.
Mike Vondran
Playa Grande
While it may be next door to Playa Tamarindo, Playa Grande feels like another world. Travelers tend to consist of eco-tourists and dedicated surfers who wish to avoid the crowds of Tamarindo and enjoy the peace, nature, and surfing instead. This beach is known as one of the best surf spots in all of Costa Rica with the most consistent surf in Tamarindo.
The beach itself is a long, pale sand, jungle-backed beach with few people and big waves. It belongs to Las Baulas National Park and the upper part of the beach is covered in turtle egg layings during nesting season. Because of nestings, no visitors are allowed on the beach at night unless they are with a tour guide. One can explore the estuary along the Rio Matapalo by kayak, spotting the many water birds and mangrove species.
For those hoping to swim instead of surf, there is a trail on the northern end of the beach that leads to Playa Ventanas which has a small bay with tide pools for bathing. At low tide it is possible to head further to the next cove, a black sand beach called Playa Carbon with dramatic beach wilderness and caves. Further north is the wooded promontory of Cabo Velas which is the most Western point of the entire Nicoya Peninsula.
Playa Langosta
Just south of Tamarindo along the Estero de San Francisco, this small beach town is a quiet relaxing place for those looking for exceptional surf. At the south end of the beach there is an excellent break at the mouth of the estuary. The waves here are short and fast, perfect for experienced surfers. The beach has both right and left breaks which peak at the same place, but coral and rocks do present a threat. Most of the coral is exposed during low tide and sits just below the surface during high tide, making it easy to spot.
Accommodations tend to be upscale resorts and eco-lodges.
Michael McDonough
The Beaches of Tamarindo
The diverse beaches of Tamarindo offer something for all kinds of travelers. It is possible to find relaxation, deserted beaches, nature, exploration, epic surfing, world class dining, luxury resorts, and the nightlife that Tamarindo is known for.
Matt Britt
From its quaint city center to its sparkling turquoise waters, Tamarindo Costa Rica, is the epitome of the “pura vida” for which this Central American country is known. Translated as “pure life,” it well describes the natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere that’s long attracted expats and tourists alike to this Latin hotspot.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is located on the Nicoya Peninsula in the Guanacaste region, along the country’s northwest Pacific coast. Reachable by paved roads, and less than an hour away from an airport, Tamarindo is not only Costa Rica’s most accessible city, it’s also its most developed.
Once a sleepy little fishing village, Tamarindo is now abuzz with activity. Yet it still maintains the same relaxed, bohemian vibe that its inhabitants prefer. Health and happiness are crucial to its visitors and residents, which include hundreds of expats from all over the world.
Tamarindo Culture
The people of Tamarindo Costa Rica, are made up of a great mix of Ticos, as the locals are called, and immigrants from all over the globe. Decades of expat influence have given the city a very North American feel. But it’s still authentic in many ways.
Trendy modern restaurants are nicely juxtaposed among outdoor markets and traditional bakeries. It’s really the best of both worlds. Tamarindo offers some of Costa Rica’s best dining, with dozens of restaurants and bars to choose from. It also has a vibrant nightlife.
Because it’s a well-developed city, it has an assortment of supermarkets and specialty shops. There are also plenty of banks, beauty parlors, and health services. Not to mention a whole slew of surf shops. There’s also an art gallery and a spa.
And the people are the friendliest you could ever hope to meet. Residents and tourists alike greet each other warmly and “pura vida” is exchanged, much like “aloha,” as a valid response to almost anything. “Pura vida.”…”Pura vida.” “How are you?”…”Pura vida.” “Your shirt’s on fire!”…”Pura vida.”
Expat Community in Tamarindo Costa Rica
Tamarindo is home to several hundred long-term expats, who moved to this tropical haven in search of better weather, a slower pace of life, or even a better atmosphere for raising a family. They cite opportunities for adventure, quality education systems, affordable health care, and rich culture among their reasons for choosing Tamarindo.
Tamarindo Climate
Tamarindo has a tropical climate with high heat and humidity year-round. It has a wet and dry season. However, due to its location on the Pacific coast, it does receive significantly less rainfall than its Caribbean counterparts. The humidity is lower during the dry season, November to April. The high winds that peak around February can be great for sailing and windsurfing.
During the wet season of May to October, temperatures are cooler. The highest amount of rain falls in June, September, and October, with a more moderate period in between. The wet season is when Costa Rica’s flora and fauna look their best. It also provides the most attractive conditions for surfers, although storms can often pop up quite quickly. Since Tamarindo lies on the Pacific coast, hurricanes are not a threat.
Tamarindo Cost of Living
While the cost of living in Tamarindo is less than in North America or Europe, it’s not by much. So, for those on a tight budget or whose motivation for relocating is to live on less, Tamarindo might not be the best option. Since it’s part of Costa Rica’s Gold Coast, Tamarindo has long been a top tourist destination. Its prices reflect that.
A one-bedroom apartment will run between $500-$800 per month, depending on the location. While you can find a house or condo for under $100k, the ones near the beach or with a view will run much higher. Things like food and utilities cost more than in other parts of the country. A loaf of fresh bread or head of lettuce costs $1. You can sit down and enjoy a pint of domestic beer for $2.
Tamarindo Beaches
One of the largest draws of Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is its beaches. There’s Playa Tamarindo, a wide sandy beach that is centrally located and bordered by an abundance of beach-side restaurants and bars. It’s a great place for swimming and surfing.
To the north is Playa Grande, a white sand beach that lies just across the Rio Matapalo where the river empties into the bay. This estuary hosts a large mangrove forest that is home to waterfowl and other animals. It’s also home to some of the world’s best surfing and the host city for several international surfing competitions.
Just south of Tamarindo is Playa Langosta, which is home to another white sand beach and a rocky outcropping. There more mangroves and wildlife are present in the brackish waters where the Rio San Francisco meets the Pacific. These beaches and estuaries comprise Las Baulas National Park–named for the world’s largest reptile, the leatherback turtle, which comes ashore to lay its eggs.
Also nearby is Playa Conchal, which offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling in its crystal clear waters.
Jarle Naustvik
Tamarindo Nature
In addition to Las Baulas National Park, Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is also home to the Tamarindo National Wildlife Refuge. Its 1,000 acres of protected forest include mangroves and estuaries. Canoe tours offer up close and personal views of all sorts of plant and animal life.
Tamarindo is rich in biodiversity, with many species of birds, monkeys, reptiles, and marine animals. Also nearby are the Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Ostional and the Parque Nacional Barra Honda wildlife reserves.
Tamarindo Surfing
Tamarindo is one Costa Rica’s best known surfing hotspots. Because of its central location it offers easy access for those who want to explore a variety of surf breaks. It also offers beach, rivermouth, and reef breaks, making it a great destination for all skill levels.
Popular options close to town include the Rivermouth and the more challenging break at Playa Langosta. World-famous Playa Negra lies just south of town and, like Playa Langosta, can become quite crowded during peak times. To the north lie Ollie’s Point and Witch’s Rock. These spots, both reachable only by boat, were made popular by the movie “Endless Summer II.”
Tamarindo Fishing
Not to be outdone by its surfing, the sport fishing in Tamarindo is among the best in the world. Anglers can hope to hook a variety of fish, including marlin, tuna, sailfish, and wahoo. Fishing tours in the area offer reef and shoreline fishing, as well as deep sea excursions.
Many local restaurants will even gladly cook your fresh catch for you once you bring it in off the boat.
Tamarindo Activities
In addition to surfing and fishing, Tamarindo, Costa Rica, boasts many other options for adventure and recreation. Boat tours through the wildlife reserves offer opportunities to see all kinds of species, from capuchin monkeys overhead to crocodiles lurking in the water. Adventurers can go with a guide or strike off on their own in a kayak.
Sailboat tours are another great aquatic option. They’re a great way to see a sunset, view dolphins and whales, or find a great place to snorkel. The beaches and jungles can be explored on horseback or ATV. Eco-tours are available on almost any vehicle. There are also canopy tours and zip-lining for those looking for an adrenaline rush.
There are two world-class golf courses near Tamarindo, as well as a professional tennis court. It’s also home to great shopping. And if that’s not enough, there’s always relaxing on an uncrowded beach while sipping something out of a hollowed out pineapple.
Tamarindo Negatives
With both tourism and real estate accounting for large chunks of the nation’s economy, Costa Rica was affected as much or more than anyone by the global financial crisis and the corresponding drop in tourist activity. While things are on the upswing, Tamarindo still bears the scars of unfinished development projects and abandoned construction sites.
Another factor affecting the area was a temporary moratorium on new construction, put in place to protect the turtles of Las Baulas National Park. While the ban has since been lifted, it combined with the economic downturn to take a major toll on Tamarindo, causing many people to pack up and leave.
While Costa Rica enjoys Central America’s second lowest violent crime rate (behind Nicaragua), it is not without its share of other offenses. Burglaries, robberies, and home invasions are common and coastal communities, like Tamarindo, that have a high concentration of expats and tourists are among the most frequently targeted.
Since barbed wire fences and burglar bars aren’t among the more attractive features foreigners imagine in a vacation home, many expats fail to properly protect their homes. Both local and national police forces are underfunded and understaffed. These factors when combined do not fare well for tourists and expats, nor their high-tech electronics which burglars can easily steal to resell in San Jose.
Another less-than-perfect feature of Tamarindo is one that some, by contrast, might actually find to be ideal. It’s Tamarindo’s status as a top tourist destination. With such a large influx of visitors and a high concentration of expats, it’s not the right spot for someone who’s looking for secluded beaches and authentic culture. On the other hand, for those who want more development and don’t mind weaving through a sea of blankets to find a place to put their umbrella…they won’t mind a bit.
It’s often said that a place has something for everybody, but it’s never more true than when it’s spoken about Tamarindo, Costa Rica. From its beautiful scenery to its options for adventure, it’s the pure life with just the right amount of modern conveniences. What more could you ask for?