Welcome to Tamarindo, a little peace of paradise in Costa Rica that's just perfect for families looking for an adventure!
If you've ever dreamed of seeing your kids learn to surf on gentle waves or watching their faces light up as they spot a monkey or a sea turtle for the first time, then you're in the right place.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is not only a haven for surfers and sun-seekers but also a fantastic destination for families. With its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and a variety of activities, it offers plenty for families and children to enjoy.
Here are 10 family and kid-friendly activities that make Tamarindo a delightful place to visit with the whole family.
1. Beach Day at Playa Tamarindo
Playa Tamarindo is the town’s main beach and is perfect for a family day out. The gentle waves make it safe for children to swim and play in the water. Families can rent beach umbrellas and chairs, build sandcastles, or enjoy a game of beach volleyball. The beach is also lined with cafés and restaurants where you can grab ice cream or a casual meal.
2. Surf Lessons for All Ages
Tamarindo is renowned for its excellent surf conditions that cater to all skill levels. Many local surf schools offer lessons for children and beginners. These schools use soft-top surfboards which are ideal for starters, ensuring a fun and safe learning environment under the watchful eyes of experienced instructors.
3. Estuary Boat Tour at Las Baulas National Marine Park
Take a guided boat tour through the mangroves of Las Baulas National Marine Park. This activity is not only relaxing but educational, offering children and adults alike the chance to learn about the local ecosystem and wildlife, such as crocodiles, monkeys, and various bird species.
4. Horseback Riding on the Beach
Experience the beauty of Tamarindo’s scenic coast on horseback. Several stables offer horseback riding tours that are suitable for children and beginners. This peaceful activity allows you to explore more secluded beaches and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
5. Visit to Monkey Park
Located just outside Tamarindo, Monkey Park is an animal rescue center where families can see a variety of animals, including monkeys, iguanas, and tropical birds. The park focuses on rescue, rehabilitation, and releasing animals back into the wild, providing an educational component to the visit.
6. Zip-lining Adventure
For families with older kids, zip-lining provides an exhilarating perspective of the Costa Rican forest from high above. Many canopy tours near Tamarindo offer secure and thrilling zip-lining adventures that glide over verdant forests and rivers, frequently incorporating rappelling and Tarzan swings. Additionally, there are numerous combo tours available that combine zip-lining with other exciting activities for a complete day of family fun and adventure—the Buena Vista combo tour comes highly recommended for a full day of family activities.
7. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving
Explore the underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. Tamarindo offers snorkeling and diving trips that are suitable for beginners and families. The calm, clear waters provide great visibility to see a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and sometimes even dolphins. One of the most recommended tours is snorkeling in the beautiful Las Catalina's islands, which offer a half day of exploration of one of the most incredible marine life for diving and snorkeling.
8. Turtle Watching at Playa Grande
Just north of Tamarindo, Playa Grande is one of the most important nesting sites for leatherback turtles in the Pacific. Depending on the time of year, you can join a night tour to see these magnificent creatures lay their eggs—a truly unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.
9. Kayaking and Stand-up Paddleboarding
Kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding are great ways for the family to explore the waters of Tamarindo. You can paddle around the coastline or through the estuaries, where you’re likely to encounter marine life and birds. Many shops offer rentals and beginner lessons.
10. Explore Tamarindo Night Market
Every Thursday evening, the Tamarindo Night Market brings together local vendors selling food, crafts, and more. It’s a fun place for families to try local dishes, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy live music and performances, capturing the lively spirit of Tamarindo.
Whether your family is looking for adventure, wildlife, or simply a place to relax and play, Tamarindo provides a wide array of activities to keep everyone entertained and engaged. From the beaches to the forests, every corner of this vibrant town offers something exciting for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for a family holiday.