- Food Court – Great budget-friendly option with lots of variety

- Jardín Food Truck Market – Affordable, casual, tons of options

- Green Papaya Taco Bar – Delicious tacos (cash only)

- Dragonfly Bar & Grill – Upscale sushi & seafood (reservations recommended)

- Waffle Monkey – Must-try waffles (open until 3 PM)

- Derecho Sagrado Coffee & Surf Shop – Best coffee in town

- El Tropico Latino – Local seafood + great cocktails

- Walter's Beach Bar – BBQ, 2-for-1 happy hour (5–7 PM), nightly fire show

- Sharky's Sports Bar – Casual sports bar

- Pikatas Bar – Fun nightlife/sports vibe

- Pangas Beach Club – Elevated dining (great for sharing plates)

- El Vaquero Beer Garden – German beer, schnitzel, pretzels

- Sunsets – Every night at 5ish

- Monkey Watching – Every morning by the big pool

- La Palapa Restaurant – Beachfront dining + free fire show (don’t miss!)

- Surf Lessons – Everywhere! Tamarindo is a beginner-friendly surf town

- Shopping – Boutique at the resort + walkable local shops

- Volcano Brewing Company – Craft beer, food, and surf lessons

- Mantaraya ATV Tours – 2-hour ATV tours (~$180 for double)

Hotel Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

- Not all-inclusive, but tons of dining just steps away

- On-site dining: breakfast, lunch, dinner at pool/bar

- Recommended: Casado with white fish or shrimp tacos at hotel beach bar

- Nearby (walkable & charge-to-room): Italian, Mexican, sushi, steak/burgers, seafood, gelato

- Tamarindo is very walkable—no car needed

- Bring cash for smaller spots

- Make reservations for popular dinners & hot springs

- Pack for heat, humidity, and occasional rain

Getting There

- 4-hour drive (winding roads)

- Private driver ($280, ~5.5 hours with stops)

Do not leave belongings in rental cars

Where to Stay

- Noah's Forest by Tifakara – Jungle setting, free breakfast, peaceful stay

Must-Do Experiences

- Hike Arenal Volcano (Arenal 1968 trail)

- Hot Springs (book ahead):

- The Springs Resort & Spa – Luxury option

- Paradise Hot Springs or Ecotermales Fortuna – More affordable

- La Fortuna Waterfall – Stunning (500+ steps down & back up)

- Mistico Arenal Hanging Bridges Park – Reserve in advance

- Try local “sodas” for authentic Costa Rican food

- Town is walkable; Uber is available