Many visitors choose to stay in Tamarindo for its incredible coastline, beaches, and opportunities for water sports. Surfers from all over the world come here to catch waves, which means there’s plenty of entertainment, restaurants, and local shops to enjoy. Some of the best standard hotels in Tamarindo double as surf schools, so you can enjoy the total experience.
An In-Depth Look
| The Coast Beachfront Hotel | Hotel Pasatiempo | Iguana Surf Camp | Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel | |
| Ideal For | Those seeking a premier beachfront location with serene surroundings. | Travelers who appreciate a wide range of amenities and personalized service. | Budget-conscious guests looking for apartment-style accommodations. | Surfing enthusiasts of all levels who want a dedicated surfing experience. |
| Pluses |
Perfectly positioned directly on a beach renowned for its safe and enjoyable swimming conditions. Convenient kayak and surfboard rentals available on-site, making water activities easily accessible. Within comfortable walking distance of the vibrant downtown area, offering access to shops and restaurants. Offers a variety of spacious rooms and apartments, providing ample space for relaxation and comfort. |
Features a delightful outdoor pool nestled amidst lush jungle scenery, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Managed by hands-on and friendly owners who are dedicated to ensuring a memorable stay for every guest. Conveniently located within walking distance of both the beach and the bustling downtown area of Tamarindo. Provides bright, clean, and well-maintained rooms, with some offering private terraces and relaxing hammocks. |
Located near the beautiful beach and the heart of downtown Tamarindo, providing easy access to attractions and activities. Offers private suites that are limited in number but generously sized and comfortable, ensuring a pleasant stay. Provides all-inclusive surf packages that cater to all surfing levels, making it perfect for surf enthusiasts. |
Ideally located near the beach and convenient water taxis, allowing for easy exploration of surrounding areas. Offers surf packages for everyone from beginners to advanced surfers, providing tailored instruction and guidance. Features a refreshing outdoor swimming pool, providing a relaxing space to unwind after a day of surfing. Includes a communal kitchen and lounge area, creating a social and engaging environment for guests. |
| Minuses | Lacks an on-site restaurant, requiring guests to explore dining options elsewhere. | Located next to a popular nightclub, which may result in noise disturbances during certain hours. | Has a hostel-like atmosphere due to the limited number of private rooms, which may not suit all travelers. | Breakfast is not served on-site, requiring guests to seek out breakfast options at nearby establishments. |
| Price Range | $ (Budget-friendly) | $ (Budget-friendly) | $ (Budget-friendly) | $ (Budget-friendly) |
| Overall Appeal | **** (Highly appealing) | **** (Highly appealing) | ** (Moderately appealing) | *** (Appealing) |
| Prime Spot | ***** (Exceptional location) | *** (Good location) | **** (Very good location) | *** (Good location) |
| Room Quality | *** (Good) | **** (Very good) | *** (Good) | *** (Good) |
| Standout Perks | Features two swimming pools, including one with inviting submerged loungers for ultimate relaxation. | Offers live music performances during peak season, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. | Provides a convenient on-site breakfast restaurant, making mornings hassle-free. | Offers complimentary bike rentals, allowing guests to easily explore the surrounding town and beaches. |
The Coast Beachfront Hotel: A Detailed Exploration
The Coast Beachfront Hotel provides a tranquil escape right on a beach perfect for swimming, all while being a short walk from downtown Tamarindo. With only 26 rooms, the hotel keeps a calm, authentic Costa Rican atmosphere. Choose from beachfront rooms, classic suites, bungalows with outdoor showers, or a spacious two-bedroom villa. Each option includes ceiling fans, outdoor spaces, and a handy kitchen, especially useful since the hotel doesn’t have its own bar or restaurant. But, you’ll get a free continental breakfast delivered to your room every morning, adding a nice touch to your stay.
Being right on the beach, you can easily enjoy water sports by renting equipment or taking lessons in kayaking, surfing, boogie boarding, and snorkeling. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, simply relax on the peaceful shore. You can also use the beach club nearby for a livelier scene. When you need a break from the sand and sea, the hotel has a small and inviting outdoor swimming pool where you can unwind and soak up the sun.
The Coast Beachfront Hotel in Tamarindo offers an ideal combination of relaxation and accessibility. Enjoy the convenience of being close to town while still having a peaceful beachfront retreat. With various room options and water activities available, you are sure to have an amazing time.
The hotel’s dedication to maintaining a serene setting makes it a top pick for those wanting a genuine Costa Rican experience. Whether you’re swimming, exploring downtown, or simply relaxing by the pool, The Coast Beachfront Hotel offers everything you need for an unforgettable stay.
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Hotel Pasatiempo: A Closer Look
Hotel Pasatiempo stands out because of its dedicated owners, who are often on-site, taking care of the property and making sure guests feel welcome. The lush greenery and mango trees around the hotel provide a natural habitat for iguanas and howler monkeys, adding to the unique experience. Although not directly on the oceanfront, it’s just a quick five-minute walk to Playa Tamarindo, which also leads to the heart of downtown.
Under new ownership since 2021, Hotel Pasatiempo has undergone significant renovations. All rooms have been freshly painted, and more updates are planned. The hotel offers twenty-four rooms that are clean and bright, mostly designed to accommodate two or three guests. Families or groups can choose options with extra beds or a villa featuring a separate bedroom and sofabeds, suitable for up to four people. The commitment to cleanliness and comfort makes Hotel Pasatiempo a welcoming choice.
Enjoy delicious meals at the hotel’s restaurant, which features an extended happy hour from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm. The pool area is a highlight, offering a shaded retreat with tall palm trees, lounge chairs, and an outdoor bar. It is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
The combination of friendly owners, comfortable accommodations, and excellent amenities makes Hotel Pasatiempo a great choice for your stay in Tamarindo. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, enjoying the local wildlife, or exploring the nearby beach and town, Hotel Pasatiempo provides a memorable experience.
Iguana Surf Camp: Your Gateway to Surfing in Tamarindo
Tamarindo is well-known for many things, but surfing is definitely one of its biggest attractions. If you’re planning to learn how to surf, staying at Iguana Surf Camp and choosing the surf package is a great option. The package includes a room and breakfast, transportation from the airport in Liberia, daily surf lessons, unlimited use of a surfboard, a rashguard to keep, and a final-day excursion to a beach known for its bigger waves. Of course, you’re welcome to stay even if you’re not planning to surf.
Iguana Surf Camp is located in downtown Tamarindo, just across the street from Tamarindo Beach, making it incredibly easy to catch some waves. This small hotel offers only five room options, including two large dorm-style rooms with bunk beds. If you want more privacy, booking one of the three lofted suites is highly recommended, but be sure to plan ahead as they tend to fill up quickly. Despite its size, the rooms are surprisingly well-maintained and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the surfing culture of Tamarindo.
The camp’s central location allows easy access to shops, restaurants, and other attractions in Tamarindo, making it a convenient base for exploring the area. The comprehensive surf package ensures that both beginners and experienced surfers have everything they need for a fantastic surfing holiday.
Whether you’re catching your first wave or honing your surfing skills, Iguana Surf Camp provides a supportive and fun environment. With comfortable accommodations and easy beach access, you will surely create unforgettable memories in Tamarindo.
Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel: Experience Authentic Costa Rican Surfing
Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel is set back from the main street, offering a tranquil retreat close to the beach. To fully experience Costa Rican surfing, consider booking a surf package, although you can certainly stay here even if you’re not a surfer. The surf packages cater to all levels, from beginner to advanced, and include airport transportation, lodging, lessons, surfboard rentals, breakfast, and more. This provides a comprehensive and hassle-free surfing experience.
Located just north of downtown Tamarindo, Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel is a short five-minute walk along the main road to the town center. Its prime location makes it ideal for using the river taxi to access other nearby surfing beaches. When you’re not out exploring or surfing, you can relax by the hotel’s outdoor pool or take one of the complimentary bikes into town.
As a simple, motel-style accommodation, Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel offers 28 rooms, including four sets of connecting rooms perfect for small groups. The rooms are basic, featuring white walls, tile flooring, and simple furnishings. If you’re traveling with family or need more space, consider the apartments with small kitchenettes.
Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel offers a great balance of convenience and comfort, making it an excellent choice for both surfers and those looking to explore Tamarindo. With its variety of surf packages, convenient location, and comfortable accommodations, you’re sure to have a memorable stay.
The hotel’s dedication to providing an authentic Costa Rican experience makes it a popular choice among travelers. Whether you’re catching waves, exploring the town, or simply relaxing by the pool, Pueblo Dorado Surf Hotel offers everything you need for an enjoyable vacation.
Looking for other hotel options in Tamarindo? Consider exploring different hotels and accommodations to find the perfect fit for your needs. Be sure to explore all the area has to offer!
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