Costa Rica has easily become one of my favourite places in the world. Since my parents moved there almost four years ago, I’ve spent quite a bit of time down there and have done my fair share of exploring. I’ve found tons of different places that I’ve fallen in love with down there; many restaurants, stores and interesting locations have all become favourites of mine. I wanted to share some of the places that I love in the Tamarindo, Costa Rica area to hopefully inspire you when you decide to visit! [BLOG POST UPDATED TO ACCOUNT FOR CLOSINGS/OPENINGS SINCE THE PANDEMIC]
Cerveceria Independiente: a great place to grab a beer and relax with friends. Their new beer garden has some great food options from local restaurants as well!
Playa Conchal: One of the most beautiful beaches I’ve been to in Costa Rica. The perfect place to relax!
La Palapa: Looking for somewhere to have a drink and watch the sunset? This is it. Oh, and they have 2 for 1 happy hour all day. You’re welcome.
Bar Jolly Roger: This has some of the best wings I’ve ever had. Period. Also, they play the 1812 Overture every day at sunset which = $1 beer during the song. It’s over 15 minutes long. [UPDATE: NOW CLOSED]
Mojo Surf Adventures: You can’t go to Costa Rica and not surf. It would be so wrong. Johel is the best surf instructor out there and will make sure that you get up on the board before you finish your lesson.
Bagel Kitchen: Fresh bagels made daily. Perfect spot to fuel up before or after surfing at Grande! [UPDATE: NOW CLOSED]
El Mercadito: The coolest outdoor “food court” with lots of great & delicious options (like Lush Tropical Kitchen) and fun events.
Circus: A great little boutique in Tamarindo – they gave gorgeous tops and dresses and cute accessories.
La Forketta: Amazing Italian food, great service and limoncello. Enough said. [UPDATE: After losing most of the restaurant to a fire, La Forketta has reopened and is ever better than ever! Please give them a visit and let them know I sent you!]
Coco Loco: A great beach bar in Playa Flamingo. You’ve gotta have a Coco Loco – a booze-filled coconut!
Margaritaville Beach Resort: The recently opened resort located in Playa Flamingo is gorgeous and a ton of fun. Sip on a margarita by the pool, enjoy some tasty food and take a walk to the beach during your stay.
Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar: A nice spot near the beach in Brasilito to have a snack or enjoy a shot of chiliguaro. [UPDATE: NOW CLOSED AND HOME TO PATAGONIA DEL MAR – haven’t tried it yet, but I’ve heard the food is great. The updated restaurant is gorgeous!]
Black Stallion Hills: The perfect place for some adventures. They offer tons of different activities and you’ll love their fiesta barbecue!
A new favourite: La Vid in Brasilito. The pizza is fantastic (my fave: the gouda garlic ‘za) and they have a great cocktail program – not something you often find in the area. I actually went back another night after trying it before coming home because it was so good. This was opened by the same owners as Gracia Mar Vista which has a stunning view from the infinity pool that is a must-see.
Have you ever been to Tamarindo, Costa Rica? If you have any questions or want some more recommendations I’m more than happy to help out!
