Tamarindo is famous for its beaches, but one of the best things about staying here is how much of Costa Rica you can explore in a single day. Active volcanoes, hidden waterfalls, crocodile-filled rivers and sunset sails are all within easy reach – and you’ll still be back in time for dinner by the pool.
Here are seven of our favorite day trips from Tamarindo, perfect for families, couples and groups of friends who want to add a little adventure to their beach vacation.
1. Rincón de la Vieja National Park
About two hours from Tamarindo, Rincón de la Vieja is an active volcano surrounded by dry tropical forest. Hiking trails lead past bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles and beautiful waterfalls, and you may spot howler monkeys, coatis and colorful birds along the way. Many nearby ranches offer combo tours with horseback riding, tubing, zip lines and natural hot springs – an ideal way to end the day.
2. Palo Verde National Park and the Tempisque River
For wildlife lovers, a boat safari on the Tempisque River is hard to beat. The wetlands of Palo Verde National Park are one of the most important bird habitats in Central America, and a gentle cruise along the river often reveals crocodiles, iguanas, monkeys and dozens of species of herons, storks and kingfishers. It’s a relaxed trip that kids especially love.
3. Llanos de Cortés Waterfall
Just outside the town of Bagaces, this wide, curtain-like waterfall tumbles into a large pool with a sandy “beach” where you can swim and relax. It’s an easy walk down from the parking area, making it a great half-day trip that can be combined with a visit to Rincón de la Vieja or Palo Verde.
4. Río Celeste and Tenorio Volcano National Park
If you’re up for a longer day, the unbelievably blue waters of Río Celeste are worth every minute of the drive (around three hours each way). A hike through the rainforest takes you to a stunning turquoise waterfall and the spot where two rivers meet and change color. Read our full visitor’s guide to Río Celeste before you go.
5. Sunset Catamaran Cruise
No trip to Guanacaste is complete without a sunset sail. Catamaran tours depart from Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo and usually include snorkeling in a sheltered bay, drinks and snacks on board, and front-row seats to the sunset. Keep your eyes open for dolphins, sea turtles and, in season, even whales.
6. Zip Lining Through the Canopy
Get your adrenaline pumping with a canopy tour! Several zip line parks within an easy drive of Tamarindo let you fly above the treetops, often with extra activities like rappelling, hanging bridges and Tarzan swings. Check out our guide to Costa Rica’s best zip lines for inspiration.
7. Ostional Wildlife Refuge (Seasonal)
Ostional, about two to two and a half hours south of Tamarindo, is one of the few places in the world where olive ridley sea turtles nest in mass arrivals known as arribadas, when thousands of turtles come ashore over a few nights. They happen mainly in the green season, so ask our team about dates and always visit with a certified local guide. Learn more in our guide to sea turtle nesting in Costa Rica.
Tips for Planning Your Day Trips
- Start early. Mornings are cooler, wildlife is more active and, in the green season, you’ll beat the afternoon rain.
- Consider a private driver. Local roads can be slow, and a driver lets you relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Bring the essentials. Sunscreen, insect repellent, a swimsuit, water, good walking shoes and some cash for park fees and snacks.
- Don’t overpack your schedule. Alternate adventure days with beach days – you’re on vacation, after all!
Let Us Plan Your Adventures
Staying with Horizon Pacific Vacations means you have a local team ready to help. Our concierge service can book tours, private transportation and guides for every one of these day trips, so all you need to do is enjoy the ride. Then come home to one of our comfortable vacation rentals in Tamarindo, jump in the pool and start planning tomorrow’s adventure.
Ready to explore Guanacaste? Find your stay and let the adventures begin!
