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Travel | Places I Love in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

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!

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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!