Overview
Tamarindo is a sand-bottom beachbreak that serves up both lefts and rights, and it sits at the centre of one of Costa Rica's busiest surf towns. When a decent swell shows, several good waves break in Tamarindo itself: Estero's consistent, fast rivermouth peaks, mellower straight-hander beachbreaks that suit beginners, and reefbreaks like Pico Pequeño, Diria and Henry's. The town has everything a travelling surfer needs, from surf shops through to nightlife, though the rivermouth can bring some pollution.
When It Works
Swell arrives from southwest through northwest, and northwest is the direction to wait for. The break is usable from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 2.1 m / 7 ft, and it's consistent enough that you rarely turn up to nothing. The spread of waves around town is well situated for anything in that SW-NW window.
Wind and Tide
Look for east offshore wind. Mid and high tide both work, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Beginners are well catered for here, with plenty of forgiving waves on offer. The trade-off is company: the lineup is busy, and it stays that way whenever the surf is on, with everyone from first-timers to ripping locals sharing the water.
Access
There's free parking, both in a car park and along the roadside. Lifeguards are on hand, and you'll find camping, surf schools and surf shops close by.
