Getting to Tamarindo, and when to come
The two questions we answer most often before someone books: how do I actually get there, and which month should I pick. Here is everything we tell people over WhatsApp, written down.
How to get here
Three ways in, depending on which airport you land at. Shuttle to the door is the easy option after a long flight; bus is cheaper but slower and usually needs a connection. Times are approximate — traffic and stops change the day.
From Liberia Airport (LIR)
About 1 h 30 min by car/shuttle; with traffic it can approach 2 h. Ask us for current shuttle options (prices vary)
From San José (SJO)
About 5 hours · Shuttle ~$80 / Bus ~$15 (estimates — prices may vary)
From Tamarindo Airport (TNO)
About 10 min · Taxi ~$10 (estimate — may vary)
Practical tip: if you land after dark and it is your first time in Costa Rica, take a shared shuttle or private transfer to the door. Save the bus adventure for daylight.
When to come
Tamarindo has waves all year. What changes is their size, the crowd and the rain — so the right month depends on what you are coming for.
December to April — dry season
Smaller, cleaner waves, roughly 1 to 4 feet
Best if you are learning
Offshore winds, sun almost every day and the friendliest water of the year for a first lesson. It is also the busiest stretch and the priciest, so book well ahead.
May to November — green season
Bigger south swells, the largest of the year
Best if you already surf
Rain comes in the afternoon and the town empties out. Mornings are often clear and the line-ups are far less crowded. October is the wettest month.
July and August
A dry stretch in the middle of the green season, locally called the little summer: solid swell with dry-season weather and fewer people than in February.
What you can reach on foot
The hostel is on Calle Cruz y Cardinal. Everything below is walking distance — you will not need a car while you are here.
Tamarindo Beach
5 min walk
Main Street
3 min walk
Supermarket
4 min walk
Restaurants
2 min walk
Surf Shops
5 min walk
Yoga Studio
7 min walk
Getting around town
Tamarindo is small and flat, and you can cross it end to end in about fifteen minutes. Most people walk everywhere. For the surrounding beaches there are local buses and taxis; ask us at reception and we will tell you what is worth the trip that week.
View on Google MapsAny questions before you book?
Write to us. We answer the same way we would if you were standing at the door — straight, and without trying to sell you anything.
Ask on WhatsApp