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Once a delightful little 'surf' town, Tamarindo's popularity has created a demand for development and as such is nowadays somewhat of a sprawling mass of hotels, restaurants and shopping centres.

It is still growing and as such construction is prevalent throughout the town. However, location-wise it is the most easily accessible place to visit on the Nicoya Peninsula and the beach is superb — a three and a half kilometre stretch of fine sand and warm blue water.

Nature is abundant — howler monkeys can often be seen and heard swinging on branches throughout the area. It's ideal if you are looking to be based in an upbeat, busy area and there are some fine hotel options.

Tamarindo Beach is part of a bay formed by a cape, Cabo Velas (velas is Spanish for sails, or sailfish). Playa Grande lies to the north of Tamarindo Beach inside the bay. South of Tamarindo Bay there is another beautiful estuary and beach, Playa Langosta. Both Playa Grande and Playa Langosta are protected nesting areas for the giant leatherback turtle, and are part of the Costa Rican national park system. These beaches are the major nesting areas worldwide for the turtles, which arrive from October to March to lay their eggs. Local tours led by official guides are available to take visitors to see this incredible spectacle.