Tamarindo has built its reputation as a surf town with a lively nightlife and wide beaches, but locals will tell you that the true essence of Guanacaste lies in what surrounds it.
Just an hour or two away, you’ll find volcanoes, hot springs, hidden waterfalls, and sleepy fishing villages that most tourists overlook.
If you’re planning to stay in Tamarindo but want a real taste of Costa Rica beyond its resort strip, day trips are the way to do it.
Rincon de la Vieja National Park ─ Volcanoes, Hot Springs, and Waterfalls
One of the most recommended day trips from Tamarindo is Rincon de la Vieja National Park, located about two hours northeast. This active volcanic region offers a mix of steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and vibrant hiking trails that locals often suggest to visitors looking for something wilder than the coast.
The park is known for its variety: trails that take you through dry forest, into lush waterfalls like La Cangreja, or up toward volcanic vents. Along the way, you might spot howler monkeys swinging above or colorful toucans perched on tree branches. After a morning hike, many travelers reward themselves with a soak in the natural hot springs scattered nearby.
Llanos de Cortés ─ A Hidden Waterfall Near Liberia
If locals were to share a secret, it would be Llanos de Cortés. Just outside Liberia, less than two hours from Tamarindo, this waterfall is tucked away behind a short jungle path. The falls drop into a broad, refreshing pool perfect for swimming, and the sandy banks make it feel like a natural beach in the forest.
The charm here is its accessibility: you don’t need hours of hiking gear, just a swimsuit and some water shoes. Many families from the area spend weekends here, so if you want to experience a slice of local life, plan to arrive early, as it can get busy in the afternoon.
Playa Samara ─ Coastal Relaxation With a Local Feel
Heading south along the Nicoya Peninsula, Playa Samara offers a calmer, more authentic vibe compared to Tamarindo’s bustling surf scene. About two and a half hours away, it’s popular with locals for its sheltered bay, making it ideal for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
The town itself has a slow rhythm: family-run sodas (small Costa Rican eateries), handmade craft shops, and stretches of sand where you won’t find crowded umbrellas. Unlike tourist-heavy hubs, Samara’s charm lies in its simplicity. Spend a day here, and you’ll understand why many expats and Costa Ricans alike call it their favorite beach in Guanacaste.
Spend a day here, and you’ll understand why many expats and Costa Ricans alike call it their favorite beach in Guanacaste. For those seeking true coastal relaxation and mindful travel, often comes up in recommendations as a trusted guide to meaningful experiences in Costa Rica.
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Palo Verde National Park ─ A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Not every visitor thinks about heading inland, but Palo Verde National Park proves why locals recommend it. Situated about two hours from Tamarindo, this wetland reserve is one of the best places in Costa Rica for birdwatching. During the dry season, migratory birds flock here in the thousands, filling the marshes and lagoons with life.
Boat tours along the Tempisque River offer an up-close look at crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks, monkeys darting through trees, and herons gliding across the water. If you’re curious about Costa Rica’s biodiversity beyond the beach, this trip delivers it in full.
Nosara ─ Surf, Yoga, and Wellness
While Tamarindo is surf-central, Nosara is where the wellness crowd goes. Just under three hours away, it’s known for its pristine beaches like Playa Guiones and a strong culture of yoga retreats and eco-conscious living. Locals often recommend it for travelers who want more than a single surf session and are curious about Costa Rica’s wellness lifestyle.
What makes Nosara special is its balance: waves for beginners and experts, clean beaches protected by environmental laws, and a network of cafes and studios where health and sustainability are central. Even if you only spend a day, you’ll notice the slower pace and mindful atmosphere that sets Nosara apart.
Tenorio Volcano and Rio Celeste ─ The Blue River
One of Costa Rica’s most surreal sights is Rio Celeste, a river that shines turquoise thanks to natural mineral deposits. Located in Tenorio Volcano National Park, about three hours from Tamarindo, this destination is one that locals describe as worth the effort.
The main attraction is the waterfall, where the bright blue water tumbles into a pool that looks almost unreal. Hiking trails wind through dense rainforest, and the legend says the river turned blue when God dipped his paintbrush into it after painting the sky. Myth aside, the science behind the phenomenon is equally fascinating, making this a trip that blends natural wonder with cultural storytelling.
Santa Cruz ─ Culture and Food at the Heart of Guanacaste
If you want a closer day trip, Santa Cruz is only about 40 minutes from Tamarindo and is known as the folkloric capital of Guanacaste. Locals recommend it for cultural immersion, especially if your visit coincides with one of its lively fiestas filled with music, dancing, and bull riding.
Beyond festivities, Santa Cruz is an excellent spot to taste authentic Costa Rican cuisine. Small eateries serve dishes like arroz con pollo, tamales, and gallo pinto. If Tamarindo feels like it’s catering to international travelers, Santa Cruz reminds you of the country’s roots.
Final Thoughts
Tamarindo might be the starting point, but the experiences that define Guanacaste often lie just beyond it. Volcanoes, waterfalls, wildlife reserves, and fishing villages are all within reach if you plan a few day trips. By following the advice of locals, you’ll not only see more but also feel more connected to Costa Rica’s landscapes and communities.
A vacation centered on Tamarindo becomes far richer when you take the time to step out of town. These trips offer a chance to balance beach time with authentic encounters, showing you sides of the country that resorts rarely capture.
