5-Day Family Adventure Itinerary in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Day 1: Beach Day Start

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Tico

Start your adventure with a hearty breakfast at Café Tico, known for its delicious Costa Rican Gallo Pinto.
Located near the beach, it's a short stroll from many accommodations.
CRC 5,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Surfing Lesson

Join a family-friendly surfing lesson with a local instructor who will guide you through the waves of Tamarindo.
Lessons typically begin at the main beach area, accessible by foot.
CRC 50,000 for family, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sharky’s

Enjoy a casual lunch at Sharky’s with fresh seafood tacos and tropical smoothies.
It's located just a short walk from the beach.
CRC 30,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Beach Time

Spend the afternoon swimming and playing on the sandy shores of Tamarindo beach.
Stay right at Tamarindo beach after lunch.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Sunset Viewing

Grab a spot on the beach or a nearby beach bar to catch a spectacular sunset.
Stay in the same area.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Knot

Feast on grilled fish and prepare for a fun evening with live music!
It's a short walk back from the beach.
CRC 40,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Wildlife Encounter

Playa Grande, Costa Rica

7:30AM

Breakfast at La Boulangerie

Enjoy freshly baked pastries and organic coffee to fuel your day ahead.
A short drive or bike ride to Playa Grande.
CRC 6,000, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit to Las Baulas National Marine Park

Explore the beautiful nature trails of the park and learn about the conservation of sea turtles.
Easily accessed via a local taxi or bike.
CRC 10,000, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Taco Joint

Refuel with delicious and vibrant tacos that both adults and kids will love.
Located just outside the park.
CRC 25,000, 1 hour

2:00PM

Snorkeling Tour

Take a family-friendly snorkeling tour to explore the nearby reefs and marine life.
Start from Playa Grande beach.
CRC 60,000 for family, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Tamarindo

Head back to Tamarindo, enjoy a little downtime at your accommodation.
A quick ride back.
Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Elbe's

Savor delicious wood-fired pizzas at this local favorite, perfect for families.
A short walk from most hotels.
CRC 35,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure & Nature

Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Costa Rica

7:00AM

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your hotel to get energized for a day of hiking.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Head out early to explore the wonders of hot springs, waterfalls, and volcanic activity.
A picturesque drive, approximately 1 hour from Tamarindo.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hiking through the Park

Discover diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and spectacular views on one of the family-friendly trails.
Various trails available starting at the visitor center.
CRC 15,000 for family, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch Picnic

Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park surrounded by nature.
Bring your own or order from a local deli.
CRC 20,000 for picnic supplies, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Hot Springs

Relax in natural hot springs, perfect for unwinding after your hike.
Follow the signs from the park.
CRC 30,000 for family, 2 hours

5:00PM

Drive back to Tamarindo

Return to your base in Tamarindo and freshen up.
A short drive back.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Pangas Beach Club

Finish the day with a delightful beachside dining experience offering fresh ceviche.
A scenic walk from the downtown area.
CRC 45,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Beach & Relaxation

Playa Conchal, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Sunrise Café

Start your day with an amazing breakfast, featuring smoothie bowls and pancakes.
Located in the heart of Tamarindo.
CRC 8,000, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Playa Conchal

Head to the beautiful Playa Conchal, famous for its shell-covered beach.
Drive or take a taxi, approximately 30 minutes from Tamarindo.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Beach Time at Playa Conchal

Enjoy the gorgeous beach, perfect for swimming and sandcastle building.
Spend your day soaking up the sun right on the beach.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Conchal Beach Club

Relax at the beach club for fresh seafood and tropical drinks.
Located right at Playa Conchal.
CRC 40,000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Water Sports

Rent paddleboards or kayaks for fun on the water with your family.
Water sport rentals are available on the beach.
CRC 20,000 for family, 2 hours

5:00PM

Travel back to Tamarindo

Head back to Tamarindo for your final evening.
The return drive takes around 30 minutes.
Free, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Crazy Monkey

Savor hearty burgers and fries at this fun, family-friendly restaurant.
Located in the Tamarindo center.
CRC 35,000, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Explore & Departure

Tamarindo, Costa Rica

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast before departure, reliving the memories of your adventure.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Souvenir Shopping

Stroll through local markets to pick up souvenirs for family and friends.
Quick walk to the local shops.
Any amount you wish to spend, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Surf Shack

Enjoy a casual lunch, famous for its refreshing smoothie bowls.
Just a short walk from shopping areas.
CRC 30,000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Tamarindo Farmer's Market (if applicable)

Explore the vibrant local market (held on Thursdays) for local produce and crafts.
Located at the north end of the main street.
Free entry, 1 hour

2:30PM

Pack and Departure

Head back to your hotel to pack up and check out, preparing for your journey home.
Back at your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour
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