Costa Rica (Lonely Planet, 9th Edition) - Matthew Firestone [227]
So far, their efforts seem to be working. In December 2009 AyA gave Tamarindo’s beaches a clean bill of health. At the time of writing, Tamarindo was still awaiting the return of its Bandera Azul.
YOGA
Yoga and pilates classes (8346-8005; per hr US$15) are offered every morning and some evenings in the Bar 1 building. Call for the latest schedule.
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Courses
Use your vacation time wisely by learning to speak Spanish. There are several language schools in Tamarindo. All charge about US$420 for a week-long intensive course (beginner to advanced) including ‘homestay’ accommodations with a Tico family. Most schools offer multiple-week discounts, and ‘Spanish & Surf’ packages that include language lessons, surf classes, accommodations and board rentals for about US$610 per week.
Coastal Spanish Institute (8878-6106; www.coastalspanish.com)
Wayra (2653-0359; www.spanish-wayra.co.cr)
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Tours
Boat tours, snorkeling trips and scooter rentals can be arranged through the various tour agencies in town. Many also rent equipment. The most reputable ones include the following:
Hightide Aventuras (2653-0108; www.tamarindoaventuras.com; scooters per 4hr US$25, dirt bikes per 4hr US$34) Also rents water-sports equipment, including kayaks, snorkeling gear and surfboards.
Papagayo Excursions (2653-0254; www.papagayoexcursions.com) The longest-running outfitter in town organizes a variety of tours, including visits to turtle-nesting sites.
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Sleeping
The rates given are high-season rates; low-season rates can be about 25% to 40% lower.
HOSTELS
The number of hostels in Tamarindo has quadrupled in recent years. Often, these so-called ‘hostels’ are nothing more than a couple of bunk beds thrown into a scary back room of a private home or business.
Coral Reef Hostel (2653-0291; dm US$6, r without bathroom per person US$10; ) The 10 rooms here are clean and fairly basic. Though it’s on a noisy section of the road, the guys running the place are friendly and offer a variety of services, such as surfboard rental, internet access and a BBQ area.
La Botella de Leche (2653-0189; labotelladeleche@racsa.co.cr; dm with bathroom US$12, s/d US$26/36; ) With a relaxed vibe and over-the-top cow theme, this Argentine-run spot is highly recommended for its warm and attentive management, fully air-conditioned rooms and dormitories, and a quiet location at the eastern edge of town. Facilities include a shared kitchen, surfboard racks, hammocks and a TV lounge.
Beach House Tamarindo (2653-2848; www.beachhousetamarindo.com; dm incl breakfast US$13; ) The only hostel located directly on the beach, this funky new resort opened in late 2009 and shows a lot of potential. The small rooms are simple but clean, all with lockers and fans. There’s a big communal kitchen, living room, patio, balcony, private beach access and free breakfast.
Tamarindo Backpackers (2653-4545; www.tamarindobackpackers.com; dm US$15, r per person US$20; ) Hidden down a quiet cul-de-sac in a wooded, residential neighborhood, you’ll find our favorite hostel in Tamarindo. Part of the Costa Rica Hostel Network, this intimate, all-star backpacker spot in a gorgeous yellow hacienda is big enough to make new friends, but small enough to feel more like a home. The common area has a large full-stocked shared kitchen, TV, computers and free coffee all day. Dorm and private rooms are clean and comfy, with plenty of storage space (the private room upstairs is the nicest for couples). Outside you’ll find lovely tropical gardens, a small pool and hammocks, all surrounded