The 5 Best Beach Hotels in Tamarindo

Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel

Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel is located directly on the southern side of Tamarindo Beach and just a 10-minute walk from downtown. So, while nature surrounds you, you're not far from the action. The grounds embrace the region perfectly, with an oceanfront setting featuring gardens and forests. At low tide, the beach is perfect for swimming, and during high tide, it's ideal for trying your hand at surfing. You'll also find kayaks, paddleboards, and boogie boards to rent, plus other perks like board games and books to borrow, dance lessons, and Spanish language classes. 

You have quite the choice regarding the property's 35 cozy rooms, set in six bungalows, six oceanfront units, 22 superior rooms, or a four-bedroom suite. Some feature beachfront locations and views, whereas others are within the hotel's gardens. All units offer warm tones, king beds, sofa beds, organic toiletries, and furnished outdoor spaces. And if you book a bungalow, you'll enjoy an outdoor shower.

And as a sustainability favorite, you'll also find quite a few green initiatives at the hotel, as it has the highest possible rating for Certification for Sustainable Tourism. A few examples of projects include hosting an on-site water treatment facility, using solar panels, and supplying vegetables, fruits, and herbs for the hotel's restaurant with its garden.

Read kimkim's review of Capitán Suizo Beachfront Boutique Hotel

Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort is an area staple, opening in 1972 as one of the first resorts in Guanacaste. You can't get more central than this hotel, as it sits at the buzzy midpoint of Tamarindo's main road and directly on the beach. Enjoy views of the surf from some of the rooms and common areas, such as the main pool and eateries. You'll also find a small walking path lined with palm trees bordering the seaside. Since you'll be in the middle of it all, keep in mind that it gets a little noisy.

As a large hotel complex with over 200 units, the rooms can feel generic and don't offer any local flair or character. Still, they're comfortable and have amenities like indoor and outdoor ceiling fans and balconies or terraces with ocean views. There are three room categories, and all can work well for families, but one is specific to those traveling with kids. Choose from the Sunrise Oceanfront, Tropicana, and Family areas, some with multiple beds, private hot tubs (Tropicana junior suites), and/or rain showers. 

As a resort property, there are a lot of highlights to mention at Tamarindo Diria. Each room section has a pool and bar (the Tropicana pool is adults-only), and you'll find extensive grounds with gardens, a walking path, sun loungers, day beds, and more. Other perks include a complimentary welcome drink, a space to borrow books, and a gym.

Read kimkim's review of Tamarindo Diria Beach Resort

Sueño del Mar Beachfront Hotel

Sueño del Mar is a small, intimate property away from the bustle of central Tamarindo. Instead, you'll stay in a more authentic part of the city on a private, quieter, and more peaceful beach. Though the beach isn't great for swimming, the rocky shore makes it excellent for snorkeling during low tide, and you can borrow gear from the hotel. And because you'll be in a quieter part of the region, the noise you'll hear is that of the waves crashing on the shore. 

The hotel is in a cozy house, with each room featuring bright and colorful Costa Rican art. To maintain the quiet, authentic atmosphere, Sueño del Mar has just seven rooms. Choose from rooms or casitas (cabin-like homes), all with authentic decor, like stucco walls, clay floors, and wooden ceilings. Almost all feature an outdoor shower, and some have kitchens. The three-course breakfast is a definite highlight, changing daily and with unlimited coffee, tea, and juice. You can also request lunch and dinner service, but the property requires a minimum number of participants.

Read kimkim's review of Sueño del Mar

Ocho Artisan Bungalows

Stay in individual cabins or the beachfront villa at Ocho Artisan Bungalows, set right on the beach and just a few minutes walk from the center of Tamarindo. As a small boutique hotel offering unique bohemian vibes, this property brings you back to the old Tamarindo, where days were spent simply relaxing by the surf and sand. Despite this central location, the hotel feels hidden, set back within the trees, yet still with those perfect ocean views.

Bungalows have draped ceilings with a yurt-like feel and a mix of wood, stone, and metal decor. With the surrounding jungle, thatched roofing, and direct beach access, it's easy to feel fully immersed in Costa Rican culture. As all units are independent, you won't share any walls with your neighbors. Sleeping up to six guests, you'll have multiple beds, a complimentary minibar, furnished terraces, beach towels, and a kitchenette with all the cooking essentials. If you book the villa, you'll enjoy fun perks like an outdoor daybed and shower.

Guests can relax at the outdoor pool area with a fountain and sun loungers. Though open to the public and day guests, the bar, restaurant, and beach club are a nice addition if you're looking for fun and energetic evenings on the shore.

Read kimkim's review of Ocho Artisan Bungalows

The Coast Beachfront Hotel

The Coast Beachfront Hotel offers a peaceful location on a particularly swimmable beach, yet within walking distance to downtown Tamarindo. You can enjoy water sports by renting equipment or taking kayaking, surfing, boogie boarding, and snorkeling lessons from the hotel. Though you might prefer relaxing at the quiet shore, you'll have access to the beach club down the street if you need a little more action. When ready for a break from the beach, relax at the property's small but pleasant outdoor swimming pool.

The property maintains its calm, Costa Rican vibes by only hosting 26 rooms. You can choose from beachfront units, suites, bungalows with an outdoor shower, and even a two-bedroom villa. All units have ceiling fans, outdoor areas, and a kitchen, which is handy since the property doesn't offer a bar or restaurant. But, each morning, you'll enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast delivered to your room.

Read kimkim's review of The Coast Beachfront Hotel

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