Enjoy Tamarindo with Kids: 7 Tips for a Hassle-Free Vacation

If you’re planning a family trip and want a place full of adventure, consider Tamarindo in Costa Rica. Tamarindo is located in Guanacaste Province and has beautiful beaches, clear water, and a lot of wildlife. It’s perfect for families who want fun and enjoy different activities. However, planning a trip for kids can be tricky if you don’t know the area well.

Tamarindo offers a wide range of family-friendly activities, so it is necessary to plan your vacation carefully to make the most out of your visit to Tamarindo. What to bring is not just the only thing you need to consider, but also the activities suitable for your children’s age and interests. In this article, we’ve compiled seven tips to help you plan a kid-friendly vacation in Tamarindo:

Tip #1: Choose the Right Time to Visit

Choosing the right time to visit Tamarindo is crucial, especially when traveling with kids. The best time to visit Tamarindo is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The weather is warm and dry during this time, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and exploring. Additionally, the dry season coincides with the school holidays in North America, making it a popular time for families to visit. However, remember that the dry season attracts crowds of tourists, so book your accommodations and activities in advance.

Tip #2: Book Kid-friendly Accommodations

When traveling with kids, it’s essential to choose the right accommodations. Tamarindo offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. However, not all accommodations are kid-friendly. When booking accommodations, look for hotels offering amenities such as a kid’s pool, playground, and club. Additionally, check if the hotel offers babysitting services, which can be handy if you want to enjoy some alone time with your spouse.

There are kid-friendly accommodations that cater specifically to families, such as all-inclusive resorts that offer kids’ clubs and activities. These resorts may also have special deals or packages specifically for families, so research and compare prices before booking.

Tip #3: Explore Tamarindo’s Beaches

Tamarindo is famous for its beaches; exploring them is a must-do visiting activity. However, not all beaches are suitable for kids. Playa Tamarindo, located in the heart of Tamarindo, is ideal for families. The beach is shallow, making it safe for kids to swim, and there are plenty of beachside restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat. Another family-friendly beach is Playa Langosta, located just south of Tamarindo. The beach is quieter than Playa Tamarindo, and the waters are perfect for swimming.

Tip #4: Go Surfing Lesson

One of the best things to do in Tamarindo is to learn how to surf. Surfing lessons are available for kids as young as five years old. The lessons are conducted by experienced instructors who will teach your kids how to surf in a safe and controlled environment. Additionally, some surf schools offer private lessons, which can benefit younger kids who may need more attention.

Tip #5: Take an Adventure Tour

Lush forests surround Tamarindo, and taking an adventure tour is an excellent way to explore the area. Many tour packages are suitable for families with kids, and the tour guides are knowledgeable and experienced, ensuring that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time.

Your family will have a chance to see Tamarindo’s beautiful landscape and wildlife while experiencing an exciting adventure. Some popular tours include the Guanacaste Adventure Combo, zip-lining, horseback riding, tubing down a river, and the ATV Jungle Tour, which takes you through the jungle and along the beach.

No matter which adventure tour you choose, wear comfortable clothing and shoes and bring sunscreen and insect repellent. Also, don’t forget to bring a camera to capture all the amazing memories you’ll make on your adventure tour in Tamarindo.

Tip #6: Try a Kid-Friendly Restaurant

When traveling with kids, finding a restaurant catering to their taste buds and preferences can be challenging. Luckily, Tamarindo has several kid-friendly restaurants that offer various options to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. One restaurant that is perfect for families is El Mercadito. This open-air food court offers a range of food options offered by different independent kitchens, making it easy to find something for everyone.

Another great option for families is La Baula Pizzaria. This restaurant is known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas, which can be customized to suit everyone’s tastes. In addition to pizza, they also offer pasta dishes, salads, and sandwiches. The casual atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot for a family dinner.

When choosing a kid-friendly restaurant, looking for places with a relaxed atmosphere and a menu with options that appeal to kids and adults is important. You can find the perfect spot for a family meal in Tamarindo by researching and asking for recommendations.

Tip #7: Don’t Bring Too Much

When traveling, it’s natural to want to pack everything you think you might need. However, overpacking can burden and lead to unnecessary stress and inconvenience. Your usual brands can also be found in Tamarindo, so bringing everything from home is unnecessary. Basic medicines like pain relievers, antihistamines, and stomach remedies can be easily purchased at local pharmacies. You can also find sunscreens and insect repellents for your hiking trips in Tamarindo.

Bringing too many clothes can also be a mistake, as Tamarindo is a casual beach town where shorts, t-shirts, and sandals are the norm. If you plan on doing activities like surfing or paddleboarding, renting equipment in Tamarindo rather than bringing your own is better. This will save you the hassle of lugging heavy gear around, and you can be assured that you’ll use the appropriate equipment for the local conditions.

Conclusion

Tamarindo offers a variety of options for travelers, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, relaxation, and exploration. However, it’s important to carefully prepare every aspect of your trip to ensure you make the most of your time there. From choosing the right accommodations to packing appropriately, taking the time to plan will help you avoid common mistakes and enjoy your trip to the fullest. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and friendly locals, Tamarindo is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a true taste of Costa Rica.

Are you looking for a family place in Tamarindo? Maitri Tamarindo is the perfect place for you! Our family-friendly hotel offers spacious accommodations and plenty of activities for guests of all ages. Book your stay with us today!