Made famous by the movie, “Endless Summer II”, Tamarindo Costa Rica is a mecca for surfers big and small, newbies and pros. They are, however, not the only people who live or frequent this coastal hamlet.
What is left out of detailed descriptions of this lively beach town are the affluent accomodations, spa options and gourmet dining.
LODGING
During a recent trip to Tamerindo, Costa Rica, I stayed at a friend’s rental property, Villa Cascada. Located just south of the busy tourist area, it is within a five minute walk to shops and restaurants. Road access is via a private gate which leads to four exclusive mansions.
Villa Cascada is a lush tropical haven with six bedroom suites that can sleep up to fifteen. The two tier pool with waterfall is just steps away from the ocean so you don’t have to choose between a pool or beach day. Wildlife abounds, from Julio the iguana, howler monkeys in the trees, and the azure crowned magpie jay tame enough to feed.
SPA
Coco Beauty Spa, located in the Shopping Mall Hotel Diria, is a charming find ensconced among the gift shops. A winding spiral staircase takes you to the three treatment rooms. The masseuses know what they’re doing and work away the kinks that hold on even after several relaxing days in paradise.
FOOD
Langosta Beach Club is only a one minute beach walk from Villa Casida and offers sushi, fresh seafood and pastas with amazing sauces. When we visited, we were celebrating a birthday and they arranged for an amazing birthday cake for our dessert.
When you crave something other than seafood, Patagonia Argentinane Grill offers delicately prepared beef with peppercorn, Malbec or mushroom sauce. The crust on the appetizer empandas was crispy and gave way to a river of spinach and cheese. My friends shared a chicken empanada what was equally as tasty. Not shy with their drinks, the white and red sangrias are large enough to last the entire meal. Leave room for dessert because you don’t want to leave without tasting either their rolled crepes filled with dulce de leche or the caramelized apple crepes. Heaven on a plate.
There is also the option of having a private chef come to your rental and prepare a personal meal for you. We had everything from ceviche, bean dip, fish, chicken, fresh plantains and bananas foster. We ate outside, listening to the waves and watching the geekos catch bugs.
SHOPPING
Mixed among the cheap souvenir stores are exquisite leather and jewelry shops. My favorite was EK Art Jewelry. A treasure trove of nature inspired designs in fine silver. I tried my hardest to resist temptation but ended up with a unique oval white and black Druzy Quartz ring.
Tamarindo, Costa Rica has something for everybody. Surfing, snorkeling and fishing but it also holds its own with fine food (and wine), luxurious housing and stylish original shopping.
Disclaimer: My friend invited me to stay at Villa Cascada without expectation of review or mention. All opinions in this article are my own.
Photo Credits:
Mark Veraat – Surf Sign
Villa Cascada
Jennifer Blair