Once a sleepy fishing village, Tamarindo Beach has become one of Costa Rica's top vacation spots. It is no wonder because its beaches are pristine, the water is crystal clear, the weather is ideal and the surroundings invite a host of fun and exciting things to do.

Tamarindo is located on the North Pacific Coast in the province of Guanacaste, one of the fastest growing areas of Costa Rica . Tamarindo, however, is the most developed town in the area with accommodations ranging from luxury to whatever your budget can afford. When you visit Tamarindo, you have your choice: if it is peace and quiet, we can make those arrangements; if you want more action, Tamarindo has that as well. It truly is the ideal vacation spot.

Many expats have made this area their new home and that has spawned a wide variety of activities, restaurants and services. In addition to enjoying the fabulous beaches, here are just a few of the things to do and places to see while in Tamarindo:

Costa Rica is well-known in surfing circles for its excellent waves and ideal beaches.. The conditions vary according to area and time of year, but on the Pacific Coast , while the waves may be smaller, they are more consistent. They originate from low pressure troughs off of New Zealand . The largest swells reach Costa Rica between the months of April and October, but from December to April, the surf is at its cleanest.

Whether you are an experienced surfer or you want to learn this exciting sport, there is a place for you in Tamarindo. There are severak surf camps and there are lessons for beginners with everything you need to get you started and keep you going.

The clear waters and coral reefs off Tamarindo Beach and the surrounding islands provide a wonderland of underwater exploration. The water temperatures range from 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit and the visibility can be as deep as 70 feet depending on the location, the tides and the currents.

Everything you need, including your equipment and special tours can be arranged for your undersea adventure.

You have your choice of sailing vessel while in Tamarindo - everything from a luxury catamaran to a schooner. Snorking tours, sunset sails and full moon sails are all there for the asking. You will probably want to set aside at least one day to explore the wonders and the beauty of the surrounding sea.

Maybe you are an equestrian enthusiast. If so, you will love all that Tamarindo has to offer. Costa Rica abounds with horses and a style of horsemanship all its own. Take a popular horseback riding guided tour where you will enjoy a great ride along with information about the history and nature around you. During certain times of the year (December through July) the local "fiestas" are in full fling. You can see everything from bull fights (they are easier on the bull here in Costa Rica and the horses are in the ring) to horse shows. You will love the "topes" (horse parades) on Sundays with their unique breeds and riding style.

From the moment you arrive in Costa Rica you will be impressed by the bikers pumping their way up the steep mountain roads, but if you are not an aspiring Tour de France competitor, there are many places where you can enjoy biking. Whatever kind of biking you are into, rentals to suit our needs are available in Tamarindo. You can take a guided tour or launch out on your own at your own pace on marked trails. For the serious biker, a multi-day biking adventure may be something you want to set aside time to do. It includes several days of riding and camping under the stars.

There are numerous tours that your Exotur professional can tell you about and book for you according to your schedule. There are jungle boat tours, canopy tours, turtle nesting tours during nesting season as well as a number of national parks in the area that are well worth seeing.