Outdoor & fun
Tamarindo River
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Tamarindo River meanders through the heart of Tamarindo, providing a peaceful alternative to the ocean. Visitors can rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards to explore the calm, brackish waters, which are flanked by lush mangroves teeming with wildlife. Howler monkeys often announce your passage from the treetops, while white-faced capuchins and iguanas are frequent sights. Crocodiles bask on the muddy banks, and a variety of birds, including herons and kingfishers, hunt along the edges. The river's gentle current makes it suitable for beginners, and guided tours offer insights into the ecosystem.
Don't miss
- Paddle past basking crocodiles and troops of howler monkeys in the mangroves.
- Spot vibrant kingfishers and herons as they dive for fish along the riverbanks.
- Glide through the calm waters at sunset for a golden-hour wildlife experience.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Tamarindo River
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inTamarindo Estuary Tour4.8★ · 296 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$41 per personSee dates →
Most bookedSurf Lessons in Tamarindo, Costa Rica4.9★ · 2,742 travelers~2 hoursFrom$69 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleTamarindo Mangrove Forest National Park kayaking4.9★ · 51 travelers~3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$55 per personSee dates →More attractions in Tamarindo