Posted on 1/30/2020

The Best Places to Stay in Tamarindo: 10 of Our Favorites

We have a philosophy. A motto, if you will. It goes like this: While everyday life may require compromise, vacation should be the one time of year you can have it all. This should be the one time that you don't have to settle, don't have to sacrifice this for that – the time to insist on your wish list and revel in everything you want, no compromise required. Indeed, this is the time to seek out the best places to stay in Tamarindo and to reserve the one that strums at your heart strings. Because this is your time. That's our philosophy and we're sticking to it. And so, with that in mind, we thought we'd highlight a few of our favorite homes and communities in Tamarindo. And by that, we mean Greater Tamarindo – specifically, downtown, Playa Langosta, and Hacienda Pinilla. (We'll cover Playa Flamingo in a later post, promise!) In no particular order:
  1. Villa Lucia

Hacienda Pinilla | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Sleeps 12

Located in the Los Malinches community of Hacienda Pinilla, Villa Lucia takes the vacation rental condo experience to the next level, housed within a grand manor home in the Colonial style. This is not your standard condominium, beginning with sheer size: Villa Lucia sprawls over 5,400 square-feet of spectacular modern real estate. Walk through the front door, and soak in the details: Beamed ceilings, a gourmet-ready kitchen, a private terrace and lush backyard, and your very own Jacuzzi. Every detail is pitch-perfect, from the upscale décor and expansive windows, to the beachy color palette and tropical cane ceilings. And, did we mention? Los Malinches luxury pool is also at your disposal. And then, of course, there's all of Hacienda Pinilla to explore: hiking / biking trails, a five-star Beach Club, miles of pristine beaches, a beachfront golf course, and much more. Yes, this one's an easy favorite. Why it's a Favorite: In addition to its privileged and luxurious location, Villa Lucia bundles all the bells and whistles: air-conditioning, WiFi, cable TV, and a washer/dryer. And we know that it's often the little things that dollop the cherry on top of your vacation.
  1. Crystal Sands

Playa Langosta | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 12

Located beachfront on Playa Langosta, the Crystal Sands complex is an upscale condominium complex on the south end of Tamarindo Bay. It's a spectacular spot for sun worshipers, surfers, and anyone who loves the sound of lapping waves, the sight of tranquil beaches, and the feel of the sand between their toes. We are delighted to offer two condos within Crystal Sands – Crystal Sands 104 and Crystal Sands Penthouse 504 – and two separate experiences: the prior, located on the ground floor, and the latter, sitting high on the fifth (penthouse) level. Both are a study in beachside luxury, offering gourmet-ready kitchens, ensuite bedrooms, ocean panoramas, upscale décor, beachy palettes, and plenty of natural light. Why it's a Favorite: Crystal Sands is more than a perfect location: It's an invitation to a refreshing pool and sun-drenched Jacuzzi. And we can't think of any better place to spend a lazy afternoon – or a lazy day. You are on vacation, after all!
  1. Monte Perla

Tamarindo | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6

In the heart of Tamarindo, just a beachy hill away from the oceanfront, Monte Perla condominiums offer million-dollar ocean views and the amenities of a luxury mansion, always for an affordable price. We currently offer both Monte Perla #2 and Monte Perla #10, each offering ocean views from almost every room. Curving walls complement Tamarindo's cradle of coastline, setting off the homes' design elements and setting each apart from the average vacation home – a distinction that follows throughout the condos, evident in their open-air kitchens, breezy bedrooms, and light-filled interiors. Bonus points for air-conditioning, WiFi, and cable TV. Why it's a Favorite: When you stay in Monte Perla, you command access to the resort's spectacular pool and sun plaza. The custom pool offers plenty of room to splash and swim, while the terrace is the perfect spot to catch some rays, dine al fresco, and watch the sun go down.
  1. Pueblo Colonial

Tamarindo | 2 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 6

There's something special about Spanish-Colonial architecture: bleached color palettes, terracotta accents, ceramic tiles, arched doorways, handcrafted woodwork, and beautiful balconies – the nostalgia and cultural inheritance of an entire continent, minified into a single garden community. We are happy to offer Pueblo Colonial #1, Pueblo Colonial #2, Pueblo Colonial #5, Pueblo Colonial #9, and Casa Sunshine for your vacation – each, a two-bedroom, two-bath condo with all the comforts: air-conditioning, WiFi, fully equipped kitchens, dedicated parking, and a large community pool with BBQ area. Go on, bathe in the sun. Why it's a Favorite: The heart of Pueblo Colonia centers around lush gardens and the community's private swimming pool. Together, it's a magical atmosphere, serene and quiet, and yet just a 5-minute walk from downtown Tamarindo and one of Costa Rica's most famous surf and sand.
  1. Casa Hamacas

Hacienda Pinilla | 6 Bedrooms | 6 Bathrooms | Sleeps 17

Casa Hamacas is a singular place. Named for the dreamy hammock garden that upgrades its shady backyard into a private retreat, this is the kind of place that bids you slow down, relax, and embrace the spirit of your vacation. Casa Hamacas strives to exceed your every expectation. Newly remodeled, its six bedrooms, gourmet-ready kitchen, and two living areas embody sleek modernity and tropical living – exemplify the meaning of Costa Rican luxury. And it's all perfectly complemented by the flowering gardens, backyard wildlife sightings, squawking parrots, and Hacienda Pinilla community amenities at your disposal. Why it's a Favorite: As beautiful as is its interior, Casa Hamacas begs outdoor pleasures. Step into the sun and sidle up to the Balinese-style rancho, outfitted with a full living room, private pool, elegant swings and cozy hammocks, lounge furniture, and an expansive outdoor prep area, gas grill, an oversized dining table. There's almost no reason to stay inside. Well, except that this is Casa Hamacas and the interior is remarkable.
  1. Villa Almendro

Hacienda Pinilla | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 14

Located in the Lagos de Palma Real community of Hacienda Pinilla, Villa Almendro resides in a two-story condominium that overlooks a scenic lake and lush foliage. Because here, it's not only what's within, but what's without: Costa Rica's vast wildlife, scenic beauty, and tranquil vistas. Of course, it's definitely also about what's within: Villa Almendro is a two-story vacation home that includes all the comforts of home: air-conditioning, WiFi, cable TV, and laundry facilities, plus beamed ceilings, arched doorways, and other architectural details that make you feel cozy. And, of course, an entire wall of French doors that open onto a breezy private veranda and those serene lake views – the perfect spot for your morning coffee or evening glass of wine. Why it's a Favorite: Every detail of Villa Almendro seems perfectly curated for your vacation experience: upscale décor, wistful architecture, luxury hardwoods, and warm colors. But really, here, our heart is all about the lake views and Hacienda Pinilla location, close to pristine beaches and privy to a luxury community's worth of amenities.
  1. Casa Tranquila

Playa Langosta | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Sleeps 14

A stunning oceanfront home within the Tamarindo Reserve, Casa Tranquila is located inside one of Costa Rica's only beachfront gated communities. Consider this the nexus of ocean-side luxury, exclusive location, and sheer natural beauty – a trifecta as quick to take our breath away, as it is to tug at our heartstrings. As they say, location, location, location. Of course, you reserve a home, not a location. And this home is a distinctive masterpiece of tropical design and striking architecture. Stone floors and vaulted wooden ceilings combine natural elements, sweeping through folding doors and sleek lines, modern furnishings and all the comforts. And then, there's the glad-you're-here amenities, including WiFi and cable TV, air-conditioning and a grill. Why it's a Favorite: There is something incredibly special about Casa Tranquila's breathtaking location: on a high point of land, jutting out over the endless Pacific horizon – we'd stay forever, just for this view! And then, there's the lull of the waves, the scent of sea breeze, and the kiss of the sun... Without a doubt, this is a magical place and an easy favorite.
  1. Casa Lomas del Mar

Tamarindo | 4 Bedrooms | 4 Bathrooms | Sleeps 8

A hillside paradise overlooking breathtaking ocean panoramas, Casa Lomas del Mar overlooks the scenic beauty of Tamarindo beaches, Playa Grande, and Las Baulas National Marine Park. Just below your view: Tamarindo's world-famous waves, sea turtle nesting sites, and a world of opportunity. Step into this sanctuary and discover a world of sleek angles and sharp lines, smooth curves and perfect balance – of high design and exclusive amenities. One such extra: the home's infinity-edge pool and expansive sun deck, crafted from local wood and hosting an outdoor sitting room, BBQ patio, and luxury outdoor living, with riveting 180º panoramas. Want to enjoy these views in privacy? Step out onto one of the private patios or rooftop terraces, for private moments of contemplation and communion with nature. Why it's a Favorite: It's never easy to pull out a single detail that sets a home apart, but if we're forced to choose, we have a soft spot for Lomas del Mar's floor-to-ceiling glass walls. The home's indoor and outdoor divisions seemingly vanish, creating a sensation of uninterrupted space, harmony with nature, and connection with the surrounding jungle and sky.
  1. Villa Pacifica

Hacienda Pinilla | 3 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | Sleeps 10

Spanish for "Peaceful Villa," Villa Pacifica is a graceful addition to our list of the best places to stay in Tamarindo for many reasons. At the top: Location. This luxury condo overlooks a lake and is within easy walking distance of pristine Playa Mansita, one of the Gold Coast's cleanest, most pristine, and spectacular beaches. Through the front door, two-story Villa Pacifica employs an ocean-inspired color palette, tropical hardwoods, architectural details, and beamed ceilings to create an ambiance of calm and tranquility. You'll also enjoy your private terrace and BBQ grill, WiFi and air-conditioning throughout the home, and access to a beautiful community pool. Why it's a Favorite: Even within a community as exclusive as Hacienda Pinilla, there's location and then there's location. Villa Pacifica owns the latter, housed within a community that adjoins the 5-star JW Marriott Hotel, which offers various fine dining options. It's also close to the Beach Club, where you'll enjoy a full bar and restaurant, beachfront infinity pool, wellness center, and other amenities. Talk about the best places to stay in Tamarindo.
  1. Sunrise Resort

Tamarindo | 3 Bedrooms | 2 Bathrooms | Sleeps 7

What has ocean views, breezy balconies, and plenty of natural light? The condominiums at Sunrise Resort, where we're delighted to welcome you to Sunrise 3, Sunrise 4, Sunrise 14, Sunrise 28, and Sunrise 31. There's much to love about this intimate community, where condos share an oversized swimming pool with a walk-behind waterfall, shallow section for kids, and a spacious sun deck populated with lounge chairs and palm trees. Indoors you'll find all the luxury amenities you don't want to live without, form WiFi and cable TV to air-conditioning and those aforementioned terraces, many with ocean views and outdoor dining. Why it's a Favorite: Without a doubt, Sunrise Resort is one of, if not the best-located vacation community in Tamarindo. Located just across the street from the beach, you are steps to the surf, sea, and soft sands – to all the reasons why you're here, in Costa Rica and Tamarindo. The ocean is your oyster. And, there you have it: 10 of our favorite vacation home and communities. Some of the best places to stay in Tamarindo. And proof that you don't have to compromise.
Previous 5 Things You Didn't Know About Costa Rica Destination Weddings Spotlight On: Ibis Condos at the Tamarindo Preserve & Langosta Beach Club Next