This Beach Town in Costa Rica Is One of the Country's Best-kept Secrets-and It's Close to an Incredible National Park

""Tamarindo is popular for its spectacular sunsets and the vibrant colors that follow," said Hernán Imhoff, president of the Tamarindo Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, in an interview with Travel + Leisure. "It's a place where you can encounter a rich blend of cultures while enjoying the warmth of Costa Rican hospitality.""

"Tamarindo is home to beautiful sandy beaches, marshes and mangroves, forested trails, amazing boutique shops, cool art galleries, and a national park, among other interesting attractions. Wildlife abounds here, and you're likely to spot turtles, birds, and monkeys, so keep an eye out."

"Occidental Tamarindo: The only all-inclusive resort in the region (and one of Costa Rica's best), Occidental Tamarindo provides guests with plenty of food and beverage options at its three restaurants and two bars. The hotel also has a spa, and offers fitness classes, activities like volleyball and tennis, and access to two swimming pools and the beach. The rooms have views of the ocean or Las Baulas Marine National Park."

Tamarindo sits on Costa Rica's northwestern Pacific coast and is the largest beach town in Guanacaste Province. Surfers have favored the town for years while it remained largely off the typical tourist radar. The town offers sandy beaches, marshes, mangroves, forested trails, boutique shops, art galleries, and a national park. Wildlife includes turtles, birds, and monkeys. The local motto pura vida embodies a simple, easy, stress-free lifestyle. Occidental Tamarindo is the region's only all-inclusive resort and offers restaurants, bars, a spa, fitness classes, pools, and beach access. Tamarindo is well known for its surfing for beginners and professionals.

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