<p>Tamarindo remains one of the busiest beach towns on Costa Rica's north Pacific coast. It is a little over an hour by road from Liberia airport, which makes it an easy first stop for many travellers.</p>

<p>The main beach is wide and sandy, with waves that are often beginner-friendly. Surf schools teach beginners year-round.</p>

<p>On the other side of the river mouth, Playa Grande sits inside a protected marine park, known for nesting leatherback turtles.</p>

<p>Peak season generally lasts from December through April, while the green season brings afternoon rain and fewer crowds.</p> triplarks.com