Restaurants &
Activities
Restaurants in Grande
Both Playa Grande and Tamarindo have plenty of great restaurants, from casual beach spots and local Costa Rican food to sushi, seafood and more upscale dining. Tamarindo has the larger selection, while Playa Grande offers a smaller, more relaxed mix of local favorites. Here are some of our favorites:
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RipJack’s open-air restaurant is a Playa Grande favorite for breakfast, lunch, dinner and sunset drinks, with a relaxed atmosphere and an easy location just steps from the beach.
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Pots & Bowls is a casual Playa Grande favorite serving healthy breakfasts, colorful bowls, smoothies, coffee and fresh lunch. It is also a great place to sit with a laptop, grab a coffee and get some work done.
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El Huerto is a longtime Playa Grande favorite known for its wood-fired, thin-crust pizza and relaxed open-air setting—but don’t sleep on the beef carpaccio, poke bowls and steaks.
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Hotel Las Tortugas is a great casual breakfast spot near the beach with an old-school Playa Grande vibe—perfect for coffee and an easy breakfast before a surf or beach day.
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Taco Star is one of the best spots in Playa Grande for a taco and a cold beer. Be sure to say hi to Brittney or Scarlett, and bring cash since it’s cash only.
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Mar Azul is a relaxed local spot tucked inside Palm Beach Estates in Playa Grande, just a short walk from the beach. It’s a great casual option for breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee, or cocktails.
Restaurants Elsewhere (Tamarindo & Beyond)
Restaurants
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Sofia in Langosta is a great spot for Mediterranean-inspired food, with dishes influenced by Europe, Africa and the Middle East. It’s a lovely option for a nicer dinner while still feeling relaxed—reservations are recommended.
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Located at the Flamingo Marina, about a 30-minute drive from Playa Grande, Surf Box is a fun, casual spot for breakfast or lunch, with fresh food, great coffee and views of the boats.
It’s worth a stop if you’re exploring the Flamingo area.
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Agua Salada is a great dinner spot in the heart of Tamarindo, known for fresh seafood, ceviche and creative coastal dishes in a relaxed but elevated setting.
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Sentido Norte at Casa Chameleon is a beautiful adults-only restaurant with incredible sunset views, about a 45-minute drive from Playa Grande. It’s a great option if you’re staying a few extra days—just be sure to make a reservation in advance.
Activities
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Surfing
Playa Grande is one of Costa Rica’s best surf destinations, with waves for a range of experience levels. For anyone who wants to try it, Frijoles Locos Surf Shop offers lessons, board rentals and local guidance to help you find the right conditions.
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Fishing
Half-day and full-day charters are available from Tamarindo and Flamingo, and we recommend booking ahead. -
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Yoga
Schedule
RipJack Inn offers yoga classes in a relaxed, open-air setting just steps from the beach—a perfect way to start the day before surfing, swimming or exploring Playa Grande. Check the current class schedule when you arrive. -
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Estuary Tour
Take a guided boat tour through the Tamarindo Estuary to explore the mangroves and spot local wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles and tropical birds. It’s an easy, scenic activity for all ages and usually lasts a couple of hours.
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Scuba Diving
Scuba-diving trips to the Catalina Islands depart from Tamarindo and nearby beach towns, with options for both certified divers and beginners.
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![ATV Tour]()
ATV Tour
, there are several ATV tours nearby that explore back roads, jungle trails and secluded beaches around the Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal area. ATVs are not allowed on Playa Grande itself, but local tour operators can take you to other nearby beaches and trails where riding is permitted.
A fun option for anyone who wants to get out and explore a little beyond Grande during the weekend.
