Tamarindo has several top beach clubs, including Langosta Beach Club, Pangas Beach Club, El Be-Tamarindo Beach Club, Crazy Monkey’s Beach Club, Ocho Beach Club, Pacifico Beach Club, and Jardin del Eden Beach Club.
After hearing my friend’s glowing reviews of the beach clubs in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, two years ago, I decided to investigate them if I ever visited Costa Rica. So, last year, when my husband and I visited Costa Rica, I decided to visit some of the best beach clubs in the region. I did some research and spoke to some other tourists in the area. I have compiled a list of some of Tamarindo’s top 10 beach clubs.
Key Takeaways
- Langosta Beach Club is a members-only beach club, but guests can access it during their day pass. I had a great experience; the food was good, the staff was attentive, and it had a great view of the beach.
- Crazy Monkey’s Beach Club is located on a rooftop, so if you don’t like climbing stairs, this beach club may not be for you.
- Jardin del Eden Beach Club is an adult-only beach club.
- Sharky’s Sports Bar/Beach Club and El Vaquero Beach Club are best for families. They both offer great food and facilities that families will enjoy.
I’ll detail the top 10 beach clubs in Tamarindo in the rest of this article, covering their amenities, pros and cons, and prices. Let’s dive in.
Langosta Beach Club
Location: Guanacaste Province, Santa Cruz, Costa Rica
Cost: $8-$90
Amenities: on-site bar, toilets, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi.
The Langosta Beach Club is one of Tamarindo’s premier beach destinations, offering an array of local cuisine, including Costa Rican dishes, seafood, and Central American cuisines, complemented by a well-stocked bar. The Wyndham Hotel links with this beach club, providing guests with a seamless blend of relaxation and luxury.
The beach club, on the other hand, is members-only, but guests can visit with a day pass. This grants you access to the beach club amenities for a day. You can indulge in massages, yoga classes, and fitness sessions at the Wyndham Hotel while enjoying exclusive access to the Langosta Beach Club.
The attentive waitstaff’s excellent service impressed my husband and me during our visit. The food arrived promptly and tasted delicious, and the drinks were refreshing. The club offers a full-service restaurant and bar with poolside and beachside seating options. You can enjoy amenities like cabanas, a pool bar, and a lounge.
Additionally, the Langosta Beach Club offers a range of unique on-site tours and activities, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What I liked:
- I appreciated the diverse cuisine options at Langosta Beach Club, especially the Costa Rican dishes and seafood.
- The attentive waitstaff provided excellent service.
- The club’s full-service restaurant, bar, and amenities like cabanas and a pool bar created a comfortable atmosphere.
What I didn’t like:
- It’s a members-only beach club.
Pangas Beach Club
Location: Meters South West From Auto Mercado 500 In Front of El Tesoro, Tamarindo 50309 Costa Rica
Cost: $8-$25
You’ll find this beach club at the far north end of the beach. It offers a stunning setting and breathtaking sunset views, making it a picturesque spot for a meal. However, during my visit, I found the food quality somewhat lacking. My husband and I had to wait a while for our food delivery, despite the lovely setting. Unfortunately, they overcooked four out of five of our meals.
My disappointment also extended to the appetizers; the octopus dish was overly salty, masking its natural flavor. For our main courses, we sampled ribeye, Pangas’ volcanic rock specialty, and beef skewers. While the skewers were satisfactory, the ribeye wasn’t that great.
Despite its food quality and service efficiency shortcomings, Pangas Beach Club has a charming layout, with tables arranged under trees by the beach. The bar area offers a redeeming feature, serving delicious drinks at reasonable prices. However, the table service fell short, with servers appearing uninformed about the menu and wine selection.
In conclusion, slow service and mediocre food quality marred the dining experience at Pangas Beach Club, despite its picturesque setting and enjoyable drinks. As such, I am unlikely to return in the future, and I honestly would not recommend it.
What I liked:
- The beautiful setting and stunning sunset views made the atmosphere truly special.
- The drinks served at the bar were delicious and reasonably priced, enhancing the overall experience.
What I didn’t like:
- Waiting for the food took much longer than expected.
- Some of the dishes were disappointing.
- The service seemed lacking, with servers appearing uninformed and inattentive to our needs and questions about the menu.
El Be-Tamarindo Beach Club
Location: 100 meters south of Hotel Diria, diagonal hotel Mar Rey Centro commercial Galeria del Mar, Provincia de Guanacaste, Tamarindo, 50309, Costa Rica
Contact: +506 8314 0139
At Playa Tamarindo Beachfront, Tamarindo 50309, Costa Rica, I discovered this amazing beach club offering a wonderful selection of local cuisine, Latin flavors, and seafood dishes paired with reasonably priced drinks. I was pleasantly surprised by the decent food quality, especially considering the affordable prices.
The breathtaking view of the sunset over the beach made this place stand out for me. It created unforgettable moments, heightened by the lively live music performances that added to the vibrant atmosphere.
This restaurant quickly became my go-to spot for enjoying sunset views and cocktails. I particularly enjoyed the excellent sangrias and appetizers, such as octopus and potato, which received high praise from my husband and me. The attentive service ensured a pleasant dining experience, and the location was perfect for immersing myself in the beauty of Tamarindo’s sunsets.
With plenty of beachfront seating and an impressive menu featuring fresh seafood and local specialties, there was something to satisfy every palate. I also ensured not to miss out on the great Happy Hour from 4–7 PM, featuring $5 drink deals, which drew in a lively crowd as the evening progressed.
However, I did encounter a few downsides, such as mixed experiences with the waitstaff; while some were friendly and accommodating, others seemed a bit abrupt. Additionally, my husband complained about the cleanliness of the bathroom when he went to use it.
Despite these minor issues, overall, this beach club provided a wonderful atmosphere, delicious food, and unforgettable sunset views.
What I liked:
- The breathtaking sunset view over the beach was truly amazing.
- The sangrias were excellent, and the appetizers, such as octopus and potato, were delicious.
- The beachfront seating area provided a perfect setting for enjoying the beautiful scenery.
- The live music added to the vibrant atmosphere of the beach club.
What I didn’t like:
- Some of the waitstaff seemed a bit abrupt and unfriendly.
- The restroom could have been more clean.
Crazy Monkey’s Beach Club
Location: 8537+M2G, Guanacaste Province, Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Contact: +506 2653 0114
The Crazy Monkey Beach Club is located in Tamarindo’s Best Western Hotel. While the beach club is typically exclusive to hotel guests, it opens its doors to the public on Friday evenings from 9:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m., featuring live Latin music and a DJ on the terrace.
Although not a high-end establishment, you can still have a fun night at Crazy Monkey Beach Club. To enter the bar, there’s a $4 fee, which includes a complimentary drink. This rooftop venue involves climbing several stairs to a spacious bar area and a swim-up pool bar. Live bands playing various genres keep the atmosphere lively, but the heat and young crowd may not be to everyone’s liking.
While the bar offers a great view of the bay and generous portions of food at reasonable prices, it tends to get crowded, especially during popular events. As a result, it may not be the ideal spot for those seeking a quiet dining experience. Overall, Crazy Monkey Bar offers a vibrant atmosphere and an energetic crowd. Also, if you don’t like climbing stairs, you may want to consider another beach club because this is a rooftop beach club and you won’t see any elevators.
What I liked:
- On Friday evenings, live music and DJs created a lively atmosphere.
- The spacious bar area and swim-up pool bar were enjoyable to relax in.
- The complimentary drink that came with the $4 entry fee was a nice touch.
- The food portions were generous and reasonably priced.
What I didn’t like:
- Climbing several stairs to reach the rooftop venue was tiring.
- The heat and crowded atmosphere weren’t ideal for enjoying the live music.
- The bar tended to get overly crowded during popular events, making it difficult to move around.
Ocho Beach Club
Location: 75W4+WGF, Acceso publico a la Playa, Provincia de Guanacaste, Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Contact: +506 8479 9558
The Ocho Beach Club is located in the heart of Tamarindo, offering luxurious amenities against breathtaking ocean views and pristine beaches. Here, you’ll discover various activities, from sunbathing and water sports to relishing delicious cuisine and refreshing drinks such as beer, cocktails, spirits, and wine.
You can relax on comfortable lounge chairs beneath umbrellas as you soak up the sun and enjoy the awe-inspiring views. However, be mindful of the lively beach scene, as vendors may approach you to sell various items. Additionally, prepare for the possibility of limited umbrella availability and remember to bring cash, as the club operates on a cash-only basis.
Despite these minor considerations, Ocho Beach Club offers a safe, comfortable, and authentic atmosphere with reasonable prices, attentive staff, ample parking, clean facilities, and an enjoyable ambiance. It’s the ultimate destination to unwind and immerse yourself in the beauty of Tamarindo’s beaches.
What I liked:
- The various activities, like sunbathing and water sports, made for a fun day.
- The food and drinks offered were delicious and refreshing, adding to the enjoyment of my visit.
- The service was excellent, and the staff were attentive and friendly.
What I didn’t like:
- The limited availability of umbrellas could be inconvenient for finding shade.
- Because of the cash-only policy, having to bring cash for purchases was a hassle.
Pacifico Beach Club
Location: Rotonda tamarindo 50309, Provincia de Guanacaste, Tamarindo, 50309, Costa Rica
Amenities: on-site bar, toilets, restaurant, live performance, and free Wi-Fi.
This beach club offers a variety of cuisines, including Central American, Costa Rican, and international dishes, with options for vegetarians, vegans, and those with gluten sensitivities.
Located at Pacifico, 400 meters west and 800 meters north on Chorrera Road, it was the first beach club my husband and I visited, seeking a relaxing pool and beach day. Check-in at the front desk was swift, allowing us to head to the pool area quickly. Although the pool was busy, it wasn’t overcrowded, and the bar staff promptly assisted us with our drink orders.
We indulged in delicious ceviche and nachos, which disappeared far too quickly. Some members of our group even opted for a 30-minute beachside massage, returning with glowing reviews of the experience. We spent 3–4 hours switching between the ocean and the pool, and the attentive staff made sure to meet our needs and maintain the cleanliness and comfort of the facilities.
The restaurant exudes luxury, offering an array of delectable dishes like shrimp ceviche and red snapper. As guests staying at Pacifico condos, we had frequent access to the beach club and enjoyed the beautiful views, delicious food, and friendly service. The creative menu caters to all tastes, with the staff being friendly and helpful. Additionally, the $75.00 day package, which includes beach access and lunch, proved to be a good value.
However, some tourists in our group consider food and drinks to be expensive, with smaller portions. I noticed some people brought their refreshments to avoid the high prices. Despite this, the overall experience at the beach club remains enjoyable, offering a relaxing and indulgent day in Costa Rica’s beautiful surroundings.
What I liked:
- I appreciated how quickly and easily we checked in at the front desk upon arrival.
- We enjoyed the pool and beach, which had comfortable facilities and beautiful views.
- The restaurant offered a variety of tasty dishes, like shrimp ceviche and red snapper.
- The staff were friendly and attentive throughout our visit.
What I didn’t like:
- The prices for food and drinks seemed a bit high, and the portions were relatively small.
Jardin del Eden Beach Club
Location: 8526+76C Tamarindo Beach, 152, Provincia de Guanacaste, Tamarindo, 50309, Costa Rica
Amenities: free parking, free high-speed internet (WiFi), pool, yoga classes, boating, diving
Contact: +506 2653 0138
At Jardin del Eden Beach Club, located at Willams, Tamarindo 50309, Costa Rica, you’ll have access to amenities like WiFi, a pool, yoga classes, complimentary breakfast, and boating opportunities.
The Jardin del Eden Boutique Hotel houses the beach club within the lush gardens of Tamarindo. Despite its serene atmosphere, the hotel is conveniently situated within walking distance of Tamarindo’s iconic beach and the bustling town’s array of bars, restaurants, and shops.
The beach club has attentive staff to guarantee a perfect vacation experience. The club provides many facilities and services, including its private beachfront garden and bar, accessible via a 100-meter private alleyway.
The tropical pool area and private beachfront garden offer easy access to the beach and stunning sunsets, overshadowing any room concerns. You’ll appreciate the friendly staff, delicious food, and plentiful breakfast options that vary daily.
Overall, you’ll enjoy the hotel’s convenient location, excellent food, and inviting atmosphere. However, it’s essential to note that this is an adult-only location, so families with children may want to consider alternative accommodations.
What I liked:
- It has stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
- It’s easy to get to the beach club from Tamarindo Beach.
What I didn’t like:
- I do not recommend it for families, as it’s an adult-only club.
El Garito Beach Club
Location: Comercial el Punto, Cerca de Arenas, Central Ave., Guanacaste Province, Tamarindo, 50309, Costa Rica
Amenities: restaurant, toilet, live music.
If you’re into electronic music, El Garito is the beach club for you. Since 2010, it’s been a staple in Tamarindo, attracting music enthusiasts seeking the best DJs from both the national and international scenes.
It’s an underground music destination that hosts weekly sets by DJs from all over the world, as well as events from renowned festivals like the BPM Festival and Soundwaves Festival.
Despite its somewhat hidden location down an alley between shops, El Garito offers a fantastic atmosphere with great music and drinks. I found the ambiance reminiscent of old-school raves with black-light artwork.
Unlike other spots focused more on drinking and socializing, El Garito’s dance floor offers an outdoor space so you can enjoy the music and atmosphere.
The atmosphere at this beach club is fantastic, with great music and drinks that remind me of the old-school raves I used to attend in the early 2000s, complete with black-light artwork.
This place, somewhat hidden down a small alley off the main street, offers a unique jungle/Latin house music vibe, perfect for a night out in Costa Rica. The drinks are reasonably priced, attracting a genuinely enthusiastic crowd to dance and enjoy the music.
However, despite the excellent music, I did experience disappointing service at the bar, which was unfortunate. Nevertheless, it stands out as a bar/club with top-notch DJs playing a variety of electronic music styles, a welcome departure from venues that solely play reggaeton.
What I liked:
- I enjoyed the fantastic music and vibe.
- The drinks were good and reasonably priced.
- The outdoor dance floor enhanced the overall vibe of the club.
What I didn’t like:
- I experienced disappointing service at the bar.
El Vaquero Beach Club
Location: Calle Central, Tamarindo, 50309 Costa Rica
Cost: $8-$25
Located at Calle Central, Tamarindo 50309, Costa Rica, this beach club offers a variety of cuisines, including pub, Central American, Costa Rican, Brew Pub, and Grill.
At El Vaquero Beach Club, you can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, relaxing, and activities like windsurfing and parasailing. The club also provides tennis, golf, and horseback riding opportunities.
During our visit for happy hour and sunset, my husband and I enjoyed drinks like piña coladas and strawberry daiquiris, along with nachos. While the food and drinks were satisfactory, the service was slow compared to other places in Tamarindo.
Despite the slow service, the beach bar offers a fantastic view of the sunset, live music, and friendly service. Although the menu mainly consisted of fried food, the fried whole snapper was delicious.
The atmosphere at El Vaquero Beach Club is lively, with a mix of adults and children, tourists, and locals enjoying themselves. While the sunset view is lovely, the service can be inconsistent, depending on the server.
The food was a bit more expensive but quite tasty so I didn’t mind. However, overall, the service and food were satisfactory, and the beach club is a great place for families to unwind. I would recommend this beach club for families with young children.
What I liked:
- I enjoyed the variety of activities available, such as swimming and sunbathing.
- The sunset view from the beach club was fantastic.
- Live music added to the enjoyable atmosphere.
- The fish tacos and nachos were delicious.
- The beach club was family-friendly, which I appreciated.
What I didn’t like:
- The service was slower than expected.
- The food was pricey.
Sharky’s Sports Bar/Beach Club
Location: Avenida Central, just next door to Pacific Park, Tamarindo, 50309, Costa Rica
Contact: +506 2653 4705
This sports bar/beach club is conveniently located at Avenida Central, next door to Pacific Park in Tamarindo. It offers a variety of bar games, fast service, delicious bar food, cocktails, karaoke, live music, live performances, and sports screens.
It’s one of Tamarindo’s most Americanized beach clubs, offering many options beyond typical “American food,” including mozzarella sticks and tater tots. The prices are reasonable, and the beer is served cold. With plenty of TVs showing sports, you can sit outside in the sun or in the open-air area. While it was busy during our lunch visit, it seemed even more crowded at night, which is typical for Tamarindo. Despite this, I would consider returning in the future.
The sports bar offers the best wings, fries, and salads. The outdoor play area for kids was a nice touch, although the service could have been better. There were some instances where the servers seemed rude, such as when they brought me the wrong drinks without an explanation or apology. However, they eventually rectified the mistake.
Additionally, the bar offers enticing drink specials every night of the week, making it a great spot to enjoy drinks with friends while watching live games. There was also a playing area for kids, which was a nice touch.
However, one downside is that they use a streaming service for sports, which can sometimes lag or freeze, detracting from the viewing experience. Overall, it’s a nice place and a great destination for families.
What I liked:
- I enjoyed the diverse menu options at the sports bar, which included more than just typical American food.
- The cold beer and reasonable prices made for a pleasant dining experience.
- The atmosphere was lively, with TVs showing sports and both indoor and outdoor seating available.
- The outdoor play area for kids was a nice touch, making it family-friendly.
What I didn’t like:
- The service was a bit lacking, as some servers seemed rude.
- Using a streaming service for sports can sometimes lead to lagging.
For more budget-friendly activities, you should check out our guide on Free Things To Do In Tamarindo.
Wrapping Up
Exploring Tamarindo’s top beach clubs was an enjoyable experience, and I highly recommend it. Each beach offers a unique atmosphere and amenities, ranging from luxurious destinations to more casual spots.
Whether enjoying sunset views over the ocean, indulging in delicious cuisine, or dancing to live music, there was something to suit every taste and preference. So make sure you do your research and determine the ones that best suit your preferences. I hope you find this guide helpful.
About Michelle Schmidt
Born in California, Michelle traveled extensively through the USA and Europe before moving to South Florida during the pandemic. Her career in Marketing has taken her all across the world. Her favorite country is France but she'll never turn down a beach vacation!
