Witch’s Rock: Rock ‘n Surfing

Witch’s Rock: Rock ‘n Surfing

By Skip Davis

One of the most sought after surfing destinations in Costa Rica is Witch's Rock. Locally known as Roca Bruja, Witch's Rock also received pop culture attention by being in the motion picture, Endless Summer 2.

Charters

Chartering a boat is by far the best method of reaching Witch's Rock. The only other way of getting to Witch's Rock is driving through Santa Rosa National Park to Playa Naranjo. While this may sound simple enough, the roads in Santa Rosa are some of the worst in Costa Rica and, during the wet season, the park is plagued with mosquitoes. The two primary cities to obtain a charter is Playas del Coco and Tamarindo. The latter is a surfer's city, so there are more surf shops available for you in Tamarindo. Playas del Coco, on the other hand, is more a fishing village than a surfer's destination. However, the boat ride from del Coco is considerably shorter than chartering from Tamarindo and surf rentals are available. Some Tamarindo and Playas del Coco charters pick up vacationers in Playa Hermosa, Playa Grande and Playa Langosta upon request. Charter boats in both cities leave early in the morning, around 7:00 a.m. or so, for surfers to get the most out of their Witch's Rock experience. Charter boats also supply you with food and beverage; some charters include this amenity in the initial fee. Make sure you have food and drinks available as Witch's Rock is at least a half-day trip.

Surf

As for the surf itself, Witch's Rock's is a destination for beginner and advanced surfers, depending on the tide. The best time for beginner surfers to catch waves at Witch's Rock is around mid-tide. At low tide, the waves wall out to much and the high tide waves should be reserved for advanced surfers. The ocean floor around Witch's Rock is sandy, so you do not have to worry about bashing yourself against any rocks. When the peaks are high, expect Witch's Rock to get pretty crowded. The highest waves come during the summer and fall.

Fishing

While Witch's Rock is first and foremost a surfing destination, the Rock is near the Gulf of Papagayo, one of Costa Rica's best fishing destinations. The Gulf of Papagayo is home to large, pelagic fish such as yellowfin tuna, marlin and sailfish. Most Witch's Rock surfing charters provide their passengers with fishing equipment upon request. If you want to go fishing, though, it means you will only have a limited amount of time for surfing.

Reference: Skip Davis (2012) Witch’s Rock: Rock ‘n Surfing
Retrieved from: http://www.goodliferetreats.com/costa-rica/attractions/witchs-rock/;

Author: Skip Davis

February 29, 2012

Day Spas in Tamarindo

Day Spas in Tamarindo

By Skip Davis

Going to Tamarindo is all about fun in the sun, surfing and enjoying the natural surroundings of Costa Rica's Guanacaste province. But at some point you will need to relax from outdoor activities and take care of yourself. What better way to do this than pamper yourself to a day at one of Tamarindo's luxurious day spas.

Coco Beauty Spa

Coco Beauty Spa is in downtown Tamarindo's El Diria Plaza. Founded by Argentinian-born, Cecilia Moya, the Coco Beauty Spa offers a variety of massage treatments, including the Royal Thai herbal massage and the Romantic Couples massage; the Romantic Couples massage package comes with two glasses of wine. Other massage treatments include Swedish massage, manicures, pedicures, waxing, aromatherapy and a four-hand massage conducted by two masseuses. Coco also sells Argentinian lotions upon request. Coco also has a location in the lobby of Tamarindo's Jardin del Eden Hotel. Coco Beauty Spa Shopping Mall Hotel Diriá, Office #11 Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica 011-506-2653 2562 cocobeautyspa.com

Domaniti's Day Spa

Domaniti's Day Spa is in the heart of Tamarindo, located at the city's Zullimar Plaza. According to Frommer's, Domaniti's is one of the top Active Pursuits you should enjoy while in Tamarindo. This day spa specializes in Balinese-style massages, which feature two therapists massaging you at the same time. Pedicures, manicures, facials and other massage treatments are available at Domaniti's. Domaniti's Day Spa Zullimar Plaza Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica 011-506-2653-0995

Essence Day Spa

Tamarindo's Essence Day Spa is right next door to the Cabinas Coral Reef hostel. The Essence Day Spa specializes in sport massages and Swedish massages. Sport massages come in handy after several hours of surfing or hiking around Tamarindo. Essence Day Spa Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica 011-506-2653-0291

Spa de Eros

The Spa de Eros, the residential spa at the Los Altos de Eros hotel, features a small pool with a 20-foot waterfall, which offers a cool escape from Tamarindo's sweltering summer days. Other features at Spa de Eros is a Balinese soaking tub and hydrotherapy pool for four to 10 guests. Body scrubs, massages, manicures and pedicures are among the treatments available at Spa de Eros. Spa de Eros Los Altos de Eros Hotel Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica 011-506-8850-4222 losaltosdeeros.com

Reference: Skip Davis (2012) Day Spas in Tamarindo
Retrieved from: http://www.frommers.com/destinations/playatamarindoandplayagrande/3141010020.html; http://www.costa-rica-life.com/top-costa-rica-luxury-spas.html; http://www.goodliferetreats.com/costa-rica/destinations/tamarindo/day-spas/;

Author: Skip Davis

February 14, 2012

Surfing Spots in Tamarindo

Surfing Spots in Tamarindo

By Skip Davis

[caption id="attachment_5675" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Catch a wave at one of Tamarindo's surfing spots."][/caption] Tamarindo is one of the most sought after surfing destinations in Northwest Costa Rica. Surfers flock to Tamarindo for its consistent waves, surf shops and low-budget hostels. Knowing the personality and difficulty level of each surf spot makes your surfing experience in Tamarindo much more enjoyable.

Tamarindo Beachbreak

Perhaps the most accessible surfing spot in Tamarindo is the Tamarindo Beachbreak. Located right in town, the Beachbreak is more for beginner surfers due to the relative calmness of the tides. If you are looking for a challenge, this may not be the spot for you. However, Tamarindo Beachbreak's convenient location makes it a popular spot and, as a result, one of Tamarindo's most crowded beach areas.

Pico Pequeno

Much more advanced than Tamarindo Beachbreak is Pico Pequeno, which is also conveniently located in town. Pico Pequeno consistently gets a Southwest swell during high tide. During low tide, Pico is too shallow and dangerous for surfing. The only drawback to Pico Pequeno is it only produces a small peak, meaning you could have difficulty with large crowds of surfers trying to catch one wave.

Playa Grande

Playa Grande is more isolated than Tamarindo's beaches, but has one of the area's most beautiful and consistent spots. One reason Playa Grande does not get Tamarindo's crowds because of its 20 to 30-minute drive from town. You can walk to Playa Grande, but it still is a 30-minute walk with surfboard in hand. Playa Grande is best at high-tide, when it offers excellent A-frame peaks that are close to shore.

El Estero

Also known as the Tamarindo Rivermouth, El Estero offers two sets of waves. On the south side, El Estero breaks right, while the north side of the rivermouth breaks lefts. El Estero is about a 10-minute walk from Tamarindo and can be surprisingly crowded at times. Also, make sure not to get tangled up with fishermen and their fishing hooks.

Playa Langosta

Approximately one mile south of Tamarindo's beaches is Playa Langosta. The waves at Playa Langosta are really good at mid-high tide, but during low tide the waves are somewhat flat. Also, certain areas of the surf are rocky. Nevertheless, Playa Langosta is a good surf and hardly ever becomes as crowded as Tamarindo.

Reference: Skip Davis (2012) Surfing Spots in Tamarindo
Retrieved from: http://www.goodliferetreats.com/costa-rica/destinations/tamarindo/surfing/;

Author: Skip Davis

February 14, 2012

Tamarindo Restaurants

Tamarindo Restaurants

By Josh Huddleston

This is undoubtedly one of the most common and recommended travel destinations for any vacation group. The landscape and accommodations are breathtaking and speak for themselves. From the food to the most beautiful sunsets in Central America, Tamarindo has it all. Check out these great places to eat on your vacation: 1. Nibbana Beach Bar- Enjoy fine dining on the beach with great service and delicious French, Mediterranean, and seafood dishes. 2. Seasons by Shlomy- Affordable delicious and original dining away from the crowds in Tamarindo. Specializes in Mediterranean Cuisine, found in Hotel Arco Iris. 3. Sushi Club- Great small Japanese sushi restaurant with outstanding service known as a local favorite with a laid back atmosphere. 4. Eat@Joes (Witches Rock Surf Camp)- This a very fun beachfront restaurant choice. Enjoy fresh food under some palapa umbrellas with great music while watching surfers. Or ... You could try the custom cuisine and call Julie @ "Maise de Medeleine". She will prepare an excellent meal at your condo based on your tastes and her skill.

Reference: Josh Huddleston (2011) Tamarindo Restaurants
Retrieved from: http://www.goodliferetreats.com/costa-rica/destinations/tamarindo/restaurants/;

Author: Josh Huddleston

October 15, 2011

Tamarindo: Costa Rica’s Laid-Back Hub

Tamarindo: Costa Rica’s Laid-Back Hub

By Josh Huddleston & Skip Davis

The most developed area on Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula is the bustling town of Tamarindo. Beautiful beaches and a vivid nightlife makes Tamarindo a popular destination for vacationers. Not to mention some of the best surfing in Guanacaste is available at the nearby towns of Playa Grande and Playa Langosta. Tamarindo is also teeming with surf shops and a diverse dining scene.

Beaches

Tamarindo's tropical beaches are the biggest draw for tourists to this hopping beach town. During the day, you will see surfers hitting the waves at one of Tamarindo's three beaches: Tamarindo Beachbreak, Pico Pequeno and El Estero. As a result, Tamarindo has become a popular destination for surf schools and there are waves for beginner and expert surfers alike. Tamarindo's beaches are also long, which enables them to handle large crowds – of which there are very few of in this city. When sunset arrives, it is a seemingly spiritual tradition for everyone in Tamarindo to stand on the shores and watch the sun fade into the distance. During full moons, it is not uncommon for beach parties to happen in Tamarindo. Knowledge of these parties are spread by word of mouth, so be sure to make some friends on your vacation.

Recreation

Are you an outdoorsy type who likes to explore the terrestrial surrounds of Tamarindo? Aside from surfing, ATV riding and hiking are the most immediate recreational activities Tamarindo offers. This city is home to several ATV and hiking tour guides who provide friendly services and unforgettable experiences. Most ATV and hiking trails are in the hills surrounding Tamarindo, but sunset rides along the beach are also available. Do not forget to visit the Tamarindo Reserve, where hiking will lead you to howler monkeys while walking amongst the region's beautiful plant life.

Dining

Whether you want sushi or local 'tipico' food, Tamarindo has a wide variety of restaurants with amazing tastes. Tamarindo is home to lots of expatriates from all over the world who have blessed the city with a diverse choice of restaurant selections. Argentinian, Italian, Asian, Greek. The list goes on and on. And the best part is the food is much more inexpensive in Tamarindo than at comparable restaurants in the United States and Europe. (read more)

Shopping

Forgot your surf gear at home? No worries! Tamarindo's main streets are littered with surf shops and rentals. Be it rash guards, wax, board shorts. The surf shops in Tamarindo probably have what you need. A good tip: Some surf shops are pricier than others, so be sure to check all the shops to compare prices. Tamarindo also has souvenir shops that are befitted for a tourist destination. While many of the items at these shops are tchochke souvenirs, you may find some gems. Also, loved ones back home always like it when you thought of them on your trip.

Playa Grande

Located just north of Tamarindo, Playa Grande is a tranquil beachside surfer community. Playa Grande is not nearly as developed as its neighboring city, but that makes it all the more appealing for travelers who wish to relax and meditate on their vacation. This city has some high quality restaurants and features one of the few nesting sites of the leatherback sea turtles. (read more)

Playa Langosta

Playa Langosta lies to the immediate south of Tamarindo and primarily consists of vacation homes and resorts. One of the better beaches in the Tamarindo area is Playa Langosta, which is in front of the Barcelo Hotel. Langosta has a more laid-back attitude than its northern neighbor, but is only a five-minute drive Tamarindo's groceries, shops and restaurants. (read more)

Reference: Josh Huddleston & Skip Davis (2011) Tamarindo: Costa Rica’s Laid-Back Hub
Retrieved from: http://www.goodliferetreats.com/costa-rica/destinations/tamarindo/;

Author: Josh Huddleston & Skip Davis

August 18, 2011