Deep Travel Guide for Digital Nomads in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

One Planet Journey’s Cecilia Taylor, tries digital nomad life in Tamarindo, Costa Rica. In this in-depth travel guide, learn why Costa Rica is a haven for digital nomads and remote workers. Cecilia gives you the places to work, stay, and play in Tamarindo, as well as a list of other cities suitable for digital nomads in Costa Rica. Includes tips on how to maximise your time to get the most authentic and pure Costa Rican experience.

Pura Vida – A Joyful Approach to Life

The moment you arrive in Costa Rica, one Spanish phrase pops up everywhere: Pura Vida. It means “pure life” if you’re going by direct translation, but ask anyone here and they’ll tell you it’s much more than that. It’s a mindset: a laid-back, grateful, and a perpetually sunny outlook that Costa Ricans have. A deep appreciation for life’s small pleasures and a strong connection to the natural environment. You’ll see it printed across t-shirts, scrawled on café signs, plastered onto bumper stickers. Think of it as the national heartbeat. And honestly, it fits. When a place boasts thick, wild jungles, untouched stretches of beach, volcanoes that look like movie backdrops, and stunning waterfalls, why would you ever take it for granted?

Returning to Costa Rica

For my second time visiting Costa Rica, I headed to the Guanacaste Province on the Pacific coast. I set up in Tamarindo, a colourful little beach town that’s equal parts laid-back and lively. I’d been here before, but on this occasion I brought my remote internship with me, ditching Atlanta’s heavy summer air for a tropical climate, and a better work-day rhythm.

Getting to Tamarindo is pretty straightforward. You can fly into Liberia Airport, or arrange transport from San José Mineta International Airport in the capital city of San José. Spanish is the primary language, and although you’ll hear English fairly often, especially in spots that see a lot of tourists, it’s still smart to learn a few basic phrases for transport, ordering food, or asking for help. Google Translate is handy too; download Spanish for offline use or to chat in real time. As for money, Costa Rica uses the colón, and you’ll find plenty of ATMs in all the principal towns and cities mentioned in this digital nomad guide for Tamarindo.

Why Costa Rica and Tamarindo is a Haven for Digital Nomads, Content Creators and Remote Workers

Let’s be honest: there are a lot of places around the world competing for the attention of digital nomads and remote workers. But Costa Rica, and especially Tamarindo, ticks many of the right boxes.

A Digital Nomad Visa That Actually Works

One of the biggest wins? Costa Rica’s Digital Nomad Visa. It takes the usual 90-day tourist stay and stretches it to a full year, and you can even renew it for another. You’re also exempt from income tax while here, and also allowed to open a local bank account. That’s huge. Make sure to go over the requirements carefully before you apply. It’s not complicated, but you’ll want your paperwork in order.

Ideal Weather

If sunshine helps your mood (and your productivity), Tamarindo’s weather is a dream. Expect warm, beachy temperatures pretty much all year, often somewhere between 26ºC and 35ºC. October can be rainy, but the rest of the time, even when it does rain, it’s usually a light afternoon shower, lasting up to an hour. And unlike the cooler, cloudier parts of inland Costa Rica, the west coast means shorts and tank-top as your daily uniform.

Flexible Accommodation for all Budgets

Finding a spot to live as a digital Nomad in Costa Rica is easy, whether you’re staying for a few weeks or setting up for the long haul. You’ve got the entire range of accommodations for any budget. Hostels with built-in social life, chill apartments you can rent for a few months, and plenty of boutique or luxury options if you’re after comfort or a shorter stay. Something worth looking into: some places have a government-issued Certification of Sustainable Tourism, which means they protect the environment and support the local community.

A Healthy and Balanced Lifestyle

Tamarindo makes it easy to live well. You can wake up early for yoga or a surf session, grab a smoothie bowl on your way back, and still be at your laptop before most of your friends log on. The town’s full of places to stay active, whether it’s paddle boarding, pickup soccer, or joining a fitness class. And when it comes to food, there’s a glorious mix of local dishes and international ones, with plenty of healthy choices in between.

Ease of Navigability

You can find most of Tamarindo’s accommodation offerings centred around one main beach side boulevard, making it easy to walk just about everywhere. You’ll stumble on everything from handmade jewellery stalls to surf shops, cafes, and local fashion boutiques, all without the need for a car or even much of a plan.

Safety and Security

People know Costa Rica as one of the safest countries in Central America, and I can say from personal experience Tamarindo feels that way, especially as a solo female traveller. Of course, like anywhere, it’s important to stay aware. Keep an eye on your drink, trust your gut with ride apps or social meetups, and don’t go it alone if a situation seems off. That said, it’s super easy to meet fellow digital nomads and stick together, which makes a big difference.

Cafés and Hostels that Offer Reliable Wi-Fi for Digital Nomads in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Nordico Coffee House: A gloriously air-conditioned café away from the main beach boulevard. Nordico has excellent coffee and a delicious menu. Everything needed to fuel a day of remote work.

Pico Bistro: My go-to place for answering emails with my feet in the sand, Pico is a modern café/restaurant with refreshing iced coffee and nourishing lunch bowls.

La Oveja Surf House: A breezy restaurant with nice decor, a chill playlist, and large tables where you can set up your laptop and lock in for the day.

In the Shade Hotel and Coworking: A calm, modern 3-star hotel with daily, weekly, and monthly coworking passes for non-guests.

While many cafés and restaurants offer high-speed internet, buying a local SIM card is the best way to ensure a fast connection anywhere you open your laptop. Keep in mind that for jobs where you need privacy for calling, it may save you stress to find a home rental with reliable Wi-Fi.

Dreamsea Surf Camp: An International Hub for Free Spirits to Connect over the Outdoors

During my time in Tamarindo, I volunteered and stayed at Dreamsea Surf Camp on the edge of the town. Dreamsea Surf camps are located all over the world and attract a high-energy community of surfers, yoga enthusiasts, and content creators. No matter when you visit, there is always a communal atmosphere of young people gathering, debating the merits of the royal family over dinner, putting on sunscreen and chatting at the outdoor sink, and singing spirited songs at the bar.

While the camp offers various programming every day, including surf trips and waterfall excursions, the only demand on your time as a volunteer is a daily chore such as sweeping the open-air dormitories, helping the kitchen prepare banana pancakes, or cleaning the dishes afterwards. The rest of the day is yours to seize: to find your perfect office-away-from-home and embrace the luxury of remote work in paradise. 

Nature encounters 

I will always fondly remember waking up to sunrise cries of howler monkeys, rustling out of my top bunk, and sprawling out on the camp tree-branch platform to journal before a day of work at the beach. Later in the morning, the camp’s beloved jeep would come around to the entrance, and everyone clambered in after mounting their surfboards on top, ready for surfing and relaxation. The camp’s motto, “Collect moments, not things,” embodies a central part of the deep travel philosophy.

A memorable moment at Dreamsea occurred when one of the British guests ran through the camp with just a towel on, alerting everyone that a gigantic spider had jumped onto his leg while he showered. The camp director chuckled and said it was probably not the Brazilian wandering spider, but its harmless look-alike. Still, he told the guest to let him know if there were any changes to his leg. So, if you are an adventurous traveller looking for an authentic live-in-nature experience, Costa Rica has endless accommodation options where you have the jungle right on your doorstep.

Other Costa Rican Hotspots for Digital Nomads

Even in a laid-back paradise, your lifestyle and routines can start to feel, well… routine. If Tamarindo’s slow pace has you itching for a little variety, or if your creativity could use a spark, a short trip might be just what you need. Here are some favourite spots to refresh your perspective, without straying far from the nomadic lifestyle.

Nosara

Close to Tamarindo, Nosara is perfect if you want something familiar but slightly different. It’s an easy-going surf town with that same chilled-out vibe, only it leans even more into wellness and eco-living. The beach is wide and open, with solid waves better suited to intermediate or advanced surfers. It’s got just enough energy to shake things up without overwhelming you.

Montezuma

Head south and you’ll find Montezuma, a colourful, artistic beach town with a bohemian feel and a strong expat presence. The main beach is a shell collector’s dream, and it’s a place where artists, writers, and wanderers unwind. That said, it’s remote (think long drives or a ferry ride), and the Wi-Fi isn’t always reliable, so it might be better for a digital detox than a full workweek.

Santa Teresa

If you’re after beauty and a touch more sophistication, Santa Teresa might be your scene. Another favourite among surfers, it attracts a wide mix of visitors from around the world. It takes some effort to reach, similar to Montezuma, but it’s worth it. The beach is stunning, and the food is surprisingly creative. If you go, don’t miss Eat Street, a hidden gem packed with flavour.

Monteverde

Tucked into the northwest mountains is Monteverde, Costa Rica’s adventure capital. The Cloud Forest Reserve is a must-see, like stepping straight into a National Geographic spread. It’s a haven for thrill-seekers too, with zip lining, bungee jumping, and whitewater rafting on offer. I highly recommend Extremo Monteverde Park for an adrenaline-fuelled day. I spent a few days working from Selina Monteverde and had a smooth experience at my hostel, Selina Monteverde, and so did other digital nomads there. But do note that internet speeds vary because of the altitude.

La Fortuna

If there’s one landmark that defines La Fortuna, it’s the imposing Arenal Volcano (not active), always in view, no matter where you go. It’s a brilliant spot for adrenaline junkies, with ATV tours and hikes to La Fortuna waterfall where you can swim and take amazing pictures of the nature. The town also has a good mix of cafés and even some co-working spots, which makes it a strong contender for a longer workation.

Authentic Costa Rican Experiences

Sure, it can be fun connecting with fellow travellers from back home. It’s a great way to swap stories and build a community on the road. But if you’re trying to lean into the whole “deep travel” mindset, sometimes you’ve got to make a conscious effort to step away from the familiar and dive into something more authentic. I’ve even heard people jokingly refer to Tamarindo as “Tama-gringo” because of how much the beach towns have gentrified, thanks to the steady stream of tourists looking for acai bowls and all-night party hostels.

One of the best ways to avoid falling into that trap? Ditch the strict itinerary. Wander a little. Ask locals for recommendations, not just where they send the tourists. Costa Ricans are famously warm and welcoming, but like I mentioned before, a moderate attempt to speak the language goes a long way in showing respect.

Now, I love a café with good Wi-Fi as much as the next remote worker. They’re great for knocking out a few hours of focused work. But you’d be missing something if you didn’t check out the sodas. These are the local, no-frills Tico (Costa Rican) eateries, usually family-run, super affordable, and refreshingly slow-paced. Expect big plates with staples like rice, black beans, sweet plantains, and mouthwatering meats. Think rich beef stews or crispy chicharrón. Just the smell drifting out of the doorway is enough to pull you in. It’s in these small, everyday moments, watching a family linger over lunch, laughing and catching up, that the whole “Pura Vida” philosophy hits you.

Being a Conscious Digital Nomad in Costa Rica 

Another integral part of that “Pura Vida” spirit is about living in sync with nature. And honestly, if we want these stunning places to stick around, we all have to do our bit. Bring a reusable water bottle, reduce plastic use, and think about how much water you’re using. Walk or bike when you can. Hop in a rideshare instead of renting a car solo. For digital nomads, these tiny lifestyle changes become second nature fast, and they’re easy to carry back into your everyday life after you leave.

Lastly, be mindful of what you’re posting online and on social media. Are you only sharing shots from the most popular spots, the ones already swamped with tourists? Or are you highlighting people and places that are actually helping their communities thrive? One of the biggest perks of being a digital nomad is having the time to go deeper. So use it. Get to know the genuine version of the places you visit, and tell those stories too.

Tamarindo, Costa Rica – A Digital Nomad Dream

I only spent a month in Tamarindo, but honestly, I didn’t need more time to see why it’s such a perfect spot for anyone looking to balance remote work with real-life adventure. Costa Rica is stunning, but it’s also incredibly welcoming to digital nomads. The government’s Digital Nomad Visa makes staying longer super easy, and there’s a solid community of other remote workers around to connect with, swap stories, and maybe even collaborate.

And then there is everything you can do outside of work. Hike through rainforests, catch a few waves, or recharge with a yoga class. There’s always something to keep your mind and body inspired. It’s the kind of place where “work-life balance” doesn’t feel like a buzzword. It happens naturally.

Pack your water shoes, some bug spray, and your camera. Your colleagues back home might not forgive you, but you’ll be too relaxed to care.

Have you been to Costa Rica? Did you go as a digital nomad? Let us know in the comments. Subscribe to our newsletter and benefit from travel guides, sustainable tourism and luxury travel tips, insightful interviews, and inspirational places to visit. One Planet Journey – The World’s First Deep Travel Magazine.