Two things you should bring from home that are very overpriced here - sunscreen and mosquito repellent (there is a little pesky thing called Dengue Fever, but hey, it’s paradise otherwise). Everything else you can purchase here. Beach and resort wear boutiques are plentiful, bikini shops on every block. You can even get a custom made bikini at Papaya Con Leche - expert at all shapes and sizes. www.papayaconleche.com. And the pharmacies have everything and few require prescriptions.
Where to Stay - choices run the gamut with a few large all inclusive hotels, small boutique hotels, budget hostels, and a huge market of condo and villa vacation rentals. When I travel alone, but don’t want to feel alone, the best choice Hotel Villa Amarilla. The owners welcome you like family and most visitors come back again and again. I spend time there even when I’m not staying there because the vibe is so welcoming and festive. The rooms are cool and clean, breakfast is an abundant continental spread and the location is right on the beach in the heart of all the action. Check out this solo traveler’s experience at Villa Amarilla and get a great insider look at Tamarindo https://youtu.be/k334BHom3QU, (www.hotelvillaamarilla.com). If I’m looking for a quieter getaway to read, write and totally relax, there is no better place than magical Sueno del Mar Bed & Breakfast just down the beach in sleepy residential Langosta (www.sueno-del-mar.com). The daily breakfast is lovingly prepared and the staff are warm and help you with all your needs. If you’re on a tight budget but still want nice and fun, check out Tamarindo Backpackers Hostel just a short walk to the beach, nice pool and fun people from around the world that love to surf, go to yoga and just be social (www.tamabackpackers.com). There are so many more lovely options, but these are a few to get you started. Trust me, you can waste a lot of time trying to decide between the hundreds of options on booking.com and airbnb.com.