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Retire in Tamarindo, Costa Rica | Expat Exchange
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Retire in Tamarindo, Costa Rica

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By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on May 09, 2024

Summary: Tamarindo, Costa Rica is a popular destination for retirees due to its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant culture. There are several retirement communities in Tamarindo, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two bedroom home in Tamarindo is typically around $200,000 USD, while a nice three bedroom home can cost around $300,000 USD. The weather in Tamarindo is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit.

What is it like to retire in Tamarindo?

"Retiring in Tamarindo can offer retirees an exciting and relaxed lifestyle. The small beach town is home to several bars, restaurants, and boutiques. The sun-drenched climate makes it perfect for outdoor activities such as surfing, hiking, and swimming. There are also plenty of golf courses and spas to take advantage of. Due to the cost of living being relatively low, retirees may find that their money will stretch further in terms of comfort. Plus, with a strong expat community, retirees can find plenty of support and company," commented one retiree living in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

"I am retired and live across the estuary from Tamarindo. While I find Tamarindo too touristy for full-time living, I prefer the quieter beach communities nearby, such as Playa Grande, Playa Brasalito, and Playa Avellanas. I have settled in Playa Grande, enjoying its tranquility and natural beauty. Although I visit Tamarindo almost weekly to take advantage of its amenities and activities, I love returning to the peacefulness of my smaller, quieter community away from the hustle and bustle," explained one retiree living in Tamarindo.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"When considering retiring abroad, it is important to research the location and familiarize yourself with the culture and local customs. Make sure to take into account cost of living, accessibility, healthcare and quality of life. Try to spend as much time as possible in the prospective country before deciding to move there permanently. Consider whether the climate and surroundings are suitable for your lifestyle. Consult with a financial and tax advisor to have an understanding of the local financial laws and regulations. Be sure to check the visa requirements and what kind of residency you will need in case of long-term stay. Learn the language of the country you plan on living in and make new social connections. Furthermore, ensure you are covered with adequate travel, health and property insurance for peace of mind. Finally, it is advisable to continue to invest and manage your finances wisely for an enjoyable and secure retirement," explained a retiree in Tamarindo.

"My wife and I retired to Costa Rica in 2013. Something we did that we felt helped was to prepare some "lists" before our scouting trips to CR: The first list was of things that we considered "essential" for where we planned to live (including housing, nearby conveniences, such as stores and restaurants, proximity to the beach and to an airport, etc.) The second list included items that would be nice to have but would not be essential; and the third list was of things we would like to avoid. It helped us to agree on what we wanted and helped us narrow down areas to look in," explained one retiree living in Tamarindo.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Tamarindo?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Tamarindo is the cost of living. Although the cost of living is generally lower than in the United States, it can still be expensive for retirees on a fixed income. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Spanish. Tamarindo is a popular tourist destination, so the cost of housing can be high, and it can be difficult to find affordable housing. Finally, the healthcare system in Costa Rica is not as advanced as in the United States, so retirees may need to travel to larger cities for medical care," remarked one retiree in Tamarindo.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Tamarindo?

"Retiring in Tamarindo offers a variety of rewarding experiences. The area is known for its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant culture. Residents can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, such as surfing, fishing, and hiking. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an affordable place to retire. Additionally, the friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere make it a great place to make new friends and build a community," said a retiree who moved to Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

What are healthcare services like in Tamarindo?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Tamarindo. They wrote:

"Tamarindo offers a variety of healthcare services for both locals and visitors. The town has several private clinics and hospitals that provide medical care, including general practice, emergency services, and specialist care. Additionally, there are several pharmacies in the area that offer over-the-counter medications and other health-related products. Tamarindo also has a number of dentists and optometrists who provide services such as check-ups, cleanings, and vision tests," said a person in Tamarindo.

How do I meet people in Tamarindo?

When we asked people living in Tamarindo about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Tamarindo often join clubs and activities such as yoga, surfing, and Spanish classes. Expats also meet people through local events such as farmers markets, art galleries, and music festivals. Additionally, many expats join social media groups and attend meetups to connect with other expats in the area. Finally, expats often meet people through their work, by attending local churches, or by simply striking up conversations with people they meet in the community," said one retiree in Tamarindo.

What is life like in Tamarindo?

When we asked people living in Tamarindo what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Tamarindo is generally quite pleasant. The town is known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning beaches, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The cost of living is relatively low, and the local people are friendly and welcoming. There is a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes to explore, and the nightlife is vibrant. The town is also well-connected, with good internet access and plenty of coworking spaces. Tamarindo is a great place to live and work, and many expats and digital nomads find it to be an ideal destination," said one retiree in living in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Tamarindo?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Tamarindo, they said:

"My wife and I lived in Tamarindo for 5 years. (We now live in southern Nicaragua near our daughter, son-in-law, and two granddaughters.) When we first visited Tamarindo, it felt like driving into a California beach town from the 1960's. We liked the beach front road and string of beach restaurants. But it is also very popular for tourists, so the town is often packed with tourists, which can get a bit annoying. However, there are also low tourist seasons when the town is very pleasant. We liked that we could easily walk to many restaurants in town, And we owned a nice condo with a great view of the bay," explained one retiree living in Tamarindo.

"Tamarindo is a popular destination for expats looking to retire. Before making the move, it is important to understand the cost of living, the availability of healthcare, and the local culture. It is also important to research the local laws and regulations, as well as the climate and weather patterns. Additionally, it is important to understand the language barrier, as Spanish is the primary language spoken in Costa Rica. Finally, it is important to research the local job market and the availability of recreational activities," said one retiree in living in Tamarindo, Costa Rica.

What type of recreational activities are there in Tamarindo?

"Tamarindo is a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy the beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. There are many recreational facilities available for visitors to enjoy, including surfing, fishing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. For those looking to relax, there are plenty of spas and yoga studios to choose from. Tamarindo also offers a variety of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs for visitors to enjoy. For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are plenty of ATV tours, zip-lining, and horseback riding tours available. There are also plenty of hiking trails and wildlife reserves to explore. Tamarindo is a great destination for those looking to enjoy the outdoors and have a great time," explained one retiree living in Tamarindo.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Tamarindo?

"Tamarindo is a popular destination for expats, and there are plenty of places to buy groceries and do other shopping. Super Compro is a popular grocery store located in the center of town, and it offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, and other items. For more specialized items, there is the Tamarindo Farmers Market, which is held every Saturday morning and offers a variety of local products. For other shopping needs, there are several stores in town, such as the Tamarindo Outlet, which sells clothing, accessories, and home goods, and the Tamarindo Surf Shop, which offers a variety of surf and beachwear," explained one retiree living in Tamarindo.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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