Tamarindo nightlife has a reputation for lively nights out, but the version we love most is far more relaxed. Evenings tend to fall into an easy rhythm. Sunset drinks over the Pacific, a dinner you actually take your time with, and perhaps one last drink if the mood is there. When you are staying with us at The Point Luxury Villa, you have the advantage of starting the night somewhere private and comfortable, then heading into town only when it feels right.
Below is how we see the most elevated nights play out, with local, practical advice that helps you enjoy the town and still end the night feeling like you had a holiday.
KICK-OFF WITH SUNSET APERITIVOS AT THE POINT
If you do one thing differently in Tamarindo, do this: begin the night at home. Not because town is not worth it, but because the energy of your whole evening changes when you start slowly.
Here is where Angel, The Point’s Butler, really comes into his own. His signature cocktails are the kind guests talk about, mixed to your taste, chilled to perfection, served alongside something salty and delectable to snack on. The good thing is that the Tamarindo nightlife scene doesn’t really kick off until later in the evening, so there’s never any reason to rush.
Local tip from us: give yourself a buffer. If you want a 7:00 pm dinner reservation, aim to start drinks at the villa around 5:15 or 5:30 pm. That gives you time to enjoy the view, freshen up, and still arrive in town calm and on time.
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FINE DINING IN TAMARINDO, COSTA RICA: OUR TOP 3 FAVORITES
The best part of fine dining in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is that it isn’t the formal big-city bling, but more of a warm, beachside version with exceptional ingredients and a setting that does a lot of the talking. In high season, tables go quickly, so you will be happiest if you pick your restaurant earlier in the day and ask our Concierge to lock it in.
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Pangas Beach Club: oceanfront dinner with a stunning setting
Pangas is a classic for a reason. It is right on the beach, and it nails that rare mix of polished and relaxed. Dinner service typically runs from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm, and reservations are absolutely required.
We usually suggest booking Pangas for an early dinner so you can enjoy the change from daylight to dusk. This is one of those places where arriving early makes all the difference. Let us know if you are looking to celebrate something, so we can book a seafront table for you to make the most of the beautiful setting. The menu at Pangas leans toward fresh seafood and refined ingredients, and it’s the perfect spot for a long, slow dinner.
Dragonfly Bar and Grill: creative plates and a great evening flow
Dragonfly is a favourite when you want an evening that feels lively but still polished. The vibe here strikes a balance between energetic and intimate, making it a great option for couples or small groups who enjoy creative food and well-crafted cocktails.
This is a popular spot year-round, so we always recommend reserving ahead, especially if you have a specific night or time in mind.
Fish & Cheese: intimate dining close to The Point
If you’re after something understated and close to home, Fish & Cheese is a lovely option. Just around the corner from The Point, it is small, thoughtfully run, and well suited to a slower, more conversational dinner.
The focus here is on quality ingredients and well-judged flavors rather than formality. It is ideal for nights when you want excellent food without committing to a long night out. Next door, their recently opened wine cellar offers a relaxed lounge-style space with a strong wine selection, making it easy to extend the evening without leaving the neighborhood.
If your goal is “fine dining Tamarindo Costa Rica” in a way that still feels very tropical, these three are a reliable starting point. From there, you can customize the night based on what kind of energy you want afterward.
THE CHIC VERSION OF TAMARINDO NIGHTLIFE: COCKTAILS, BEACH LOUNGES, AND A GOOD NIGHTCAP
Tamarindo offers plenty of options for a nightcap, but the most enjoyable evenings tend to be the ones where you choose a single stop and settle in. A beachfront lounge can be perfect if you want to stay close to the ocean, while a dedicated cocktail bar suits nights when the drinks and crowd are the highlight.
CATA Agave Bar
CATA is a favourite for guests who enjoy a calm atmosphere and beautifully made drinks. Located above Nogui’s, it offers a carefully curated selection of mezcal and tequila in a setting that feels relaxed and inviting. It works especially well as a post-dinner stop when you want to enjoy a proper drink without committing to a late night.
If you prefer something simpler, Nogui’s downstairs remains a Tamarindo classic. It is casual, welcoming, and a great place to end the evening with dessert or a final drink before heading home. We totally recommend the amazing coconut pie.
LIVE MUSIC AND EVENTS: THE CULTURAL SIDE OF TAMARINDO NIGHTLIFE
Live music and special events are part of Tamarindo nightlife, but the best way to enjoy them is to stay flexible because that’s how our local schedule works, anyhow. If there is something specific happening during your stay, such as a ticketed event or a one-off evening worth dressing up for, we are always happy to flag it in advance and help you plan around it if you’re interested.
For guests who want one livelier night during their stay, Chiquitas Bar is a great fit. The atmosphere is social and friendly, often with live music which attracts a mix of locals, long-term residents, and visitors. It is the kind of place where you can stay for one drink or end up dancing longer than planned. We usually suggest saving this for one evening of the week and keeping the rest of your nights slower and more relaxed.
Insider tip: very few people choose to stay in a luxury villa rental in Tamarindo and head out to town every single night. There is so much to do here with morning yoga classes, massages, snorkeling, and diving excursions. We suggest picking one or two “late night” evenings for your week-long stay. On the other nights, let sundowners, dinner, and a nightcap be enough. You will sleep better, surf better, and enjoy all the amazing offerings the next day much more!
Getting around after dark in Tamarindo
For evenings out, we always recommend letting us handle the logistics. Whether you prefer to walk into town or have a driver arranged, having a clear plan in place makes the whole night feel smoother. It also gives you the freedom to relax, enjoy your evening fully, and return to the villa whenever you are ready. Your personal Concierge can handle all this for you.
After years of hosting guests at The Point, we have noticed that the most memorable nights in Tamarindo are rarely the busiest ones. They are the evenings that feel well-paced and thoughtfully chosen, with a beautiful sunset at the villa, one excellent dinner reservation, and perhaps a final drink somewhere you can actually hear each other speak.
If you tell us what kind of night you are hoping for, romantic, celebratory, or simply relaxed, we will guide you toward the right reservations and timing so your evening is effortless from start to finish.
Contact us directly to know more about booking your luxury stay in Costa Rica’s beachside haven, Tamarindo.
