Tambor

The small fishing hamlet of Tambor sits not far from Curu National Wildlife Refuge. As a laid back, mixed-community of locals and foreign retirees, Tambor is nestled in an open volcanic valley, surrounded by forested hills. Its beach, Playa Tambor, is an exceptional location for swimming. The surf is calm, and the sea is a gleaming aquamarine.

Golf, tennis, and other activities are available in and around the town of Tambor, making this a favorite destination for those seeking developed tourism facilities within a quiet town. Day trips to nearby Cabo Blanco Reserve (Reserva Natural Absoluta Cabo Blanco) or the Guayabo and Negritos Islands give visitors great opportunities to experience the Nicoya's remarkable wildlife.

Located on the southern Nicoya Peninsula coast, Tambor encompasses much of the region natural beauty. An arch-shaped beach opens to the ever-calm Ballena Bay (Bahia Ballena). High bluffs surround the pristine beach and overlook its translucent, aquamarine water. The ocean is home to copious marine fauna. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving are popular activities among visitors eager to experience the underwater landscape.

Tambor offers a wide range of accommodations. Luxury resorts are certainly the trend. However, some budget lodging is also available. By way of luxury, one option includes an all-inclusive resort that features its own golf course.

Tambor holds the only airport in the southern Nicoya Peninsula, and domestic flights provide seamless access to this coastal hamlet. Otherwise, ferry transportation is available from Puntarenas to Paquera, 28 miles (45 km) away.

Tambor

Nicoya Peninsula, Costa Rica, Central America

Guided Tours

Snorkeling

Boat Tours

Horseback Riding

Hiking

ATV Tours

Zip Lines

Kayaking

Sport Fishing

Surf Lessons

& More

Average Rating

216 Reviews

Traveler Feedback

This entire trip was amazing the beaches are beautiful, the locals are welcoming, the food is delicious. If you like the beach this is a must do.

- KYLE G, APR 2018

We only stopped in Tambor to catch a flight back to San Jose after visiting Santa Teresa. Can’t say much about Tambor itself, but the people working at the airport were friendly.

- HAYDEN S, APR 2018

We were only here for a half hour waiting at the airport.

- JENNIFER G, NOV 2015

The Tambor area is rather recommended for people by car, as transportation to and from the hotel is made by private transfer which can be very expensive. Our favourite attraction was the Curu National Park, the path to the beach being really beautiful, though not very well indicated.

- LAVINIA P, APR 2014

We didn't stay in Tambor, although we did pass through it a few times. It was a nice area, not too touristy from what we could see. The locals were all helpful and made the effort to understand us. We did go to Curu Wildlife Reservation for a couple of days and that was fantastic. Great wildlife, a lot of fun things to do - hiking, swimming, snorkeling, and hanging out on the beach. The staff were very knowledgable and went out of their way to make us feel at home. Home cooked meals that wonderful!

- MARY K, FEB 2013

Safe, spacious, absolutely, hospitable, a blast, spot on.

- DEBORAH S, APR 2011

Tambor