Tamarindo in January
Great time to visit
January is Tamarindo at its most expensive and crowded, but also its most reliable weather-wise. You'll pay premium prices for guaranteed sunshine and perfect surf conditions.
Weather
Peak dry season hits Tamarindo hard in January. Expect blazing sunshine with virtually zero rain and humidity levels that actually feel comfortable. The Guanacaste winds kick up most afternoons, making beach time bearable even at midday.
33°C high22°C low1 rain days
Crowds & Cost
peak crowds
~$180/day average
Events & Festivals
- •New Year celebrations
- •Fiestas de Palmares (nearby)
January Tips
- •Book accommodations 4-6 months ahead - this is prime time
- •Hit the beach before 11am or after 3pm to avoid the worst crowds
- •Rent a car early in your trip; they sell out fast
All Months
December through April means guaranteed sunshine and consistent offshore winds that clean up the surf. This is high season, so expect crowds and prices to match. January and February offer the sweet spot: perfect weather without Christmas chaos. March brings the biggest swells of the dry season. But here's what guidebooks won't tell you: early rainy season (May-June) can be magical. Fewer tourists, green landscapes, and afternoon storms that clear quickly. Just avoid September and October when roads wash out and waves disappear. The transition months of November and late April give you decent weather with shoulder season prices.
Tamarindo Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
8/10
Families
7/10
Adventure
9/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
7/10
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