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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Tamarindo
Tamarindo
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Tamarindo
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Tamarindo
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Tamarindo
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Hire a Car in Tamarindo?
Tamarindo, Costa Rica, is a vibrant beach town known for its surfing, stunning beaches, and lush landscapes. While taxis and shuttles are available, hiring a car offers the freedom to explore this beautiful region at your own pace. Discover hidden gems and enjoy the ultimate flexibility during your visit.
Unrestricted Exploration: A rental car allows you to easily visit multiple beaches, national parks, and local attractions without being tied to rigid schedules or expensive tours.
Cost-Effective for Groups: If you're travelling with family or friends, hiring a car is often more economical than paying for individual transportation for excursions.
Access to Remote Locations: Many of Costa Rica’s most beautiful spots are off the beaten path. With a rental car, you can navigate to secluded beaches and explore the countryside at your leisure.
Convenience and Comfort: Enjoy the comfort of your own vehicle, perfect for carrying surfboards, beach gear, and shopping finds.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Tamarindo
Before hiring a car in Tamarindo, ensure you understand the local rental terms and conditions. These guidelines cover essential aspects of hiring a car, helping to ensure a smooth and hassle-free driving experience.
Area
Approximately 500 square kilometres (193 square miles) in the greater Guanacaste province
Population
Approximately 6,000 residents in Tamarindo town
Time Zone
GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)
Ideal for
Exploring beaches and national parks
Rush Hours
Expect some congestion during peak tourist season, especially around midday and late afternoon
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car hire companies in Tamarindo require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Some companies may have additional restrictions or surcharges for drivers under 25.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence from your home country is typically accepted for rentals. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your licence is not in English or Spanish. Always carry your passport for identification.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is often included in rental agreements, but it's advisable to consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) for peace of mind. A security deposit is usually required and held on your credit card until the car is returned without damage.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyMost rentals offer unlimited mileage, but confirm this with the rental company. The fuel policy usually requires returning the car with the same fuel level as when it was picked up to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesAdditional fees may apply for extras such as GPS navigation, child seats, or additional drivers. Be aware of potential charges for late returns or driving violations.
Car Hire Prices in Tamarindo – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £41 / $52 / €49 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €24 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Executive:
from £32 / $40 / €38 per day
7 Seater:
from £36 / $45 / €43 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €24 per day
SUV:
from £10 / $13 / €12 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (December to April): Higher demand leads to prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (May to November): Often come with significant discounts due to lower tourist traffic
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Tamarindo?
To secure a rental car in Tamarindo, follow these steps for a straightforward booking experience. Ensure you have all required documentation for a smooth pickup.
1. Compare Prices - Use online comparison sites to find the best deals from various rental companies based on your travel dates and car preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, considering factors such as size, fuel efficiency, and terrain capability for exploring the diverse landscapes.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review the rental agreement for mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid any surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and ensure vehicle availability by booking your car rental well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, passport, and credit card when collecting your rental car. Inspect the car for any existing damage before driving off.
General Information About Tamarindo
Tamarindo is a renowned coastal town in Costa Rica, famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant surf scene. Understanding local driving conditions and regulations is key to a smooth rental experience.
As a popular tourist destination, Tamarindo offers a mix of natural beauty and lively town amenities. While compact, having a car allows easy exploration of nearby beaches and national parks. However, familiarise yourself with local traffic laws, fuel station locations, and parking options to ensure a stress-free driving experience.
Top Attractions to Discover
Tamarindo Beach
A must-visit for surfing, sunbathing, and enjoying the vibrant beach atmosphere.
Las Baulas National Marine Park
Known for its leatherback turtle nesting sites and beautiful mangrove estuaries.
Playa Grande
A quieter beach north of Tamarindo, perfect for surfing and nature walks.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Several public parking lots are available in Tamarindo town, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Limited on-street parking is available, but be mindful of parking regulations and time limits.
Hotel Parking
Many hotels offer free parking for guests, so check with your accommodation.
Gas Stations in Tamarindo
Availability
Several gas stations are located on the main roads leading into and out of Tamarindo.
Major Brands
Look for gas stations from major brands like RECOPE and Delta along the main highways.
Payment
Most gas stations accept both cash and credit cards.
Useful Tips for Visiting Tamarindo
Drive Carefully During Rainy Season
Roads can become slippery during the rainy season (May-November), so drive cautiously.
Be Aware of Wildlife
Watch out for wildlife crossing the roads, especially in rural areas.
Plan for Traffic Delays
Expect some traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons, especially around midday and late afternoon.
Use Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps for real-time traffic updates and directions.
Key Transportation Hubs in Tamarindo
Airports
Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR)
Located in Liberia, about an hour's drive from Tamarindo, it serves as the primary airport for international flights.
Tamarindo Airport (TNO)
A small domestic airport located just outside Tamarindo, offering flights to other destinations in Costa Rica.
Bus Stations
Tamarindo Bus Terminal
Located in the centre of town, it provides bus services to various destinations within Costa Rica, including Liberia and San José.
What Do You Need to Hire a Car in Tamarindo?
To hire a car in Tamarindo, Costa Rica, you’ll need to meet a few essential requirements. Here's what you'll typically need to provide:
A valid driver’s licence from your home country is generally accepted. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your licence is not in English or Spanish.
Most car hire companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, though some may have additional restrictions or surcharges for drivers under 25.
A valid credit card in the main driver’s name is required for the security deposit. Some rental companies may accept debit cards, but credit cards are generally preferred.
A passport is required for international renters as proof of identity.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Tamarindo as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Relaxing, good vibes
Chloe Miller
Reviewed: 13.09.2024
Tamarindo was perfect for our family! Exploring the area with our rental car was so easy and fun.
Sarah Jenkins
Reviewed: 01.04.2025
Chill vibes, good enough
Liam O'Connell
Reviewed: 18.01.2025
Great stop on our road trip! Tamarindo's beaches were stunning, although the souvenir shops felt a bit touristy.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 20.08.2024
Pretty chill, liked it
Ava Smith
Reviewed: 22.09.2024
Absolutely loved Tamarindo! Getting around with a car was a breeze, and the beaches were breathtaking. Perfect getaway.
Benjamin Harris
Reviewed: 25.12.2024
Loved exploring Tamarindo! Having a car made it so easy to discover all the hidden gems. Definitely recommend!
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 31.05.2025
Meh. Beaches okay, but kinda pricey.
Mike Jones
Reviewed: 28.10.2024