Costa Rica Private Beach Day Trip & Bonfire Dinner

Summary

Tamarindo Coastal Adventure with Snorkeling & Sunset Grill

Spend your day exploring three different beaches near Tamarindo—snorkeling if you want, hiking to hidden spots, and capping it off with grilled shrimp skewers by a beach bonfire. Local guides handle everything from pickup to fresh ceviche and gear so you can just relax into Costa Rica’s pura vida vibe.

What’s the experience like?

We were already sweating a bit when we piled into the van in Tamarindo—sun barely up, air sticky and salty. Our guide, Diego, swung us by a tiny grocery store first (“You’ll want cold drinks for later,” he grinned), and I grabbed some guava juice and plantain chips. The drive north was bumpy but kind of fun, windows down, wind whipping my hair while Diego pointed out howler monkeys in the trees. Honestly, I didn’t expect Pirates Bay to look so clear—the water almost see-through blue—and the sand felt warm and soft under my toes.

We hit three beaches that day. The second one? Only reachable after a short hike through scrubby hills. It wasn’t easy (my legs still remember those steps), but the view from up top—just ocean everywhere—was worth it. Some folks snorkeled near the rocks; I just floated for a bit, listening to the splashy sounds and watching little silver fish dart around my ankles. Diego told stories about old pirate caves nearby—he even showed us where you could see marks on the stone from old tools.

By late afternoon, we set up camp at our last stop. There was this smoky smell from the bonfire mixing with sea air—made me hungry fast. Shrimp skewers sizzled over the flames while someone mixed mojitos (minty and cold). We all sat in a loose circle, eating ceviche and laughing about who got sunburned worst. When it got dark enough, Diego handed out marshmallows for s’mores. The fire crackled; someone played music on their phone; honestly, I still think about that night sometimes when I smell woodsmoke.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tamarindo Beaches and Bonfire

• Stop at local grocery store
• Visit Pirates Bay beach
• Hike to second beach (optional)
• Set up camp at third beach
• Snorkeling and pirates' cave exploration (optional)
• Shrimp or beef skewers dinner
• Enjoy bonfire with s'mores

Top questions

Is this private beach day trip in Costa Rica suitable for families?

Yes, families are welcome as long as everyone is comfortable with some walking and outdoor activities.

What’s included in the Tamarindo beach tour?

The trip includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, use of snorkeling equipment, shrimp or pork skewers with ceviche for dinner, plus drinks at sunset.

Do I need to bring my own snacks or drinks?

You can buy snacks or drinks at the local grocery stop before heading to the beaches; main meals and some drinks are provided later.

How challenging is the hike during this Costa Rica private beach tour?

The hike is moderate—short but uphill in parts—so basic fitness helps but it’s not extreme.

What’s included

Your day comes with round-trip transport from Tamarindo in an air-conditioned van, all snorkeling gear provided by your local guide, plus grilled shrimp or pork skewers and fresh ceviche for dinner right on the sand as you relax by a bonfire at sunset.