Sunset catamaran Tamarindo: Snorkel and sail the Pacific

Float on noodles at a hidden beach, then unwind with tropical fruits and open bar

A 5-hour sunset catamaran tour from Tamarindo takes you sailing along the Costa Rican Pacific coast with time to snorkel, paddleboard, kayak or float at a secluded beach, then returns as the sky turns coral and gold. The crew serves a full meal and unlimited drinks, and depending on the season you may spot dolphins, sea turtles or humpback whales. A local crew and rooftop lounge with 360° views set the mood.

Step-by-step itinerary

Sunset catamaran experience in Tamarindo

• Admire Tamarindo coast and spot wildlife
• Snorkel, paddleboard, swim, or sunbathe
• Enjoy traditional meal and unlimited drinks
• Sail back to Tamarindo for sunset

The experience

You board the catamaran in Tamarindo and sail out along the wild coastline, watching for dolphins, sea turtles and seasonal whales as the boat moves through unspoiled waters. The crew points out the natural landscapes and biodiversity that make this stretch of coast distinctive. After an hour or so of sailing, the boat moors near a secluded beach where the real freedom starts: snorkel among tropical fish if the sea conditions allow it, paddleboard out from the boat, kayak to the shore, or float on a pool noodle and watch the water. Some travelers dive straight in. Others sunbathe on the rooftop beanbag lounge and take in the 360° view. You have roughly two hours here.

While you're in the water or on deck, the crew prepares a full traditional meal, the menu shifts with the season, and sets up the open bar. Beer, rum, vodka, gin, cocktails and soft drinks flow throughout the afternoon. Snorkel gear, masks, fins and tubes are all on board, along with paddleboards, kayaks and pool noodles, so you don't pack anything but yourself.

As the afternoon fades, you sail back toward Tamarindo. This is when the Pacific sky does what it does best: the light turns gold, then coral, and the whole moment becomes the reason people book this tour. The boat reaches the beach as the sun touches the horizon, and you step off with the kind of sunset memory that sticks.

What’s included

• Snorkel gear (mask, fins, tube).
• paddleboard, kayak and pool noodles.
• a full traditional meal prepared on board.
• unlimited beer, rum, vodka, gin, cocktails, sodas and juice.
• rooftop lounge access with 360° views.
• a local crew and soft tropical music throughout the sail.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 12:45

Book up to4h before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (4 to 11 years) · Infant (under 4): free

GroupUp to 35

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Pacific Lounge - catamaran experience

Is this one for you?The boat rocks with the Pacific swell, so if motion sickness is a concern for you, talk to the crew about timing and positioning on deck: many travelers find the rooftop lounge and forward sections calmer than below. The snorkeling and water activities are optional. You can stay on deck or in the lounge the whole time and still have the full experience.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 11 years); Infant (under 4): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I snorkel if I've never done it before?

Snorkeling happens at a secluded beach where the crew is present and sea conditions allow it. Masks, fins and tubes are provided on board, and the crew can show you how to use them. If the water is too rough that day, you can paddleboard, kayak or float instead.

What wildlife might I see on the Tamarindo catamaran tour?

Dolphins and sea turtles are common sightings along the coast. Depending on the season (humpback whales migrate through these waters and can appear from December to April and July to October). You may spot them too. The crew knows the coastline and watches for wildlife throughout the sail.

Is the meal included in the price?

Yes, a full traditional meal is served on board, and the menu changes with the season. The open bar (beer, rum, vodka, gin, cocktails, sodas and juice) is included for the entire 5 hours.

What should I bring or wear?

Wear clothes you don't mind getting wet, or bring a change. Sunscreen is essential. The boat has shaded areas and a rooftop lounge, so you can move between sun and shade. Snorkel gear, paddleboards, kayaks and pool noodles are all provided.

How long does the tour take?

The full experience is 5 hours, from departure in Tamarindo through the sail back at sunset. You spend roughly two hours at the secluded beach for snorkeling, paddleboarding and swimming.

Do I need to arrange my own transport to the boat?

The catamaran departs from Tamarindo, and public transportation options are available nearby. Hotel or Airbnb pickup is not included, so you'll arrange your own way to the departure point.