🐟 Guanacaste · Pacific Coast · Costa Rica

The Best Seafood in Tamarindo

Ceviche · Fresh catch · Mariscos · Sunset dining

Between perfect waves and fiery Pacific sunsets, Tamarindo has become one of Costa Rica's most exciting food destinations. With the ocean just steps away, the seafood here is as fresh as it gets — from traditional Costa Rican ceviche packed with lime and cilantro to inventive catches plated with tropical flair. Here are the confirmed, open spots you need to know.

Nogui's🌅

Beachfront classic · Sunset drinks

The oldest restaurant in Tamarindo and still one of the best. Nogui's sits right on the beach cul-de-sac and has been a beloved staple for decades. The Costa Rican ceviche is a religion here, the garlic calamari and grilled lobster keep regulars coming back, and the coconut cream pie is legendary. Happy hour deals and an unbeatable ocean view make it perfect at any time of day. Closed Wednesdays.

Costa Rican ceviche Grilled lobster Garlic calamari Coconut cream pie

Pangas Beach Club 🦞

Beach-elegant · Fine seafood

At the northern tip of Tamarindo Beach on the edge of the estuary, Pangas delivers one of the most atmospheric dining experiences on the coast. Candlelit evenings, open-air terrace seating with ocean views, and a menu built around fresh Pacific seafood — red snapper, octopus, tropical lobster. Reviewers also praise the beef tenderloin for non-seafood fans. Popular for weddings and special occasions. Reservations essential.

Red snapper Tropical lobster Fresh octopus Catch of the day

Dragonfly Bar & Grill🌿

Farm-to-table · Romantic open-air

A Tamarindo institution since 2005. Dragonfly sources hyper-local, sustainable ingredients and changes its menu seasonally — expect grilled mahi-mahi, sesame-seared yellowfin tuna, and red snapper alongside creative fusion plates. The open-air setting with fairy lights and table lanterns makes it one of the most romantic spots in town. Live music Wednesday through Saturday. Reservations strongly recommended.

Mahi-mahi Yellowfin tuna Seasonal menu Live music

Bamboo Sushi Club🍣

Sushi & Asian fusion · Garden oasis

Tucked into a lush garden setting just off the main strip — reached via a charming covered footbridge — Bamboo Sushi is an intimate gem. The fish is locally sourced and consistently fresh, the Tico Roll (fresh fish with tropical Costa Rican flavors) is a signature, and the poke bowls are outstanding. A romantic spot for couples or a fun night out with friends. Great cocktails too.

Tico Roll Tuna poke bowl Fresh sashimi Asian fusion

Green Papaya Taco Bar🌮

Fish tacos · Laid-back surf vibes

The quintessential post-surf lunch spot, with hammock-style outdoor seating and bold Latin-Pacific flavors. The seared ahi tuna tacos and shrimp tacos are crowd favorites — fresh, generous, and affordable. Gluten-free and vegetarian options available. Cash only, so come prepared. A beloved local staple that consistently earns top marks for value and flavor.

Ahi tuna tacos Shrimp tacos Fish burritos Cash only

El Mercadito de Tamarindo🏮

Food court · Best for groups

Not a single restaurant but a vibrant outdoor food court near the beach — the perfect solution when your group can't agree. Stalls serve fresh ceviche, fish fillets, sushi, tacos, and more, all leaning on local ingredients and sustainable cooking. A central bar serves craft cocktails and cold beer, and live music nights give it real energy. Great for families and budget-conscious travelers alike.

Fresh ceviche Fish fillets Sushi stall Live music

🗺️ Tips for eating well in Tamarindo

→Ask for the catch of the day. Marlin, wahoo, dorado, and red snapper rotate by season — always go with whatever came out of the water that morning.

→Book ahead. Pangas Beach Club and Dragonfly fill up fast during dry season (December–April). Don't wing it.

→Arrive early. The best fresh-fish dishes sell out quickly, especially on weekends.

→Bring cash to casual spots. Green Papaya is cash only. ATMs are available in town but can have lines during peak season.

→Check low-season hours. September and October are slow months — some restaurants reduce hours or close certain days.

→Tip generously. The 10% service charge isn't always included at beach restaurants. If the meal was great, show it.

In Tamarindo, a cold ceviche with your feet in the sand and the Pacific stretched out before you isn't just a meal.
It's the whole point of being there.

Check www.tamaguide.com for more information.