A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Buzios vs. Tamarindo for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Buzios or Tamarindo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Buzios or Tamarindo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Buzios

And you can't forget about the food. See Buzios travel costs.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a chill, scenic, and laid back town. Tamarindo is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and food. See Tamarindo travel costs.

Buzios and Tamarindo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable


Is there more to do in Buzios or Tamarindo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Tamarindo than Buzios, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Tamarindo is more touristy than Buzios and is popular for its surfing, wildlife, and leatherback sea turtles. Also, Tamarindo is famous for Las Baulas National Marine Park. Buzios is well known for

How is Buzios different from Tamarindo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tamarindo and Buzios. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Buzios or Tamarindo?

Buzios
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is adequate for its historical sights. However, Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.

While most people don't head to Tamarindo specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Aside from a few art galleries, there aren't many real museums around town.

Buzios does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Buzios or Tamarindo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Buzios
Tamarindo

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at notable restaurants in both Buzios and Tamarindo.

Buzios has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find fresh seafood, Brazilian flavors, and international cuisine. Many beachfront restaurants serve dishes like grilled fish, moqueca (Brazilian seafood stew), and shrimp pastéis. Rua das Pedras, the town's main street, is packed with places to eat. There's everything from fine dining to casual eateries that offer pizza, sushi, and Argentine barbecue. The city also has many street vendors where you can grab a meal for very little money.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Tamarindo area. There's a combination of beach bars and restaurants in town that offer local cuisine and international options. Many places have a laid back vibe that fits with the town's atmosphere but you'll also find some more upscale options.

Is Buzios or Tamarindo Better for Nightlife?

Buzios
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a great town for nightlife and partying. However, Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

The nightlife in Tamarindo has something for everybody. The town has beach bars, dance clubs, and regular parties that attract tourists and locals alike. The evening has a vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a day of surfing or swimming.

Buzios is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Buzios or Tamarindo Better for Beaches?

Buzios
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a great town for the beach. However, Buzios is not a beach destination.

Tamarindo is considered a top beach destination. The beaches are popular with surfers but the currents can be strong so swimmers should use caution. The golden sand and beautiful setting make this a fun and chill beach destination. There are also plenty of water sports to choose from.

Buzios is not a beach destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Buzios or Tamarindo?

Buzios
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Tamarindo. You'll find most of the souvenir shops along Diria Grand Boulevard. There are a few upscale clothing boutiques and jewelry shops as well.

Buzios is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Buzios or Tamarindo More Beautiful?

Buzios
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Buzios is not a destination known for its beauty.

Tamarindo is a beautiful place to visit, too. The golden sand beaches offer a beautiful setting where you can relax and soak up a chill beachfront vibe.

Buzios is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Buzios or Tamarindo Better for Families?

Buzios
Tamarindo

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Buzios or Tamarindo.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Buzios is very family-friendly. Families enjoy hanging out at Ferradura Beach, which usually has calm waters where you can swim and play. A boat tour around the peninsula lets families explore hidden beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and even spot marine life. Strolling down Rua das Pedras in the evening offers a mix of delicious restaurants, ice cream shops, and lively street performances. For a bit of adventure, families can take a buggy ride to explore the scenic coastline and visit panoramic viewpoints like Mirante do Forno.

Tamarindo is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The golden beaches offer a great escape for families. The surf can be a bit strong, but the kids will love seeing the sea turtles or going horseback riding. There are also beginning surfing lessons available.


Is Buzios or Tamarindo Better for Couples?

Buzios
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a great town for its romantic activities. Also, Buzios is not as popular, but is still a nice for couples.

Tamarindo is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will enjoy romantic horseback rides along the beach, sunset cruises, and romantic meals. For the adventurous, there's surfing lessons and wildlife tours.

Buzios is a good for couples to visit. There are sunset cruises along the coast that offer champagne and beautiful views. You can also take a stroll down the charming Rua das Pedras and enjoy a meal at a cozy restaurant. A day at the beach is a fun activity and adventure-loving couples can explore hidden coves on a boat tour, go snorkeling together, or take a scenic hike to Mirante do Forno for stunning panoramic views.

Is Buzios or Tamarindo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Buzios
Tamarindo

For backpackers, both Buzios and Tamarindo are very good places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Buzios. There are hostels, beaches, and a variety of activities that backpackers can enjoy. With over 20 beaches and plenty of affordable street food, this is a great spot for budget travelers. You'll also find many other backpackers in the area.

Tamarindo is a very popular for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels in the area and many wonderful activities that let you experience everything that Costa Rica has to offer.

Is Buzios or Tamarindo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Buzios
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Buzios does not have public transit.

While Tamarindo offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are three public bus lines through town.

Buzios does not have public transit.


Is Buzios or Tamarindo a more walkable city?

Buzios
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a great town for its high level of walkability. However, Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Tamarindo is a very walkable town. The town is easy to walk around and explore on foot.

Buzios is not a walkable destination.

Should I spend more time in Tamarindo or Buzios?

How long in Buzios or Tamarindo?

In either Buzios or Tamarindo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Tamarindo has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Tamarindo than Buzios. In general, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Buzios, and 3-5 days is enough time in Tamarindo.

Families should spend more time in Tamarindo than Buzios. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tamarindo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Tamarindo than Buzios. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Tamarindo that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tamarindo than Buzios if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tamarindo.


  • How many days in Buzios or Tamarindo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Buzios 2-5 
    Tamarindo 3-5

One day in Buzios or Tamarindo?


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You'll find food around the of Buzios. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Tamarindo. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Buzios or Tamarindo?


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You'll find food around the destination of Buzios. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this has to offer. This offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Tamarindo is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


Five days in Buzios or Tamarindo?


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You'll find food around the of Buzios. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tamarindo. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Most people come for the beaches. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Buzios or Tamarindo?


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Buzios is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the chill destination of Tamarindo. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to Brazil, The Best Eco Tours in Brazil, The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Tamarindo or Buzios?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Buzios is $91, while the average daily cost in Tamarindo is $144. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Buzios and Tamarindo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Buzios $36
    Tamarindo $50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Buzios $72
    Tamarindo $100
Compare Hotels in Buzios and Tamarindo

Looking for a hotel in Buzios or Tamarindo? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Buzios


Hotels in Tamarindo


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Tamarindo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Buzios $18
    Tamarindo $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Buzios

Also for Buzios, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Beach Resorts to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) - Private Transfer: $45
  • Beach Resorts to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) - Departure Transfer : $45
  • Tour in Buzios City Tour, Lunch and Transfer: $60
  • Rio de Janeiro Transfer from Buzios to Airport (GIG)(SDU): $73
  • Private Transfer from Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Private Transfer Buzios to Rio de Janeiro: $91
  • Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) to Beach Resorts - Round-Trip Transfer: $91
  • Executive private transfer from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 4 pax to Buzios: $115
  • Executive private transfer from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 3 pax to Buzios: $115
  • Private Transfer from Buzios Port to Cabo Frio Airport (CFB): $118
  • Private Transfer from Cabo Frio Airport (CFB) to Buzios Port: $118
  • Private transfer Minivan from GIG Rio Galeao airport up to 6 pax to Buzios: $134

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tamarindo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Tamarindo:

  • Private Round Trip Transfer: From Liberia Airport To Secrets Papagayo: $280
  • Round Trip Shuttle Transfer From Liberia Airport To Four Seasons Papagayo: $265
  • Round Trip Transfer From Liberia Airport To Secrets Papagayo: $250
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Casa Chameleon At Las Catalinas: $235
  • Private Transfer Service From Liberia Airport To Casa Chameleon At Las Catalinas: $235
  • Transfer From Liberia Airport To Casa Chameleon At Las Catalinas: $225
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To JW Marriott Guanacaste: $205
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To JW Marriott Guanacaste: $205
  • Round Trip Transfer Liberia Airport (LIR) to Andaz Papagayo Resort: $201
  • Transfer Service From Liberia Airport To Westin Resort Costa Rica: $185
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Margaritaville Costa Rica: $185
  • Transfer Service From Liberia Airport To Tamarindo, Guanacaste: $185

Is it cheaper to fly into Buzios or Tamarindo?

Prices for flights to both Tamarindo and Buzios change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Buzios $40
    Tamarindo $56

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Tamarindo

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Tamarindo.

  • Online Class on Zoom: Cooking Costa Rica Homemade Food: $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Buzios $25
    Tamarindo $17

Tours and Activities in Buzios

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Buzios.

  • Tour of the most beautiful beaches and islands of Buzios by Buziana Tour: $11
  • Boat Tour Open Bar A Floor Arraial do Cabo : $13
  • Buggy Ride in Buzios by Buziana Tour: $19
  • Tour of Bugre in Arraial (Buggy): $21
  • Boat Tour in Arraial do Cabo: $23
  • Catamaran Boat Tour in Búzios: $26
  • Half-Day Schooner Sightseeing Trip in Buzios Peninsula Beaches: $27
  • 3-hour Small Group Buzios Peninsula Open Air Trolley Tour: $31
  • Buzios Trolley City Tour: $31
  • Tour in Boat Tour in Buzios: $38
  • Underwater Adventure in Diving and Snorkeling: $46
  • Schooner Tour in Buzios - Departure from Buzios: $51

Tours and Activities in Tamarindo

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Tamarindo are as follows:

  • ATV Tour Top Adventure Through beaches & Towns: $96
  • ATV adventure from Riu, Secrets and papagayo: $90
  • Buggy - Side by Side Family Tour : $275
  • Wildlife Tour at Palo Verde National Park: $199
  • 1 Full Private Tour to Arenal Volcano + Baldi Hot Springs: $183
  • 1 Hour Private Horseback Riding Tour in Playa Conchal: $30
  • 2 Hours ATV Off Road Tour in Guanacaste Costa Rica: $100
  • 2 Hours Private Jet Ski Tour in Brasilito Flamingo or Conchal: $270
  • 2 Hours Pura Vida ATV Adventure from Tamarindo to Playa Conchal: $180
  • 2-Hour Guided Tour by ATV near Playa Conchal: $130
  • 2h ATV Beach & Dirt Trails Adventure Tour: $130
  • 3 Hour ATV Secluded Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo, Conchal & Grande: $125

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Buzios $17
    Tamarindo $14


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Buzios and Tamarindo, we can see that Tamarindo is more expensive. And not only is Buzios much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Buzios is in South America and Tamarindo is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Buzios would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Buzios and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Tamarindo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tamarindo than you might in Buzios.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Buzios Expensive? and Is Tamarindo Expensive?.