A Travel Price Comparison for Costa Rica Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) vs. Tamarindo for Nightlife, Beaches, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo can help you decide which place is right for you.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a authentic, remote, and local town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. The beauty of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and beaches. See Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) travel costs.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a laid back, chill, and scenic town. Tamarindo is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and beaches. See Tamarindo travel costs.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Although Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo are popular destinations, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has more sights and attractions for tourists. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is very popular for its scuba diving & snorkeling, hiking, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Tamarindo attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Tamarindo is more touristy than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and is known for its surfing, wildlife, and leatherback sea turtles. Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is famous for its fishing and wildlife. It is also well known for Corcovado National Park.

How is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) different from Tamarindo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tamarindo and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a moderate town for its sights and museums. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its museums and history.

Tamarindo offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Aside from a few art galleries, there aren't many real museums around town.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). People visit the town for the nearby national park, so you won't find much in the form of museums.


Is the Food Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo offer nice local cuisine and restaurants.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Many places have local Costa Rican dishes, but you'll also find pizza joints and the occasional cafe as well.

Tamarindo has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo Better for Nightlife?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Tamarindo offers plenty to do in the evening. 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). There are a few bars on the town's main street, but most visitors don't come to town for the nightlife.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a well-known place for its diving and snorkeling. However, Tamarindo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Many visitors go to Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. You'll find nice snorkeling with calm waters and you might even see dolphins.

Tamarindo is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo Better for Beaches?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo are excellent choices for a beach vacation.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Near town you'll find wonderful beaches and long stretches of sand bordered by lush rainforests.

You'll have a great beach vacation in Tamarindo. 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.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo Better for Hiking?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Tamarindo is not a hiking destination.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular spot for hiking. Corcovado National Park can be challenging to reach, which is part of what makes it such a wonderful place to explore. The rainforest and wildlife still feels untouched by the tourist crowds and you can lose yourself hiking through the forest.

Tamarindo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Tamarindo is very good for shopping. However, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is not a good town for its shopping opportunities.

Tamarindo is a great destination for shopping. You'll find most of the souvenir shops along Diria Grand Boulevard. There are a few upscale clothing boutiques and jewelry shops as well.

If you're looking to go shopping, Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has some nice offerings. It's a small local town so you won't find many shopping options that cater to tourists.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo More Beautiful?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its scenery and beauty.

The beauty of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The beaches, wildlife, and rainforests make this a unique and beautiful place to visit.

Tamarindo offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The golden sand beaches offer a beautiful setting where you can relax and soak up a chill beachfront vibe.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo Better for Families?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love the beaches, kayaking, surfing, wildlife, hiking, and swimming. There really is something for the whole family to enjoy.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Tamarindo is very family-friendly. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo Better for Couples?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will love the stunning nature and wildlife that nearby Corcovado National Park offers. There are also many great beaches where you can take a stroll or go kayaking.

Tamarindo makes for a fun place to visit for 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.


Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo are excellent destinations for backpackers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). It's become a popular backpacker destination because there are a number of hostels nearby.

Many backpackers visit Tamarindo. There are plenty of hostels in the area and many wonderful activities that let you experience everything that Costa Rica has to offer.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Both Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo offer nice public transit options.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) has a few public transit options. Many visitors take the colectivo taxi, which is a flatbed truck that is more affordable than private taxis.

Tamarindo has some public transit options. There are three public bus lines through town.

Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo a more walkable city?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)
Tamarindo

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo both are excellent when exploring on foot.

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is very walkable. The town is relatively easy to walk around.

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


For even more information, also check out Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Worth Visiting? and Is Tamarindo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tamarindo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

How long in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo?

In either Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Tamarindo than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park), and 3-5 days is enough time in Tamarindo.

Couples should spend more time in Tamarindo than Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo? Ideal Length of Stay
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 3-4 
    Tamarindo 3-5

One day in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo?

You'll find food and scuba diving and snorkeling around the town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. 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.

In Tamarindo, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this scenic destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers something for everyone.

A weekend in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo?

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and food around the local destination of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Tamarindo, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this town offers. It's also a great beach destination, too. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo?

Travelers enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling when visiting the local town of Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park). The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Tamarindo is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Tamarindo has to offer. Anyone can find something fun to do here.


A week in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo?

Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

Tamarindo is a great place to explore. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It offers something for everyone.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica, The Best Tours for Seniors to Costa Rica, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Costa Rica.


Which place is cheaper, Tamarindo or Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)?

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

  • Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
    Tamarindo Prices
    Costa Rica Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $140
    Tamarindo $145

The average daily cost (per person) in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) is $140, while the average daily cost in Tamarindo is $145. 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $49
    Tamarindo $50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $98
    Tamarindo $100
Compare Hotels in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo

Looking for a hotel in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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 Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)


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: Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Hotel Prices and Tamarindo Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
    Tamarindo $69

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Tamarindo

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Tamarindo:

  • Costa Rica Private LIR Airport Departure transfer : $6.00
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport to Secret Papagayo: $13
  • Private Transfer Liberia Airport to Waldorf Astoria Hotel: $15
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport to Andaz Papagayo: $15
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport to Hotel Riu Guanacaste: $15
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Riu Guanacaste: $16
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Hotel Pastiempo Tamarindo: $20
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To La Palapa In Tamarindo: $20
  • Private Transfer from Liberia Airport to Tamarindo Beach: $20
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Best Western Tamarindo: $20
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Hotel Mar Rey Tamarindo: $20
  • Private Transfer From Liberia Airport To Selina Tamarindo: $21

Is it cheaper to fly into Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) or Tamarindo?

Prices for flights to both Tamarindo and Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) 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
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $60
    Tamarindo $56
Typical Food Prices in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some typical examples of dining costs in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:


  • Dinner at Finca Exotica
    $54

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
  • Tamarindo : Traditional Cooking Class: $95
  • Traditional Cooking Class In Tamarindo: $99

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) $120
    Tamarindo $17

Tours and Activities in Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park)

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) are as follows:

  • Gold Panning Private Adventure in Puerto Jimenez: $35
  • Kayak experience on Playa Blanca in Puerto Jiménez: $65
  • Bio-Luminescence and Sunset Kayak Tour: $67
  • Corcovado National Park: Sirena Day Tour with Guide & Lunch : $110
  • Isla del Caño snorkel tour from Drake Bay (Cano island) : $125
  • Corcovado National Park - Day Tour from Drake Bay: $145
  • One Day Tour To Caño Island From Drake Bay: $145
  • 4 Hour Private Guided Tour in Osa Jungle : $163
  • Scuba Diving Tour at Cano Island (Isla del Caño) from Drake Bay: $195
  • One Day Tour to Corcovado (La Leona Station) From Puerto Jiménez: $230
  • 30-minute Corcovado National Park Tour by Plane: $256

Tours and Activities in Tamarindo

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

  • 1 Hour Private Horseback Riding Tour in Playa Conchal: $30
  • Tamarindo Estuary Boat Tour: $40
  • Tamarindo Estuary Tour: $45
  • Night Turtle Nesting Tour from Tamarindo: $46
  • Tamarindo Estuary Boat Tour with Naturalist Guide: $50
  • Tamarindo Surf & Tours : Surf Lesson For All Levels: $50
  • Morning Moka -Tamarindo's Morning Coffee Tour: $62
  • Hiking Tour of La Leona Waterfall with Lunch: $65
  • Tamarindo Estuary: Kayak Monkey Tour: $65
  • Zipline Canopy Tour from Guanacaste: $70
  • Turtle Watching Tour: $70
  • Private Wildlife Tour in Avellanas Beach: $75

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) -
    Tamarindo $14

Sample the Local Flavors in Tamarindo

Also in Tamarindo, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Tamarindo Bar Crawl Experience: $16


When comparing the travel costs between Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) and Tamarindo, we can see that Tamarindo is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Central America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Puerto Jimenez (Corcovado National Park) Expensive? and Is Tamarindo Expensive?.