Tamarindo vs. San Juan del Sur
 

Looking for some advice on choosing between San Juan del Sur and Tamarindo.

Have friends getting married in CR in February. After the wedding, we'd like to either head South to Tamarindo or North to San Juan del Sur for some surfing, yoga, and general good times.

Recommendations on which town will be a better fit? We're two couples in our late 20's-early 30's. Beginner surfers, reasonably seasoned (but not daily) yogis, one vegetarian. We're not really into places with a heavy tourist vibe, which is what is making us question Tamarindo as a destination. Though, we would like the place to have some nightlife, as we'd probably want to go out at least a night or two. We've been to Jamaica, Peru, and Colombia in the past, so we're not very squeamish about the differences between US vacation destinations and those in less developed economies.

If you prefer one over the other, any recs on places to stay that might be a good fit? Also, if we decide to head north to Nicaragua, best way to get there?

Thanks for the help!

I agree with Rudy. San Juan del Sur is def off the beaten path and way more interesting than Tamarindo. The surfing is good at either place but Tamarindo is very touristy. Not sure about finding yoga in San Juan del Sur but the beautiful thing about yoga is you can practice anywhere. I am no longer a vegetarian but was when I traveled to Nicaragua and I did not starve - plenty of good vegetarian food.

You don't mention where you will be starting from in CR but it is really easy to take buses between CR and Nicaragua. You will have to get off the bus at the border and buy a Red Cross stamp, sort of a border tax, then get back on the bus. The border can be a bit confusing but everybody is friendly. Also, everybody says that Nicaragua is not safe but I am a white female and felt completely safe both times I've traveled there, not to mention the people are extremely friendly, just like in CR.

WWW.pointbreaksurf.com great place for beginner surfers

Closer better vibe than SJDS dodger

Www.pointbreaksurf.com great place nearby for beginners

For me better nearby surfing beaches like

www.reservaconchal.com

Www.malpaissurfcamp.com

Www.papagsurf.com

Good general info...

Have fun,

I like San Juan but it can be a hassel (and take most of a day) to cross borders, and there is not much surfing (if any)in the town of San...you would still have to go out of town to surf. Don't know anything about Yoga there but assume it exist.
Okay, here is the thing. I think Nosara (2-1/2 hours south of Tamarindo) would be perfect for you. Yes I live here so I am biased. NO, I would not make any money by helping you with any lodging, surf, yoga or anything. I just happen to live here and think you would love it. We have so many yoga houses, and the best, consistant surf for beginners and expeirenced surfers and so many surf schools and rentals, and great nightlife in Feb.
Please do some research in this area and let me know any questions you may have. I repeat, I am not in this for any commission of any sort. I just happen to live here, think it would be perfect for you and would love to help.
Ally
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SJDS.
Cheaper, less tourists.
But use it as a base to check out the much nicer beaches north and south of there.
Why not look at one of the 'all inclusive' surf packages at Buena Vista Surf Resort etc

http://nicaragua.typepad.com/nicarag..._in_nicaragua/