We're looking for a great beach town in the Guanacaste region where you don't need a car... any recommendation of towns to stay in or hotels (under $150 a night) that are walking distance to the beach? We are also looking to do some beginner surfing

I would suggest checking out the Flamingo Beach Resort, it has a great beach & is within walking distance to restaurants.

www.hotelcapitansuizo.com my fav

Mal Pais very best surf not really beginners but

moanalodge.com or malpaissurfcamp.com there

Have fun!

Tamarindo fits your criteria altho it is no longer a place I would choose to spend time because of over-development, sanitation issues, etc. Santa Teresa/Mal Pais is my favorite....not sure the surfing is for beginners. You may want to investigate Playa Grande which is across the estuary from Tamarindo. Beautiful surfing beach, some great boutique hotels and altho quite spreadout there are some very good restaurants within 'reasonable/do-able' walking distance. If you must visit Tamarindo, you can take a launch from Playa Grande across the estuary during daylight hours.

You might also want to take a look at Playa Samara. Villas Kalimba is a great place to stay. We were there several years ago and learned to surf there. beginner waves and I believe there are a few surfing schools there at this point. Great little town and no car needed.

Playa Flamingo is another decent place, and there is a surf school there, Point Break Surf, that will pick you up from your hotel.