Costa Rica is HOT in late February, but the good news is that it's their dry season so there is very low humidity and virtually 0% chance for rain! Be sure to pack light layers for the beach - you definitely will not need a jacket! Even after the sun goes down, it stays comfortably warm. It's also a great idea to pack bug spray. The bugs aren't as bad in the dryer months, but it's still a good idea especially if you are doing any excursions in the rainforest. Ultimately, you will be spending a lot of your time on the beach, so don't forget your hat, a beach towel, and sunscreen!
The attire for the wedding can best be described as "beach cocktail." Our ceremony and reception will be on the grass, backing up to the beach. We will NOT be in the sand, however we still recommend shoes that have a thick heel or wedges. Stilettos will sink right into the grass! The ceremony will be taking place as the sun is going down, so it will still be pretty warm. Wear something relatively light, not too formal, and easy to dance in! Once the sun goes down it will still be warm, so no need to carry around a jacket. It can also be somewhat windy in March, so dress accordingly! Guys can wear anything from khakis and a sport coat to a suit. No tuxedos necessary. Just make sure that you wear your dancing shoes! :)
If you have any questions at all about any of the planned events or the wedding please contact our wedding planners: Questions about town, activities etc. Aimee Monihan, Head Coordinator 303 653 4034 (US Cell via WhatsAPP) Natalie Denton, Assistant Coordinator 011 506 8911 0256 (CR cell Via WhatsApp)
It's not required, but it's not a bad idea to get your Typhoid or Malaria vaccinations!
Credit Cards are accepted in most establishments. US Dollars are accepted in most places but you might not get the best exchange rate unless you exchange your dollars for colones at the bank. Typically: $1 = 500 colones (roughly) $10 = 5,000 colones $20 = 10,000 colone There are several banks in Tamarindo: BCR, Banco Nacional and BAC are the most frequented. They all have ATM machines where you should be able to withdraw money using a debit card.
If you happen to feel a bit under the weather, Tamarindo has plenty of well stocked “farmácias” attended by helpful pharmacists and doctors EMS - Urgent care Clinic in Villareal (10 mins from downtown Tamarindo) Emergencias Médicas Villa Real, Santa Cruz 2653-0611 / 8835-8074 Pacific Emergencies private clinic open Monday through Friday from 8am to 7pm Doctors usually charge $60 per walk-in visit, but bilingual emergency medical technicians are on call 24-hours a day. (2653-2001, Emergencies 8378-8265). Hospital - Hospital CIMA Guanacaste This full service hospital is about an hour away from Tamarindo. Phone +506 2690 8500
Many Costa Rican beaches have riptides, strong currents that can drag swimmers out to sea if you aren’t careful. Please be aware of the flags at the beach and ask a lifeguard if you are unsure if it is safe to swim or not. To prevent painful bumps and bruises, stay alert for submerged rocks lurking below the water’s surface. Hacienda Pinilla is a gated community with 24/7 security at multiple entry points. It is a VERY safe place to be! Tamarindo is also a very safe surfer town. However as in all cities, even tiny ones, petty crime is out there. Don’t wear expensive jewelry or carry too much cash out with you if you are going out on the town in Tamarindo.