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Properties for sale or rent in Tamarindo, Guanacaste
- Beach Properties (6)
- Businesses (3)
- Condos (4)
- Farms (1)
- Homes (4)
- Hotels (3)
- Land (3)
Tamarindo, on the Pacific Coast, has probably seen more changes than any other beach location over the last decade. Once a sleepy beach destination for surfers, a far away place that could hardly be called a town, its popularity has grown not only because of its outstanding beauty but also for its proximity to Playa Grande, where the Leatherbacks Turtles come to nest every year.
The controversial development of Tamarindo real estate has created anger, out roars and scandals, amongst other things….
Corruption and petty crime thrive, with seemingly unregulated development leading to severe change to the habitat in the surrounding area.
Local residents, both locals and foreigners, are doing their best to put an end to this sad situation; AMPT, or the “Associación Pro Mejoras de Playa Tamarindo, (Tamarindo Improvement Association), is pressing for some political response, hoping for some responsible action to take place and to put an end to these changes. The outcome came in the form of a new decree putting height restrictions on all Tamarindo properties rising anywhere near the coast. This new decree however is about to expire, and then what?
Who doesn’t remember the scandals that broke all the records a couple of years ago, taking Tamarindo’s Blue Flag away, the symbol of a clean pristine beach. Investigations brought into light the shocking reality, proving the water to be so polluted that the beach was found to be unsafe for swimmers, menacing the tourist industry and developers alike. The investigations showed that most of the hotels in Tamarindo were using the sea as a damp for their black water, throwing their waste in the ocean without bothering to treat it first. The extent of this ecological disaster nearly brought tourism to a halt in the whole area and investors were beginning to sweat their real estate in Tamarindo, and so they should they for they lack of care, morality and concern for the Earth.
APMT together with the government is now working on installing a black water treatment, on improving the state of the roads thus avoiding large traffic jams in the center of town, and on putting restrictions on all building and development.
Tamarindo, its sister beach Playa Langosta and Playa Grande must be, and will be saved. The natural beauty, the serenity, the outstanding sunset are all there for those who care and know the value of simple pleasures. Tamarindo also offers variety when it comes to dining and enjoying an evening out, and shopping is booming; It is sad to hear so many people say they’d rather stay home than go to Tamarindo when there are so many better places to choose, and those who live there end up suing someone or something usually because of some case of pollution or crime. Indeed, there are as many lawyers office in Tamarindo as there are restaurants and bars!
Playa Langosta, on the Southern end of Tamarindo, has also grown and changed, however it has adopted a residential air and is quieter and peaceful whereas Tamarindo definitely enjoys a party atmosphere. With its flashy houses, it is a cross between the French Riviera, some Caribbean dream Island and a touch of Beverley Hills.
Tamarindo is by all means cosmopolitan; French, Italians and other Europeans, North Americans, Argentineans and a few Ticos all share happily this little “Kingdom”! Most of those who have chosen to live there are involved in some business, more often than not in Real Estate, Tourism, or else they have a shop or business of some sort. Many are successful, but it took a lot of work, tenacity and patience.
The darker side comes in the form of drug dealers, prostitutes and petty criminals. These often work hand in hand, or indeed, they are the very same people.
All in all Tamarindo is growing into a small town, with all its perks and down side and as far as a new small town is concerned, it is still very pleasant and relatively safe, one just need to use a little common sense and take necessary precautions.
Real Estate has literally metamorphosed the landscape in Tamarindo; whether this is a good or a bad thing is questionable. High rise buildings are far too many and some are abominable, without a thought for the esthetic, or for the environment. There are many Tamarindo condos that vary in styles, some of which are actually rather pleasant, ecologically sound and very stylish, others are just a nightmare. Beautiful villas and more luxurious condos can be found further south in Playa Langosta, where parcels of land can also still be found. This is a better choice than Tamarindo for those who seek more peace, who long to be closer to nature, and who enjoy a simpler yet comfortable lifestyle. The Tamarindo Preserve Resort, lodged between the two beaches, is now under construction and will hopefully managed to preserve more of the ecosystem.
It should be noted that a new trend has emerged and many developers now sell condos and other type of properties while they are still being built or even before construction has started. Prices are so high that sales are slow, and, sadly but truly, some of these developers are very dishonest, always looking for the new, maybe a little bit naïve newcomers in search of a new dream. It is not unusual today to pay $1,500 per square meter for a piece of land that you can only reach through an unpaved road that only a 4X4 can use, and where planning is rudimental, if at all existing. It is recommendable to wait for the construction to be finished before you put any money down; make sure that you can view, walk in and inspect the house or the apartment and that a surveyor has had a chance to inspect it. If you apply enough common sense and do your homework, you can find yourself to be the proud owner of the beautiful beach property of your dreams. And you may also help preserve it. Recycling is already very active in Tamarindo. They are many groups and meetings taking place there today, working with the AMT or independently, to help educate the population to live in harmony with this little piece of paradise without destroying its inhabits. Remember that this is a gift to us so you may enjoy your Tequila Sunrise in front of the most flamboyant sunset, knowing that future generation will be there to enjoy it also.
On the road to Huacas and Villareal
As you arrive in Tamarindo you may pass the towns of Huacas and Villareal. A number of small communities are rising in these areas, all the way to the hills of Tamarindo, through various typical Costa Rican villages or pueblos. With lower prices and much less crowd, these offer a nice alternative for those who seek a place near the beach, but who would like to spend less and prefer the peace and quiet. The Oaks and La Perla are just a couple of example of what there is available in Tamarindo real estate. These options are definitely an interesting alternative and are well worth a thought, or two!