Tambor, Costa Rica
Tambor is set in the valley of a large and calm horseshoe bay: the Bahia Ballena which in English means whale bay. During dry season these giants of the seas used to come into the bay. Nowadays with the increased coastal activity whales don't come any more into the bay of Tambor.
Bahia Ballena, the large bay of Tambor
The valley of Tambor is cradled by lush forested hills which form part of the Biological corridor of the Nicoya Peninsula. The northern side of the bay borders the Curu Wildlife Reserve which protects various ecological habitats and a wealth of wildlife. It is fronted by the Islas Tortugas, a tropical island paradise which can be visited by boat from Tambor.
Swimming is safe in Tambor
The volcanic history of the sand serves up a grey-colored beach which slopes gently into the bay. The shallow waters are exceedingly calm and offer excellent swimming for even the most timid of bathers.
Playa Tambor is a perfect holiday destination for families with kids. The beach can be comfortably accessed with a car where almendro trees and palms provide shade. Low tide produces a broad expanse of fine sand which easily accommodates teams of volleyball and soccer, along with children building sand castles, and couples on their honeymoon.
Women playing football on Playa Tambor
Hotels in Tambor are often oceanside or within easy walking distance to the beach. The village is very small and has preserved a somnolent and laid-back atmosphere.
However, 6 km north of the village of Tambor is Costa Rica's largest all-inclusive resort with 2400 hotel rooms. Quite a visitor in Tambor will know nothing more of the area as the gated resort with its own world of tourist bars, casino, disco and companies trying to sell real estate.
Tambor also has the only airport on the Southern Nicoya Peninsula. There are several flights per day to San José and other destinations in Costa Rica.
One km south of Tambor is a small fishermen community and a landing pier for boats. The bay of Tambor offers one of the few safe anchor places on the pacific side of Costa Rica.