Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey-brown
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
50 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
5 500 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Tambor: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — grey-blue, clarity moderate, average temperature +28.0°C, warms up to +30.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Tambor: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.3 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Playa Tambor: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 50 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Tambor: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — grey-brown. Texture — fine. Beach length — 5 500 metres.
Playa Tambor: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December, January. It ends in April, May. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Tambor: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Tambor: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Tambor: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Playa Tambor: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Restaurante Tambor, Café Tambor. Cuisines available: Seafood, Cafe. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Tambor: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Hat.
Playa Tambor: when is the best time to swim?
In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. In high season arrive early to find parking.
Playa Tambor: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swimming only between the red and yellow flags. Take your rubbish with you.
Playa Tambor: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Tambor: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to calm water, gentle slope and lifeguards. Suitable for swimming, diving and fishing. Not suitable for surfing enthusiasts — there are almost no waves.
Playa Tambor: what makes this beach unique?
A long beach in Ballena Bay, protected by rocky headlands, with grey-brown volcanic sand. Tours to Tortuga Island and Curú Reserve depart from here.
Playa Tambor: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Long beach with calm water, Grey-brown volcanic sand, Gentle slope, safe for children, Lifeguards in season, Developed infrastructure: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, Diving and fishing opportunities, Free entry. Cons: Grey sand, water not turquoise, Crowded in high season, Limited parking, No Wi-Fi on the beach.
Playa Tambor: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Tortuga Island, Curú Reserve, Montezuma. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Tambor: how do I get to the city of Puntarenas?
The beach is located near the city of Puntarenas. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Puntarenas.