A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Florianopolis vs. Tamarindo for Beaches, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Florianopolis or Tamarindo?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Florianopolis or Tamarindo? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Florianopolis

Florianopolis is a scenic, vibrant, and relaxing city. And you can't forget about the shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Florianopolis travel costs.

Tamarindo

Tamarindo is a chill, scenic, and laid back town. Tamarindo is a beautiful place to visit, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and shopping. See Tamarindo travel costs.

Florianopolis and Tamarindo: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Florianopolis or Tamarindo?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Florianopolis than Tamarindo, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Florianopolis is better known for its museums and attractions, food, resorts, beaches, and hiking, while Tamarindo is more popular for its impressive beauty. Tamarindo is more touristy than Florianopolis and is popular for its surfing, wildlife, and leatherback sea turtles. Florianopolis is well known for its sandy beaches, world-class surfing, and beautiful nature. Also, Florianopolis is famous for Praia Mole.

How is Florianopolis different from Tamarindo?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Tamarindo and Florianopolis. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Florianopolis or Tamarindo?

Florianopolis is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Tamarindo is not a good town for its museums and history.

Florianopolis offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are a number of science and cultural museums in the area that will introduce you to the region's local wildlife and history.

While most people don't head to Tamarindo specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Aside from a few art galleries, there aren't many real museums around town.

Is the Food Better in Florianopolis or Tamarindo? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Florianopolis is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit Florianopolis. Perhaps the most popular local dish is feijoada, which is a stew that's slow cooked in a clay pot. It's a great dish for sharing and it originated in the region's African slave population. Another common food is pão de queijo, which is a dough that is made from cassava root flour. Also make sure you try the seafood, which is available in many restaurants around town.

Tamarindo is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There's a combination of beach bars and restaurants in town that offer local cuisine and international options. Many places have a laid back vibe that fits with the town's atmosphere but you'll also find some more upscale options.

Is Florianopolis or Tamarindo Better for Nightlife?

Both Florianopolis and Tamarindo have very good vibes after the sun sets.

Florianopolis has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The nightlife scene can vary between peak tourism times and the low season. There are plenty of bars around town that cater to the locals, and you can expect these to be open year round. Alternatively, there are also places that specifically open during the summer months and will close during the off season.

The people in Tamarindo know how to have a good time. The town has beach bars, dance clubs, and regular parties that attract tourists and locals alike. The evening has a vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding after a day of surfing or swimming.

Is Florianopolis or Tamarindo Better for Resorts?

Florianopolis is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Tamarindo is not a resort destination.

Florianopolis is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. You'll find a wide range of resorts that include everything from 5 star to more budget-friendly. There are also all-inclusive resorts and smaller, more personal places.

Tamarindo is not a resort destination.

Is Florianopolis or Tamarindo Better for Beaches?

Florianopolis is an amazing city to visit for the beach. Also, Tamarindo is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for the beach.

The beaches in Florianopolis are among the best in the world. There are miles of beautiful beaches that are popular for surfing. Joaquina Beach is one of the most popular beaches, particularly with surfers, but Mole Beach is quickly catching up in popularity. Campeche Beach is one of the widest and longest stretches of beach on the island.

The beaches at Tamarindo attract visitors from all over. The beaches are popular with surfers but the currents can be strong so swimmers should use caution. The golden sand and beautiful setting make this a fun and chill beach destination. There are also plenty of water sports to choose from.

Is Florianopolis or Tamarindo Better for Hiking?

Florianopolis is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Tamarindo is not a hiking destination.

Florianopolis is a popular spot for hiking. The island is filled with beautiful jungles, striking beaches, and many dramatic settings that make it a great place to hike. The hikes also vary in length and skill level, so there really is something for everyone.

Tamarindo is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Florianopolis or Tamarindo?

Shoppers can find a variety of notable stores in both Florianopolis and Tamarindo.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Florianopolis. You'll find shopping malls and boutique retail shops that make for a great shopping experience.

Many visitors go to Tamarindo to go shopping. You'll find most of the souvenir shops along Diria Grand Boulevard. There are a few upscale clothing boutiques and jewelry shops as well.

Is Florianopolis or Tamarindo More Beautiful?

Tamarindo is a popular place for its scenery and beauty. However, Florianopolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Tamarindo is a beautiful place to visit, too. The golden sand beaches offer a beautiful setting where you can relax and soak up a chill beachfront vibe.

Florianopolis is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Florianopolis or Tamarindo Better for Families?

Tamarindo is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Tamarindo is very family-friendly. The golden beaches offer a great escape for families. The surf can be a bit strong, but the kids will love seeing the sea turtles or going horseback riding. There are also beginning surfing lessons available.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Florianopolis. There are many outdoor activities, sports, beaches, and parks in the city. If your kids like to run around and have fun, you'll find some diverse experiences here.

Is Florianopolis or Tamarindo Better for Couples?

Tamarindo is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Tamarindo makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will enjoy romantic horseback rides along the beach, sunset cruises, and romantic meals. For the adventurous, there's surfing lessons and wildlife tours.

Florianopolis is a good city for couples to visit. Couples will enjoy the beautiful beaches and walking paths in the area. There's impressive natural beauty and a touch of undiscovered charm.

Is Florianopolis or Tamarindo Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Tamarindo is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Florianopolis is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Tamarindo. There are plenty of hostels in the area and many wonderful activities that let you experience everything that Costa Rica has to offer.

Florianopolis is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. While it's not the most popular destination in Brazil, it does have a huge appeal with surfers.

Is Florianopolis or Tamarindo Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Florianopolis and Tamarindo.

Florianopolis has some public transit options. There are buses around town, including buses that travel between the downtown and the beaches.

You'll find some public transit in Tamarindo, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are three public bus lines through town.

Is Florianopolis or Tamarindo a more walkable city?

Tamarindo is an excellent place to visit for its high level of walkability. However, Florianopolis is not a walkable destination.

Tamarindo is a very walkable town. The town is easy to walk around and explore on foot.

Florianopolis is not a walkable destination. Most people get around the city with a vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Florianopolis Worth Visiting? and Is Tamarindo Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Tamarindo or Florianopolis?

How long in Florianopolis or Tamarindo?

In either Florianopolis or Tamarindo, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Tamarindo than Florianopolis because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Florianopolis, and 3-5 days is enough time in Tamarindo.

Families should spend more time in Tamarindo than Florianopolis. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Tamarindo, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Tamarindo than Florianopolis if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Tamarindo.

One day in Florianopolis or Tamarindo?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Florianopolis. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the chill destination of Tamarindo. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Florianopolis or Tamarindo?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the vibrant destination of Florianopolis. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Tamarindo. Most people come for the beaches. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Florianopolis or Tamarindo?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the scenic city of Florianopolis. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a relaxing resort destination. Most people head to the area for the beaches. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the laid back destination of Tamarindo. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.

A week in Florianopolis or Tamarindo?

Florianopolis is a popular choice for travelers. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

You'll find shopping and nightlife around the town of Tamarindo. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Wildlife Tours to Brazil, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Brazil, The Best Luxury Tours to Costa Rica, and The Best Budget Tours to Costa Rica.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Florianopolis and Tamarindo, we can see that Tamarindo is more expensive. And not only is Florianopolis much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Florianopolis is in South America and Tamarindo is in Central America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Florianopolis would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Florianopolis and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Tamarindo would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Tamarindo than you might in Florianopolis.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Florianopolis Expensive? and Is Tamarindo Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Florianopolis or Tamarindo?

Florianopolis has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Tamarindo experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Florianopolis or Tamarindo in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Florianopolis as well as Tamarindo. Many travelers come to Florianopolis for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. The warm climate attracts visitors to Tamarindo throughout the year.

Florianopolis is cooler than Tamarindo in the summer. The daily temperature in Florianopolis averages around 25°C (76°F) in January, and Tamarindo fluctuates around 28°C (82°F)in July.

In the summer, Florianopolis often gets more sunshine than Tamarindoin July. Florianopolis gets 198 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tamarindo receives 164 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Tamarindo. Florianopolis receives a lot of rain in the summer. Florianopolis usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Tamarindoin July. Florianopolis gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 164 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florianopolis or Tamarindo in the Autumn?

Both Tamarindo and Florianopolis are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Florianopolis in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. Plenty of visitors come to Tamarindo because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year.

In the autumn, Florianopolis is cooler than Tamarindo. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Florianopolis in April average around 22°C (71°F), and Tamarindo averages at about 27°C (81°F)in October.

Florianopolis usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Tamarindo during autumn. Florianopolis gets 179 hours of sunny skies, while Tamarindo receives 169 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Tamarindo. In April, Florianopolis usually receives less rain than Tamarindoin October. Florianopolis gets 93 mm (3.7 in) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 254 mm (10 in) of rain each month for the autumn. The dry season in Tamarindo is December to May. June to November in Tamarindo is the hurricane season.

Should I visit Florianopolis or Tamarindo in the Winter?

Both Tamarindo and Florianopolis during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Florianopolis for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Tamarindo year-round.

In July, Florianopolis is generally much colder than Tamarindoin January. Daily temperatures in Florianopolis average around 17°C (62°F), and Tamarindo fluctuates around 27°C (81°F).

In Tamarindo, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the winter, Florianopolis often gets less sunshine than Tamarindoin January. Florianopolis gets 170 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Tamarindo receives 264 hours of full sun.

Florianopolis usually gets more rain in July than Tamarindoin January. Florianopolis gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 8 mm (0.3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Florianopolis or Tamarindo in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Florianopolis and Tamarindo. The spring months attract visitors to Florianopolis because of the beaches. Tamarindo attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate.

Florianopolis is cooler than Tamarindo in the spring. The daily temperature in Florianopolis averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Tamarindo fluctuates around 29°C (85°F)in April.

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Tamarindo this time of the year. Florianopolis usually receives less sunshine than Tamarindo during spring. Florianopolis gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Tamarindo receives 255 hours of full sun in the spring.

Florianopolis gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Florianopolis usually receives more rain than Tamarindoin April. Florianopolis gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Tamarindo receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the spring. December to May in Tamarindo is the dry season. The hurricane season in Tamarindo is June to November.

Typical Weather for Tamarindo and Florianopolis