Volunteering in Tamarindo
Summary: Getting involved through volunteering is a fantastic way to build connections in Tamarindo. Here are some organizations where you can lend a hand.

Volunteering is an exceptional way for expats to integrate into the community of Tamarindo. Not only does it provide an opportunity to give back, but it also allows you to meet like-minded individuals, learn about the local culture, and even improve your language skills. By dedicating your time and skills to local organizations, you can make a meaningful impact while building lasting connections.
Tamarindo Association for Local Development (ADI)
The Tamarindo Association for Local Development (ADI) is dedicated to improving the quality of life in Tamarindo through various community projects. Volunteers can participate in beach cleanups, environmental education programs, and community development initiatives. Getting involved is easy; simply reach out to the organization to express your interest. The time commitment varies based on the project, but most activities require a few hours per week.
Website: aditamarindo.org
Location(s): Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Time Commitment: Varies by project
Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge
The Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge is committed to protecting and conserving the local wildlife and ecosystems. Volunteers can assist with animal rehabilitation, habitat restoration, and environmental education programs. To get involved, contact the refuge directly. The time commitment can range from a few hours per week to more intensive volunteer programs.
Website: tamarindowildliferefuge.org
Location(s): Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Time Commitment: Varies by program
CEPIA Association
CEPIA Association focuses on improving the lives of children and families in the Guanacaste region through education, health, and community development programs. Volunteers can assist with after-school programs, health clinics, and community outreach initiatives. To get involved, contact CEPIA directly. The time commitment typically involves a few hours per week.
Website: cepiacostarica.org
Location(s): Guanacaste Region, Costa Rica
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week
Tamarindo Beach Cleanup
The Tamarindo Beach Cleanup is a community-driven initiative aimed at keeping the beaches of Tamarindo clean and pristine. Volunteers participate in regular beach cleanups, helping to collect trash and raise awareness about environmental conservation. To get involved, simply show up at the designated meeting points during scheduled cleanups. The time commitment is usually a couple of hours per cleanup.
Website: tamarindobeachcleanup.org
Location(s): Tamarindo Beaches, Costa Rica
Time Commitment: 2 hours per cleanup
Costa Rica Humanitarian Foundation
The Costa Rica Humanitarian Foundation works to improve the lives of disadvantaged communities through education, health, and community development programs. Volunteers can assist with various projects, including teaching English, providing medical care, and supporting community initiatives. To get involved, contact the foundation directly. The time commitment can vary based on the project but typically requires a few hours per week.
Website: crhf.org
Location(s): Throughout Costa Rica
Time Commitment: Varies by project
Tamarindo Animal Rescue
Tamarindo Animal Rescue is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured and abandoned animals in the Tamarindo area. Volunteers can assist with animal care, fundraising, and adoption events. To get involved, contact the rescue directly. The time commitment can range from a few hours per week to more intensive volunteer programs.
Website: tamarindoanimalrescue.org
Location(s): Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Time Commitment: Varies by program
Tamarindo Eco-Center
The Tamarindo Eco-Center is focused on environmental education and conservation efforts in the Tamarindo area. Volunteers can participate in educational workshops, beach cleanups, and habitat restoration projects. To get involved, contact the eco-center directly. The time commitment typically involves a few hours per week.
Website: tamarindoecocenter.org
Location(s): Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week
Guanacaste Community Fund
The Guanacaste Community Fund supports various community development projects in the Guanacaste region, focusing on education, health, and environmental conservation. Volunteers can assist with fundraising events, community outreach, and project implementation. To get involved, contact the fund directly. The time commitment can vary based on the project but typically requires a few hours per week.
Website: guanacastecommunityfund.org
Location(s): Guanacaste Region, Costa Rica
Time Commitment: Varies by project
Tamarindo Arts Foundation
The Tamarindo Arts Foundation promotes arts and culture in the Tamarindo community through various events and workshops. Volunteers can assist with event planning, fundraising, and art workshops. To get involved, contact the foundation directly. The time commitment typically involves a few hours per week.
Website: tamarindoarts.org
Location(s): Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week
Fundación Rescate Animal
Fundación Rescate Animal is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating abandoned and injured animals in the Guanacaste region. Volunteers can assist with animal care, fundraising, and adoption events. To get involved, contact the foundation directly. The time commitment can range from a few hours per week to more intensive volunteer programs.
Website: fundacionrescateanimal.org
Location(s): Guanacaste Region, Costa Rica
Time Commitment: Varies by program
Tamarindo Recycling Association
The Tamarindo Recycling Association is committed to promoting recycling and waste management practices in the Tamarindo community. Volunteers can assist with recycling collection, educational workshops, and community outreach initiatives. To get involved, contact the association directly. The time commitment typically involves a few hours per week.
Website: tamarindorecycling.org
Location(s): Tamarindo, Costa Rica
Time Commitment: 2-3 hours per week
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Tamarindo
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Tamarindo
- Best Markets in Tamarindo
- 7 Tips for Living in Tamarindo
- Pros & Cons of Living in Tamarindo
- Cost of Living in Tamarindo
- Health Care in Tamarindo
- The Essential Guide to Tamarindo
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Costa Rica
- Best Places to Live in Costa Rica
- Real Estate in Costa Rica
- Pros and Cons of Living in Costa Rica
- Pros and Cons of Living in Costa Rica 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Costa Rica
- Members Talk about the Cost of Living in Costa Rica