I'll be the first to say it: Playa Tamarindo is a touristy surf town. That said, if you go in January (dry season) and stay at the Hotel Arco Iris like we did, you'll find your own little tranquil paradise.

Tucked on a hill away from the busy main road, this small hotel is all you could ever want for a warm Costa Rican vacation. The rooms are clean and spacious, the service is delightful, and their complimentary breakfast is delicious.

The best part, though? Evenings by the pool. The hotel has a delicious Mediterranean restaurant, Seasons, situated alongside the pool where dinner guests can enjoy live music and lights twinkling on the water.

One night after dinner, my friend and I decided we needed a relaxing evening - just what a sun-drenched vacation calls for. We picked up some cookies, Nutella, and drinks from the local market and took advantage of the comfy lounge chairs by the pool. While the days may be quite hot in January, the evenings are sublime. The chairs were obscured in enough shadow to make us inconspicuous to the diners, but close enough to enjoy the sounds of the guitarist, the clink of wine glasses, the warm breeze rustling through the trees, and the delicious scents wafting from the kitchen.

It's amazing what a quiet evening and some Nutella will do for the soul. If you're looking for a relaxing and tranquil vacation in Tamarindo, this is your spot, and evenings by the pool are your to-do.