Welcome to Tambor, a Beach Town on Whale Bay / Bahia Ballena
Tambor is most noted for its breathtaking bay named Bahia Bellena, or “Whale Bay”, which is embraced by 4 miles of palm lined sandy beach. Every year whales migrate to the area to give birth, mate and nurture their new offspring from the marine habitat found here. All five species of mangrove in Costa Rica are represented in and around Bahia Ballena. As one would imagine, snorkeling and diving are popular activities, especially among the coral reef communities of nearby Tortuga Island, or “Turtle Island”. This special place in Costa Rica is close to two National Parks in this Southern Nicoya region: Curu National Wildlife Refuge and Cabo Blanco Absolute National Park. Wildlife is abundant everywhere, making such activities as bird watching quite popular. Hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and various water sports and golf are popular.
In the last few years Tambor has become an increasingly popular travel destination for foreigners and Ticos alike. Two large 4 star hotel developments: Barcelo Playa Tambor Resort & Casino and Los Delfines Golf and Country Club are located here. The latter offers a luxurious 9-hole golf course along with world class amenities.
The Tambor Airport, which is the only local airport in the Southern Nicoya Peninsula, is just 10 minutes away from these resorts. For one considering buying real estate here, Tambor is a sound investment and ideal for those who enjoy living a Country Club lifestyle. Our listings for Tambor include Country Club residential homes, and houses and lots offered in neighboring gated communities. In the future, Tambor may become a hot spot for those who enjoy sailing. A new five-star resort with a large marina for 200 or more boats, has passed the first stage of the approval process. Currently, Tambor bay, also known as Bahia Ballena (Whale Bay) offers safe anchorage for those passing though, with a small pier. In short, buying property in Tambor is a good investment for your future.
Tambor Area Map
The tambor area has fairly high mountains in the background, with cooler temperatures at the top, but still not high enough to be considered cloud forest. From many of these mountaintops, one can see the entire southern Nicoya peninsula, from Cabo Blanco Park at the tip, and including Malpais, Montezuma, and Cobano. These mountains behind Tambor have several large waterfalls that run year-round. In addition, many rare animals inhabit these heavily jungled regions, including two species of monkeys, jaguars, and peccaries (a type of small wild pig).
Several decades ago, the area also had a variety of animals that have since gone extinct here, including tapirs, spider monkeys, three-toed sloths, giant anteaters, and scarlet and great green macaws. The primary culprit was hunting and deforestation for cattle production. Many of the steeper and higher regions have grown back to jungle over the past years, helping the animal populations considerably. In addition, there are several wildlife projects going on to save and re-introduce the animals that have disappeared. For example, at Curu park they have reintroduced spider monkeys and scarlet macaws, with the hope that eventually they will repopulate the entire area.
Tambor Follow-Up Info:
Tambor Real Estate – Tropisphere’s real estate listings for the Tropisphere area.
Tambor Area Map – Map of Tambor and Bahia Ballena
Tambor Scuba Diving – Dive map for the Tambor Area.