If you’re considering picking up and moving your family to Costa Rica, you’ve likely heard about the many benefits that come from carving out a life here—the access to incredible natural beauty and that mercurial pura vida lifestyle.
But, if you’re wondering whether the education system of the country will meet the needs of your family, we have good news! Not only does the country boast a nearly 98% literacy rate among teens and young adults, but the education system in Costa Rica is one of the best in all Latin American countries.
For those looking to call the Tamarindo area home, we’ve gathered a list of some of the best international schools in the area. We think you’ll be amazed at just how much these institutions have to offer!
The TIDE (Total Immersion through a Dynamic Education) Academy is only a 10-minute drive from downtown Tamarindo and offers individualized education for every student from pre-school through 12th grade.
If you’re looking for a school with a bit more flexibility in its schedule, you’re going to love TIDE as students have the option of working remotely and attending some classes on Skype. Older students have the added benefit of interning with local businesses to earn academic credit. We love the fact that TIDE takes learning beyond the walls of the classroom!
We admit La Paz is a bit of a drive (it will take about 40 minutes to get there from Tamarindo)…but the education your child will receive is second to none. La Paz currently serves children from preschool through high school.
La Paz is known for offering students a rigorous educational experience, and the institution is recognized as an IB world school since it offers International Baccalaureate courses.
In addition to educational rigor, La Paz also frames the educational experience around something they call the “peace practice”, encouraging students to strive for peace within themselves, their families, the community, and the world.
Located just 20 minutes from Tamarindo, Educarte offers educational services from preschool to high school. Students are offered a well-rounded education, with studies grounded in values, diversity, respect, citizenship, and art.
Parent involvement is not just welcomed at Educarte but wholeheartedly encouraged by both teachers and staff, and there are plenty of extracurricular activities that allow students to compete and socialize. Football, swimming, and gymnastics are offered in addition to other disciplines.
Educarte also boasts an impressive campus with a sports complex that includes a standard football field, and an aquatic complex complete with a 25-meter, semi-Olympic pool.
Journey School offers education from preschool through 12th grade and is known for its project-based learning and emphasis on environmental sustainability, integrating Costa Rica’s rich natural surroundings into its curriculum.
The school is proudly accredited by MEP in Costa Rica, Cognia in the USA, and IB internationally. Journey School is approximately a 20-minute drive from Tamarindo, making it a convenient option for families in the area. Unique features include outdoor classrooms, social emotional, and project-based learning curricula created to nurture both academic excellence and ecological responsibility.
Pacific Waldorf School, nestled in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, is a Waldorf-inspired educational institution offering classes from preschool through 8th grade.
Emphasizing the Waldorf philosophy, the school nurtures creativity, cooperation, and a love of learning through a holistic, nature-integrated curriculum. Students engage in daily outdoor activities, including morning nature walks, and learn in classrooms surrounded by natural materials to foster a strong connection to the environment.
The campus is situated about 20 minutes from Tamarindo, between Playa Tamarindo and Playa Avellanas.
Costa Rica International Academy
Costa Rica International Academy (CRIA) is a U.S.-accredited private school in Brasilito, Guanacaste, offering education from Pre-K through 12th grade. Located approximately 20 minutes from Tamarindo, it serves as a hub for both local and international families. CRIA emphasizes a rigorous academic curriculum aligned with U.S. standards and prepares students for global citizenship.
It is the only U.S.-accredited school in Guanacaste Province and provides a robust college preparatory program. Known for its “Pirates” mascot and community-oriented culture, CRIA supports students with small class sizes and a focus on critical thinking and leadership development
The Renaissance Institute (iREN) provides a specialized, inclusive education model tailored for neurodivergent students and those with diverse learning needs. Located at Black Stallion Eco Park near Tamarindo, it is approximately a 10-minute drive from the town center.
The school serves children from kindergarten to high school (up to age 18) and offers small class sizes, personalized curriculum plans, and a focus on social-emotional well-being. They provide unique programs in archery, swimming, horseback riding, and creative arts. High school students can pursue international diplomas like the GED, preparing them for international opportunities. The idea at iREN is that every child can thrive!
Moving your family to new a place can be both exciting and scary, but you can rest easy knowing your child will receive a stellar education in Costa Rica. Not only will they have the opportunity to pick up a second language, but they will also find a supportive educational community that values a holistic education, emphasizing academic study, creativity, environmental responsibility, and personal growth.