Marijuana Laws
As recorded December 15, 2025 · not verified as current law. Costa Rica law
Cannabis laws in Tamerindo follow Costa Rica’s national law. City pages reflect the same jurisdiction-wide cannabis framework; local ordinances typically do not override it.
Recreational cannabis is illegal. Medical cannabis is available with prescription, and industrial hemp is regulated separately. Some hemp-derived products may be sold under separate rules, but that does not mean marijuana is legal, and legality can depend on product content and labeling. Personal possession of small amounts typically faces administrative measures rather than criminal prosecution, though risk remains.
Quick facts
- Recreational: Illegal
- Medical: Available with prescription
- Possession: Small amounts often not criminally prosecuted
- Buying/Selling: Illegal
- Tourists: Face same legal risks as residents
Practical guidance
Avoid cross-border transport of cannabis products. Do not assume informal tolerance equals legality.
Legislative Background
While recreational cannabis remains illegal, Costa Rica has a longstanding practice of treating small personal possession amounts as non-criminal (often resulting in administrative measures rather than prosecution). Medical cannabis and hemp-derived products were regulated in 2022, permitting prescription access and low-THC industrial production.
Law Enforcement
Tamarindo felt relaxed until the police showed up. The beach at night was where trouble came in this account.
Where to Buy Marijuana
Around the main surf spots, street vendors selling odds and ends sometimes knew somebody.
Marijuana Prices
About US$20–30 for 5–7 g after bargaining. A group of local Rastas once turned up surprisingly good headies.
Types of Marijuana
Some schwag, some decent Haze.
More Information
Going down to the beach with a friendly seller sounded harmless. Then two officers showed up. One took the seller aside while the other spoke only Spanish. Friends had told nearly identical stories from Costa Rican surf beaches, which made it feel like a setup. After a US$20 payment, the group was let go with the weed and even went to a reggae bar with the seller. Whatever was behind it, the night beach could go from relaxed to ugly fast.