Tamarindo, Costa Rica

With a population of just 7,132, this former fishing village has boomed into a tourism hotspot, drawing surfers, digital nomads, and expatriates. However, the town's rapid growth has come with its share of challenges - Tamarindo lost its prestigious Blue Flag status for water pollution in the mid-2000s, and it has struggled to regain the designation despite years of effort. While the beaches remain a major draw, the bureaucratic headaches around maintaining environmental standards are a persistent issue. Tamarindo is best suited for those seeking an active, beachside lifestyle, but they should be prepared to navigate the town's growing pains.