Nosara, Costa Rica, is a hidden gem on the Nicoya Peninsula, known for its pristine beaches, world-class surfing, and strong focus on sustainability and wellness. Unlike other beach towns in Costa Rica, Nosara doesn’t have a central town square or a bustling main strip. Instead, it’s a collection of laid-back beach communities connected by winding dirt roads, lush jungle, and an eco-conscious way of life.
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Whether you’re here to surf the consistent waves at Playa Guiones, practice yoga at a world-renowned retreat, or explore wildlife-rich reserves, Nosara offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and community.
This guide covers everything you need to know about Nosara—from the best things to do and top beaches to where to stay, eat, and how to get around.
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Essential Travel Info for Nosara, Costa Rica
How to Get to Nosara
Nosara is located on the Nicoya Peninsula in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. While it feels remote, it’s accessible by car, domestic flights, and shuttles.
- By Plane: Nosara Airport is a small domestic airport, about 15 minutes from Playa Guiones. It serves private and domestic flights from San José with airlines like Sansa.
- From Liberia International Airport (LIR): The closest international airport is in Liberia, Guanacaste, about 2.5 hours by car. Many direct flights from the U.S. and Canada land here.
- From San José (SJO): The drive from San José to Nosara takes about 4.5 to 5 hours. Buses and shuttles are available, but renting a car is the most convenient option.
Getting Around Nosara
Nosara is spread out, making transportation essential.
- Car Rental: The best way to explore Nosara, especially if you want to visit multiple beaches and waterfalls. A 4WD is recommended, as roads can be rough.
- Golf Carts & ATVs: A popular choice for getting around Playa Guiones and Playa Pelada. Many shops in town rent them out.
- Biking: Many visitors rent bikes for shorter trips, though some roads can be challenging.
READ NEXT: Essential Tips for Driving In Costa Rica
Book the Best Car Rental in Costa Rica
Renting a car in Costa Rica can be one of the most challenging parts of your visit! Unfortunately, car rentals in Costa Rica often come with significant hidden insurance fees, result in many frustrations at pick-up. The experience has ruined many trips and ballooned trip budgets for friends, family and followers. After years of not having a good solution, we finally found an honest car rental company that we proudly recommend to our readers.
We recommend booking with Vamos Costa Rica – a local car rental company that offers fantastic service and NO HIDDEN FEES and get 10% of your rental rate plus FREE additional driver, FREE child seat and other perks and benefits when booking through our link below!
Book early as rental car availability all across Costa Rica is currently lower than demand!
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Is Nosara Safe?
Nosara is one of the safest beach towns in Costa Rica. However, petty theft can occur. Keep valuables secure, avoid leaving belongings unattended at the beach, and use hotel safes when possible.
READ NEXT: Things to Know Before Traveling to Costa Rica
Best Time to Visit Nosara, Costa Rica
Nosara has two main seasons, each offering a unique experience.
- Dry Season (December – April): This is the most popular time to visit, with sunny skies, warm temperatures, and ideal surfing conditions. However, it’s also the busiest season, with higher prices and more tourists.
- Green Season (May – November): Also known as the rainy season, this period sees lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Mornings are often clear and sunny, with afternoon showers. The peak of the rainy season (September–October) can bring heavy rainfall and muddy roads.
Best time for surfing: Year-round, but the best swells are from April to October.
For fewer crowds and great deals, visiting in shoulder months like May, June, or November is a great option.
READ NEXT: Best Time to Visit Costa Rica: Monthly Breakdown
10 Best Things to Do in Nosara, Costa Rica
Nosara is a paradise for surfers, nature lovers, and wellness seekers. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, here are the top activities to enjoy in this laid-back beach town.
1. Visit Nosara’s Stunning Beaches
Nosara is home to some of Costa Rica’s most idyllic beaches, each offering something unique. Whether you’re looking to surf, swim, or simply relax, these pristine stretches of sand are the heart of Nosara’s charm.
Playa Guiones: The Surfing Hub
Playa Guiones is Nosara’s most famous beach, stretching over 7 kilometers of golden sand. Known for its consistent waves, it’s a paradise for surfers of all levels. The beach has a protected status, meaning no development is allowed directly on the shoreline, preserving its natural beauty.
- Why visit? The surf is reliable year-round, and the wide, sandy shore makes it great for long beach walks.
- Best for: Surfing, beach running, sunset views.
- Facilities: No direct beachfront development, but plenty of surf shops, cafes, and rentals in Playa Guiones town.
If you’re not a surfer, Playa Guiones is still a great place to relax, watch the local surf scene, and catch one of the best sunsets in Costa Rica.
Playa Pelada: A Local Favorite
Just north of Guiones, Playa Pelada is a quieter, more scenic beach with a mix of golden sand, rock formations, and tide pools. It’s the best spot in Nosara for swimming, thanks to its gentler waves and natural rock barriers.
- Why visit? The tide pools make it perfect for families, and the sunsets here are unforgettable.
- Best for: Swimming, tide pooling, watching the local fishermen at sunset.
- Facilities: A few beachfront restaurants, including the well-known La Luna.
Playa Pelada has a strong local feel, with fishermen launching their boats in the morning and families gathering in the evenings.
Playa Nosara: A Secluded Escape
Playa Nosara, often overshadowed by its neighbor, Playa Guiones, offers a quieter and more secluded experience. Surrounded by lush tropical forest, it’s an ideal place for those looking to escape the crowds.
- Why visit? A peaceful alternative to the busier beaches, with a beautiful natural backdrop.
- Best for: Nature lovers, quiet beach days, long walks.
- Facilities: Limited—bring water and snacks.
Since it’s less developed, Playa Nosara is a great spot to disconnect and take in the untouched beauty of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Playa Garza: Local Fishing Village & Hidden Gem
Located just south of Nosara, Playa Garza is a small, crescent-shaped bay that feels a world away from the surf-heavy beaches of Guiones and Pelada. The calm waters here are great for swimming and kayaking, and the local fishing scene adds an authentic touch.
- Why visit? A great place to experience local Tico culture, with fewer tourists.
- Best for: Swimming, fresh seafood, local charm.
- Facilities: A few small sodas (local eateries) serving fresh-caught fish.
Playa Garza is a great spot for a laid-back afternoon and offers a glimpse into Costa Rica’s traditional coastal life.
Tips for Visiting Nosara’s Beaches
- Low tide is best for exploring tide pools and beach walks, while high tide is better for surfing.
- There are no lifeguards, so be mindful of rip currents when swimming.
- All Nosara beaches are protected and undeveloped, meaning no beachside resorts or bars—a rarity in Costa Rica.
READ NEXT: Best Beaches in Guanacaste
2. Take Surf Lessons
Nosara is one of the top surf towns in the world, with year-round waves and a welcoming surf culture.
- Beginners can take lessons at Nosara Surf School or Coconut Harry’s Surf Shop.
- Experienced surfers will love the clean, consistent waves at Playa Guiones.
- Surf camps like Safari Surf School offer multi-day programs with accommodations..
READ NEXT: Best Surfing in Costa Rica
3. Visit a Wildlife Sanctuary
Nosara is a haven for wildlife, particularly for howler monkeys, sea turtles, and tropical birds. The region is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and conservation projects that help protect local species and provide unique opportunities for visitors to learn about and support conservation efforts.
SIBU Wildlife Sanctuary: Rescuing & Rehabilitating Monkeys
SIBU Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most well-known rescue centers in Costa Rica, dedicated to caring for injured and orphaned howler monkeys. The sanctuary sits on 50 acres of protected jungle, providing a safe rehabilitation space for monkeys affected by habitat loss, electrocution from power lines, and illegal pet trade.
- What you’ll experience: Guided educational tours where you can see monkeys, sloths, and other rescued wildlife up close.
- Why visit? Learn about wildlife rescue efforts and support a local conservation project.
- Important note: Touching the animals is not allowed to ensure their safe reintroduction into the wild.
SIBU works with local communities to prevent electrocutions by installing insulated wildlife bridges—an ongoing initiative that is saving countless monkeys.
Ostional Wildlife Refuge: Witness the Arribada
Located just north of Nosara, Ostional Wildlife Refuge is one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites in the world. Every month, thousands of Olive Ridley sea turtles return to lay their eggs in an event known as an arribada (mass nesting).
- Best time to visit: The peak nesting season is from August to December, though turtles arrive year-round.
- How to visit: Entry to the beach during nesting requires a guided tour from the Asociación de Guías Locales de Ostional.
- Why visit? See one of nature’s most incredible spectacles, where hundreds of thousands of turtles come ashore at once.
During an arribada, as many as 500,000 sea turtles can arrive in just a few days, covering the sand in a truly once-in-a-lifetime sight.
Arribada: The Arrival
The arribada in Playa Ostional, Costa Rica is a natural phenomenon that occurs when hundreds and sometimes thousands of Olive Ridley sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. This event occurs every month, but the number of turtles increases dramatically during the nesting season between August – December. The largest on record involved over 500,000 turtles! One five-day arribada can result in 10 million eggs being laid.
During an arribada, you cannot just wander into the refuge. To enter the beach, you must book a small group guided tour directly with the staff at the Asociacion de Guias Locales de Ostional.
READ NEXT:Witnessing Arribada in Playa Ostional, Costa Rica
Refuge for Wildlife: Protecting Nosara’s Monkeys
The Nosara Refuge for Wildlife is another key organization that helps injured animals, especially howler monkeys that have suffered electrocution. While their education center is currently closed for renovations, they still accept volunteers and operate their Stop the Shock campaign, which aims to insulate power lines to prevent monkey injuries.
- How to help: Donations, volunteering, and sponsorship programs are available.
- Why visit? Though tours are paused, visitors can still support the project and learn about conservation efforts in the region.
Why These Wildlife Sanctuaries Matter
Nosara is at the forefront of Costa Rica’s conservation movement, and visiting these sanctuaries not only offers an unforgettable experience but also directly supports efforts to protect the region’s diverse wildlife.
Tips for Responsible Wildlife Viewing
- Always book ethical wildlife tours with certified guides.
- Never touch, feed, or disturb wild animals, even if they seem friendly.
- Respect nesting areas, especially during sea turtle arribadas.
Nosara’s commitment to wildlife protection makes it one of the best places in Costa Rica to experience nature responsibly.
4. Go Kayaking or Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Explore Nosara’s mangroves and rivers by kayak or SUP.
- Paddle along Rio Nosara and Rio Montana, spotting exotic birds and wildlife.
- Guided tours often include a stop at a secluded black-sand beach.
- Rentals are available through Experience Nosara and Nosara Paddlesurf.
5. Take a Yoga Class or Join a Retreat
Nosara is known as one of Costa Rica’s top yoga destinations, drawing wellness seekers from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a drop-in yoga class or a full retreat experience, you’ll find stunning open-air studios, expert instructors, and a strong wellness community.
Why Nosara is a Yoga Hotspot
- Home to some of the best yoga retreats in Costa Rica, offering everything from Vinyasa and Hatha to aerial and restorative yoga.
- The tropical setting, surrounded by lush jungle and ocean views, creates an ideal space for relaxation and mindfulness.
- Many yoga retreats integrate sustainability, organic meals, and wellness workshops, making them more than just a yoga experience.
Best Yoga Studios & Retreats in Nosara
Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort: Luxury Yoga & Wellness
One of Nosara’s most well-known retreats, Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort offers a wide range of yoga classes and retreats, as well as wellness treatments and organic dining.
- What to expect: Stunning open-air yoga shalas, ocean-view meditation decks, and daily yoga classes.
- Who it’s for: Great for all levels, from beginners to advanced yogis.
- Additional perks: Spa treatments, saltwater infinity pool, healthy gourmet meals.
Harmony Nosara: A Holistic Experience
Located at the Harmony Hotel, this eco-conscious retreat is known for its relaxing atmosphere and high-quality instructors.
- What to expect: A mix of Hatha, Vinyasa, and aerial yoga, set in a tranquil jungle environment.
- Who it’s for: Those looking for a peaceful yet structured yoga experience.
- Additional perks: On-site juice bar, meditation classes, and surf + yoga packages.
Nosara Yoga Institute: A Yoga Legacy
Previously one of the most renowned yoga teacher training schools in the world, Nosara Yoga Institute was acquired by Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort but continues to be a major influence on yoga culture in Nosara.
- What to expect: A deep history of yoga education, now integrated into Bodhi Tree’s programming.
- Who it’s for: Those interested in teacher training and long-term yoga practice.
Other Great Yoga Studios in Nosara
- The Nomadic Hotel – Offers drop-in yoga classes for travelers.
- Nalu Nosara – A boutique yoga and movement studio with personalized classes.
- Seek Yoga Nosara – Community-oriented studio with a variety of yoga styles and workshops.
Best Time to Visit for Yoga in Nosara
- High season (December – April): More retreats and teacher trainings available, but studios can get busy.
- Green season (May – November): Fewer crowds, more personal attention in classes, and lower prices on retreats.
Tips for Practicing Yoga in Nosara
- Many studios offer mats and props, but bringing your own is always a good idea.
- Some retreats include accommodations and meals, making them a great all-inclusive option.
- If you’re new to yoga, start with drop-in classes before committing to a full retreat.
Nosara’s deep-rooted yoga culture, combined with its beachfront setting and eco-conscious vibe, makes it the perfect place to deepen your practice and reconnect with yourself.
6. Visit Waterfalls Near Nosara
While Nosara is best known for its beautiful beaches and surf scene, the nearby hidden waterfalls offer a refreshing escape into the jungle. These waterfalls, surrounded by lush tropical forests and natural pools, provide the perfect setting for a midday adventure or a relaxing swim.
Mala Noche Waterfall: A Jungle Adventure
Located deep in the forest, Mala Noche Waterfall is one of the closest waterfalls to Nosara, but it’s not the easiest to reach. Since it sits on private land, visiting requires either a guided tour or permission from the landowner.
- Why visit? A hidden gem with cascading falls and a swimming hole surrounded by jungle.
- Best way to go: Book a local guided tour for access and insights into the area’s ecosystem.
- What to bring: Hiking shoes, a swimsuit, and a waterproof bag for your belongings.
Belen Waterfall: A Natural Swimming Pool
Belen Waterfall is one of the most accessible waterfalls near Nosara, located about an hour away by car and 20 minutes from Sámara. Unlike Mala Noche, this natural cascade flows into a clear swimming pool, making it perfect for a refreshing dip.
- Why visit? One of the easiest waterfalls to access, great for families and picnics.
- Best way to go: Drive yourself with a rental car or join a guided tour.
- What to bring: Towel, sunscreen, snacks, and plenty of water.
7. Go Snorkeling in San Juanillo
Just 30 minutes north of Nosara, San Juanillo is a hidden gem for snorkeling, with calm, clear waters and diverse marine life. Unlike Nosara’s surf-heavy beaches, San Juanillo offers a protected cove where you can spot colorful fish, rays, and even sea turtles.
How to Snorkel in San Juanillo
- DIY Snorkeling – Bring your own gear and explore near the rocky outcrops at low tide for the best visibility.
- Guided Tours – Monkey Quads Nosara offers snorkeling excursions with equipment, guides, and lunch included.
Other Things to Do in San Juanillo
- Relax on the white-sand beach and enjoy the split coastline with two different bays.
- Eat fresh seafood at a local soda (small eatery).
- Visit Playa Pitahaya, an even more secluded nearby beach.
Tips for Snorkeling in San Juanillo
- Best visited at low tide for clear visibility.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen and water shoes for rocky areas.
- Dry season (December – April) has the clearest water conditions.
San Juanillo is a great off-the-beaten-path escape, perfect for a relaxing beach day and underwater adventure.
8. Shop at Local Boutiques
Nosara has a thriving artisan and eco-conscious shopping scene, with locally made clothing, jewelry, and sustainable goods. Unlike big tourist towns, Nosara’s shops focus on handcrafted, ethical, and eco-friendly products.
Best Shops in Nosara
- Jen Stones Design – Unique art, jewelry, and clothing inspired by Costa Rica.
- Love Nosara – Stylish locally designed and produced apparel.
- Organico Deli-Market – A mix of organic groceries, wellness products, and local gifts.
Tips for Shopping in Nosara
- Many boutiques focus on sustainability, using organic materials and fair-trade practices.
- Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is helpful for smaller shops.
Shopping in Nosara is about supporting local artisans while finding high-quality, one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
READ NEXT: How to Be a Sustainable Traveler in Costa Rica
9. Take Part in a Beach Clean Up
Nosara is one of Costa Rica’s most eco-conscious communities, and locals regularly organize beach cleanups to keep the coastline pristine. Visitors are encouraged to get involved and give back during their stay.
How to Join a Beach Cleanup
- Nicoya Peninsula Waterkeeper – Hosts scheduled cleanups and marine conservation initiatives.
- Nosara Civic Association – Works on community-led environmental projects, including waste management.
- Local Cafés & Shops – Many businesses post flyers about upcoming cleanup events.
Why Participate?
- Helps protect Nosara’s beaches and marine life.
- A great way to meet locals and fellow travelers.
- Supports the sustainable mindset that defines Nosara.
Even if you can’t join an organized cleanup, picking up trash during your beach visit makes a difference!
10. Explore the Nosara Farmers Market
The Nosara Farmers Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience local flavors and artisan goods. Held every Tuesday morning, it’s the perfect place to stock up on organic produce, fresh-baked goods, and handcrafted items from local vendors.
What You’ll Find at the Market
- Fresh tropical fruits and organic vegetables grown by local farmers.
- Homemade goods like vegan snacks, artisan bread, and locally made cheeses.
- Handcrafted jewelry, clothing, and wellness products made with sustainable materials.
Tips for Visiting the Farmers Market
- Arrive early for the best selection of produce and fresh foods.
- Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept credit cards.
- Chat with local farmers and artisans to learn more about Costa Rica’s organic movement.
Visiting the Nosara Farmers Market is a great way to support local businesses while enjoying the best of Costa Rica’s fresh, organic lifestyle.
Where to Stay in Nosara: Best Nosara Hotels
There are lots of great places to stay in Nosara Costa Rica. However, these are our favourites for their commitment to sustainability.
Olas Verdes Hotel
Olas Verdes Hotel is located on Playa Guiones, partially surrounded by the Ostional-Nosara Wildlife Refuge. The hotel has access to the beach, a clubhouse, a swimming pool, and offers complimentary bicycles. They offer yoga classes, surfing lessons, horseback riding, and turtle tours to see the Olive Ridley sea turtles. There is a restaurant on-site, offering Costa Rican dishes and fusion dishes made from seasonal local ingredients.
We recommend Olas Verdes Hotel for their sustainability and desire to preserve the natural state of the ecosystem. They have a rainwater collection system, rely on solar energy, strive for zero waste, and use only native vegetation in their landscaping. They also encourage guests to get involved, inviting them to take part in the Pack for a Purpose project. This initiative encourages visitors to bring supplies needed for community-based projects.
Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort
If you are looking for a place to relax your mind and stretch your body, then Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort is a great option. It has a pool, bright sleeping rooms, and a spa. This resort focuses on the health and wellness of its guests. They also have an on-site restaurant, juice bar and offer daily yoga classes in their highly rated yoga studios.
Green Sanctuary Hotel
Also offering a spa and wellness center, Green Sanctuary Hotel has a garden, terrace, and snack bar. It is located in the Playa Guiones town not far from the beach. It also has private parking and several restaurants within close proximity. Rooms at the hotel are comfortable and we love their long list of sustainable practices.
Harmony Hotel
Hidden behind an inconspicuous wooden roadside sign, this lush jungle enclave was right up our alley! Harmony Hotel is arguably one of the best places to stay in Nosara. It’s a hot spot for yogis, health nuts, and lovers of nature, relaxation, sustainability, and as the owners describe it, “low key glamour”.
We didn’t get the chance to stay at Harmony Hotel but we did enjoy their daily yoga classes, delicious smoothies at their Juice Bar and a fabulous lunch at their on-site hotel. Guests can enjoy comfy rooms, an onsite pool, and nearby surf.
Lagarta Lodge
Lagarta Lodge is built on the concept of “Living in harmony with nature”. It has been awarded a certification of sustainable tourism and is known for its commitment to the community.
There are 36 suites to choose from at Lagarta Lodge with views of the jungle or ocean. They are well equipped, modern & stylish, and their suites prioritize privacy. There is an open-air lounge on-site, as well as the Restaurant Chirriboca and the Sunset Bar, and a wine cellar available for romantic dinners. The restaurant uses local, organic ingredients in their Traditional Costa Rican dishes, serving them in their private wine cellar or with a view of the ocean.
Adjacent to the lodge is Nosara Biological Reserve, where guests can join a guided tour or freely explore the nature reserve.
Where to Eat in Nosara: Best Local Restaurants
La Luna Restaurant
Hours: Everyday 7:00am to 10:00pm
At La Luna Restaurant, we splurged on a great meal with a beautiful view. It’s not quite a fine dining restaurant, but it was not the cheapest spot to dine at either. For a while, the Mediterranean feel of La Luna, the familiar chatter all around us, made us forget that we were in Costa Rica altogether.
La Luna turned out to be another expat hangout in Nosara. This was a gathering place for special events, birthday celebrations, catch-ups with friends, and romantic dates.
Harmony Juice Bar
Hours: Everyday 6:30am to 9:00pm
While we were at Harmony Hotel, we noticed that it was another local hotspot. “I’ll have the usual, Maria,” we heard again and again as the line at the Harmony Hotel Nosara Juice Bar moved along.
The Juice Bar was a place to catch up with friends, and the open-air yoga studio – a place to reconnect with your mind. You couldn’t ask for a more ideal setting.
El Chivo
Hours: Sunday 10:00am to 8:00pm, Monday to Saturday 8:00am to 8:00pm
El Chivo Nosara is a Mexican-inspired restaurant that focuses on having a great vibe for its patrons. The owners are originally from Canada but have traveled extensively in Mexico. They eventually landed in Nosara to create fabulous dishes, including vegetarian options. Don’t miss Taco Tuesday or their live music acts!
Go Juice Truck
Hours: Everyday 8:00am to 4:30pm
This quick and delicious food truck offers fresh juices, smoothies, acai bowls and other light lunch options like the tuna poke bowl and ceviche. Go Juice Truck is located close to the surf in Guiones and other things to do, Nosara. It is the perfect place to fuel up as you start your day or for a quick afternoon snack.
Destiny Cafe & Restaurant
Hours: Everyday 6:00am to 3:00pm
Destiny Cafe is a charming spot on Playa Guiones, specializing in contemporary Central American and Costa Rican meals. They are open for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, and every meal is made in-house from ingredients that are always fresh. They offer options that are vegan and vegetarian, as well as options that cater to other dietary restrictions.
Final Tips for Visiting Nosara
Nosara is a unique blend of surf culture, wellness retreats, and eco-conscious living. To make the most of your trip, here are a few important travel tips to keep in mind.
1. Rent a 4WD Vehicle
Nosara’s unpaved roads can be rough, especially in the rainy season (May–November). A 4WD rental is highly recommended for easier access to beaches, waterfalls, and nearby attractions.
2. Expect Higher Prices
As an eco-conscious and expat-friendly destination, Nosara tends to be more expensive than other Costa Rican towns. Budget accordingly, especially for dining, accommodations, and wellness activities.
3. Respect the Wildlife & Environment
Nosara is a leader in sustainable tourism. Help preserve its natural beauty by:
- Using reef-safe sunscreen and avoiding single-use plastics.
- Keeping a safe distance from wildlife, especially monkeys and nesting turtles.
- Participating in eco-friendly activities like beach cleanups.
4. Book in Advance During High Season
From December to April, Nosara experiences high demand, especially for hotels, surf camps, and yoga retreats. Booking early ensures you get your preferred accommodations and activities.
5. Embrace the Pura Vida Lifestyle
Nosara is all about slow living, mindfulness, and being in tune with nature. Take time to enjoy the surf, sunsets, and sense of community—it’s what makes this place so special.
Is Nosara Worth Visiting?
If you love surfing, yoga, and nature, Nosara is one of Costa Rica’s best destinations. Whether you’re here for a few days or planning a long-term stay, this laid-back, eco-conscious town offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Hi, I lived in Nosara, on Playa Guiones, for 6 years. I want to correct a few things, first Playa Guiones, is never called Playa Nosara, Playa Nosara is on the other side of Playa Pelada, before Playa Ostional, which is also part of Nosara. The second thing, Playa Garza, is south of Nosara, and Tamarindo is 28 miles north of Nosara.
Also, most people who go to Nosara, go there because it’s not like the other touristy beaches. Sadly, Nosara has grown dramatically in the past 10 years, hundreds of new houses, and there’s probably 50 new restaurants in the area, from Esperanza to Ostional.
Playa Guiones, has been called the American Village for about 20 years. It was started by American, Europeans, and Canadian expats. The majority of the land was purchased by an American back in the 70’s.
Nosara, doesn’t mean ‘Gift from God’, Nosara & Samara, were the daughters of the king of Nicoya….at least that’s the story I heard for the 6 years I lived there, from all of the native ticos from the area.
Cheers, T.
Exploring Nosara, a vibrant surfing expat community in Costa Rica, is a dream come true for surf enthusiasts. This article beautifully captures the essence of Surfing Costa Rica. The perfect blend of culture, waves, and community makes it a must-visit destination for every surfer. Can’t wait to experience the Pura Vida lifestyle in Nosara!