Quick View | Nosara, Costa Rica
Overview
Nosara, Costa Rica - the land of lush greenery, howler monkeys, endless waves, yoga and “pura vida”. Pura Vida is a way of life in Costa Rica, one that is all about slowing things down, living life to the fullest and appreciating everything life has to offer. You will find adventure in surfing or zip lining, serenity in yoga or hiking nature trails, joy in just about every experience. You will not find high rises, beachside cabanas or corporate business - for that we are thankful. The desire to keep Nosara, Nosara runs deep through Ticos and tourists alike and it is what keeps people coming back year after year.
The Basics
Language: Spanish however English is acceptable everywhere. We always say learn a few key phrases! At the least, please (por favor) and thank you (gracias)
Currency: Costa Rican Colón ($1USD - 612.74CRC) We had no trouble using our travel cards anywhere however there are only 2 ATM machines - one in Guiones and one near the gas station so plan ahead if you do need cash! (We needed cash for our ATV rental to avoid 13% tax)
When to Visit: High season Nov-Apr, Low season May-Oct. ** Low season is “green season” so expect daily showers, more lush wildlife and epic sunsets
Travel: Nosara can be reached a few ways..
1. Easiest we found since we flew into San Jose was a regional flight on Sansa Air from San Jose. There are two flights per day, one early morning around 6am and the other just after 3pm. One way is around $100USD depending on the day of course and season.
2. If you are flying into Liberia internationally, you can get a taxi/Uber or rent a car for the 2 hour 45 minute drive. There is also a daily flight for around $100USD.
3. Rent a car in San Jose and drive the 4 hours and 45 minutes. If you have more time, this is a great way to see a bit more of the country. .
Getting Around: ATV, UTV or 4WD car! We definitely recommend an ATV or a covered UTV if you are traveling during green season. Gas is cheap (there is only one gas station in town!) the footprint is small and you can easily zip around the winding roads and find parking rather than needing a larger space for a car.
There are a number of tuktuks available when flights land so you can get a ride to where you are staying. They will take cash in USD or CRC - NO TAXIS! Tuktuks hang out mainly in Guiones but are always going back and for between Pelada.
Top 7 Things to Do
1. Watch the sunset EVERY SINGLE DAY! Whether you are up in the hills, on horseback or down on the beach watching the surfers catch the last bit of daylight, you cannot miss it.
2. Take a surf lesson. Even if you have taken one before, learning from a local is always such a great experience and really makes the experience. We took our first lesson with Danny at Agua Tibia and we could not recommend them more! **They will actually photograph your first session so you have some memories of your first pop up!
3. Enjoy all of the organic, healthy food options! The fruit is incredible and there are so many great places to try listed below!
4. Eat an early sunset dinner at La Luna - Playa Pelada. Reservations definitely recommended as this is one of two restaurants in all of Nosara on the beach.
5. Take a yoga class.
6. Visit the Ostional Wildlife Refuge during arribada where you can see upwards of 20,000 turtles come to nest. The most active times are from July-December with November being peak! New moons when it is the darkest are their ideal time.
7. Explore nearby beaches like San Juanillo or Playa Garza - both about 25 minutes drive north and south. A little bit further south is Playa Barco Quebrado which has a VERY cute camping setup.
Where to Stay
Playa Guiones: The larger of the two beach towns in Nosara. This is the most expensive area to stay however it is where you will find the bulk of the restaurants, sodas, surf shops and more. If you are looking for nightlife, this is your best bet although most places are not too crazy late night!
NALU - Right in the heart of Guiones, minutes away from the surf and shops. They include a free class session in their studio during your stay. 3 night minimum. The indoor outdoor living is a literal dream!
The Gilded Iguana - On a bustling street in Guiones with their own surf club and access to the ocean. Great restaurant on site - family friendly!
The Nomadic - (no kids under 12) Beautiful, modern design with open air common spaces. Range of rooms allow for more budget friendly options.
Playa Pelada/Boca: Is known for being a bit quieter, there are only a handful of restaurants right now but the area is in the process of a huge boom with tons of new construction and proposed restaurants.
Dos Olas - Perfect two bedroom villa with private plunge pool. Bohemian style with all of the amenities you need!
Lagarta Lodge - A bit more modern with a beautiful terrace and view of the valley, Boca and Pacific Ocean. Incredible for sunset at their pool or restaurant.
Eat and Drink:
El Chivo: Taco heaven. Pelada
Coyol: A bit of a trek but the view of the airport and water is worth the drive. Make your reservation around 4:30 to catch an amazing sunset. A bit pricey but a great experience. Nosara/Mar Azul
Destiny Cafe: Such good, fresh breakfast/lunch options. Fresh smoothie bowls and juices. I think we ate here 4 times! Really gets packed after morning surf. Guiones.
The Gilded Iguana: Pretty large menu with a ton of options for everyone. Wonderful outdoor seating area with live music some nights. Guiones.
Go Juice: Juice, smoothies, bowls & coffee. Guiones.
La Luna: 1 of 2 beachfront restaurants. Amazing, Mediterranean inspired fare. Pelada
LuvBurger: All organic, all vegan, all gluten free. Guiones.
Olgas: 2 of 2 beachfront restaurants. Awesome spot for a drink and sunset watching. Pelada.
Olivia’s/Guiones Brewing Co.: Great local brewery with REALLY fresh and unique pizza options. Guiones
Things to Know Before Visiting
Embrace the disconnect when you can. Nosara has great fiber optic wifi in a lot of locations. Most restaurants wont have their wifi listed so you can focus on your company and surroundings. Go with it if you can!
Always pay attention to your belongings. While we had no issues, petty theft is the number one crime in Nosara so if you plan to be out in the water, don’t bring all of your tech with you.
The water is totally safe to drink! Bring a water bottle with you so you can refill throughout the day. Nosara is making all of the efforts to minimize their environmental impact so you wont find a ton of single use plastic around.
Take binoculars with you everywhere like these. There are so many possibilities to see unique wildlife you will not want to miss out on! Howler monkeys, humpback whales, turtles, crazy amounts of birds.. it’s all here!
If you are traveling during dry season, the roads will either be very dusty OR covered in molasses to reduce dust. If you are on an ATV/UTV, be aware that you, your clothes and everything not concealed will get dusty. We recommend sunglasses and at least a bandana for your nose and mouth. The molasses smells like raisins and is definitely noticeable if you are sensitive to smells.
Be socially responsible. During the global pandemic, bring a mask with you. You don’t have to hike or surf in it but most restaurants and stores are still asking you to wear them. **They also come in handy for dust from the roads during dry season!
As above, make sure you dispose of said masks and anything else you bring with you. Follow your hosts requests for recycling, garbage and toilet product disposal.
If you plan to go on hikes or exploring to more beaches, bring some good water shoes.
