Nosara Costa Rica Guide
Costa Rica's Blue Zone
Beaches, surfing in Playa Guiones, things to do, where to eat, and how to get here.
Beaches, surfing in Playa Guiones, things to do, where to eat, and how to get here.
About Nosara
Nosara sits on Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula - one of only five Blue Zones in the world, where people live longer, healthier lives. Unlike other beach destinations, Nosara has no high-rises, no chain restaurants, and no construction directly on the beach. Just miles of pristine coastline, lush jungle, and a community that's fiercely protective of their slice of paradise.
Nosara is known for world-class surfing at Playa Guiones, being Costa Rica's yoga capital, incredible wildlife, and an authentic pura vida lifestyle. This is where surfers, yogis, digital nomads, and adventurous families come to slow down, unplug, and reconnect with nature. Looking for a place to stay in Nosara? Our beachfront vacation rentals put you steps from the sand.
The Beaches
From world-class surfing at Playa Guiones to secluded swimming coves - some of Costa Rica's most beautiful coastline is right at your doorstep.
Home to Surfside Nosara - just a 3-minute walk to the sand. A 6-kilometer stretch of white sand with one of the most consistent surf breaks in the country. Waves for all skill levels, perfect for long morning sessions and stunning sunset walks.
A quieter, more sheltered beach north of Guiones. Protected by an offshore reef, it's better suited for swimming. Explore tidal pools, rocky caves, and a fun blowhole in the rocks. Perfect for sunset drinks at La Luna restaurant.
A traditional fishing village beach about 25 minutes south. Calmer waters, local fishermen, and authentic Costa Rican vibes. Home to Garza Sea Company for charter fishing adventures.
Worth the 50-minute drive north, this secluded crescent-shaped beach is a hidden gem. Crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and a tranquil fishing village atmosphere make it perfect for a day trip. Dirt roads and a small river crossing mean 4x4 is suggested.
World-Class Surfing
Playa Guiones is consistently rated one of the best surf beaches in Costa Rica - and it's right outside Surfside Nosara's door. The 6-kilometer beach break offers long, forgiving waves perfect for beginners learning to surf, while more advanced surfers can find faster sections up and down the beach.
What makes Playa Guiones special is the consistency. Unlike other surf destinations that depend on swells, Guiones delivers rideable waves almost every day of the year. The best waves typically roll in from March to November, with mornings usually glassy and uncrowded - perfect for a dawn patrol before the wind picks up.
Board rentals start at around $10/hour. If you're new to surfing, book a lesson early morning when the waves are smaller and the crowds are thin. Surf Simply and Gilded Iguana Surf Club are excellent choices. Our concierge can arrange lessons for you.
Yoga & Wellness
Nosara has evolved into one of the world's premier yoga destinations. Easy walking distance to Nalu, Harmony, Bodhi Tree and many other studios offering fitness and healing modalities in open air jungle studios. The Nosara Yoga Institute has trained teachers from around the globe for decades, and today you'll find world-class studios, retreats, and drop-in classes throughout town.
One of Nosara's most well-known retreats. Open-air yoga shalas, ocean-view meditation decks, spa treatments, saltwater infinity pool, and healthy gourmet meals.
An eco-conscious retreat with a relaxing atmosphere. Mix of Hatha, Vinyasa, and aerial yoga in a tranquil jungle setting. Great juice bar and surf+yoga packages.
Classes typically cost $20-30 per session. Many studios offer package deals if you plan to attend multiple sessions. Dawn and sunset classes are especially magical.
Things to Do
Beyond surfing and yoga, Nosara offers incredible activities - from offshore fishing to turtle watching, wildlife tours to ATV adventures.
Head out with Garza Sea Company for world-class offshore fishing. Sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, and tuna await in the deep blue Pacific.
Ostional Wildlife Refuge, just north of Nosara, hosts the world's largest Olive Ridley turtle nesting site. Witness an arribada (July-December) with up to 100,000 turtles.
Kayak or paddleboard through Nosara's pristine mangrove estuaries. Spot monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas, and countless bird species in their natural habitat.
Explore jungle trails and empty beaches on horseback. Sunset rides along Playa Guiones are particularly magical as the sky turns orange and pink.
Howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, coatis, and hundreds of bird species. The Nosara Biological Reserve offers guided nature walks through primary forest.
When the surf is flat, SUP is the perfect way to explore the coastline. Paddle up the river mouth at sunrise for a peaceful start to your day.
Food & Nightlife
For a small beach community, Nosara punches well above its weight when it comes to food. Fresh seafood, farm-to-table ingredients, and an international community have created a dining scene that rivals anywhere in Costa Rica.
Mediterranean-inspired beachfront dining. Sunset cocktails are a must.
Great tacos, craft cocktails, and live music nights. Always a good vibe.
Healthy smoothie bowls and fresh juices. Perfect post-yoga fuel.
Local institution with great food, sports on TV, and a lively atmosphere.
Practical Info
Everything you need to know about getting to Nosara, best time to visit, money, and getting around.
Liberia Airport (LIR) is the closest international airport - about 2.5 hours drive to Nosara. San Jose Airport (SJO) is 6 hours away. You can also fly directly to Nosara's small airstrip via Sansa Airlines.
Read full guideDry season (December-April) is peak season with sunny skies and bigger crowds. Green season (May-November) brings afternoon showers, lush jungle, fewer tourists, and lower prices. Temperatures stay warm year-round (75-95°F). Surfing is great all year, with bigger swells March-November.
Costa Rican colón is the currency, but US dollars are accepted everywhere. Credit cards work at most businesses. Keep some cash for tips and roadside coconut vendors.
From Surfside Nosara? Not really. The beach, restaurants, yoga studios, and shops are all walkable. Rent a car if you want to explore further - waterfalls, turtle sanctuary, neighboring beaches.
Super Nosara is a well-stocked grocery store nearby with everything you need, including imported goods. The Tuesday farmers market is great for fresh local produce and handmade goods.
Nosara is very safe and welcoming. Use normal precautions - don't leave valuables visible in your car, lock up at night. The community is tight-knit and looks out for each other.
Our concierge service takes the stress out of planning. From airport transportation and restaurant reservations to surf lessons, fishing tours, and in-house massage - we'll arrange it all so you can focus on enjoying paradise.
Learn About Our Concierge ServicesExperience Nosara
Surfside Nosara puts you right in the heart of it all - steps from the beach, walking distance to restaurants, and surrounded by the natural beauty that makes Nosara special.