Best Hotels & Things to Do in Nosara, Costa Rica

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Advisor - Marcy Yu
Curated By

Marcy Yu

  • Costa Rica

  • Beaches

  • International Travel

  • Nature Escapes

  • Relaxation

  • Local Culture

  • Outdoors

view of beach and palm trees during daytime
Curator’s statement

Nosara is the new hidden gem destination in Costa Rica, is very remote and still very untouched which is great to experience the virgin and remote nature and beaches around. This chic surf town is very relaxed and laid-back than other destinations around the country. In general, Nosara has great surf, secluded beautiful homes, wonderful wellness retreats and beautiful boutique hotels with a lot of focus on sustainable tourism. It is honestly one of my favorite places in Costa Rica and it definitely deserves a place on your bucket list.

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Where to stay in Nosara, Costa Rica

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Things to do in Nosara, Costa Rica

beach during daytime

We all know very well that Costa Rica's slogan is “Pura Vida” and once you set foot into this beautiful Central American country you will feel the warmth and the real meaning behind these words.

If you are lucky to visit beautiful Costa Rica, then you must make your way to the stunning Nicoya Peninsula to discover breathtaking landscapes and pristine beaches located in and around Nosara. If you love untouched nature, and hidden gems then I highly recommend adding this tropical paradise destination to your bucket list! I know you will thank me later.

While Nosara has grown its popularity over the last few years it still carries a small chic surf town charm with a sense of peaceful remoteness while providing many activities to do and not get bored.

Nosara’s miles of unspoiled coast are the main draw. Local laws prohibit construction within 550 feet of the shore, resulting in pristine, undeveloped beaches. For me, one of the great things about Nosara is that is still an “unseen” area and haven’t been yet browbeaten by tourists like other neighboring towns, Tamarindo or Santa Teresa. It’s very relaxed and laid back which has caught the attention of an international community of like-minded individuals that it attracts. Is a place to see and be seen, on course to become the “it” destination in Costa Rica and all of Central America.

It is surrounded by an undeveloped jungle, rich national parks, great yoga retreats and one of the clearest ocean waters in the country. One of my favorite things to do was to sail to the beautiful pink island which is only possible to see during low tide. I did this with Kaya Nosara and honestly, the experience is completely worth it and beautiful. From sipping margaritas to delicious healthy snacks while watching dolphins. Swimming in this water was super refreshing and will make you want to stay all day long, soaking up the sun, hearing the waves crash on the shore and then watching a mesmerizing sunset unlike anywhere else in the world.

To the south of Nosara, just a few kilometers away, you will find picturesque Playa Garza. It’s an authentic beach town with a sprawling white sand beach and tranquil atmosphere that attracts locals and tourists alike. Playa Garza is the center of the local fishing industry and it is very popular with divers, snorkelers, whale watchers, and anyone looking for a quiet and relaxing beach experience as the area is not flooded with tourists. And now, Playa Garza has a new attraction that will surely delight even the most capricious foodies and music aficionados.

One of my favorite spots in all Nosara was Perozah, the latest noteworthy addition to Costa Rica’s vibrant scene located right on the gorgeous Playa Garza beach, tucked away between palm trees, its modern yet chic exterior is impossible to miss. This multifaceted, multipurpose venue is truly one of a kind - you won’t find any other similar beach-facing locations in all of Nosara or nearby areas.

They served breakfast, lunch and dinner and it's honestly a place where you can hang out all day because of its location. It is perfect to work, relax, watch sunsets and even sign up for some of their wellness activities like ice baths, sunset yoga, beach volleyball or listen to live music. They also offer vegan and vegetarian options. One of my favorite things here was the breakfast and the night scene. They always have an incredible group of artists playing live music.

Another of my favorite spots to eat that definitely is a must-visit is Coyol Nosara offering a countryside vibe. The restaurant is up in the mountains offering iconic green views making this place extremely photogenic for some Instagramable photos. It takes around 20min from the main town and to get there you need a 4x4 car (believe me is completely worth it). The food is also very delicious, fresh and organic. Once you get there you don’t want to miss taking pictures in their incredible mountain views swing.

Places to eat & drink in Nosara, Costa Rica

person holding wooden bowl with bananas and coconut and granola

Perozah: Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Perozah is a beachfront restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine with a great atmosphere and vibe in Playa Garza. I really love the great coffee, smoothie bowls, healthy juices and delicious cocktails. My favorite spot to watch the sunset in all Nosara.

Naked Foods: Everything here is so delicious and you won’t believe everything here is PLANT BASED! I know that even if you are not vegan you will really enjoy this place

Café Paris Nosara: A charming coffee shop with a great vegan bakery and breakfast.

La Luna Nosara: A great restaurant with Mediterranean cuisine and a beachfront atmosphere located in Playa Pelada.

Advisor - Marcy Yu

Travel Advisor

Marcy Yu

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For more travel tips, check out this guide to Costa Rica by Fora Advisor Jill Marie: The Best of Nosara, Costa Rica.

This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Costa Rica.