A Girls Trip to Nosara, Costa Rica: Live It Up While Winding Down

When you're not lounging at the pool at your hotel, which I highly recommend, here's what you should do:

• Head to the beach: There are multiple beaches to choose from, but some of the most popular are Guiones, Pelada and Barrigona. The water is warm and refreshing, and you're bound to come across some of the most beautiful seashells.

• Take a yoga class: Wellness-focused Nosara is a haven for yogis, so there's no shortage of studios where you can flow. Check out Bodhi Tree, which offers everything from classes to full-on retreats.

• Catch a wave: Nosara is known for being a surfer's paradise. If you're a beginner, you can easily find lessons through a surf shop or your hotel.

• Shop around town: There are many stores around town where you can find locally sourced and handmade items. Be sure to check out Lobo sustainable clothing and swimsuits, Mundo Filo for jewelry, gifts and home decor, and Yasmine Layani's handmade, jungle-inspired women's clothing.

• Book a boat tour: Kaya Nosara offers a few different options where guests can sail on a catamaran and take part in other activities, like swimming, snorkeling and paddleboarding.

• Experience the wildlife: It's likely you'll hear howling monkeys and see lots of dogs in Nosara, but if you're craving even more wildlife, check out one of the sanctuaries. If you're lucky, it'll be sea turtle nesting season, and you can head to The Wildlife Refuge of Ostional to witness it.

• Rent an ATV: Get around town easily by renting a four-wheeler — there's just something exhilarating about it! Some companies even offer ATV tours, where you can explore nature trails and swim in waterfalls.

• Truly unplug: Everyone knows about Costa Rica's "pura vida" lifestyle, but I never really understood it until I visited. Be intentional about spending your time away from electronics and connecting with your environment and the lovely people in Nosara — it's pure bliss.

Breakfast

• Sunrise Coffee: One of my favorite spots that I could've happily visited every day. Enjoy a smoothie bowl, toast or banana coffee (IYKYK), surrounded by lush greenery, in this cozy gem of a coffeeshop.

• Huacas: I might be biased since we stayed at Tierra Magnifica and had breakfast there every day, but I'll no doubt be dreaming of this for a while. Amazing espresso, fresh fruit with yogurt and granola and a selection of authentic entrees left us consistently satisfied. Try the queso-pinto, a thin layer of fried cheese filled with brisket, rice and beans, over salsa verde.

Lunch

• Howler's: Their melt-in-your-mouth tuna carpaccio exceeded all expectations, and their fresh passionfruit margarita was my favorite of the trip. Great place for a low-key bite or drink, right around the corner from the beach.

• Organico - A lovely organic grocery store that also has a hot bar. Beachside picnic, anyone?

Dinner

• Coyol: It's quite the hike to get to this gem, as it's hidden in the mountains, but trust me — it's so worth it. Outside of their amazing food, they're known for their breathtaking views, so try to get a reservation for around sunset.

• Posada Margherita: You might recognize this name from the Tulum location, and yes, it's just as good, if not better. Try any of the pastas that are topped with fresh shrimp while enjoying your night in their greenhouse-style outdoor area.

• La Brasa: Head to this Argentinian restaurant for a filling meal of perfectly cooked steak and grilled vegetables.

Coffee

• Rolling Waves: Whether you need a coffee or a cocktail, this place has got you covered. Plus, they have cute merch.

Drinks

• Alt Fin & Co: One of the most unique experiences in Nosara — part vinyl listening bar, part surf fin shop.

• Elixir: Owned by the same team behind Howler's, this elevated cocktail bar is perfect for a nightcap, and right across the street from Posada Margherita.