Playa Nosara

Playa Nosara Travel Guide

Playa Nosara, located on the Nicoya Peninsula on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, is a charming beach town known for its pristine beaches, world-class surf, and vibrant wellness community. This guide will help you discover the best activities, attractions, restaurants, and practical tips to make your visit to Nosara unforgettable.

Overview of Playa Nosara

Nosara is a laid-back town that attracts surfers, yogis, and eco-conscious travelers. The area is renowned for its commitment to sustainable development and environmental conservation, making it a haven for nature lovers. Nosara’s beaches, lush forests, and welcoming community provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure.

Activities to Do in Playa Nosara

Surfing

Nosara is famous for its consistent waves and excellent surf conditions. Playa Guiones, the main beach, is ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers. Numerous surf schools and board rentals are available.

Yoga and Wellness

Nosara is a premier destination for yoga and wellness retreats. Many studios and retreat centers offer daily classes, workshops, and holistic treatments to rejuvenate the mind and body.

Snorkeling and Diving

Explore the underwater world off Nosara’s coast. Snorkeling and diving tours take you to vibrant coral reefs and marine life hotspots, providing an unforgettable experience.

Wildlife Watching

Nosara’s diverse ecosystems are home to a variety of wildlife. Join guided tours to spot monkeys, iguanas, birds, and other native species in their natural habitat.

Kayaking and Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)

Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Nosara’s calm estuaries and mangroves. These activities offer a peaceful way to observe wildlife and enjoy the serene environment.

Horseback Riding

Experience Nosara’s natural beauty on horseback. Guided tours take you through scenic trails, beaches, and forests, offering a unique perspective of the area.

Hiking and Nature Walks

The lush forests and hills around Nosara offer excellent hiking opportunities. Explore trails that lead to scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna.

Canopy Tours and Zip-lining

For an adrenaline rush, try a canopy tour or zip-lining adventure. Glide through the treetops and enjoy stunning views of the forest and coastline.

Attractions Close to Playa Nosara

Ostional Wildlife Refuge: Located just north of Nosara, Ostional Wildlife Refuge is famous for the mass nesting of olive ridley sea turtles. Visit during the nesting season to witness thousands of turtles laying their eggs on the beach.
Playa Pelada: A short walk from Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada is a quieter beach with tide pools, caves, and stunning rock formations. It’s perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
Barra Honda National Park: About a two-hour drive from Nosara, Barra Honda National Park is known for its extensive cave systems and hiking trails. Guided tours are available to explore the impressive limestone caves.
San Juanillo Beach: is a picturesque beach located about 30 minutes north of Nosara, San Juanillo is known for its clear waters and excellent snorkeling. It’s an ideal spot for a day trip and beach picnic.
Sámara Beach: Located about an hour south of Nosara, Sámara is a charming beach town with calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and kayaking. The town offers a variety of dining and shopping options.

Best Restaurants in Playa Nosara

La Luna: Located on Playa Pelada, La Luna offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. The beachfront setting and beautiful sunsets make it a favorite dining spot.
Beach Dog Café: A popular spot near Playa Guiones, Beach Dog Café offers a variety of healthy and delicious meals, including fresh salads, sandwiches, and smoothies. The laid-back atmosphere and live music are a bonus.
Rosi's Soda Tica: For an authentic taste of Costa Rican cuisine, visit Rosi’s Soda Tica. This local eatery serves traditional dishes such as casados, gallo pinto, and ceviche at affordable prices.
El Chivo: is known for its vibrant atmosphere and Mexican-inspired dishes. Enjoy tacos, burritos, and other flavorful dishes, along with a variety of cocktails and live music.
Harmony Restaurant: Part of the Harmony Hotel, this restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on organic and sustainable ingredients. The menu features a mix of local and international dishes.
10Pies: Located in the heart of Nosara, 10Pies offers a variety of homemade pizzas, sandwiches, and pastries. The casual setting and friendly service make it a great place for a relaxed meal.

Pro Tips for Visiting Playa Nosara

Weather: The average annual temperature in this region is 82 degrees Fahrenheit. April is the hottest month, with temperatures reaching up to 100 degrees. For the rest of the year, daytime temperatures average around 91 degrees. The coolest nights occur between November and March, with temperatures averaging 66 degrees.

The dry season, from November to April, brings almost no rain, with daytime temperatures ranging between 89 and 96 degrees and an average of ten hours of sunshine daily. During this season and a brief dry spell in July and August, northeast winds prevail, reaching up to 7.5 miles per hour.

The wet season runs from May to October, with June, September, and October being the rainiest months. July is typically the least rainy of the wet months. Relative humidity peaks at 80 to 85 percent during the wet season, compared to 60 to 65 percent in the dry season. Rain generally falls in the afternoons and evenings, but there are still about six hours of sunshine per day during this period. Winds tend to be calm during the wet season.
Transportation:Nosara is accessible by car, shuttle, or plane from San José or Liberia. Renting a car or ATV is recommended for exploring the area, but local taxis and shuttle services are also available.

Nosara offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Whether you’re surfing the waves, practicing yoga, or exploring the jungle, Nosara promises an unforgettable Costa Rican experience.