Curator’s statement
Nosara is special because it balances raw beauty with a sense of calmness—jungle meets surf, barefoot days flowing into relaxed evenings with local eats. It’s a place where mornings start with waves or yoga, afternoons slow down with fresh local plates, and evenings feel intentionally simple. What stands out is how personal it feels: Boutique stays, friendly faces, and a vibe that invites you to unplug. Nosara isn’t about checking boxes; it’s about settling into the "pura vida" way of life and letting the place shape the experience.
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Where to stay in Nosara, Costa Rica
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Things to do in Nosara, Costa Rica
Baby Olive Ridleys, seen on an Ostional Beach turtle tour
Private surf lessons: There are many options in the area for surfing. I would recommend Safari Surf School, which operates out of Olas Verdes Hotel.
Experience an arribada: Witness a natural phenomenon of the Olive Ridley turtles arriving at Ostional Beach to lay their eggs. For this experience, I’d recommend Turtleland Tours.
ATV waterfall and organic coffee farm tour with lunch: Experience the jungle with its lush landscape and crystal-clear rivers and waterfalls. Afterwards, get a taste of the local life by visiting an organic coffee and regenerative fruit farm. Finish off with a local organic lunch.
Yoga: From beginner to expert, the options for yoga are abundant. Join a local class or book a private lesson at your hotel.
Local cooking class: With hands-on training from a local chef, you’ll learn traditional Costa Rican cooking techniques and cook on a wood-fired stove.
Kayak the mangroves: Take an early-morning or sunset paddle through the mangroves in the Gulf of Nicoya, spotting local birds, animals, and fish as you glide through the waters. Paddle with a guide for local knowledge. Timing depends on the tides and day so check before booking.
Playa Guinoes: Spend the day relaxing on the beach, people-watching, reading a book, or playing in the waves.
Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary: This isn’t your typical sanctuary tour. This tour is immersive, educational, and an opportunity to reconnect with nature in a jungle oasis. Reservations are required.
Places to eat & drink in Nosara, Costa Rica
La Luna restaurant
La Luna: A must-visit for dinner and a killer sunset. Located right on the beach, La Luna offers seafood and pizza.
El Manglar: Located at Olas Verdes Hotel, this is a small relaxing spot with fantastic breakfast and dinner options. Friendly staff serve up great drinks with fresh fruits, giving a tropical vibe to your day.
Rosi’s Soda Tica: Rosi’s is the spot to go for traditional Costa Rican food. There’s a reason they have two locations, and they're budget-friendly.
The Restaurant & Bar at the Gilded Iguana: Located in the heart of town. Great for people-watching, listening to live music, or hanging out after surfing.
Beach Dog Cafe: Great location on one of the main streets. Local vibe with great fish tacos. Open for breakfast and lunch.
Need to know
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