Nosara Beach – Travel Guide
The little but stylish town of Nosara Beach is a yoga and surf paradise! Located on the Nicoya Peninsula, in the northwestern region of Costa Rica, Nosara itself is a mellow place, and very well known as a laid-back alternative to Tamarindo that’s for more serious surfers, but it still has a wealth of comfortable hotels and authentic restaurants to choose from. It is home to stunning beaches, unique yoga retreats, and a strong expat community with a mix of natural beauty, wellness culture, and eco-conscious living.
All about Nosara Beach
Getting Around Nosara Beach
By Rental Car
This is the most recommended option. A 4×4 vehicle is essential for navigating the area’s dirt roads, which can be challenging, particularly in the rainy season (May-November). A car gives you the freedom to explore the wider Nosara area, including its different beach sections like Playa Guiones and Playa Pelada.
By Taxi
Officially licensed taxis are colored red or orange; if a taxi is any other color or lacks the inverted yellow triangle on the doors, it’s a `pirate taxi` operating illegally. Remember to ask the driver to turn on the meter to avoid being overcharged.
By Bicycle
Renting a mountain bike or a beach cruiser is an option for getting around locally. Cyclists should be cautious as the main roads can have significant traffic.
By Bus
Even having bus companies like Transportes La Pampa, it notes that buses are for longer travel between towns (e.g., from Liberia) and may be crowded with frequent stops. It is less practical for getting around the immediate Nosara area.
Nosara Beach FAQ
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
Fly into Liberia (LIR), a 2.5-hour drive from Nosara, and pre-book a shared shuttle (~$50-70/person) or private transfer (~$150). For a faster but more expensive option, you can take a 30-minute domestic flight directly to the small Nosara airport (NOB).
How do I call/hail a taxi?
The most common way to get around is by hailing or calling a tuk-tuk, which are three-wheeled moto-taxis. Your hotel can provide you with phone numbers for local drivers, and fares for trips between the main areas typically range from $6 to $25.
Should I rent a car in Nosara?
Renting a vehicle is highly recommended as Nosara is very spread out with notoriously rough, unpaved roads. A 4×4 or high-clearance SUV is essential, especially in the rainy season, to navigate between beaches and the town center effectively.
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More About Nosara Beach
Is Nosara a walking city?
Nosara is not a walking town; it is a collection of distinct neighborhoods (like Playa Guiones and Playa Pelada) spread far apart. While you can walk within a specific commercial area, you will need a vehicle like an ATV, tuk-tuk, or car to get between the different beaches and villages.
Is the Nosara area dangerous? Are there any areas I should avoid?
Nosara is generally safe, but be aware of petty theft, especially from parked cars and rental homes. The biggest danger is the ocean; its beaches are known for powerful and frequent rip currents, so you must exercise extreme caution when swimming.
What are the customs for tipping in Costa Rica? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The currency of Costa Rica is the Colon. US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for colones upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the city.
I do not speak Spanish. Will many people speak English in Costa Rica?
No, about 90 percent of Costa Ricans speak Spanish as their first language. English may be spoken at your hotel and in the tourist areas, but not everywhere. We suggest that you purchase a good English-Spanish dictionary and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.
Do I need a visa to visit Costa Rica?
No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica for stays of less than 90 days. However, they must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica (either to return to the U.S. or to go to another country).
Are Vaccinations required to visit Costa Rica? Are there any other precautions I should take?
No, there are currently no vaccination requirements to visit Costa Rica. There is no risk of yellow fever in Costa Rica. The government of Costa Rica requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US.
Zika is a risk in Costa Rica. Because Zika infection in a pregnant woman can cause serious birth defects, women who are pregnant should not travel to Costa Rica. All travelers should strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites and sexual exposure to Zika virus during and after the trip. For the latest updates visit the CDC page https://www.cdc.gov/ on the internet.
What kind of food is available in Costa Rica?
A typical breakfast is hearty and consists of Gallo Pinto (rice and beans – sometimes served with scrambled eggs). Lunch is solid too, the typical dishes are Casado (rice and beans, served with meat or fish, fried plantains, cheese and corn tortilla), Ceviche (fish marinated and cooked in lime juice, coriander, and pepper). There is not a dinner culture in Costa Rica. An afternoon snack consists of bread and coffee.
Can I drink the water in Costa Rica?
No, the water is not drinkable in Costa Rica. We suggest that you carry bottled water with you. Most tourist areas will have bottled water available for purchase.
Top Attractions
Nosara Beach
This beach has a beautiful estuary and a large mangrove (Nosara River) that can be navigated by boat and kayak.
Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary
The Sanctuary offers a thrilling opportunity to get up close with the native and recovering wildlife of Nosara.
Samara Beach
Sunbathing, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, mountain biking, boat rides or ocean kayaking, are just some of the activities this beach provides.
Ostional Wildlife Refuge
Created in 1984 to protect one of the world’s most important nesting sites of the olive ridley sea turtle.
Unique Experiences
Surfing at Playa Guiones
Catch world-class waves at Playa Guiones, one of the most consistent surf breaks in Costa Rica. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned pro, the long, sandy beach offers ideal conditions year-round.
Sunset Horseback Riding on the Beach
Ride along pristine beaches and forest trails with a local guide as the sun sets over the Pacific. It’s a romantic and unforgettable way to end the day in Nosara. Most tours are beginner-friendly and include well-cared-for horses.
What to expect while traveling
