Nosara Beach

As most of the Guanacaste province, Nosara town has significant native culture presence, with many of the villagers today bearing a strong resemblance to the indigenous tribe that once lived in the region.  It’s one of Costa Rica’s oldest expatriate communities, with large areas of unpaved roads and nearly no development directly on the beach.

The Nosara Beach area is one of the most beautiful green zones in all of Costa Rica.  Rich forest grows in areas that were once torn down for cattle pastures.  The town center is located 6 km inland from the beach.  Within the town, visitors can find hotels ad cabins, restaurants, a market, a pharmacy, a public library, churches, a post office, a school and a bank, among other small commercial establishments.  
The beach features a stunning estuary and a large mangrove swamp known as Río Nosara.  Touring the river by boat or kayak is an amazing experience, as visitors can observe the lush vegetation and incredible wildlife in the area, as well as local fishermen using fascinating ancient fishing techniques.

Nosara Beach is also a popular surfing destination and is home to a world-class Yoga school.  Other popular activities in the area include horseback riding, canopy tours and quad excursions. Guided tours are also available for turtle watching.
Nosara is the gateway to Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, which was created to protect Olive Ridley and Leatherback sea turtle populations.  Hundreds (and sometimes thousands) arrive in large groups every three to four weeks and last for about a week on the darkest nights following a new moon.  Humpback and grey whales also frequent the area during the winter and can be admired from the shore. 

There are four main oceanfront communities each named after their respective beaches: Playa Nosara, Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada, and Playa Ostional, comprising the largest area of foreign-owned residences, hotels and restaurants, centered around Guiones and Pelada. The beaches have many protected coves, offering coral and tide pools, ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

Nosara and its surroundings are great for exploring and admiring long, quite, solitary beaches with abundant flora and fauna – a perfect destination for adventurous vacations, as well as for romantic getaways.