Discover why this laid-back coastal gem is a favorite with Americans.
With untouched beaches, epic surf, vibrant wellness culture, and world-class dining, discover why this laid-back coastal gem is a favorite with Americans.
Whether you’re new to surfing or a seasoned pro, Nosara is the place to be. Its consistent, year-round waves are globally renowned, making it a top surf destination.
Nosara, but especially Playa Guiones, offers year-round, user-friendly beach breaks with a long, shallow sandbar that works at both high and low tide—ideal for all skill levels.
Playa Guiones and Playa Pelada are great for beginners thanks to soft waves and sandy bottoms. Advanced surfers can head to Playa Ostional or Playa Garza for more powerful, technical waves.
The vibe in Nosara is more sunrise surf and smoothie than nightlife and noise, with enough wave variety to keep everyone stoked.
There is no shortage of surf schools in the area, including Nosara Surf School and Nosara Surf Academy. Agua Tibia at Playa Guiones is a favorite of ours, offering rentals, lessons, and surf trips.
When you’re picking up your board, don’t miss out on saying “hi” to the Agua Tibia dogs for us—their personalities are unforgettable.
Nosara’s breathtaking beaches are renowned for a reason: they are virtually untouched. Nosara sits inside the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, which prevents large-scale development, particularly on its beaches. Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada, and Playa del Ostional are favored spots, featuring uncrowded access to the Pacific and raw, natural beauty.
Ostional’s beaches are protected for another, very small but very important reason: baby sea turtles. If you plan to be in the area between July and October, try to witness the arribada—a mass nesting event where thousands of turtles hatchlings and make their way to the ocean. Both the Olive Ridley and the Leatherback turtles lay their eggs here, and with some luck, you may even spot a rare Green sea turtle.
There are few places to witness moments like these. Be sure to observe from a distance to avoid disturbing the delicate hatching process.
Did You Know? The temperature of the sand a turtle egg is laid in determines whether it will be a male or a female. Warmer sand produces females, while cooler sand produces males.
Want to get up close and personal?Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary where you’ll meet a variety of animals, including monkeys and a kinkajou named Ziggy. Sibu offers an immersive experience, focused on education, conservation, and rehabilitation. There’s even a popular Adopt a Monkey program—perfect for when you, inevitably, fall in love with one.
Costa Rica’s nature-conscious culture lends itself to health and wellbeing. It’s why Nosara is a top yoga destination—with a variety of studios, retreats, and wellness centers, you can find something that suits you and your skill level.
Seeking a practice that feels earthy and local? Check out the daily yoga sessions at the Nomadic Hotel or at Nido Yoga, which overlooks the Nosara River.
Want more variety? Try Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort. They have Pilates and spin classes, an incredible open-air gym in the lush jungle, and a world-class spa.
Nalu offers barre, zumba, boxing, muay thai, and even capoeira. Black Cat offers a fantastic Reformer Pilates class that will meet you right where you are—no matter your level.
One of the most important things about moving to a new place is building community, and in Nosara, it already exists. There is no shortage of American families in and around Nosara, and because of that, it’s easy to find places for you and your family to fit in.
Since the 1970’s and 80’s, expats drawn to conservation and wellbeing have settled in Nosara, cultivating a vibrant community of Costa Ricans, Americans, and other foreigners who call this coastal town home.
There are a number of excellent schools in the Nosara region, offering a variety of age ranges, educational experiences, and schedules to match your family’s needs. Including:
Dandelion/Wild Child: Waldorf-inspired, ages 0-6, bilingual English/Spanish.
Casa de las Estrellas: early childhood through elementary school, Waldorf-style education, particular attention towards nature and biodiversity.
Playhouse Nosara/Nosara Arts and Leadership Academy: private Montessori school with strong emphasis on the arts, grades 1-12, instruction primarily in English with Spanish available.
HomeSchoolBeach Nosara: personalized, small group education, ages 8-13, eight children per educational group, minimum enrollment period of one month.
Lakeside International School: private, early education-12th grade, bilingual English/Spanish.
Del Mar Academy: Montessori and International Baccalaureate certified, pre-k through 12th grade.
Each school offers different schedules, classroom sizes, age ranges, and requirements for length of enrollment, so it’s important to reach out for more information to decide which school is right for your children.
Whatever you’re craving, Nosara’s diverse dining scene has you covered—with everything from restaurants and juice bars to coffee shops and more.
Orgánico Grocer and Bakery has been loved by locals and newbies alike for 16 years. It’s ideal for local produce (from their nearby farm), fresh baked goods, and organic juices in reusable glass jars, as well as ready-to-eat healthy meals for days when you’re looking for something quick.
Looking for a latte? Sunrise Coffee has a variety of coffees, smoothies, and snacks. Olo Alaia, featuring 100% Costa Rican coffee roasted in-house, is a go-to spot for good reason.
Lunch is easy and delicious at Rosi’s Soda Tica. Named after the howler monkeys you’ll see hanging throughout Costa Rica, Howler’s is perfect for a passion fruit margarita after a day at the beach.
For dinner, there’s no shortage of options. Grab some locally sourced cuisine with a stunning sunset view of the bay at Huacas Restaurant or grab a Mediterranean-inspired beachfront bite at La Luna. Don’t miss the Italian fare at Mamagui, elevated classics at El Cielo, and locally made ice cream at Bobo Helados—all located in El Pueblo Market.
Nosara offers a rare blend of natural beauty, strong community, and everyday ease. It's no wonder so many Americans fall in love—and decide to stay. If you're considering making Nosara your home, our team is here to help you secure reliable, affordable, and easy long-term home financing. Finance your Second Street today!
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