A Quiet Beach Vacation in Nosara, Costa Rica

Nosara is the land of surf and sunshine. Its affectionate motto, “no shirt, no shoes, Nosara,” is perfectly suited to this laid back surfer town. The name is actually a term to describe the three consecutive beaches of Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada and Playa Nosara, which extend for miles all the way up to the black sands of Playa Ostional – a protected reserve known for its seasonal arribadas, or mass exodus of nesting Olive Ridley sea turtles.

Nosara’s spacious shores seem to stretch peacefully into infinity, with endless waves ranging from foamy crests to impressive barrels – making it no wonder this was one of Costa Rica’s very first areas to be developed by North American surfing expats. After high tide, hop on a kayak tour of the area’s mangroves with the hilarious tour guide “Jungle Joe” of Iguana Expeditions. Then spend a luxurious afternoon relaxing at the Harmony Hotel’s 100% organic spa; once you are fully rejuvenated, you can sip an unbelievable banana smoothie by the pool. Then hit the bustling downtown area adjacent to Playa Guiones to browse shops full of chic hippie clothing and handmade jewelry, or listen to live music at any of the chill local bars.

Nosara is isolated from the rest of the country by a bumpy dirt road – which is difficult if not impossible to traverse during the rainy season. Because of this, the town has retained a sense of peace and authenticity that is difficult to replicate elsewhere. If you are looking for a livelier vacation spot, Playa Samara is just an hour or so by car to the south. It has a laid back atmosphere, an upbeat nightlife and a wide variety of outdoor activities – making Samara an ideal port of call for young people and backpackers. Most hotels and restaurants are situated along the horseshoe-shaped road running through the center of town, with the curve end of the street butting up against the beach.

For adrenaline junkies, ultralight flights departing just north of Playa Samara and simply cannot be missed. Soaring 5,000 feet above the ground in a two-seater airplane reminiscent of the Wright brothers’ is not for the faint of heart. After dark, Shake Joe’s and Las Olas are a couple of the hottest nightlife spots – however just about anywhere on the beach draws a crowd after dark. Heal your hangover the following day at Playa Carrillo, one of the most gorgeous white sand beaches in Costa Rica. Often littered with sand dollars, it is the perfect place to rest and recuperate after a long night on the town.