Nosara Travel Guide (2025)

As I’m sitting down to write this article, I’m hit with a deep nostalgia and longing for this remarkable place – and I’m now so excited to capture the immense joy I experienced there in this Nosara Travel Guide. I sincerely hope that it inspires your journey there, as well.

Where do I even begin?

I suppose that outlining the “why” behind my decision to visit Nosara is a good place to start. For the past couple of years, amidst the intensity of my day job, I’ve really been craving peaceful vacations in nature as opposed to visiting more bustling cities. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love the latter, but slowing down and doing less has just been the name of the game for me lately.

I’d been seeing some people post on Instagram about their Nosara travels, and had actually put it on my 2025 vision board. But here’s where it gets interesting: I had bookmarked a couple of Kindred places in Costa Rica – and one in particular in Nosara that just looked like an absolute dream – but when late spring/early summer rolled around and none of them were available, I decided to opt for a Tulum trip, instead, resolving to try again for Costa Rica next year.

So I booked the Tulum trip in late May, perfectly content with that decision (albeit slightly disappointed that Costa Rica wasn’t happening this year). Then, approximately 72 hours after booking Tulum, I receive an email from Kindred saying that my dream home in Nosara became available.

I remember that morning so clearly, and the thoughts racing through my head:

“Oh my god, should I cancel Tulum and book this instead?”

“Could I…do both?”

“Can I take that much time off work?”

I decided to just start peeking at flight prices into Liberia Airport: and lo and behold they were very reasonable – we’re talking in the high $300s for a direct, round-trip flight in August. Once I saw that flights were so affordable, I decided to go ahead and put in a request with the Kindred host for a week in mid-August; juuuust to see if they’d accept.

And he accepted within minutes. So it was one of those moments where I had to make a game-time decision, and I just went for it. Booked the house, booked the flights. I was going to Nosara.

And I couldn’t be more grateful that I just went for it – and today, I’m here to share my Nosara travel guide in the hopes that whoever reads this will be able to visit this magical, lush, jungle paradise with the most jaw-dropping sunsets in the world, and fall in love with it just as much as I did.

The Ultimate Nosara Travel Guide

There are so many things that make Nosara stand out, but here are the elements that I think make it particularly special:

• The pura vida spirit is palpable and embodied everywhere you go. I felt it in every interaction I had, both with fellow travelers and locals, alike. It’s also in Costa Rica’s Blue Zone, and it’s evident as to why people live so long here: it’s just such a relaxed, joyful lifestyle with a caring, tight-knit community.
• The verdant jungle scenery is like nothing I’ve ever experienced. So much untouched, undeveloped beauty that just envelops you everywhere you turn.
• The sunsets are unbeatable, and truly an integral component of people’s days; everyone comes out to the beach to watch the sunset before dinner (the sun sets early here), and it feels very communal and heartwarming that everyone takes time out of their day to just stop and revel in this natural beauty.
• The yoga and wellness experiences are some of the best in the world.
• The food was phenomenal and diverse: from authentic Costa Rican fare, to Asian fusion, and everything in between. And it’s super vegan-friendly.

Alright, let’s get into my ultimate Nosara Travel Guide.

Where to Stay in Nosara

So, as I mentioned up top, it was this particular home on Kindred that took this trip from a “maybe” to a “hell yes.” So when it became available, I just had to jump on it – and you’ll see why.

I’ve now stayed at several Kindred properties (and for those that aren’t familiar, it’s a home-sharing meets vacation rental platform where you can stay at fabulous homes around the world for a fraction of the cost). I can’t say enough good things about this company and think it is the ultimate life hack if you’re someone that loves to travel. Use code ANJ.PRI to get 5 free nights at any Kindred property.

So, yeah – this was the house ^^. Unbelievable, right? From the infinity pool to the open concept design, to the gorgeous mango wood to the outdoor shower, this home was beyond spectacular. And with the Kindred passport I paid a total of…drumroll please…$300 for seven nights. That’s $42 dollars per night. For a jungle villa all to myself. Have I convinced you to join Kindred, yet?

The Best Hotels in Nosara

If you’re more of a hotel person, Nosara has many that are very worthy of your stay. So I’ve gathered a few of the top hotels that I either visited personally on my trip, or have heard great things about through chatting with locals and fellow tourists I met.

Tierra Magnifica

This property that’s tucked into the mountainside is simply stunning. I made friends with someone on my trip that was staying here – he is a Nosara veteran and has stayed at most of the hotels in town – and he firmly believes that this is the most beautiful hotel in the area. With killer views, a phenomenal restaurant (breakfast included), and an amazing yoga studio, it’s no wonder why Tierra Magnifica was named a ‘Top 10 Best Resort in Central America’ by Travel + Leisure.

Sendero Hotel

I had dinner here one night and I just loved the vibe (and the food). Sendero is newer and has more of a boutique hotel feel, but extremely well-designed and elevated. It has an awesome pool, luxe rooms, and is a great option for those that want to be walking distance to other shops and restaurants.

Bodhi Tree Yoga Resort

I went to Bodhi Tree three times during my one-week trip. The yoga classes are perhaps the best I’ve ever taken; the instructors are truly the best of the best, and the yoga studios (or shalas) are just unbelievably gorgeous with their incredible ocean and jungle views. Bodhi’s spa is also wonderful, and on my last day – after a yoga class and delicious acai bowl by the pool – I had one of the best massages of my life. Pro tip: if you book a spa service with them, you get access to the hotel pool for the day. Seriously though – please go to at least one yoga class here, you won’t regret it. And if you’re interested in staying here, I hear that the accommodations are also fantastic.

Harmony Hotel

I’m kicking myself for not making it to this property, because it was high on my list and they have incredible yoga and wellness offerings (plus a gorgeous spa, which they call the “healing center”). They’re very focused on sustainability and are B Corp certified, so if eco-travel is a priority for you, I’d definitely check them out. The menu for their restaurant also looks pretty awesome and plant-forward, and it appears that they aim to be a zero-waste establishment.

Gilded Iguana

This hotel’s vibe is described as “upscale surfer,” and I think that’s a pretty spot on characterization. It’s great for families or those that are looking to take advantage of Nosara’s ideal surfing conditions, and they also have a surf club described as “an immersive surf experience, complete with lockers, towels, and easy access to one of the world’s most consistent beach breaks.”

The Best Restaurants in Nosara (Vegan-Friendly Food in Nosara)

The food in Nosara was delicious, so very fresh, and offered a ton of variety. The produce is so good there because of Nosara’s emphasis on regenerative farming, and this quality is evident in virtually everything you eat.

Coyol

This place is an experience. Even before you arrive on the restaurant’s stunning grounds, you have to ascend an extremely steep, extremely rough and rocky road to get there. Like, seriously, bake in an extra twenty minutes to what Google Maps says your ETA will be, because you have to drive extremely slow so you don’t pop a tire (but a 4-wheel drive vehicle is essential in getting there, regardless). All of that being said, Coyol is well-worth the off-roading adventure that it takes to get there, and is a true bucket-list restaurant. The property is perched on top of a mountain, nestled in between this lush valley that will offer you one of the most breathtaking sunsets you’ll ever see in your life. While they’re more meat heavy, they did offer a very tasty veggie burger and delicious fattoush salad for those of us vegans/vegetarians. Make sure to lock in a reservation ahead of your trip, as they tend to book up quickly.

Naked Foods

I consider myself a breakfast burrito connoisseur; so when I tell you that I had what was probably the best breakfast burrito of my life at this place (so good I had it twice)…you know I mean business. Just take my word for it, and be sure to bring cash as they don’t take credit cards.

SER

I also dined at SER twice during my trip because their food and service was just so fabulous, one experience simply wasn’t enough. Their food is very inventive, vibrant, and what I’d designate as Asian Fusion. They’re also fully plant-based.

Organico

Organico is basically Nosara’s version of Erewhon, and I’m not ashamed to admit that I went there almost every day of my trip. They have gorgeous produce, amazing health food and unique snacks, plus a salad bar and prepared food section that is perfect for grab-and-go beach fare. They also have a bakery across the street, which I of course picked up a couple of cookies and empanadas from.

Soda Rosi’s

There are two locations of Soda Rosi’s in Nosara, where you can find authentic Costa Rican fare, delicious hot sauces, and an affordable laid-back meal that is simple yet very satisfying. Is there anything better than sweet plantains?

Restaurante La Luna

I just loved this place – the mediterranean food was fresh and delicious, and it’s *right* on the water, so the views are just stunning and makes for another great sunset-watching spot.

Sendero Kitchen

This restaurant is on the Sendero Hotel property (mentioned above as a top hotel in Nosara), and their restaurant is just as fantastic as the hotel, itself. Their rotating, seasonal menu is refined (always with at least a couple of wonderful vegan options – I had an eggplant parmesan dish that was delicious) and the restaurant itself is very elegant.

On The List for Next Time

Mamagui

This Italian restaurant came highly recommended by my Kindred hosts; and when a local gives you the name of their favorite restaurant, you should really make a point to go – so I’m bummed I didn’t get there but it’s at the top of the list for my next visit.

La Cosecha

I was devastated to learn that La Cosecha is closed during the rainy season, because they are known for their Chef, Colin Patterson’s, thoughtful approach to fine dining and regenerative food sourcing. They are tasting menu only, but can accomodate for any dietary requirements, and get rave reviews from virtually everyone.

Restaurant Chirriboca

This spot is at the Lagarta Lodge and is known for its stunning panoramic views.

Le Stelle

A beautiful restaurant with rave reviews and a really interesting menu that spans Asian, European, and Latin cuisines.

A Nosara Travel Guide Essential: The Best Coffee & Matcha

Sunrise Coffee

Excellent lattes, tasty food, super friendly staff and boho beach vibes. I came here twice and just loved it.

Olo Alaia Surf & Brew

Someone recommended this spot but I sadly didn’t make it this time. Apparently their coffee is stellar, and I love the concept of a surf/coffee shop pairing.

Rolling Waves

A super cool craft coffee shop close that’s walking distance to Playa Guiones. Everyone raves about the baristas here.

Estrellitas Coffee

This place is a zero-waste cafe near Playa Garza with great food, matcha, and coffee.

Things to Do in Nosara

Nosara has no shortage of incredible experiences on offer if you’re looking for some adventure and enrichment, but it’s also the kind of place where you can just do nothing and lie on the beach, too. This trip was more of the latter for me, but I have recommendations for the chill travelers, the more active ones, and everyone in between.

The Best Beaches in Nosara

Nosara is known for its sprawling beaches, warm waters, and optimal waves – for those of you that partake in surfing. I unfortunately can’t because of a bad knee, but I spent the majority of my afternoons plopped on one of the below beaches and swimming in their perfectly warm waters, and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Playa Guiones

This beach was my favorite. The water temperature and waves were perfect (it’s often lower tide), is walking distance to great restaurants and shops, and is the largest and most sprawling beach in Nosara that’s enveloped by greenery and trees. I often parked in the little village and had a meal or picked up some snacks before, then walked the few minutes to the beach path. The sunsets here are also sensational.

Playa Pelada

Another fantastic, but slightly smaller beach on the north side of Nosara. It’s also close to some great beach shacks and restaurants to grab a bite or refreshing bevy after a day in the sun. Note that there are often bigger waves and strong riptides here, so be sure to pay attention to the conditions and avoid going in too far if you’re not a strong swimmer (and if you’re with kids, Guiones is probably the safer bet).

Playa Garza

I went here once on a particularly hot day, and was pretty astounded at how few people were on the beach – I think I saw a total of five of us during the couple of hours that I was there. So it was super peaceful, which made it an excellent place for a beach nap. The water wasn’t quite as clear, but that was likely due to some of the light rain we’d had the day before. But it’s still a beautiful beach and worth visiting.

Nosara Travel Guide: The Best Yoga Classes, Wellness Experiences & Spas

Bodhi Tree

I hadn’t been to an in-person yoga class in a really long time, so I was worried about how rusty I’d be prior to my first Bodhi Tree class. But not only did I surprise myself by doing quite well, it was more the incredible high I felt after doing an amazing yoga flow up in the jungle trees overlooking the ocean that left me feeling so damn good. For that reason, I strongly believe that taking at least one yoga class at Bodhi is a must; I went to Marck, Yali, and Zac’s classes (check Bodhi’s Instagram the day of to make sure there are no schedule changes), and they were all amazing. Be sure to grab a delicious acai bowl or smoothie at their juice bar after class to re-fuel. And, as I mentioned earlier in this article, their spa was also incredible and I had a truly divine massage there.

Nalu Nosara

This place is really a one-stop shop for all things fitness, wellness, and curated experiences. They have yoga, pilates, and essentially every type of workout class that your heart desires; plus you can also book a stay at their beautiful villas.

Hotels like Tierra Magnifica and Harmony Hotel also have incredible yoga studios and classes, in addition to spas and wellness experiences.

Outdoor Activities in Nosara

Hike the Nosara Biological Reserve: The reserve is part of Lagarta Lodge; there is a $10 entrance fee and they also offer tours with a biologist for $35 per person.

Boat tours and excursions through Kaya: This company organizes fabulous sunrise and sunset boat excursions along the Nicoya coastline.

Nalu also also curates amazing experiences such as zipline and ATV tours, horseback riding on the beach, and more.

Animal Sanctuaries

Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary: This is a really special place that offers tours of the sanctuary’s beautiful grounds and the opportunity to get up close with precious endangered monkeys. Get tickets here.

International Animal Rescue: Another very worthwhile experience, and an opportunity to give back to the Nosara wildlife community. Tickets here.

Turtle watching at the Ostional National Wildlife Refuge – this is supposed to be so cool if you happen to catch the turtles at the right time. Truly a once in a lifetime experience that is a top priority for my next Nosara trip.

Nosara Travel Guide: The Best Time of Year to Visit Costa Rica

Nosara is a year-round destination, but when you go can definitely shape your experience. Here’s what I learned:

Nosara Travel Guide for the Low Season (May-November)

• Pros: Unbelievably lush and green, everywhere you go. Lower hotel and flight fares, less crowded, easier to book accomodations, reservations and activities.
• Cons: A bit higher temperatures, but I never felt uncomfortably hot. There is the occasional rain shower or thunderstorm, but I only experienced one during my 7 nights there, and it was in the early evening when I was at home after the beach and getting ready to go to dinner – this is often when it rains and the timing is pretty perfect. I was there in mid-August, for reference – but I am actually really glad I went at this time of year for the reasons mentioned above.

Nosara Travel Guide for the High Season (December–April)

• Pros: Less chances of rain, thunderstorms, and flooding.
• Cons: Higher flight and hotel prices and more tourists – so be sure to book hotels well in advance (or avoid this issue by booking with Kindred)!

Getting to Nosara

During the rainy season, driving south on the coastal dirt road to Nosara from Liberia Airport – which is where I flew into – isn’t always an option because of flooding. So you’ll want to stick to the main highway as opposed to the coastal route. If you’re coming from Liberia airport, take Route 21 all the way to Nicoya, then once you reach Nicoya, take Route 150 all the way to Nosara. If you’re arriving in the evening, be prepared for some stretches of very dark, unlit and bumpy roads, and poor cell connection at certain parts of the drive.

Alternatively, if you want to bypass the ~3 hour drive from Liberia Airport to Nosara, you can fly through Liberia to take a quick connecting flight into the small Nosara airport.

Nosara Travel Guide Safety Tips

I felt extremely safe in Nosara traveling alone as a woman. I’ve heard there can be petty crime on occasion, but that can happen just about anywhere – so if you’re renting a car just be sure to avoiding leaving your belongings behind to be extra cautious. Two safety elements that I wanted to clearly call out in this Nosara travel guide:

• You MUST get a 4-wheel drive vehicle in Nosara or a 4-wheeler. Apart from the main highway that goes through town, almost all of the neighborhoods and restaurant/beach areas require you to drive on unpaved roads with lots of potholes.
• Pro tip: register for STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) – it’s a free service for U.S. citizens to register their trip abroad. The Department of State will know where you are and notify you of any weather events, safety or security issues happening in your destination.

Final Thoughts for This Nosara Travel Guide

If I missed any must-do activities, must-eat at restaurants, or other hidden gems in Nosara, please let me know in the comments section below! And if you’ve already been, I’d love to hear about your experience.

I hope this Nosara travel guide inspired you to pull the trigger and book a trip to this truly singular place (and if you already did, you made an excellent decision). For more travel inspo, be sure to check out my other guides for Tulum, Kauai, Paris, London, Chicago, Idyllwild and Sonoma County.

Bon voyage!