Recreation & Activities

Surfing – Many, if not most, people who visit Nosara come here to surf. Whether you’re an old pro or a newbie looking to learn, Nosara is a fantastic spot.

Relaxing – Sitting on the beach, soaking up some rays, and watching waves and surfers is an activity in itself. Explore the area’s beaches and tide pools, look for shells or sip on a cold cocktail.

Wildlife Viewing – It is hard to spend more than a few hours in Nosara without seeing lots of interesting wildlife. Monkeys, parrots, iguanas, pizotes and more…

Fishing – Fishing trips can be arranged on boats from Garza or Pelada. Catch your own Ahi Tuna, Dorado (Mahi Mahi), or Snapper and have one of the local restaurants cook it up for you and your friends.

Horseback Riding – There are a couple of horseback operations in the area that will take you along the beaches and through jungle trails. You are sure to see lots of wildlife and some fantastic views.

Kayaking – A kayak tour is another great way to see local wildlife, and the only way to explore the Nosara rivermouth estuary. Lots of birds and the occasional crocodile await your visit. Experienced paddlers can also sign up for open ocean sea kayak tours.

Canopy Tour – Nosara is now home to one of the longest zip-line canopy tours in the country. Soar through the tree-tops on a series of cables strung high above the Nosara river valley.

Yoga – The Nosara Yoga Institute provides training for professional yoga instructors and offers classes to the public. Yoga classes are also available through the Harmony Hotel.

Ostional Turtle Refuge – Visit the Ostional wildlife refuge during an arribada and see thousands of Ridley turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.

Hiking, Biking and Adventuring – There are a few walking trails that meander through the jungle and along oceanside cliffs in Nosara. For a little more adventure, ride a bike at low tide on the beach to the South end of Playa Guiones, or go North on Playa Nosara to Ostional. To find more remote trails, visit area waterfalls, or go on a mountain biking trip, you’ll probably want a guide.

Snorkeling – At very low tide, there are some great snorkeling pools on the Southern end of Playa Guiones. If you have a car, take a half hour drive up the coast to San Juanillo for the best snorkeling in the area.

Shopping – Nosara is not a destination for the serious shopper, but there are a variety of stores which sell clothing, souvenirs, jewelry… and more shops are opening all the time. Many tourists bring home at least some coffee, local hot sauces and a hand-made pot from one of the guys on the beach.

Rodeo & Fiestas – Guanacaste summers (Dec-April) are rodeo time! The rodeo comes a couple of times a year to Nosara, Ostional and Esperanza. If it is happening while you are here, go check it out. The highlight is the bull riding, but there is lots to do and see.

Salsa Dancing – At the Tropicana Disco in Nosara village. On Friday and Saturday nights this is the place to be for local flavor, dancing and late night partying.