For those of you who are lovers of the great outdoors, let us introduce you to Nosara, Costa Rica – where my heart beats in sync with the earth. Although my love for Nosara is completely centered around the ocean, I’ve also seen glimpses of my dreams come true in this marvelous location. Lucky enough, I was recently able to spend 3 weeks in Costa Rica and for 12 of those days, I was in the beloved Nosara.
For a bit of background, Nosara is a district on the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica. Attracting surfers, yogis, and people who are slightly obsessed with wellness – Nosara is the place “to find divine healing.” The coast in Nosara is protected, preventing businesses from building on the beach which as a result preserves the jungle – esque beach vibe. The village is broken up into North and South Guiones. While North Guiones has a variety of delicious restaurants, South Guiones is where you’ll find your hotels and Airbnb’s. Now, It would be a compete disservice if I didn’t mention some food recommendations. Go to LuvBurger for delicious vegan and gluten free food – to die for. If you talk to anyone in this town, you’ll hear about La Luna and De Pars Café which are both part of the Nosara experience. Also, If you don’t mind a ride up the mountains in return for a dream of a meal with an insane view, I’d put Coyol Restaurant on your priority list.
I was invited out to Nosara by Wow Surf Camp for a women’s surf retreat. The retreat was held out of Olas Verdes, a lovely hotel with beautiful rooms, pool, restaurant on site, and in house surf school. Despite being able to stay at the hotel for days on end, it’s also in a prime location with direct access to the beach and a walk into town. A very nice spot for a honeymoon or family vacation. I would be remiss if I didn’t quickly mention and suggest The Nomadic Hotel. Although I didn’t stay here on this particular visit, I did stay here on my first trip to Nosara. If you’re looking for beautiful aesthetics and boutique yet luxurious energy – The Nomadic is the ideal honeymoon spot.
Let’s talk about the surf. Costa Rica has 2 different seasons, dry and rainy. If you want amazing Costa Rican waves go during the dry season because the daily stormy weather just might keep you inside all day. Lucky enough, I only experienced a couple days of this and was able to surf the most consistent 3-4ft off shore wind waves. The prime longboarding wave, if I do say so myself. There is also a really lovely break 20 minutes away called Osteanal that has a beautiful waterfall you can walk to.
After staying at Olas Verdes, I moved onto Selina Nosara. If you’ve ever done a bit of solo traveling, chances are you’ve heard of the chain of Selina hostels. Now although, I’ve had some lack luster experiences at one of their hostels. Selina Nosara, is a place I’d go back to. The location was previously a 4.5 star hotel and it shows. With beautiful pools, kitchens, restaurants, a Wework space, lounge area, and yoga shala – the only reason I needed to leave was to surf. This place might not be your honeymoon spot but as an interim or a quick stay before the next destination, it just might have you begging for one more day. I will say like most Selina locations, get ready for a party.
