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Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Nosara Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
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Suited for
Costa Rica – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
120 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Costa Rican Colón (CRC) £1 ≈ CRC 605.44 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Costa Rica has a well-developed cashless payment system, and credit and debit cards are widely accepted in urban areas. However, it is still useful to carry cash in rural areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often included, but it is common to leave an additional tip of 5-10%. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not commonly allowed in Costa Rica. Alcohol consumption is generally confined to licensed venues such as bars, restaurants, and resorts. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces and enclosed areas, including restaurants and public transport. |
| Independence Day (15 September) |
National holiday with celebrations and parades |
|---|---|
| Christmas (25 December) |
Family-centred celebration |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 911 |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber |
| Other: | Costa Rica is famous for its biodiversity, eco-tourism, and commitment to environmental conservation. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure travellers. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Nosara, Costa Rica
Rainy season May to November, wettest September and October, when some businesses close and unpaved roads can flood
Christmas to New Year and Holy Week (late March or April) are fully booked well ahead
Don't miss
- 🏄♂️ Ride waves at Nosara's legendary Playa Guiones
- 🌿 Explore rainforest trails in Ostional Nature Reserve
- 🧘♀️ Take a sunrise yoga class on the beach
- 🐢 Witness sea turtles nesting at Ostional beach
- 🌮 Savor fresh seafood tacos by sunset
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Nosara?
Nosara is a quiet coastal village on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast that offers travelers an authentic slice of life in the country’s Central Valley region. The town sits at the mouth of the Nosara River and is surrounded by lush mangroves, dry tropical forest and a long stretch of beach that is popular with surfers and nature lovers alike. Unlike some of the more commercialized destinations on the Pacific, Nosara retains a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can experience local culture without the bustle of large resorts. The village’s main street is lined with small cafés, artisan shops and community centers that host weekly markets featuring fresh produce, handmade crafts and regional cuisine such as casado or gallo pinto. Many guests stay in eco‑friendly lodges or guesthouses that emphasize sustainability, offering opportunities to learn about conservation efforts in the surrounding wildlife reserves. Nosara is also a gateway to several protected areas. The nearby Ostional Wildlife Refuge provides guided tours of sea turtle nesting sites during the season, while the Nosara Biological Reserve offers hiking trails through dry forest habitats where visitors can observe native birds and reptiles. For those interested in wellness, the village hosts yoga retreats that blend traditional practices with local mindfulness techniques. Overall, Nosara appeals to travelers who value a balance between natural beauty, cultural immersion and environmental responsibility, making it an ideal destination for a thoughtful, low‑impact vacation.
Knowledge before you go
- Pack light rain gear; Nosara’s tropical climate often brings sudden showers.
- Reserve surf lessons in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a spot with local instructors and avoid long waits at the beach.
- Check the local weather forecast daily; early morning or late afternoon are best for surfing due to calmer waves and fewer crowds.
- Explore Nosara’s wildlife by joining guided nature walks in the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, where you can witness sea turtle nesting during specific months.
How to travel to Nosara
Nosara, a small coastal village in Costa Rica’s Guanacaste province, is accessible primarily by road and air. The nearest major airport is Liberia International Airport (LIR), located approximately 60 kilometers away, with regular shuttle services and rental car companies offering transfers to Nosara. For those preferring sea travel, the Pacific Ocean coastline allows access via local boat tours or private charters from nearby ports such as Punta Islita or Playa Hermosa. Public buses connect Liberia and San Juan del Sur to Nosara, providing an affordable option for budget travelers. Taxis and rental vehicles are also available for direct transfers along scenic routes through rural landscapes.
Access summary
- From Daniel Oduber Quirós (LIR): 2h30 car via Route 21/32.
- From San José (SJO): 4h drive or 5h bus to Nosara.
- Private transfers from Liberia airport popular with tourists.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Nosara
Nosara offers a mix of beachfront cabanas, eco‑lodges and boutique villas that cater to both budget travelers and luxury seekers. Prices typically range from CRC 80 (£0.13) per night for modest bungalows to from CRC 250 (£0.41) for high‑end suites with ocean views. Many accommodations emphasize sustainability, featuring solar power, rainwater harvesting and locally sourced materials. The village is renowned for its yoga retreats, so many properties include private studios or communal practice spaces. For families, there are spacious villas with multiple bedrooms and kitchenettes, while couples often choose intimate cabanas overlooking the Pacific. Shared community pools and organic farm-to-table dining options are common, creating a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere throughout the area.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Nosara
Getting around Nosara, Costa Rica, is best done via rental car or scooter, offering flexibility to explore beaches and rural areas. Taxis are available but pricier; shared shuttles connect to nearby towns like Liberia. For eco-conscious travelers, bicycles can be rented locally for short distances. Buses serve main routes within the region, though schedules may vary. Walking is feasible in town but limited beyond due to rugged terrain. Many accommodations offer bike rentals or shuttle services to popular spots like Nosara Beach or Playa Guiones. Renting a car provides access to remote waterfalls and wildlife reserves, while scooters suit quick trips between nearby villages. Always check road conditions before traveling, as some routes may be unpaved.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in the region are around 34% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend considerably less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to CRC) is 24% worse than in recent years. That means travelling now is considerably more expensive compared to the past.
Travel costs (Data for Tamarindo, Costa Rica - 41 km away)
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Nosara remains one of Costa Rica’s safest villages, with low crime rates and a tight-knit community that values security. Travelers should stay vigilant in tourist hotspots, avoid isolated beaches after dark and respect local customs to maintain peace and personal safety.
Health & Medical
Nosara offers excellent medical care with modern clinics and experienced doctors, often staffed by bilingual professionals. Clean air, low pollution and abundant outdoor activities promote wellness, though travelers should watch for mosquito-borne illnesses and carry basic first‑aid supplies.
Accessibility
Nosara village offers mixed accessibility: paved main roads and wheelchair‑friendly beach paths, but many local streets remain uneven. Public transport is limited, so renting a car or using accessible taxis is advisable. Signage in English helps, yet some facilities lack ramps.
Tap water
Nosara’s tap water is generally safe to drink and readily available throughout the village, with clear, soft water that tastes mild and clean. Local residents often use it for cooking and brushing teeth, though some visitors prefer filtered or bottled options for extra peace of mind.
Packing recommendations for Nosara
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
SPF 30+
🚰
Reusable water bottle
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🧥
Waterproof jacket
🕶️
Sunglasses
🎒
Small rucksack
🪰
Insect repellent
🩱
Swimwear
👛
Cash in small denominations
🩴
Walking sandals
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
👒
Sun hat
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
🛁
Quick-dry travel towel
quick-dry
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
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