Calling all surfers and yogi lovers! This is the holiday spot you’ve been dreaming of.
Nosara is the definition of Costa Rica’s laid-back reputation. The culture is rich, the people are kind and the beaches are beautiful. It’s a place of tranquillity, natural wonder and consistent waves aaaalll year long.
Whether it’s your first time hitting the waves or your 100th, this relatively untouched surfer town dazzles all of its visitors. Lined with surf shops and DELICIOUS food spots – you’ll be sure to fall in love (with the town and the cute surfers!)
The town is easily accessible, located a mere 77 miles from Liberia International Airport, and has a variety of restaurants, bars and shops, many of which reflect the city’s hippy twist.
Whether you want to eat acai bowls at the local beach bars, spend your days catching those gnarly Nicoya Peninsula waves, or find your inner zen at a relaxing yoga class – this is an EPIC place to visit.
The decision to head to Nosara is the easy part – who could resist? But the next step is to decide where to stay in Nosara when you get there. With many different areas, each offering something uniquely enchanting – it’s hard to know which one will be best for you.
But never fear! That’s where I come in. I’ve explored this awesome little surfer town and written this guide on the best areas to stay in. Whether you’re on a shoestring budget or you’re ready to splash some cash, I’ve covered it all.
Let’s get into it and find out where will be best for you in Nosara.
Where to Stay in Nosara
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Nosara!
Exclusive Beach Front Villa | Best Bed & Breakfast in Nosara
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This beautiful waterfront villa is located on the northern edge of the striking Garza beach. It is surrounded by natural beauty with luscious gardens full of butterflies and hummingbirds. The villa is equipped with an astonishing turquoise salt water pool, and a rustic front deck, perfect for those yoga lovers.
Selina Nosara | Best Hostel in Nosara
The well-known Selina hostel opened its doors in Nosara in 2017, and offers guests stunningly picturesque views. The hostel has an extremely social atmosphere, with plenty of activities whether you’re an avid surfer, yoga buff, nature enthusiast, or just looking to meet some new people over a drink, or two.
Olas Verdes Hotel | Best Hotel in Nosara
Best described as a traditional and comforting hotel, surrounded by the calming sounds of waves and wildlife, the Olas Verdes is a boutique hotel located in the heart of the sought-after Playa Guiones neighborhood. Not only is the hotel beautifully decorated, it has a variety of rooms from larger family rooms to romantic suites.
Nosara Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Nosara
Playa Guiones
Hands down the most popular place to stay in Nosara is Playa Guiones and this is no surprise as everyone who discovers the neighborhood finds it hard not to fall in love with it.
Garza
Located just a short drive outside of Nosara town center the village of Garza offers a laid-back and relaxed experience for visitors heading to the region. Immerse yourself in nature, as you will be on the doorstep to a number of outdoor activities with a peaceful atmosphere.
Nosara Town & Hilltops
If you’re looking to save some dollars on your trip to Nosara then staying in the town centre is your best bet. Nosara Town’s inland location away from the beach means that you will find a better selection of budget-friendly accommodation options.
Playa Pelada
Neighbors to the popular area Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada is increasingly becoming the new hip place to be. Home to a great selection of trendy restaurants including La Luna and El Chivo along with being just a short walk to one of the best beaches in Nosara, it is no surprise Playa Pelada is increasing in popularity.
Nosara is full of culture, adventure, and countless beautiful sights, which has led to a well-established expat and tourist scene. Nosara is located in one of the most ecologically diverse regions in the world: Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula. From luscious rainforests to small energetic beach bars, and incredible surfing and scuba diving, you won’t be short of things to do.
To help you decide where to stay in Nosara, here is a break down the region’s best neighborhoods.
Starting with the most popular place to stay in Nosara, Playa Guiones. This bustling neighborhood has a great selection of hotels that overlook the Pacific Ocean, and plenty of restaurants and attractions to keep visitors entertained. Playa Guiones is arguably the best place in Nosara to stay for first-time visitors.
Heading east, just outside of Nosara, you will find the small oceanside village of Garza. Here, you can enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere, soaking up the breathtaking views and all the beautiful beaches the Nicoya Peninsula has to offer.
If you’re looking to explore Nosara on a budget, your best option is to stay in Nosara Town Centre. You will find a great selection of budget-friendly accommodation options, and places to eat due to its slightly inland location.
Finally, if you’re looking for an up-and-coming neighborhood with a sense of exclusivity, look no further than Playa Pelada. Home to a breathtaking beach and trendy cafes and restaurants, Playa Pelada is definitely one of the coolest places to stay in Nosara, perhaps even Costa Rica!
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
4 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Nosara
If you’re ready to start booking your trip, here are best Nosara neighborhoods!
1. Playa Guiones – Where to Stay in Nosara for First Time Visitors
Hands down the most popular place to stay in Nosara is Playa Guiones. It’s no surprise, as everyone who discovers the neighborhood finds it hard not to fall in love with it!
Split up into two sections, the G section and K section, the neighborhood offers a little something for everyone. The G section is where the action is, with bustling restaurants and bars dotted across the area. It has a perfect vibrant atmosphere.
The K section is a little bit more laid back with more residential areas, creating a relaxed atmosphere for those travelers looking for a quieter vacation.
With it being the most popular place in Nosara, you won’t struggle for places to stay – you can even find accommodation options a few steps from spectacular beaches!
Nosara Beach Cabin #2 | Best Bed & Breakfast in Playa Guiones
This cute beachfront cabin is the perfect romantic getaway! In an unbeatable location, where the rainforest meets the sea, you will have the luxury of being surrounded by luscious green trees, along with cream-colored sandy beaches. The cabin is equipped with a deluxe double bed, an ensuite and cozy living space.
Nosara Beach Hostel | Best Hostel in Playa Guiones
Nosara Beach Hostel provides guests with a social and friendly atmosphere in a prime location. The hostel is surrounded by wide corridors leading to a garden, where you can find comfortable hammocks along with ping pong and foosball tables. You will love its easy access to Ostional Wildlife Refuge, here you can learn about the protection of local turtles.
Olas Verdes Hotel | Best Hotel in Playa Guiones
Set back from the coastline, in the heart of Ostional-Nosara Wildlife Refuge, Olas Verdes is a small boutique hotel that provides a relaxed atmosphere with easy access to the sand and surf. The hotel has a variety of rooms from larger family rooms to romantic suites.
Things to See and Do in Playa Guiones
- Catch a wave at Guiones Beach
- Get a traditional Costa Rican massage
- Spot turtles along the shoreline
- Indulge on tasty food at Palapa de Martinez
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI2. Garza – Where to Stay in Nosara for Families
Located just a short drive outside of Nosara town center, the village of Garza offers a laid-back and relaxed experience. Immerse yourself in nature, as right on the doorstep, you will find a number of outdoor activities, with a peaceful atmosphere. You can wander through remote beaches lined with beautiful stretches of rainforest, which, thanks to its rural location, often feel private.
Garza has a few restaurants and bars, but it is also only a few kilometers out of the main town. Hop on a quick bus ride, or grab a taxi, and you will be amongst plenty of places to eat and drink.
With a laid-back approach, and plethora of outdoor activities, it is the ideal place to stay in Nosara for families.
Exclusive Beach Front Villa | Best Bed & Breakfast in Garza
This beautiful waterfront villa is located on the northern edge of the striking Garza beach. It is surrounded by natural beauty with luscious gardens full of butterflies and hummingbirds. The villa is equipped with an astonishing turquoise salt water pool, and a rustic front deck, perfect for those yoga lovers.
Surfhost | Best Budget Accommodation in Garza
This rustic style bed & breakfast is perfect for those travelers who want to be by the beach, but don’t want to pay extortionate prices. The beachside property is home to basic, but spacious, rooms with a chill and surfy vibe.
Hotel Garza Beach | Best Hotel in Garza
This small and traditional hotel is nestled amongst luscious greenery in the small village of Garza. The hotel has an incredible common area, with a glistening outdoor pool, open-air barbecue, and selection of hammocks where you can gaze into the spectacular Costa Rican sky.
Things to See and Do in Garza
- Take a dip at Playa Garza
- Have a surfing lesson
- Enjoy a retreat at Blue Spirit Retreat Center
- Explore the rock pools at Punta Guiones
- Have a cocktail at Garza Beach Lounge
- Party the night away at Bar Garza
3. Nosara Town & Hilltops – Where to Stay in Nosara on a Budget
If you’re looking to save some dollars on your trip, staying in the town centre is your best bet. Nosara Town’s inland location, away from the beach, means that you will find a better selection of budget-friendly accommodation options.
The town is home to a great selection of street food, with traditional Costa Rican bars open to the early hours of the morning.
Despite it not being within walking distance to the beach, Nosara Town has good transport links to the coast including buses, reasonably priced taxis, and cheap scooter hire – don’t forget your helmet!
Nosara Sunrise B&B | Best Bed & Breakfast in Nosara Town & Hilltops
Nosara Sunrise is a beautiful B&B located in the heart of Nosara. Only a short drive away from two of the area’s best beaches – Guiones and Pelada Beach. It has a rustic style, featuring wooden furniture, open terraces with wooden-beamed ceilings, and a pristine outdoor pool that is magically lit at night.
Selina Nosara | Best Hostel & Hotel in Nosara Town & Hilltops
Selina Nosara is located just outside of Nosara Town, sandwiched between Playa Pelada and Playa Guiones. The hostel has stunningly picturesque views along with plenty of activities whether you’re an avid surfer, yoga buff, nature enthusiast, or just looking to meet some new people over a drink or two.
Glamping Huts | Coolest Accommodation in Nosara Town & Hilltops
These Glamping Huts are an epic and unique experience, which nature lovers have to try when visiting Nosara. Built with high-grade mesh, you can breath in the fresh air, and listen to the sounds of the jungle, as you relax indoors. The huts have one queen bed, two twin beds, and a private bathroom making it a great option for families.
Things to See and Do in Nosara Town & Hilltops
- Have a traditional meal at Celajes Restaurant
- Observe wildlife at Sibu Wildlife Sanctuary
- Let you hair down at K-Rae’s Irish Pub and Inn
- Spend a day at the beach
- Go hiking in the hilltops
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Grab an eSIM!4. Playa Pelada – Coolest Area to Stay in Nosara
Neighbor to the popular area Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada is becoming the new hip place to be in Nosara. Home to a great selection of trendy restaurants, and just a short walk to one of the best beaches, it is no surprise Playa Pelada is increasing in popularity.
Luckily for visitors, prices tend to be considerably less expensive than its popular counterpart Playa Guione, due to its quieter representation, and smaller selection of activities.
Playa Pelada has gained itself a strong expat community with lots of “full-time residents”. Despite it’s long-time visitors, the area is full of awesome accommodation options. If you are looking for where to stay in Nosara for a bit of fun on a budget, this is where to be.
Colibri studio walking distance to beach | Best Bed & Breakfast in Playa Pelada
This beautifully designed studio is located in the heart of Playa Pelada, with a sunny terrace, and a modern, chic interior. On your doorstep, you have access to an exquisite natural stone pool, perfect for cooling down after a day of exploring.
Hostel Nicoa | Best Hostel in Playa Pelada
Located just a 5-minute drive away from Playa Pelada is the sociable Hostel Nicoa. Priding itself on having a warming atmosphere, with its tagline ‘made by a traveler for other travelers’, it is perfect for solo travelers looking to meet companions.
Hotel Boutique Lagarta Lodge | Best Hotel in Playa Pelada
Lagarta Lodge is beautifully situated, nestled in between two rivers with breathtaking views of expansive sandy beaches. Located on a private nature reserve, you gain a sense of exclusivity at Largarta Lodge with luxurious amenities including an incredible outdoor pool and rooftop bar, which overlook the ocean.
Things to See and Do in Playa Pelada
- Bring out your adventurous side on a canopy tour
- Explore nature at Reserva Biológica Nosara
- Go surfing at Playa Pelada
- Take a dip in the ocean
- Indulge on tasty food
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!What To Pack For Hana
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Nosara
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Nosara
With so much natural beauty to explore in the Nosara, you’ll want to base yourself in an area you feel comfortable in. Find an outstanding accommodation, settle in, and set out to explore the stunning nature. Whether you are on a tight budget, or have oozles of dollars to spend, these places to stay in Nosara are all incredible and worth a visit!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Costa Rica.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Costa Rica.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Costa Rica instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Costa Rica to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Costa Rica is a great way to maximise your time.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Central America backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee. If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂
