Last updated on January 7th, 2024 at 07:41 pm
If you plan to surf in Nosara, you came to the right place. In this post, you will find all the information you need for your next surf trip, including surf seasons, surfer’s tips, and the best surf spots in Playa Nosara, Costa Rica.
* Honest disclaimer- Reef Break is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
About Surfing in Nosara, Costa Rica
Nosara is something between a fishing village and a beach community. It is located in the Guanacaste area, about a 5-hour drive from the capital, San Jose, and about 2-3 hours south of Tamarindo. Although it is a fantastic surf town of its own, it can also be an excellent stop for surfers coming from Santa Teresa in the south, or Playa Negra and Avellana in the north.
Surfing in Nosara is pure fun. In fact, it is one of the most lovable surf towns in Costa Rica. Besides the beautiful beach and the spectacular waves, Nosara is simply a special place to stay, and anyone who has ever surfed in Nosara will tell you there is something magical about it.
Although many travelers visit here regularly, Nosara managed to remain authentic. Therefore, there are no big resorts here and no nightclubs either. Consequently, the vibe in Nosara is chill and relaxed. That’s the beauty of this town and the reason why so many yoga lovers, hippies, and soul surfers love it so much.
Nosara offers consistent year-round surf. Being exposed to any swell direction, you can’t go wrong when surfing in Nosara. Even though the waves are not as long as in Pavones or as powerful as in Hermosa, the energy of the place makes each surf session in Nosara a unique and fun experience.
Surf Spots in Nosara
Playa Ostional:
You can find this beach break about 3 KM north of town, almost always empty of crowds. It is fast and sometimes hollow and works best during mid to high tide. In addition, Ostional is a nesting beach for Olive Ridley sea turtles. Therefore, during the nesting season (from March to October), entry to the beach is forbidden.
Playa Nosara:
Just in front of town, you can divide this beach into three areas. On the northern side, you will find Nosara River Mouth (Bocas Del Nosara), a fast wave with a very steep drop. As an advanced surfer, you can enjoy this spot mainly during low tide. However, if you are a beginner, you better stay in the southern part of the beach. About 1 KM south, you will find Playa Nosara, a perfect beach break for beginners, and further south, there is a rocky reef break called Pelada. Due to its proximity to town, many surfers are always in the lineup.
Playa Guiones:
If you want to surf Nosara at its best, Guiones is where you really want to be. In fact, this is, by far, the best surf spot in the Nosara area. Guiones is a powerful and consistent beach break. It breaks equally to the left and right sides and performs well in any tide conditions. Here, you can ride hollow barrels during low tide and soft, beginner-friendly waves during high tide. Due to its high quality, Guiones is always crowded. However, you can choose one of the less crowded peaks on the beach, as there are few of them. On a good day, the rides in this break can last up to 300 meters.
Surf Seasons in Playa Nosara
Luckily, you can surf in Nosara year-round, as this beach produces good waves almost daily. During the wet season, between May and November, the waves can get up to 5-8 feet and sometimes even higher. However, in the dry season, between December and April, it is typically around 2-4 feet, and the conditions are cleaner. As always, it depends on the swell; we never know exactly what we will get.
Surf Camps in Nosara
If you are a beginner making his first steps in the surfing world or even an intermediate seeking improvement, you can explore the waves of Nosara at a surf camp. With the proper guidance and a supportive atmosphere, a few days at one of Nosara’s surf camps can do magic for your surfing skills.
So, these are the best surf camps in Nosara:
1. Shambala Retreats – For more details, please click here.
2. Safari Surf School Nosara – For more details, please click here.
3. Surf Simply – For more details, please click here.
4. Selina Surf Camp Nosara – For more details, please click here.
5. Corky Carroll’s Surf School Nosara – For more details, please click here.
6. Nosara Paradise Rentals – For more details, please click here.
After a few days in one of Nosara’s surf camps you will be surprised how fast you can learn to surf, and how fun it is.
Surf Hotels in Nosara
When coming to surf in Nosara, you want to stay as close as possible to the waves. These are some of the most recommended surf hotels in town:
1. Nosara Beach Hotel– Situated in Nosara, about 50 meters from Pelada Beach, Nosara Beach Hotel features accommodations with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a bar
2. Iluminar Beachfront Suites– Iluminar Beachfront Suites offer garden views, free WiFi, and free private parking just between Pelada and Guiones Beach.
3. La Negra Surf Hotel– La Negra Surf Hotel offers a yoga studio and surf lessons for all skill levels. The hotel also features an outdoor pool and a restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
4. Olas Verdes Hotel– Set in Nosara, 200 m from Guiones Beach, Olas Verdes Hotel offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool, and a bar.
For more surf hotels in Nosara, check out the best deals on Booking.com.
Can Beginners Surf in Nosara?
As mentioned, there are several surf spots in Playa Nosara to suit all skill levels. Therefore, any surfer, from beginner to advanced, can have fun surfing in Nosara. For instance, the waves in Playa Nosara are beginner-friendly and perfect for surf lessons. In contrast, advanced surfers can ride steeper waves in Playa Guiones. In short, just choose your preferred break, depending on your skill level.
Nosara- Travel Information
Language– Spanish.
Currency– Costa Rican Colon.
Electricity– 110 volt, 60 cycle electricity, same as the US
Population– About 6,000.
Calling code– +506.
Time zone– GMT -6.
Pros– relaxed atmosphere, fun beach break, year-round surf, warm water.
Cons– None.
Other Fun Activities in Nosara
Surfing in Nosara is probably the best thing you can do while you are here. And yet, between the sessions, you might find yourself looking for something fun to do. Luckily, Nosara offers more than just waves. These are a few of your options:
Paddleboard in Nosara River– The water is very calm, and it is more of a relaxing thing.
Kayak through Montana River– On the trees above the water, you will see tons of wild birds.
Escape Room– surprisingly, Nosara has one, which is pretty good. Great thing to do with friends.
Nosara Refuge for Wildlife– meet the spider monkeys.
K-Rae’s Black Sheep Pub– A super cool place on the hill with a great view and cold drinks.
Tica Massage– A full-body massage is exactly what you need after a surf session.
Fishing– You can book a tour with “Fishing Nosara”.
Miss Sky Canopy Tour– The longest zip-line in all of Costa Rica.
Horseback Riding– At Playa Ponies, just next to Nosara.
Conclusion- Final Thought
To sum up, Nosara is an outstanding surf town, and you should definitely include it in your surf trip to Costa Rica. Watch out; surfers tend to stay in Nosara longer than planned. Go and see for yourself.
We hope you enjoyed reading this surf guide to Nosara. Have a great surf trip!
