This place is a gem of an off-the-beaten path surf-town. Despite the fact that the Nicoya Peninsula in the Guanacaste province in the southwestern part of the country has the most unpaved roads in Costa Rica, Nosara is one of the oldest expatriate communities in the country. The restaurants, bars and hotels are more the adequate for a two week visit. There is an ordinance that prevents any construction on the beachfronts. Consequently, the beaches appear as though there is nothing around. This gives one the feeling of being even more remote then you really are. A helpful tip in getting here is to take the 30 minute flight from the San Juan Airport, rather than the 3-4 hour drive (half of which in on unpaved roads.) Having taken the road route, trust me, I would never do that again.
The monument letting you know that you have arrived here at the little surf town.Coconut Harry’s is typical of the surf shops in the area.While none of the waves are large, there are waves for everyone who is learning to surf. Beginner, intermediate, and advanced waves abound almost every day.Curving some turns in the waves. Just an awesome area to learn to surf. These waves flow every 15 seconds, so there is not much down time spent waiting for the next one.This spot is a great beach bar. “Howler’s” named for the local monkeys found climbing in trees above. The margaritas and cold local beers were perfect in the 86+ degree weather.The view of Howler’s from the unpaved road in front. They grow sugar cane here and the molasses byproduct is applied to the streets to keep the dust down. While it’s effective at dust mitigation, it leaves the soles of your shoes quite sticky.Howler’s never changing menu. Why change it when each item on the limited menu is great. I had lunch here at least 5 times in the 12 days I spent in the area.The very inviting hotel bar and restaurant at Sendero. The chef creates some really interesting and tasty menu items.Nosara has some shopping too. This shop was unique in that it has no doors. Consequently, everything must be packed up upon the store closing each the day.Mainstreet Nosara is paved. This is the street scene. There is a good mostly organic food store, and organic bakery, a bank and a lot more.Beautiful sunset up above Nosara. I had dinner at the Tierra Magnifica Hotel. The food was as amazing as the views.
So long from Costa Rica and the little surf town of Nosara.
