What’s included?

The climate is tropical, with a short and moderate dry season, but it has a long rainy season towards the south. The maximum average temperature is 31°C (89°F), while the average minimum temperature is 22.7°C (73°F). The dry season lasts from January to March. The rainy season is typically called the Green Season as the vegetation is lush and Green. It is a great time to visit.

BEACHES: (NORTH TO SOUTH)

PLAYA OSTIONAL

Just five miles north of Nosara, Ostional is an important nesting site for Olive Ridley sea turtles. While a few experienced surfers do brave the waters here, waves are rougher and larger than other beaches in the area, and it is not recommended for novices.

PLAYA NOSARA

A long, dark stretch of shore, Playa Nosara is located north of Playa Pelada, and between Playa Ostional and the Nosara river mouth. The beach is completely encompassed by the Ostional Wildlife Refuge. More isolated parts can be reached by kayak, perfect for those seeking privacy or exclusive surfing waves. Expect to find large and sometimes hollow left and right beach breaks at Playa Nosara.

PLAYA PELADA

Playa Pelada, or “bare beach,” is a picturesque, crescent-shaped cove in between Playa Guiones and Playa Nosara. The white sands are soft and inviting, lined by idyllic palm trees offering shade. This is not known as the best surfing spot around, but the reef break in front of Olga's Bar and Restaurant provides ample swells around mid to high tide. Vacationers and locals frequent this swimming beach to relax and enjoy Pelada’s calming, tranquil waters.

PLAYA GUIONES

The core of the Nosara beach scene is inarguably Playa Guiones, where surfers enjoy some of the most impressive waves in the country. Left and right beach breaks tend to be hollow at lower tides. Here, restaurants, hotels, spas, Internet cafes, a pharmacy, and even a doctor’s office are concentrated in one area – much more than in Pelada or Nosara.

PLAYA ROSADA

An extension of Playa Guiones, Playa Rosada is the stretch of pink sand at the very south end of this long surf beach. Bring snorkeling gear at low tide to take advantage of crystal clear waters and tide pools.

PLAYA GARZA

Playa Garza is a tiny fishing village located four miles south of the Nosara area. As there is little in terms of lodging or restaurants, the beach receives minimal tourism. Many boat tours depart from Playa Garza. Two distinct barrier reefs protect the shore from large waves, creating nice swimming beaches.

NATURE RESERVES AND WILDLIFE REFUGES:

OSTIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE

Ostional Wildlife Refuge is best known as Costa Rica's second-most important nesting site for the Olive Ridley sea turtle. Every year, tens of thousands of Olive Ridleys come to shore during arribadas, mass nesting periods that last year-round with peaks between June and December. The months of September, October and November see the largest number of nesting turtles.Turtle tours may be booked from nearby towns including Nosara, Tamarindo and Samara, or visitors may visit the refuge and walk the beach with a park ranger.

NOSARA WILDLIFE RESCUE

For more than ten years, the owners of Nosara Wildlife Rescue and Sibu Sanctuary have worked in harmony to rescue injured, displaced and orphaned animals. The center takes care of newborns, orphans, and recently injured animals, providing medical care and shelter during their immediate recovery. There are medical facilities as well as a small reception area that sells information, booklets, fundraising calendars and animal information. Visits may be arranged by prior reservation only.

NOSARA BIOLOGICAL RESERVE

The 90-acre Nosara Biological Reserve is home to over 270 species of birds including motmots, herons, manakins, waders and toucans. Coatimundis, howler monkeys, armadillos, snakes, and anteaters are also common. Sunset at the reserve’s Lagarta Bar and Restaurant is nothing short of breathtaking. From this vantage point 130 feet above sea level, it is possible to see the winding Nosara and Montana rivers and the rivermouth where both empty into the Pacific Ocean.

MONTE ALTO RESERVE

The 855-acre Monte Alto Reserve climbs to almost 2,750 feet above sea level – a cool, mountain retreat that feels worlds away from Nosara's golden beaches. Part of the Nosara Protected Zone, the reserve protects important river headwaters, premontane wet forest and transitional wet forest habitats. Monte Alto is known for its diverse selection of orchids (approximately 67 species) that line the reserve's hiking trails, where at least 157 bird species cohabitate with howler monkeys, blue morpho butterflies, agoutis, coatimundis, and other native wildlife.

(from costarica.com)

- Deforestation: Costa Rica has experienced significant deforestation in recent years due to agricultural expansion, logging, and urban development, leading to habitat loss, decreased biodiversity, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.

- Coastal Erosion: Nosara faces many issues related to erosion and coastal degradation due to factors like sea-level rise, climate change, and human activities. This has been threatening natural habitats.

- Water Pollution: Contamination of rivers, streams, and coastal waters from agricultural runoff, sewage, and waste disposal has been a growing concern in Costa Rica. Development pressures in Nosara have exacerbated water quality issues, affecting both ecosystems and public health.

- Biodiversity Loss: Nosara has been facing challenges from habitat destruction and fragmentation, which has led to a decline in various species, including the sea turtle.

- Climate Change Impacts: Increased temperatures, altered rainfall patterns, and extreme weather events, continue to affect the entire country, posing significant threat to ecosystems and agriculture.

- Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Avoid the use of single-use plastics such as plastic bottles, bags, and straws. Bring a reusable water bottle and shopping bags. Many businesses in Nosara support plastic reduction efforts and offer alternatives.

- Responsible Wildlife Viewing: When observing wildlife, especially sea turtles, follow local guidelines and keep a respectful distance. Avoid disturbing nesting turtles or their hatchlings. Participate in organized eco-tours with trained guides who emphasize ethical wildlife interactions.

- Conserve Water and Energy: Be mindful of your water and energy usage. Use towels and bed linens for more than one day, turn off lights and air conditioning when not in use, and take shorter showers. Water resources can be limited in some areas, and reducing energy consumption helps lower the carbon footprint.

- Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES) Programs: The Costa Rican government has implemented PES programs that incentivize landowners in areas like Nosara to conserve and restore natural ecosystems. Landowners receive payments for maintaining forest cover and protecting critical watershed areas, which contributes to biodiversity conservation and improved water quality.

- National Parks and Protected Areas Expansion: Costa Rica has been expanding its network of national parks and protected areas, benefiting regions like Nosara. This initiative is aimed at preserving biodiversity, mitigating deforestation, and promoting sustainable tourism. In the Nosara area, efforts have been made to include new areas within the national park system to protect vital habitats.

- Renewable Energy and Climate Mitigation: The Costa Rican government has set ambitious goals for renewable energy production and carbon neutrality. This includes investments in renewable energy sources such as hydroelectric, wind, and solar power. These efforts help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change, which has implications for environmental stability in areas like Nosara.

- Community-Led Sustainable Practices: Nosara community members and local organizations have been actively promoting sustainable practices, including eco-friendly tourism, organic farming, and waste reduction. Some organizations have established community gardens and sustainable agriculture projects to reduce the environmental footprint and promote conservation.

- Conservation of Natural Reserves: Nosara is known for its beautiful natural reserves and biodiversity. Efforts have been made to protect and preserve natural reserves and biodiversity, including the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, where sea turtle conservation is a priority. Local organizations and volunteers work to protect sea turtle nesting sites and educate the public about the importance of these conservation efforts.

- Promotion of Green Infrastructure: The community in Nosara has been investing in green infrastructure, such as reforestation and rainwater harvesting projects, to mitigate the effects of climate change and reduce coastal erosion.

- Unregulated Beach Access and Sand Dune Disturbance: Visitors and locals should avoid unregulated access to the beach and refrain from walking or driving on sand dunes. Sand dunes are critical for coastal protection. Unauthorized access can lead to erosion and harm local ecosystems.

- Disruptive Noise and Light Pollution: In the interest of preserving the natural environment and wildlife habitats, avoid excessive noise and light pollution in areas surrounding Nosara. This includes minimizing loud music and bright lights, especially during sea turtle nesting season (July-November), as these disturbances can deter nesting turtles and affect nocturnal wildlife.

- The Nosara Civic Association: a local organization that often coordinates environmental and community initiatives. They may offer volunteer opportunities related to beach cleanups, reforestation projects, and community education on environmental issues. Contact directly for volunteer opportunities.

- Eco-Volunteer UPN: an organization that partners with local communities and provides volunteer opportunities for those interested in sustainable and environmental initiatives in the Nosara area. They focus on activities like reforestation, wildlife monitoring, and environmental education.