Costa Rica (4-10 Days)
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Tucked away on the Nicoya Peninsula, Nosara is a hidden gem (and my personal favorite!) located in one of the world's Blue Zones, where people are known for their longevity and well-being. It offers a serene setting for adventure and relaxation. Known for its world-class surf, yoga, and focus on well-being, this charming Costa Rican town provides an unforgettable experience for travelers.
Transportation:
Nosara is about 2-3 hours from Liberia Airport.
Consider using Gypsy Cab for airport transfers.
Hotels:
The Harmony Hotel: A luxurious beachfront hotel with a beautiful ambiance, direct beach access, complimentary breakfast, and free surfboard rentals. It also features a juice bar and a restaurant.
The Nomadic: A moderately-priced, stylish hotel that's perfect for solo travelers. It offers complimentary breakfast and a relaxing atmosphere.
La Negra Surf Hotel: A mid-range hotel that provides a laid-back experience for travelers looking for a comfortable stay.
Activities:
Surfing: Nosara is a popular surf destination, so be sure to take a surf lesson.
Wellness classes: Nosara offers a wide variety of classes catering to your well-being, including yoga, breathwork, reiki, sound baths, HIIT, and barre.
Watching Sunsets: Nosara boasts some of the best sunsets in the area.
Snorkeling
Zip-lining
Hiking
Restaurants:
Dining out can be challenging for people with dietary restrictions, especially when it comes to allergies. Fortunately, many restaurants in the Nosara area cater to customers with a variety of food allergies. Here are some of my favorites:
Breakfast:
Destiny Café & Restaurant: This restaurant is my go-to choice for breakfast, with gluten and dairy-free options available. Be sure to try the breakfast burrito!
Go Juice: . For a refreshing snack, grab an açaí bowl with peanut butter or one of their other peanut-free options. They also have gluten-free options available.
Lunch:
Naked Foods: This health-conscious cafe offers a variety of salads, bowls, and smoothies, with many gluten-free options available. The massaged kale Caesar salad is a must-try, made with cashew parmesan and coconut bacon.
Beach Dog Cafe: Located just a few steps from the beach, this restaurant offers a variety of Tex-Mex dishes with options for those with gluten and dairy allergies. Try the mango shrimp fajitas, made with grilled shrimp, mango salsa, and gluten-free tortillas.
Dinner:
Coyol Restaurant: Nestled in the hills overlooking the Pacific, Coyol Restaurant offers a beautiful sunset view and a farm-to-table dining experience. They have options for those with gluten and dairy allergies, including the smoked roasted eggplant with tahini and pomegranate molasses (my favorite!!). Be sure to make a reservation in advance, and consider taking a tuk-tuk for a cheaper and adventurous ride.
La Luna: You can walk to the restaurant from the town center and enjoy the stunning sunset views while you dine They have many options for those with gluten and dairy allergies, including the amazing fish ceviche with coconut milk and lime and catch of the day with green sauce. Be sure to make a reservation in advance.
LuvBurger Nosara: This vegan restaurant offers plenty of gluten and dairy-free options, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions. Try the Goddess salad with tempeh, the margarita pizza with vegan cheese, and the delicious Chocolate Bundt cake.
Perozah: Located on the beach, Perozah offers an incredible oceanfront dining experience. They have options for those with gluten and dairy allergies, including the amazing paella made with local seafood and saffron. Be sure to check in advance what they can make according to your allergies and make a reservation in advance and take a tuk-tuk to enjoy the sunset.
Pacifico Azul Restaurant: This local and reasonably-priced restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, including a delicious yellow curry shrimp special. They have options for those with gluten and dairy allergies, and the sweet plantains are great!
If you're looking for fresh produce and delicious local foods, be sure to check out the Nosara Tuesday Farmers Market! It offers a variety of handmade crafts and many gluten-free and vegan options, such as baked goods. It’s heaven for someone with food allergies! It's a cash-only event, so be sure to bring plenty of cash, and don't forget to bring your own shopping bags.
Drink Spots:
Selina Nosara
La Casa Cafe Resto Bar
Blue Zone Brewery
Howler's Beach Lounge
Coffee Shops:
Olo Alaia Surf & Brew: The best coffee in the area.with alternative milks
El Jardín
Estrellitas Coffee
Restaurants (I haven’t tried yet):
Café Corazón
Sunrise Coffee
El Chivo Cantina
Symbiosis Plant Based
ESH Mediterranean Street Food
Sushi Mar
La Brasa Argentinian Grill
Huacas Restaurant
Café de Paris
La Colmena
Al Chile
La Ventanita
El Patio de Café Milagro
Rosie’s
Grocery Stores:
La Bodega Nosara
Orgánico Grocer & Café: Find Single Fin poke (a must for lunch or an early dinner!! And super accommodating to food allergies), amazing dairy-free chocolate, juices, allergy-friendly pre-made foods, and vegan ice cream here.
Shops:
The Apothecary - Sacred Plants Farmacy
Love Nosara
Lobo
Hot Tamale
Yoga Studios:
Nalu
Norte
The Harmony
General Tips:
Beach access: To reach the beach, you'll need to walk through a tree-lined path that runs parallel to the shoreline. This unique feature adds to the charm of Nosara's beaches.
Nighttime tips: Use your phone's flashlight at night to navigate the town. Fun fact: Nosara intentionally keeps street lighting to a minimum to ensure the safe migration of turtles to the ocean.
Nosara is walkable, but tuk-tuks or ATVs are available for longer distances.
Apply and reapply sunscreen.
Bring bug spray and sturdy sandals.
Most places accept credit cards and US dollars.
No converter is needed.
Shuffle your feet when walking in the ocean to avoid stingrays.
