Welcome to Nosara, a beautiful destination on Costa Rica's Nicoya Peninsula, where you can experience the ultimate "Pura Vida" lifestyle—without spending a dime! Nosara, Costa Rica, is known for its pristine beaches, vibrant wellness scene, and commitment to sustainable tourism. This small town on the Nicoya Peninsula is perfect for travelers who love the outdoors and want to connect with nature. Whether you're a beach lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind in paradise, these amazing towns offer many free activities if you’re on a budget. Here is our selection of free things to do in Nosara.
Need other useful information? We have a complete travel guide dedicated to the town of Nosara: the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in the area.
Enjoy a sunset or relax on Playa Guiones
The beaches in Nosara are pure magic. One of the most popular spots in Nosara, Playa Guiones, is a dream beach with miles of white sand, incredible surfing waves, and a chilled vibe that makes it perfect for long, lazy beach days and some of the best sunsets in Costa Rica. Stroll along the shore, look for unique seashells or join locals and travelers every evening to watch the sky light up in shades of pink, orange, and purple as the sun dips below the horizon. It’s a simple but unforgettable experience that’s 100% free.
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Don’t forget to bring a towel, snacks, and maybe even a book for relaxation.
Surf the waves with your board.
Nosara is famous for its surf culture, and Playa Guiones is ideal for both beginners and experienced surfers. If you have your own board, you can enjoy the waves without spending a dime. The waves are consistent year-round, and the beach’s gentle slope makes it perfect for longboarding and practicing new skills. You can always rent boards on the beach, but you will need to shell out a few colones.
Join a Beach Yoga Session in Nosara
Nosara is one of Costa Rica’s wellness hubs, and it’s easy to see why. Nosara has a strong wellness community, and some yoga studios and beach groups offer free or donation-based community classes. Yoga is everywhere, especially around Playa Guiones, where the beach is wide and ideal for spreading your mat. Practicing yoga outdoors with the sounds of nature and ocean waves is a truly rejuvenating experience.
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Discover Tide Pools at Playa Pelada
Just north of Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada is a smaller, rocky beach where you’ll find incredible tide pools at low tide. These natural “mini-pools” are filled with clear, warm water and make perfect spots for a refreshing dip. Some pools are deep enough to sit and relax, giving you a unique place to unwind in nature’s spa!
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The rocks around the tide pools are also rich with marine life. Bring a mask and snorkel if you have one, as you might see small fish, crabs, and colorful sea anemones in these crystal-clear waters.
Don’t forget to check the tide schedule before you go, as the pools are best enjoyed when the tide is low.
Explore the Nosara Biological Reserve
For nature lovers, the Nosara Biological Reserve is a hidden treasure. The reserve’s unique ecosystem includes mangroves and dry tropical forests, which are great for spotting diverse local wildlife, including howler monkeys, iguanas, and countless bird species. The trails here are easy to follow and accessible for most fitness levels, making it an enjoyable and low-key way to experience Costa Rica’s flora and fauna without spending a cent
Visit the Ostional Wildlife Refuge (for Turtle Nesting)
Nosara is home to the Ostional Wildlife Refuge. This protected area preserves the region’s rich biodiversity, and it's one of the best places in the world to witness sea turtles nesting. You can explore parts of the reserve for free, particularly near the beaches where turtles nest. While official tours require a fee, you can sometimes glimpse these magnificent creatures arriving on the beach at night if you time it right, especially during the famous “arribadas” (mass nestings) of Olive Ridley turtles between July and December, usually around the last quarter of the moon phase. These magical events draw thousands of turtles to the shore, creating an unforgettable natural spectacle. Remember to respect the turtles by keeping a safe distance, not using flash photography, and avoiding any loud noises.
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For more information about the Ostional Wildlife Refuge, check our blog article: Exploring Ostional Wildlife Refuge: a guide to Costa Rica’s turtle haven
Hike the Trails Around Nosara
Nosara has a few well-marked trails offering beautiful scenery, lush greenery, and great opportunities to spot wildlife—all free! The Nosara Trails wind through the area’s dry tropical forests, providing shade and peace as you stroll. Bring some binoculars if you enjoy bird-watching; the area is known for its variety of tropical birds, including parrots and kingfishers.
Along the trails, watch for other wildlife, such as coatis, iguanas, and maybe even armadillos. These trails offer an easy, enjoyable way to immerse yourself in nature and get a little exercise.
Enjoy Live Music at local venues, bars and restaurants
Many restaurants and bars in Nosara offer live music nights, especially over the weekend. Venues like El Chivo often feature local musicians playing everything from reggae to traditional Costa Rican music. You can listen for free while enjoying Nosara’s lively atmosphere, even if you don’t purchase anything.
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Join the Facebook group "Nosara Timeout" to know what events are happening in Nosara
Free things to do in Nosara: conclusion
Nosara is a paradise for nature lovers and budget-conscious travelers alike. This eco-friendly town offers countless ways to enjoy the outdoors and connect with nature, from beach yoga to hiking trails, tide pools, and unforgettable sunsets without breaking the bank. Embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle by exploring these free activities and discovering what makes this region unique. Whether you're on a budget or want to experience Costa Rica authentically, Nosara has something unforgettable in store.
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