Top things to do in Nosara
From rowdy rodeos, to world-class wildlife-watching experiences, Nosara may be small, but its big on unforgettable travel experiences. It also boasts a clutch of beaches to bliss out on, or surf and snorkel from.
#1 Experience the recorrido de toros rodeo
If you’re in Nosara on a weekend in January or February, or on a public holiday such as the first of May, don't miss the recorrido de toros (rodeo). Recorridos, held in many of the Nicoya Peninsula villages, are a rallying point for local communities, who travel long distances to join the fun.
The recorrido usually begins in the afternoon, with “Best Bull” competitions, and gets rowdier as evening falls. After dark, a string of cloudy white light bulbs illuminates the ring. and more beer is consumed.
The recorrido is followed by a dance. In Nosara, an impromptu dancefloor is created on the airstrip. The white-line area where the planes are supposed to stop is turned into a giant outdoor bar, while the mobile disco blasts salsa, reggae and countrified two-steps.
The atmosphere at these events is friendly and beer-sodden. Food is sold from stalls, where you can sample local Guanacastecan dishes, such as sopa de albóndigas (meatball soup with egg).
#2 Swim, snorkel and bliss-out on beaches
The three beaches in the area – Guiones, Pelada and Nosara – are fine for swimming, although you can be buffeted by the crashing waves, and there are some rocky outcrops.
Playa Guiones is the most impressive of the beaches. It’s nearly 5km in length, populated by pelicans, and arguably offers the best swimming, though there’s little shade.
Playa Guiones is also popular for surfing, though not especially suitable for beginners. The Frog Pad rents out surfing equipment and offers classes to help you get up to speed. They also rent snorkelling gear.
The whole area is a great place to beachcomb for shells and driftwood, and the vegetation, even in the dry season, is greener than further north.
Attempts have been made to limit development, and a good deal of the land around the Río Nosara has been designated a wildlife refuge.
Keen on beaches? Find out all about the best beaches in Guanacaste.