Pura vida on a foamie: Nosara for beginners

This week we’re returning to Costa Rica. Nosara for beginners? Oh yeah.

Nosara is one of Costa Rica’s most beloved surf towns along the Nicoya Peninsula and known for its relaxed pace, lush jungle, and consistent waves. It’s home to Playa Guiones, a famously beginner-friendly beach break with a massive surfable zone and rides that go on forever (or at least long enough to practice your pop-up three times in one go).

🌊 The surf
Playa Guiones delivers long, spilling waves over soft sand—ideal for first-timers and returning beginners. The break works on all tides and can hold a surprising variety of wave sizes without getting scary. There’s whitewater for newbies, green waves for progressing surfers, and plenty of space to spread out. The vibe in the water is mellow, especially in the southern section of the beach.

🚿 Water quality
Generally clean, especially compared to other popular Central American spots. Heavy rains in the wet season (May–Oct) can cause temporary runoff issues, but Guiones has no nearby river mouths, which helps.

👙 Wardrobe
Warm water year-round. Think bikinis, boardies, and rash guards. No wetsuit needed—just reef-safe sunscreen and maybe a hat or surf leggings if you’re sun-sensitive.

☀️ Best time for beginners to go
Dry season (Nov–April) is your best bet: smaller, more manageable surf, better visibility, and less daily rain. Late Nov to early March is prime time for clean, beginner-friendly waves with offshore winds most mornings.

⚠️ Hazards
Almost none! No reef, no rocks, no rip-heavy shorebreak. Just mind your board (and others’) on crowded days. Jellyfish and stingrays show up occasionally but rarely pose issues.

🏄 Rentals + lessons
Surf shops and schools are everywhere. You can rent a board for ~$10/day or take a lesson from one of the many highly-rated instructors in town. Group and private lessons are available, and many surf hotels include boards and coaching in their stay packages.

🍉 When you’re not surfing

• Explore Nosara’s jungle trails by e-bike or ATV
  
• Take a yoga class or breathwork session—Nosara is also a wellness hub
  
• Catch sunset from La Luna, cocktail in hand, they are both spectacular
  

🧳 Solo friendly?
Very. Nosara attracts solo travelers, yogis, and surf-curious nomads. Hostels, surf camps, and drop-in classes make it easy to connect with others. The vibe is more eco-chic than party-central, but it’s super beginner-welcoming.