Surf, Sip, Repeat: A Chill Guy’s Trip to Nosara
Nosara, Costa Rica… ever heard of it? I hadn’t either until I booked a one-way ticket with barely a plan. It’s this dreamy little surf town tucked into the jungle where everything moves a bit slower, people smile more, and the beach is never far away. If you’re a solo traveler like me, just out here looking for good vibes, sunshine, and something real, this place might just steal your heart. Let me take you along for the ride. Who knows, maybe you’ll end up booking that ticket too.
1. Walk Barefoot to the Beach (Seriously)
One of the best things about Nosara? You can ditch your shoes and just stroll barefoot down jungle paths that lead straight to the ocean. There’s something oddly freeing about it. You hear monkeys in the trees, maybe catch a glimpse of a coati darting past, and all roads end with waves crashing in your ears.
And that beach? Playa Guiones is long, wide, golden, and absolutely perfect for watching surfers or getting lost in your own thoughts. Ever watched a sunset solo, feet in the sand, and just felt... peaceful? That’s Nosara magic.
2. Surf, Even if You Suck
I mean, come on. You’re in Costa Rica. You have to try surfing at least once. And the cool part? Nosara is beginner-friendly. There are so many surf schools and instructors who’ll cheer you on even if you fall 27 times (I did).
Tip: Book a lesson in the morning when it’s cooler and the waves are mellow. Afterward, treat yourself to an açaí bowl. You've earned it.
And even if surfing isn’t your thing, just sitting by the surf, chatting with locals or fellow travelers, soaking in the sun… that's a vibe too.
3. Hit the Farmer’s Market (Tuesdays!)
If you're around on a Tuesday, don’t miss the Nosara Farmer’s Market. It’s small but full of heart. Think fresh fruit, homemade breads, local kombucha, natural skincare, handmade jewelry, everything feels intentional and earthy.
You’ll probably meet other travelers, maybe chat with a local artist, or get lost sampling chocolate truffles made by a barefoot Canadian guy with a beard (true story). Even if you’re not buying anything, the vibe is worth the visit.
4. Refuel at the Juice Bars
There are juice bars everywhere in Nosara, and they’re all dangerously good. Whether it’s a green detox drink after yoga or a creamy mango smoothie post-surf, it always hits the spot.
My favorite? A place tucked under a canopy of trees with reggae in the background and hammocks you can chill in while sipping something cold and colorful. I mean… why rush?
5. Chill. Literally Just Chill.
This isn’t a town for sightseeing. It’s a town for being. And as someone who usually travels with a jam-packed list of things to do, this was the best part. I’d journal at the beach, nap in a hammock, read under the palms, or just wander without a plan.
Nosara kind of teaches you that you don’t always need to be doing something to enjoy everything.
6. Say Yes to Sunset Socials
Sunset in Nosara is like a silent ritual. Everyone heads to the beach, barefoot, beer or coconut in hand, just to watch the sky go wild. Pink, purple, orange—like someone lit the sky on fire.
You’ll probably end up talking to someone. Maybe another solo traveler. Maybe a surfer. Maybe a dog (there are many). I made friends here without trying, just because the energy is so open and easy.
7. Get into the Wellness Groove
If you’re feeling it, there are loads of yoga classes, sound baths, cacao ceremonies, and all sorts of spiritual workshops happening around town. I tried a yoga class at a place surrounded by jungle—and yeah, even if you’re not into the “woo,” it’s hard not to feel something shift when you're moving your body to the sound of birds and wind.
You don’t have to be a yogi. You just have to show up.
Nosara isn’t flashy. It doesn’t try to impress you. It just is. It welcomes you quietly, like an old friend, and then it lingers in your heart long after you leave.
As a solo traveler, that kind of place is rare. You get time to think, space to feel, and people who somehow make you feel less alone. If you're looking for a laid-back spot with soul, book the flight.
Who knows? You might just stay longer than you planned.
