Things to Do in Nosara: Top Adventure Activities for 2026
Top Things to Do in Nosara in 2026
Nosara keeps growing in popularity, but the reason people love it hasn’t changed: it’s a laid-back place with great surf, easy access to nature, and a coastline that offers more than most visitors expect. If you’re planning a trip in 2026, here are the activities that consistently stand out — along with a few tips to help you make the most of them.
1. Snorkeling by Boat or by Kayak/SUP
Snorkeling is one of the easiest ways to get a feel for Nosara’s marine life. You can explore the water in two different ways:
- Snorkeling by Boat: A quick ride from Playa Garza takes you to small offshore islands with clear water and solid visibility. This is the better option if you're hoping to see more marine life, including turtles and schools of fish.
- Snorkeling by Kayak or Paddleboard: If you prefer something calmer and closer to shore, paddling into sheltered coves is a good fit. It’s slow, steady, and works well for families or anyone new to snorkeling.
Why it belongs on your list for 2026: Conditions have been steady, and early-morning outings continue to offer the best visibility.
2. Dolphin, Turtle, and Whale Watching
Wildlife sightings are one of the highlights of visiting this area. Dolphins are seen often, turtles show up throughout the year, and humpback whales pass by during migration seasons. Here's the best time for viewing:
- Dolphins and turtles: all year
- Whales: August–November and January–March
You don’t need any special skills. Just a captain who knows where to look.
3. Fishing Charters Out of Playa Garza
Nosara’s fishing scene is strong and doesn’t come with the crowds you’ll find in larger destinations. You can target both inshore and offshore species. Common catches include:
- Tuna
- Mahi-mahi
- Roosterfish
- Sailfish and marlin (seasonal)
Fishing works well for beginners, families, or experienced anglers who want a straightforward, private charter.
4. Sunset Experiences
Sunsets in Nosara are a big part of the trip for most people. There are a few ways to take them in:
- Sunset & Sip: A simple, relaxed way to enjoy the sunset in the late afternoon.
- Beach Picnic: An elegant setup on the beach with light bites.
- Dusk & Din: A private dinner at sunset for couples or small groups.
Nothing about these needs to be complicated. The goal is to give yourself an unhurried way to enjoy the end of the day.
5. Surf Lessons at Playa Guiones
Guiones remains one of the most consistent surf breaks in Costa Rica. You can learn here as a beginner, build confidence as an intermediate, or get targeted coaching if you’ve surfed before.
The beach breaks are forgiving, the water is warm, and instructors are used to working with all levels.
6. ATV Tours and Horseback Riding
Most of Nosara’s land-based activities take you through open fields, jungle trails, and quiet backroads.
- ATV tours let you cover more ground and reach higher viewpoints.
- Horseback rides offer a slower, more relaxed way to see the area.
These complement the ocean activities well and give you a better sense of the landscape beyond the beach.
7. A Short Waterfall Hike
About 20–30 minutes inland, you’ll find shaded trails that lead to small waterfalls. These are great on hot days and work well for families or anyone who wants a lighter activity between beach time.
How to Plan Your Time in Nosara for 2026
If you only have a few days, prioritize:
- Snorkeling
- Dolphin and whale watching
- A sunset experience
- Surf lessons
From there, add land activities based on interest and weather. Most visitors find that a mix of ocean time and simple, unstructured downtime gives them the best overall trip.
Book With Monkey Head Adventures
If you want private, small-group experiences with local guidance, Monkey Head Adventures offers:
- Boat tours
- Snorkeling (by boat or paddle)
- Dolphin, turtle, and whale watching
- Fishing charters
- Surf lessons
- Land adventures through trusted partners
Reach out if you want help planning the right mix of activities for your trip.
