Frequently asked Questions

Find answers to your questions about Nosara travel and tours.

General Nosara Travel

What are the best things to do in Nosara?

Nosara is known for surfing, boat tours, fishing, wildlife encounters, and its relaxed pura vida lifestyle. Monkey Head Adventures offers the most popular ocean experiences: private boat tours, fishing charters, snorkeling, dolphin and whale watching, and adventure activities around Nosara.

What adventures is Nosara known for?

Nosara is famous for surfing, fishing, ocean wildlife, ATV routes, turtle nesting at Ostional, and private coastal boat trips. Monkey Head Adventures focuses on the ocean side of Nosara, where you’ll see dolphins, turtles, whales (seasonal), rays, and reef life.

What is the best time of year to visit Nosara for ocean activities?

The dry season (December–April) brings calm seas and clear conditions.The green season (May–November) offers rich marine life, whale watching, and beautiful morning outings. We run tours year-round, adjusting to tides, wind, and visibility.

How do I book a boat tour or fishing charter in Nosara?

You can book directly through our website for real-time availability. Early booking is recommended in high season (December–April).

Do your tours run year-round?

Yes. Our captain runs trips in every season and adjusts launch times based on daily conditions. Some experiences, like whale watching or turtle hatching, are seasonal but available every year.

What should I pack for a day on the water in Nosara?

Light clothing, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a swimsuit, towel, and anything waterproof for your phone. We supply water, safety gear, and coolers. For fishing and snorkeling, all equipment is provided.

What currency is used in Costa Rica?

The Costa Rican Colón (CRC) is the local currency, and US dollars are widely accepted. Credit cards are commonly used, but small amounts of cash are helpful for local purchases.

Boat Tours

What will I see on a Nosara boat tour?

Depending on the season, you may see dolphins, whales, turtles, and rays, as well as coastline landmarks around Nosara. Stops often include calm coves for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing in the water.

Are your boat tours private?

Yes. Every boat tour is fully private, designed for couples, families, or small groups who want a personalized day on the ocean.

Are boat tours safe for kids?

Absolutely. Our crew is experienced with families, and every trip includes life jackets for all ages.

How long are the boat tours?

Most tours run 3–4 hours, but we also offer sunset tours, half-day, and custom full-day experiences.

Fishing Charters

What kind of fishing can I do in Nosara?

Inshore and offshore fishing is available throughout the year. Inshore targets species like roosterfish, snapper, and grouper. Offshore includes mahi-mahi, tuna, and seasonal billfish.

When is the best time of year for fishing in Nosara?

Fishing is good year-round, but peak months depend on the species.
Tuna: all year
Mahi-mahi: July–January
Sailfish/Marlin: December–April
Roosterfish: all year

Do I need fishing experience?

No experience needed. Our captain and crew handle everything from rigging to guidance making it fun for beginners and exciting for experienced anglers.

Can I keep the fish I catch?

Yes, you may keep your catches. Many guests choose to keep part of their catch to have it prepared at a local restaurant. Your captain will explain all the options on the day of your trip and prepare your fish for you to take with you.

Surfing & Conditions

Is Nosara good for beginner surfers?

Yes. Playa Guiones offers long, forgiving waves ideal for beginners and intermediates. Consistent surf year-round makes Nosara one of Costa Rica’s best surf beaches.

What are the best beaches for surfing in Nosara?

Playa Guiones is the main surf break, followed by Playa Pelada and Playa Ostional for more advanced conditions.

When is the best time to surf in Nosara?

Surf is consistent year-round.
December–April: clean, smaller waves that are great for beginners
May–August: bigger, punchier swells for intermediates and up

Wildlife & Nature

When is whale season in Nosara?

Whale season runs August–November, with some sightings January–March. Humpback whales migrate through Garza’s waters every year.

Can I see dolphins in Nosara?

Yes. Spotted and spinner dolphins are common year-round. They often travel in large pods and are frequently seen on our tours.

Can I see turtles in Nosara?

Yes, especially during arribadas at Ostional, one of the world’s most active nesting sites. Green and olive ridley turtles are common.

What other wildlife can I see on the ocean?

Depending on the day: manta rays, eagle rays, sea turtles, bait balls, seasonal whales, and a wide range of tropical fish while swimming or snorkeling.

Safety & Practical Details

Where do your tours depart from?

Most trips launch from Playa Garza, a calm bay about 10–12 minutes from Playa Guiones. The meeting location for our tours is at our Monkey Head Adventures office in Garza, which you can see on Google Maps.

How do I get to Playa Garza from Nosara?

It’s a short drive or tuktuk ride. We can help arrange reliable transportation to and from the launch point.

Are tours safe for kids and older adults?

Yes. Our captain tailors each trip to your group’s comfort level, sea conditions, and needs.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If conditions are unsafe, we’ll adjust the time or reschedule. If no option works, we offer a full refund.

What is your cancellation policy?

We offer refunds for cancellations made with reasonable notice. Weather-related cancellations are fully refunded.

Do you provide life jackets and safety gear?

Yes. Every tour includes life jackets, first-aid equipment, and communication devices. Safety is the priority.

Monkey Head Adventures
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