Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
black
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
3 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Nosara: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — blue, clarity moderate, average temperature +27.0°C, warms up to +29.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Nosara: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.5 m.
Playa Nosara: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Nosara: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — black. Texture — fine. Beach length — 3 000 metres.
Playa Nosara: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December, January. It ends in April. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Nosara: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Nosara: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: crocodiles, stingrays, jellyfish. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Nosara: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Nosara: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Playa Nosara: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Sendero Kitchen, Huacas Restaurant, El Ruco. Cuisines available: International, Costa Rican. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Nosara: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Hat, Towel, Swimsuit, Water, Mosquito repellent, Surfboard.
Playa Nosara: when is the best time to swim?
Best time for surfing is the dry season from December to April. Morning water is calmer.
Playa Nosara: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Do not leave trash. Swim only in the designated area. Respect wildlife.
Playa Nosara: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Nosara: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for intermediate and advanced surfers, as well as those seeking a calm and less crowded beach on the Nicoya Peninsula. Not suitable for families with small children due to strong waves.
Playa Nosara: what makes this beach unique?
The least crowded beach in the region with dark sand and shallow sandbars. One of the best places on the Nicoya Peninsula for birdwatching (over 270 species).
Playa Nosara: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Least crowded beach in the region, Dark sand, Excellent surfing, Mangroves, Birdwatching, Calm atmosphere, Yoga on the beach. Cons: Remote location, Dark sand, Strong waves in season, Limited infrastructure, Mosquitoes in the evening.
Playa Nosara: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Ostional Refuge, Mangroves. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Nosara: how do I get to the city of Nosara?
The beach is located near the city of Nosara. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Nosara.