If you’re thinking about heading to Nosara for some longboarding, let me tell you—it’s absolutely worth it. The natural surroundings make every session even better. The waves are smooth, consistent, and perfect for longboarding.
Whether you're just starting out or you've been logging waves for years, you’ll find plenty to love here. Plus, Nosara is more than just a surf town—it’s got a laid-back vibe, incredible wildlife, and a strong eco-conscious community.
Before you book your trip, let me break down the best longboard waves in Nosara, some key tips, and why this place is so special.
What You Need to Know About Surfing in Nosara
- Location: Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica
- Best Time to Surf: November to April (cleanest conditions, but you can surf year-round)
- Wave Type: Mostly sand-bottom beach breaks with a few point breaks
- Ideal Swell: South and southwest swells
- Water Temperature: Warm all year (78-84°F—no wetsuit needed!)
- Vibe: Super chill, eco-conscious surf town
The Best Longboard Waves in Nosara
Nosara has no shortage of epic waves, but not all of them are ideal for longboarding. If you’re looking for smooth, long rides where you can truly enjoy the glide, there are a few standout spots that I always recommend. Whether you want an easy, consistent wave or something a little more adventurous, these are the places you should check out.
1. Playa Guiones: The Perfect Longboarding Wave
If you only have time for one surf spot, make it Playa Guiones. This is hands-down the best longboarding wave in Nosara. The beach break here is incredibly consistent, and it serves up long, rolling waves that are perfect for trimming and cross-stepping. The best part? It works at all tides, and since the beach is huge, you can always find a quiet spot to surf.
- Best Conditions: Mid to high tide, light offshore winds
- Wave Type: Long, playful beach break
- Crowd Level: It gets busy, but the beach is big enough to spread out
2. Playa Pelada: A Quiet Escape
If Guiones gets too crowded, I like to head over to Playa Pelada. It’s not as well-known for longboarding, but when the conditions line up, you can score some really fun waves here. It’s a more scenic spot too, with tide pools and rocky outcroppings that make for a nice break between sessions.
- Best Conditions: Mid tide with a small to medium swell
- Wave Type: Small, reef-influenced wave
- Crowd Level: Pretty mellow, not a lot of surfers
3. Ostional: Wild and Unpredictable
Ostional isn’t my first choice for longboarding, but if you’re up for something different, it’s worth checking out. The waves here can be a bit punchier, and the sandbars shift around a lot, but when it’s on, you can get some great rides. Plus, it’s home to a major sea turtle nesting site, which makes it an incredible place to visit even if the surf isn’t perfect.
- Best Conditions: Needs a small swell to be longboard-friendly
- Wave Type: More powerful beach break
- Crowd Level: Almost empty, but be mindful of the wildlife
Travel Tips for Surfing in Nosara
If you’re planning a surf trip to Nosara, there are a few things you should know before you go. From getting there to deciding when to surf and whether to rent or bring your own board, I’ve got you covered. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your time in this incredible surf town.
Getting There
Nosara is a bit off the beaten path, but that’s part of the appeal. The closest international airport is in Liberia (LIR), and from there, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive. I usually rent a 4×4 because the roads can be rough, especially in the rainy season. If you don’t want to drive, you can take a small domestic flight to Nosara’s tiny airport.
Best Time to Surf
If you want the cleanest, most consistent waves, aim for the dry season (November to April). But honestly, you can surf here year-round. The green season (May to October) brings more powerful swells and occasional rain, but the crowds thin out, which is a huge plus.
Renting vs. Bringing a Longboard
If you’re not picky, you can rent a solid longboard in town. But if you’re like me and attached to your board, be aware that traveling with a longboard can be tricky—especially on small domestic flights. I usually book with a surf-friendly airline and double-check their board bag policies.
Why Nosara’s Ecosystem Matters
One of the things I love about Nosara is how much the community cares about conservation. Unlike some overdeveloped surf spots, Nosara has strict building codes to keep the jungle intact. The Ostional Wildlife Refuge is one of the most important sea turtle nesting sites in the world, and there are a ton of local efforts to keep the beaches and ocean clean.
If you visit, be mindful of your impact—support eco-friendly businesses, avoid single-use plastics, and respect the wildlife. It’s the least we can do as surfers who get so much joy from the ocean.
Is Nosara good for beginner longboarders?
Absolutely. Playa Guiones is one of the best beginner-friendly longboard waves in Costa Rica. It’s mellow, predictable, and has tons of space to learn.
Do I need a wetsuit in Nosara?
Nope! The water stays warm year-round. Just bring a rash guard if you want some extra sun protection.
Are there any surf schools in Nosara?
Yes, there are plenty. If you’re new to longboarding or just want to improve your style, you’ll find lots of experienced instructors here.
Can I surf in Nosara year-round?
For sure. The best conditions are from November to April, but you can catch waves all year if you don’t mind a little rain during the green season.
How can I support conservation in Nosara?
Stay in eco-friendly accommodations, avoid littering, and respect the sea turtle nesting sites. Every little bit helps keep this place special.
If you’re looking for more great longboard waves around the world, check out these guides:
- Best Longboard Waves in Costa Rica
- Best Longboard Waves in Central America
- Best Longboard Waves in Hawaii
Nosara is one of my favorite places to longboard—not just for the waves, but for the incredible natural surroundings and the chill vibe. If you get the chance to visit, take it.