Nosara, Costa Rica
Last December, I embarked on an unforgettable journey to Nosara, Costa Rica, a destination I quickly discovered to be a true jungle oasis. The invitation came from my friend, Annie, a contributing editor for Spa Magazine, who was tasked with reviewing the exquisite Silvestre Nosara Hotel & Residences. For four incredible nights, we immersed ourselves in the Nosara experience, from luxurious accommodations to thrilling adventures and the embracing philosophy of “Pura Vida.”
The adventure began with a rather long, yet scenic, drive from Liberia Airport, a journey that only heightened the anticipation of reaching this renowned surf and wellness haven. And once we arrived in Nosara, it was clear we had landed somewhere special – a vibrant, untamed paradise where the rhythm of nature sets the pace.
Silvestre Nosara Hotel & Residences: Unparalleled Comfort in the Heart of the Jungle
Our base for this incredible trip was the stunning Silvestre Nosara Hotel & Residences. We stayed in a two-bedroom apartment that redefined luxury and comfort. Fully furnished and thoughtfully stocked with groceries upon our arrival, it felt like a home away from home, but with an elevated sense of style. The attention to detail was impeccable, right down to the indulgent Le Labo bath products that transformed every shower into a spa-like experience. Each morning, we were treated to an amazing breakfast, a perfect start to our days of exploration and relaxation.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed with refreshing drinks at the hotel’s rooftop bar, an elevated perch offering views of the jungle canopy, with sounds of the Pacific crashing into nearby Playa Guiones. Here, we met the truly amazing bartender, Rachel, whose passion for her craft was immediately evident. She creates her own unique elixirs and tonics using fresh flowers from her garden – a true testament to Nosara’s vibrant, organic spirit.
Culinary Delights and the Essence of “Pura Vida”
Our first dinner in Costa Rica took us to Sendero Kitchen, a culinary gem where the delectable food was only surpassed by the warm, inviting atmosphere. As soon as we stepped inside, the aroma of spices and fresh ingredients enveloped us, hinting at the delights to come. We started our feast with the Ceviche Tico, a vibrant mix of fresh local fish marinated in citrus juices with red onion and cilantro – a perfect, zesty introduction to the local flavors. For our main courses, we savored the Pescado Entero Frito, a whole fried snapper cooked to crispy perfection and served with patacones, and Arroz con Pollo, a hearty and flavorful Costa Rican staple of rice with tender chicken and vegetables. Each bite was a revelation, showcasing the richness of the local produce and the skill of the kitchen. It was here, amidst friendly faces and the gentle hum of conversation, with plates overflowing with delicious fare, that I truly began to understand the meaning of “Pura Vida” – a uniquely Costa Rican philosophy of simple living, well-being, and gratitude that permeated every aspect of our dining experience.
Surfing, Serenity, and Nosara’s Charms
Our first full day in Nosara perfectly encapsulated the town’s dual appeal. While Annie embraced the gentle waves of Playa Guiones – a renowned spot for surfers of all levels – I opted for an afternoon of pure bliss, floating in the tranquil waters of the hotel’s stunning rooftop pool. Later, we were generously treated to dinner by the hotel’s General Manager at Restaurante La Luna on Playa Pelada, a magical beachfront setting that perfectly captured the easygoing essence of Nosara. As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant hues, we enjoyed delicious pizza and unique cocktails, making for an unforgettable evening.
The next day, while Annie once again enjoyed the waves, I took the opportunity to explore the charming town of Nosara. Its unpaved roads lead to a treasure trove of cute boutiques, like Lobo, brimming with unique finds. There was also an abundance of inviting cafes, perfect for a mid-morning coffee break. On my way back to the hotel, I popped into the lovingly curated Palmera Negra and bought a fun lilac-tinged floral shirt covered in ylang-ylang blooms – a perfect reminder of my time in Nosara. That afternoon, the allure of the rooftop pool was undeniable, and I spent another blissful afternoon soaking in the sun and serenity.
For dinner, we ventured out, taking a delightful tuttut ride up to the mountaintop Huacas Restaurant at Tierra Magnifica. This was a truly special meal, enjoyed outside on a covered veranda with breathtaking views – a culinary experience not to be missed in Nosara. The food was as spectacular as the panoramic Pacific sunset, painting the sky in fiery hues as we dined.
Adventure and Exploration in the Nosara Region
Our penultimate day brought a thrilling change of pace: ziplining at Wingnuts Canopy near Sámara. Soaring through the lush canopy was an exhilarating way to experience Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity. After our aerial adventure, we returned to Nosara, where more time by the pool beckoned. We also explored the vibrant shops along downtown Guiones, including Bazzar Nosara, which offered a fantastic array of unique items for both men and women. During our stroll, we even spotted an adorable black monkey gracefully climbing across the power lines – a charming reminder of Nosara’s wild beauty.
For our last dinner, we started at Howler’s Beach Lounge, a local favorite where everyone recommended trying their famous ceviche – and it did not disappoint! Afterwards, we strolled over to the bar at Harmony Hotel for some delicious sushi and late-night cocktails, a perfect end to our unforgettable Nosara adventure.
Last visited in December, 2024
