Some of our favorite things to do in Pura Vida land:

Some of our favorite things to do in Pura Vida land:

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“Pura Vida” is one of the most popular and frequently used phrases by the Ticos. The literal translation is “pure life”, and it is used as a positive response in all types of situations.

“Ticos” are what Costa Ricans and their fellow Latin Americans call themselves. The affectionate nickname came from the Ticos’ habit of adding the diminutive “tico” to all kinds of words. The warm and friendly, non-violent, extremely outgoing and party-loving Ticos like to refer to things and situations in terms of their “smallness”, hence the “tico”-ending to many words.

Costa Rica is the right place to come to for relaxation. Things happen here according to the three M's:

Momentito or –tico: In a moment.

Mas tarde: Later.

Manana: Tomorrow – always the busiest day of the week.

The town of Nosara, appearing to be laid-back and quiet…..will serve most of your needs! On closer examination, there is an active and lively social scene and many who live here permanently are involved in work to protect and preserve the natural flora, fauna, and land.

Besides a few hard topped roads, the only real pavement is found on the runway at the airport, so the dirt roads will always reflect the season. The rainy season brings mud and pot holes, and the dry season brings dust. Opinions are mixed on the issue of paving or not!!

Just looking at the recorded rainfall in Nosara 1995-2003 (Source: “Voice of Nosara”), it is easy to misunderstand the rainy – or Green – season.

Monthly average December – April:   1.68” / 4,27 cm
Monthly average May – November: 18.70”/47,50 cm
Monthly average 1995-2003:             11.25”/28,58 cm
Yearly average    1995-2003:           135.00”/ 3,42 m
Total                    1995-2003:           101.25’/ 30,78 m

From May to August, most of the rain falls as cool, short afternoon and evening showers. The temperatures average in the lower 80s. This makes the jungle come alive and trees bear fruit in abundance. Because fewer tourists come at this time, most hotels and rental properties have lower rates.

September and October will bring much more water – but it is still very possible to get a sun burn – and 2-3 weeks into November the showers will wind down.

From December to April, we see almost no rain, and this time with temperatures in the upper 80s is called “summer”, despite Costa Rica being in the northern hemisphere.

About 5 km/3 miles from the village of Nosara we find “Playas de Nosara”: Playa Guiones, Playa Pelada and Playa Nosara, which are some of the only eco-touristic beaches in Guanacaste. A large international community resides here, governed by the Nosara Civic Association. The residents have set aside half their land as a wildlife reserve and park, and the NCA has so far been successful in keeping out large developers and upholding rules for exploitation of the area.

There are no big hotels right on the beach or nearby, and the whole area is generally greener that the rest of Guanacaste.

Playa Guiones is famous for its waves and is popular with surfers.

If you would like to see some more shopping options, Nicoya is the place to go.

Nicoya is the main settlement on the Nicoya Peninsula. The town was named after Chorotegan Indian Chief Nicoya, who ruled the region and welcomed the Spaniards in 1523.

Nicoya does not have a lot of personality, but is the place to go for many services (banking, hospital, shopping, transportation and much more.)

The fruit and vegetable market on Fridays is absolutely worth a visit. A nickel for a banana – sweeter that you thought possible! English won’t get you very far, but pointing and smiling goes a long way as do coins and small bills.

Driving between Nicoya and Nosara, you will pass through the little fishing village of Garza. This is the perfect spot to stop for refreshments at one of the many bars and restaurants, and the beach is beautiful. It is a safe place to swim due to the coral reef that protects the natural harbor. Some of the deep sea fishing trips also start from Garza.

Alex’s Fish Market will sell you the freshest, finest fish and sea food at very reasonable prices. Try the Pacific lobster!!

If you are in the area between July and December, you should ask around to find out when the turtles will be coming to nest at Ostional!!!

Playa Ostional Wildlife Reserve:

This is the second largest nesting site in the world for the Olive Ridley Turtle. During “arribadas” which happen 3-4 nights after full moon from July through November, thousands of turtles cover the beach in the night and very early morning hours. Absolutely something to try to do!!

Turtle eggs.

In the dry season, it is a 20 minute drive from Nosara across the bridge over Rio Nosara and through Rio Montaña.

During the green season, it might be possible to cross by four-wheel-drive vehicle in the morning hours – if it has not rained too much overnight.

There is a small foot bridge across the river, which will hold your horse or bike – or let you get across by foot in case you have to leave the car on the other side.

These photos show some of the many things we really enjoy about this little corner of Paradise.