Nosara, Costa Rica 🇨🇷
#923
,
Nomad Score:
66%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Nosara is a beach town located in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, known for its surfing spots and yoga retreats. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 5,000 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speeds are around 20-50 Mbps, with some coworking spaces offering higher speeds. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Currency is Costa Rican Colón (CRC). 1 USD ≈ 610 CRC. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is generally not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is 120V/60Hz; type A/B sockets are used. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Popular mobile providers include Kolbi and Claro. SIM cards are available at local shops. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Credit cards are widely accepted; ATMs are available, with Banco Nacional and BAC Credomatic being popular. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options range from eco-lodges to luxury villas, with Airbnb being popular among expats. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, major credit cards are accepted in shops and restaurants. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and VRBO are popular platforms for short-term rentals. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostel options like 'Nosara Beach Hostel' offer dormitory-style lodging starting around $20 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The main beach area near Playa Guiones is the most recommended for tourists. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | The area around Playa Pelada and the town center are popular among digital nomads for the community and amenities. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The 'CoWork' space is well-rated for remote work, offering good internet and networking events. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe de Paris is popular among nomads for its atmosphere and reliable Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Monthly networking meetups are hosted at various cafes and coworking spaces; local expat groups online also facilitate connections. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Check out the 'Nosara Expats' Facebook group for ongoing events and gatherings. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Uber is available in nearby Nicoya, but local taxis are commonly used in Nosara. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Numerous rental shops such as 'Nosara Bike Rentals' offer daily and weekly rates. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Playa Guiones is the most popular beach, just a short distance from town. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Nature Air operates flights to San José but availability can be limited. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | International flights typically arrive at Liberia International Airport, about a 2.5-hour drive. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Route 21 connects Nosara to the Pan-American Highway, facilitating regional travel. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Nosara does not have a train service; buses and shuttle services are the main transit methods. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transportation options like buses run regularly to nearby towns. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Buses from Nosara to Liberia or San José are available daily, costing around $10. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Clinica de Nosara is the main healthcare facility, providing basic medical services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | The Nosara Yoga Institute offers classes and workshops for various skill levels. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | GYM Nosara provides a fully equipped gym along with fitness classes. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Services like 'Lavandería Nosara' offer drop-off laundry at affordable rates. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Uber Eats is popular in the area, serving various local restaurants. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Gallo pinto, a traditional rice and bean dish, is a must-try in Nosara. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Local restaurants like 'The Harmony Hotel' offer many vegetarian and vegan choices. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Gelato de Nosara is famous for its artisan ice cream. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets like the Nosara Organic Market operate weekly, featuring fresh produce and local vendors. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon delivers to Nosara, and local shops sell many necessities. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Services like 'Nosara Grocery Delivery' provide convenient online shopping options. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | The area around Playa Guiones has a vibrant nightlife with bars like 'The Green Room'. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | The 'Costa Rica Craft Brewing Company' produces local beers available at various restaurants. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wine & Food Nosara offers a selection of local and imported wines in a relaxed setting. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Taco food trucks are popular, especially around the beach areas. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants like 'Il Basilico' serve Italian cuisine that is highly recommended. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The Nosara River and nearby beaches are essential for nature lovers. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Nosara Art Museum showcases local art and culture. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Nosara's historic Guiones Beach area holds cultural significance for the community. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Nosara Church of Christ offers a community gathering place for residents. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | The Nosara Wave Festival celebrates surfing and culture every October. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Nosara has a vibrant expat community that celebrates diverse cultures, especially near the beaches. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | There are several local venues for performances, typically held in community centers. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Farmers' markets are held weekly, showcasing local produce and crafts. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music events occur in local bars, particularly on weekends. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Local artists contribute murals throughout the town, adding to its artistic vibe. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Classes are available at various culinary schools, offering traditional Costa Rican cooking. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Small galleries often showcase the works of local artists throughout town. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Old guanacaste style buildings can be found, showcasing traditional architecture. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Nosara is known for its preservation efforts aimed at safeguarding its natural beauty. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Playas Ostional Wildlife Refuge is nearby, known for turtle nesting. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | The Barra Honda National Park offers stunning scenery and hiking opportunities. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Numerous trails connect local beaches, ideal for biking and walking. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Mirador de Nosara offers stunning views of the coastline. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The mangroves near the Nosara River are popular for birdwatching. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Certain areas on the beach permit bonfires, especially during specific events. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local services like 'Nosara Postal' can help with mail and package delivery. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local shops offer services for phone and computer repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers often have tables available for public use. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Spanish schools like 'Nosara Spanish School' offer immersive courses. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | There are a couple of small libraries within community centers for reading and studying. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local centers provide space for meetings and events, fostering community engagement. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Select cafes provide gaming consoles for group play. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Nosara; the primary entertainment is outdoor activities and local events. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,800 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $72,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,400 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $56,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,200 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $132,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $108,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,500 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $200,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $160,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 30% for businesses in Costa Rica. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 5% for dividend distributions. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Residency-based taxation; worldwide income is taxed. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 25% for the highest earners. |
| 🧾 VAT | 13% standard VAT. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No strict CFC rules; flexibility for foreign income. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Approximately 0.25% of property value annually. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 1.5% on property sales. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No additional taxes on foreign income for non-residents. |