Nosara, Costa Rica
Where to stay:
We treated ourselves to a little getaway in the surf town of Nosara, Costa Rica and stayed at a spot called The Gilded Iguana. The hotel came highly recommended (shout out to my love Julia!) and knowing her high standards of location/amenities/proximity to all things surf/sand/fun/yummy, I knew this was the spot for me! The real trick would be convincing Justyn (ha ha!). Luckily for me, the Athletic Centre attached the hotel not only had a full lifting gym and yoga studio but was also a specialty Brazilian Jiu Jitsu location. It was an easy YES from both of us and off we went!
I would say one of the highlights for me was that we could be beach bums by day and have this luxurious spot to come back to if we wanted to tidy up, have a yummy meal and unwind. The juxtaposition of the jungle and the rooms, next to a 5 star pool, incredible and thoughtful staff, we were in heaven! On top of that I’m a sucker for an outdoor shower, and our room was right on the pool which we pretty much had all to ourselves.
Being able to unwind, relax, have happy hour, a delicious dinner at the hotel and be up early for a work out, all while not leaving the hotel – name a better vacation! I’ll wait.
Where to eat:
When we put out the word for recommendations, this was a spot we could apparently NOT pass up.
We were warned about three things – how good the food would be, how incredible the view and the treacherous drive up the mountain to get there!
All things were true, we were completely blown away. Nosara is so beautiful by the beach, but it also is breath taking when you make the trek up the mountain. We didn’t have the most dramatic of sunsets, but even watching the lightning in the distance and enjoying the view together was the most special.
We luckily were driven up in a new Lexus, so the drive was a breeze. We passed a couple stuck dump trucks and heard if you don’t have a vehicle with four wheel drive, you’re in for a slippery ride!
I also wore white and was greeted by the CUTEST retriever named Teddy, and his muddy paws. Luckily for me, I’m an expert in not being “precious” about anything that I know is going to come into contact with my Moose, so it was another fun adventure moment to have a giggle at. You will probably see some paw prints on me in our photos, but I loved every second of this evening.
The food was incredible, everything had a special infused, smoky touch. The entire staff were also so enthusiastic about the menu and everyone there seemed to be celebrating with loved ones.
Need I say anything about the décor? The design, the thoughtfulness behind the furniture and accessories. That alone is worth the trip up the mountain.
More food:
This was by far our favourite little spot to eat. All the food was so fresh and delicious in Nosara. But when we popped in here for a quick coffee, we quickly realized this place had everyone beat on freshness and presentation.
I had always wanted to try a traditional pour over coffee in Costa Rica, as of course…they are known for their coffee – hello! This was the most delicious cup on the trip, by far.
Then we came back for a lunch and were totally blown away. I would go back just for this food. Need I say more?
Mango. Avocado. Ceviche. Smiles.
We strolled the streets of Nosara looking for a little bite to eat and full disclosure, I think I was hangry?! We had seen this place and knew it was on our list: first of all, because Justyns’ sister is named Olivia, and we needed to get her boyfriend a sweet T-shirt! And second of all, it was built out of the coolest container and the graphics were too cool. The pizza was out of this world! We love our pizzas, but this was super cool. The crust was actually made from crushed up seeds, and as much as we begged, they would not share the recipe. Sign of an excellent secret spot! They recommended house wine and pale ales, and we ordered seconds of everything!
Where to shop:
This shop was super fabulous, another recommendation from my sweet friend. She had requested a mermaid doll pick up for her daughter and we were blown away by the architecture of the newly renovated space. All over a great place to pop in, they even gave us eucalyptus cold towels because we were the only crazy tourists to venture out during siesta time.
Other highlights to check out:
Banana Coffee – came highly recommended by so many people and such a treat. Can purchase at most coffee stands and is made with local coconut milk. YUM.
Renting Surf Boards/Bikes/ATVs – Best mode of transportation. So many great shops to rent from and an amazing experience/must try if you are visiting this beautiful beach!
We were so lucky to have so many recommendations of places we did and didn’t get to see. I will tell you, every person I speak to absolutely loves Costa Rica – the people, the places, the views, the WEATHER. Either they are return travelers, purchasing property, or making it a retirement dream. My only regret is that we didn’t stay longer and explore even more.
Now it’s time for me to make a memory book and plan our next summer adventure. Until next time CR! PURA VIDA!
