Playa Nosara is a long crescent-shaped beach with black sand, situated near the popular surf destination of Ostional. It attracts a lot of surfers, especially beginners and those looking for surf schools, making it a lively spot for learning to ride the waves. The scenery is nice, and the vibe is friendly, perfect for both new surfers and more experienced ones looking for a relaxed surf session.

The surf here is manageable, with wave heights ranging from about knee to head high (0.6 to 3.0 meters). It’s a good spot for beginners as the waves break over sand, making it a safer choice. The optimal swell direction is southwest, but it can also handle swells coming from the south and northwest. You can expect decent waves whether the swell size is around 2 feet (0.6 meters) or larger. The waves mainly come in both left and right directions, and the best conditions usually happen when the wind is coming from the northeast. You can surf at different tide heights—low, mid, or high—so it offers flexibility depending on the day.

In addition to its good surf conditions, Playa Nosara is well known for being beginner-friendly. Many surfers visit to improve their skills, thanks to the consistent and forgiving waves. The beach atmosphere is laid-back, making it a great place to chill after a surf session, reflect on your progress, or simply hang out with fellow surfers.