Apothecai’s Guide to Nosara, Costa Rica

Nosara, situated on Costa Rica’s western peninsula, is a surfer and wellness lover’s dream. One of the world’s five Blue Zones, its very atmosphere seems to be charged with healing energy. It’s also particularly dear to me: My husband and I were married there in a beachside ceremony in July.

Here are some of our favorite local haunts.

Harmony Hotel

Guests of the hotel should make a beeline for their room’s outdoor shower, where they can rinse the salt off in the privacy of their own terrace, shaded by towering palm trees. A private, sandy path heads straight to the beach; pick up a surfboard from the hotel’s al fresco stand on the way out. Non hotel guests can still soak in the healing vibes. The Harmony Juice Bar and Healing Centre offer delicious smoothies and yoga classes, respectively.

La Luna

The spot in town for a sunset cocktail, La Luna is a beautifully situated restaurant on Pelada, Nosara’s slightly sleepier beach. Seats spill out onto the sand and the restaurant offers unparalleled views of the most popular nightly event in town, the gorgeous sunset. My husband and I were married here, and it is unabashedly romantic. Pared back beach-chic at its finest, the Mediterranean food and wine are simple and delicious. Make sure you reserve ahead to get front row seats at magic hour.

Olo Alaia

Hands down the best coffee in town.

Robin’s Cafe and Ice Cream

Robin, a local legend in her own right, makes delicious, clean, and high-vibe food and snacks. After a cup of the Mayan Chocolate ice-cream, try a “ginger dog,” a local probiotic ginger beer.

Treatments + Healing

There are amazing healers and bodyworkers throughout the town.

We love Ashley Ludman, whose multidimensional practice integrates powerful breathwork techniques with Craniosacral and Thai massage.

Tica Massage, across the street from the Harmony on the town’s quiet main drag, is a reliable and affordable place for quality deep tissue massage.

Riccardo’s TRX and kettlebell classes at Nosara Fitness are excellent strength training workouts.

For surf lessons, Esteban Lopez is the man you want to learn to from. He has genuine mastery in the ocean, is a brilliant surf coach, and a lot of fun to be around. When he’s not local, you can find him in Los Angeles. Either way he’ll get you sorted for lessons. Email him at surfcoachla@gmail.com.