Things To Do
in Nicoya
Nicoya, Costa Rica is a charming town located in the Guanacaste province known for its rich cultural heritage and friendly locals. The town features colonial architecture, bustling markets, and a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Costa Rican life. Nicoya is also surrounded by stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches, lush forests, and diverse wildlife.
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and exploring nearby national parks.
- "Pura vida" - Pure life
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¡Adiós!" - Goodbye!
- "¡Hola!" - Hello!
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Playa Carrillo for sunrise and a peaceful morning swim. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a beachside café.
Head to Samara Beach where you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the beautiful coastline. Grab lunch at a local restaurant offering fresh seafood.
Unwind with a sunset walk on the beach, feeling the sand between your toes. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, savoring local cuisine as the sun sets.
Begin your adventure hiking through Parque Nacional Barra Honda, known for its impressive limestone caves. Bring your camera to capture stunning views of the Nicoya Peninsula.
Explore more of the park and enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature. Look for local wildlife like monkeys and exotic birds.
Return to your accommodation and freshen up. Enjoy a hearty dinner at a nearby restaurant known for its rustic charm and local dishes.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and natural landscapes
- Low cost of living compared to many Western countries
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking and surfing
- Rich biodiversity and opportunities for eco-tourism
- Healthier lifestyle with emphasis on natural foods and wellness
- Pura Vida lifestyle promoting happiness and relaxation
- Limited access to advanced healthcare facilities
- Infrastructure can be underdeveloped in some areas
- Seasonal heavy rainfall affecting travel plans
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
- Job opportunities may be limited for expats
- Potential for higher prices on imported goods
- Increased tourist traffic may impact local culture
Best Activities in Nicoya
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Nicoya is known for its fantastic surfing beaches, and there are plenty of spots to catch some waves for all skill levels.
Explore the lush natural surroundings of Nicoya through the various hiking trails and nature reserves in the area.
Discover the vibrant marine life and coral reefs off the coast of Nicoya by snorkeling or scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nicoya with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nicoya
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning ocean views and beautiful sunsets.
A picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush jungle.
A popular beach known for its scenic beauty and surf-friendly waves.
Food in Nicoya
Nicoya Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Costa Rican dish made of rice and black beans mixed with onions, bell peppers, and cilantro, often served with eggs, cheese, and sour cream. Can be found at local sodas (small, casual eateries) like Soda El Tamarindo.
Must-Try!
A typical lunch dish consisting of rice, black beans, plantains, salad, a choice of meat, and sometimes picadillo (chopped, spiced vegetables). Try it at Soda Margarita for an authentic experience.
A popular dish made with raw fish marinated in citrus juices and mixed with onions, peppers, cilantro, and served with tortilla chips. Visit El Sapo Dorado for a delightful serving.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nicoya better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling farmers' market offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, local cheeses, and artisanal products. It's a great place to savor fresh fruit smoothies and sample traditional snacks like empanadas and tamales from local vendors.
A lively street in Nicoya where visitors can find a vibrant array of street food. From arreglados (savory sandwiches) to pipas frias (chilled coconut water), it's a hub of local flavors and culinary delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nicoya, it is important to show respect for elders by using formal titles such as 'Don' for men and 'Doña' for women.
Nicoyans value personal space and may greet others with a light handshake or a verbal greeting rather than physical contact.
Being punctual is considered respectful in Nicoya, so it's important to arrive on time for social gatherings and appointments.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nicoya with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nicoya
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Nicoya, Costa Rica is not mandatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, hotels, and for tour guides. A 10% service charge may be included in the bill at some establishments, in which case an additional tip is optional.
In Nicoya, Costa Rica, cash is widely used for transactions, especially in smaller establishments. Credit and debit cards are accepted in larger businesses and tourist areas, but it's recommended to have some cash on hand. ATMs are available in the town for withdrawing local currency.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nicoya.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Nicoya, with sunny days, warm weather, and minimal rainfall. Ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures.
Expect lush green landscapes, occasional rain showers, and fewer crowds. Good for nature enthusiasts and those interested in wildlife.
Nicoya at Night
Hiking in Nicoya
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A protected area featuring lush forests and stunning coastal views, ideal for hiking and exploring a diverse range of flora and fauna.
Offers well-marked trails through tropical forests and wild beaches, providing an excellent opportunity to encounter wildlife and enjoy scenic views.
Though a bit farther away, this park features diverse ecosystems, volcanoes, and numerous hiking trails, along with hot springs and waterfalls.
A lesser-known hiking spot that offers a challenging trek with rewarding panoramic views of the Nicoya Peninsula.
A scenic trail leading to a beautiful waterfall, perfect for a refreshing dip after the hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nicoya through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nicoya by plane.
Located in Liberia, Costa Rica, approximately 118 kilometers from Nicoya, this airport serves as a major international gateway to the Nicoya Peninsula.
Situated in San José, Costa Rica, about 200 kilometers from Nicoya, this is the largest airport in the country and serves many international flights.
Located approximately 55 kilometers from Nicoya, this airport primarily serves domestic flights but also has some international connections, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Nicoya, consisting of people of mixed European and Indigenous descent.
Groups such as the Chorotega, who have inhabited the region for centuries and maintain some of their traditional cultures.
This group includes descendants of Spanish colonizers and other European immigrants.
Residents of African descent, who contribute to the cultural diversity of Nicoya.
A growing number of expatriates from North America and Europe, particularly in the tourism sector.
The Soul of Nicoya
Discover the essence of Nicoya through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Due to its beautiful beaches and favorable waves, surfing is a highly popular sport in Nicoya, attracting both locals and tourists.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Costa Rica, including Nicoya, where local teams compete enthusiastically.
Beach volleyball is commonly played in Nicoya’s coastal areas, making it a favored activity among residents and visitors.
With its scenic landscapes, running is a popular recreational activity for both fitness enthusiasts and casual runners in the region.
Given its coastal location, fishing is a prevalent sport and leisure activity for many locals, contributing to both food and tourism.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nicoya.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Costa Rican cuisine prominently features meat, many restaurants in Nicoya offer vegetarian and vegan options. Dishes like vegetable casado, plantain-based tamales, and heart of palm ceviche are popular choices.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy dishes like arroz con pollo, grilled fish with tropical salsa, and fresh fruit platters which are naturally gluten-free. Cafés like Café de la Casa also provide dedicated gluten-free menu items.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nicoya with these cultural adventures.
